Savusavu Fiji things to do.
Located on Fiji’s northern island of Vanua Levu, Savusavu is considered one of Fiji’s best kept secrets. Affectionately termed “the hidden paradise of Fiji”, this area is known for its natural beauty, spectacular diving, local hospitality and sustainable, eco-friendly resorts.
Getting to Savusavu is seamless
Getting there couldn’t be easier. After landing at Nadi International Airport, a quick transfer across the tarmac to the Domestic Terminal and you’ll board your Fiji Link domestic flight direct to Savusavu. From the air you’ll bear witness to some of Fiji’s most spectacular scenery. Best of all, you can be settled in your resort within around two hours – it couldn’t be more seamless.
For those who like to add some unique touches to their holiday, consider flying instead to Labasa and driving overland to your Savusavu resort. You’ll cut through the mountainous centre of Vanua Levu travelling amid virgin rainforest. Why not stop for a refreshing swim at a local rainforest to wash away the stresses of the 21st century as you settle into “Fiji Time”.
Savusavu is reminiscent of decades past
For those who have been visiting Fiji for decades, Savusavu is reminiscent of how some of the more popular tourist areas were some 20 years ago. The pace is slower and there are far less tourists. De-stressing and recharging is so easy it’s almost a prerequisite. You may even be pleasantly surprised how relaxed you’ve become having whiled away a few hours chatting with a local fisherman, sitting at the end of the picturesque Savusavu Wharf admiring the yachts berthing in this paradise from around the world and watching local children playing in the water, giggling and having fun.
The local markets are a sensory overload
Village life and cultural traditions are still evident here and a visit to the local market is a must. A total sensory overload, the aromas of different herbs and spices, the sound of several languages being spoken at once, the sight of vibrant flowers and the freshest seafood straight from the ocean, and the taste of the sweetest, fresh fruit and locally grown vegetables, are all examples of Fiji at work. Farmers bring their crops of seasonal vegetables, herbs and fruit to sell not only to the locals, but also the resort kitchens. You’ll be fascinated by the variety of goods on sale. Take some time to people watch from one of the local restaurants or cafes flanking the market stalls. Enjoy a cup of Fijian tea and sweet cream bun and enjoy the passing parade as people go about their daily lives. The markets are also a great place to purchase locally made handicrafts and souvenirs.
If you’re keen to get off the beaten track, there is so much to do around Savusavu and a little further afield. You can safely self-drive and explore the coast on the aptly named Hibiscus Highway, or hire a local driver for a guided tour of the island’s hidden delights.
Buy a pearl just like the Duchess of Sussex’s
The J. Hunter Pearl Farm is a Savusavu institution. Take a tour and gain an insight into the history of pearling in Fiji and Justin Hunter’s own journey in creating the first world’s rarest pearls coveted by pearl connoisseurs around the world for their distinctive earthy colours. The pearl farm is a short boat ride away from the main town.
If you get the chance to snorkel the pearl farm sites, it’s a fascinating trip. It is weather dependent but worth the wait for clear waters if you can. You may even see several different species of the world’s largest and endangered bivalve mollusk.
During her visit to Fiji in 2018, The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, received a spectacular pearl necklace as a gift from Fiji’s President and First Lady that had been farmed and harvested by J Hunter Pearls.
Home to some of the best dive spots in the world
Fiji is known as the “Soft Coral Capital of the World” and the reefs around Savusavu and Vanua Levu are widely acclaimed as among the best dive spots in the world. There are miles of unexplored reefs with seemingly bottomless drop-offs, multi-coloured soft corals and the perfect coral gardens supporting an abundance of marine life. Most resorts run PADI certificated dive courses and the staff can accommodate divers of all levels from beginner to expert.
Honourable mentions
A visit to the hot springs is a must. Still simmering from the dormant Savusavu Bay volcano, sink into the geothermal waters for a rejuvenating soak.
Kayak the waters of the Qaloqala River past mangrove forests to the beautiful Salt Lake. Covering 100 acres, the lake is known as the ancestral home of Dakuwage, the Sea God. It is filled by the ocean tides and makes also a great place for fishing.
Vanua Levu is known for its dramatic waterfalls and the most spectacular is Nakawaga Waterfall. Not far from town, nearby villagers will guide you to the waterfall – only a short trek through the jungle. It’s a good idea to have a cooling swim before you head back through the humid jungle.
Resorts in Savusavu
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