Travel Essentials

Everything you need to know before visiting Fiji — from visa requirements and currency to cultural etiquette and packing tips.

📄 Visa & Entry Requirements

Citizens of most countries receive a free 4-month visitor permit on arrival.
You need a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity.
Proof of onward travel (return ticket) is required.
No visa required in advance for citizens of the US, UK, EU, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Japan, and most Pacific Island nations.
For extended stays, visa extensions can be arranged through the Fiji Department of Immigration in Suva.

The Fijian Dollar (FJD) is the local currency. As of 2024, roughly 1 USD = 2.2 FJD.
ATMs are widely available in Nadi, Suva, and major towns. Less common on outer islands.
Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted at resorts and larger restaurants. Carry cash for markets, village visits, and small vendors.
ANZ, BSP, Westpac, and Bred Bank are the main banks.
Tipping is not expected in Fiji but is appreciated for exceptional service. Resorts may add a service charge.

Dry season (May to October): The most popular time to visit. Cooler temperatures (25-28°C), less rain, and lower humidity. Peak season with higher prices.
Wet season (November to April): Warmer (30-33°C) and more humid with occasional tropical downpours and cyclone risk. Great for budget travelers — fewer crowds and lower prices.
Water visibility is best from July to September for diving and snorkeling.
Shoulder months (May and October) offer the best combination of good weather and reasonable prices.
Fiji is a year-round destination — even the wet season has plenty of sunshine between rain showers.

Domestic flights: Fiji Airways and Fiji Link connect major islands (Nadi, Suva, Taveuni, Savusavu, Labasa). Book early for best fares.
Inter-island ferries: Awesome Adventures Fiji and South Sea Cruises run catamaran services to the Mamanuca and Yasawa islands. Great Sights and Patterson Brothers serve Vanua Levu.
Buses: Local buses are cheap and cover most of Viti Levu. Sunbeam Transport and Pacific Transport run express services.
Taxis: Metered in towns, but always confirm the fare before long trips. Ride-sharing is not widely available.
Car rental: Available in Nadi and Suva. Drive on the left. Roads on Viti Levu's Kings Road and Queens Road are well-maintained. Be cautious of livestock on the road.

English is an official language and widely spoken — you'll have no trouble communicating.
Fijian (iTaukei) and Hindi are also official languages.
Useful Fijian words: "Bula" (hello), "Vinaka" (thank you), "Vinaka vakalevu" (thank you very much), "Moce" (goodbye).
Mobile coverage is good on main islands (Vodafone Fiji and Digicel). Purchase a local SIM card at the airport for affordable data.
WiFi is available at most resorts and hotels, though speeds can be slow on remote islands.

Fiji is generally very safe for tourists. Petty crime (bag snatching) can occur in Suva and Nadi — use normal precautions.
Tap water is safe to drink in major towns and resorts. On remote islands, stick to bottled water.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen — the equatorial sun is intense.
Mosquito repellent is recommended, especially in the wet season. Dengue fever occurs occasionally.
The nearest decompression chamber is in Suva — important for scuba divers.
No vaccinations are required for entry, but ensure routine vaccinations are up to date. Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines are recommended by some health authorities.

Remove shoes before entering a Fijian home or bure (traditional house).
When visiting a village, always present a sevusevu (gift of kava root) to the village chief. Your hotel or tour operator can help arrange this.
Dress modestly in villages — cover shoulders and knees. Swimwear is for the beach only.
Do not touch a Fijian's head — it is considered disrespectful.
Wearing hats and sunglasses in a village is frowned upon.
Accept kava when offered — it's a sign of respect and hospitality. Clap once before drinking and say "Bula!"

Light, breathable clothing — cotton and linen work well in the tropical heat.
A modest outfit for village visits (sarong/sulu works great and can be bought locally).
Reef shoes or water sandals for rocky beaches and reef walking.
Waterproof bag for boat transfers to outer islands.
Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+), insect repellent, and a hat.
Snorkeling gear if you have your own — rental quality varies.
A light rain jacket or poncho, even in dry season.

Now that you know the essentials, browse our hotel and tour guides to build your perfect Fiji itinerary.