Weekend Argus (Saturday Edition)

Explore and experience the island paradise that is Fiji

- NNEKA JONAS nneka.jonas@volt.africa

FIJI is one of the most beautiful destinatio­ns in the world. The country has earned a well-deserved reputation as an island paradise.

It has no less than 300 islands. They include everything from whitesand beaches to grasslands, secret waterfalls and limestone islands.

You can’t go wrong exploring any of the islands in Fiji no matter which one you choose. Each island is unique.

This guide will help you find the best islands for your Fiji experience.

Viti Levu

Viti Levu is Fiji’s largest island and is home to about 80% of Fiji’s citizens.

The island has some stunning beaches and attraction­s. It offers everything from internatio­nal-calibre resort areas to the mountain village Navala, where locals live in thatched buildings.

Viti Levu is best for river rafting, shopping, hiking, dining and much more. You can learn about the local culture by visiting the museums, temples and the historical sites of Nadi and Suva.

Taveuni

Known as the Garden Island, Taveuni is a lush, tropical, flower-laden, waterfall-heavy and hiking-friendly destinatio­n.

It is the only place in the world where the crimson-coloured tagimoucia flower is found. Besides beautiful plants, it also has the spectacula­r Bouma National Heritage Park and the cascading Tovoro waterfalls, with natural swimming pools. Taveuni doesn’t stop at the rainforest­s. You can visit the small village of Lavena and follow the famous coastal walk.

If you’re searching for a place to stay, the localities of Somosomo and Naqara offer a limited amount of accommodat­ion.

Ovalau

The main island of the Lomaiviti group and the country’s former capital, Ovalau is a fascinatin­g place to visit.

It is far less developed than the other islands, with its jungle-covered mountains, natural coastlines, and traditiona­l villages. It's perfect for anyone looking for peace and quiet without having to take a long, expensive inter-island flight.

Visitors can try diving, hiking and snorkellin­g or take a stroll down the main road in Levuka. You will feel as if you’ve stepped into another era, with many sites of historical interest to see.

Vanua Levu

Vanua Levu is the second-largest of Fiji’s islands, It has smaller crowds than Viti Levu, making it an excellent option for anyone looking for a relaxing yet adventurou­s getaway.

From its wild jungle and sugar cane farms to its towering peaks and flowing waterfalls, its breathtaki­ng landscape begs to be explored.

This island is best for scuba diving, bird watching, hiking, and snorkellin­g.

Yasawa Islands

The Yasawa Islands lie north of the Mamanucas, and are more remote and less populated.

The incredibly clear waters that surround the islands in practicall­y every shade of blue are where the 1980s film The Blue Lagoon was shot, and what you saw on screen may be even more magnificen­t in real life.

They have stunning peaks that fall down to beautiful white-sand beaches, providing plenty of opportunit­y for a Robinson Crusoe kind of experience.

Swimming with manta rays, kayaking, and cave exploring are just a few of the entertainm­ent options.

 ?? ?? VITI Levu, Fiji’s largest island, is ideal for swimming, river rafting, hiking, shopping, dining and much more.
VITI Levu, Fiji’s largest island, is ideal for swimming, river rafting, hiking, shopping, dining and much more.

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