Fiji Travel Guide

Cash and Currency

The local currency in Fiji is the Fijian dollar. It is available in denominations of $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100, as well as 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, $1 and $2 coins. 

You can either order travel money in advance or visit a currency exchange once you arrive in Fiji. Nadi, Suva and Savusavu airports all have 24 hour currency exchanges, plus you’ll find outlets in many major towns. There’s also the option of using ATMs, some of which are located inside resorts and hotels. 

It is possible to pay by credit or debit card at many places in Fiji. American Express, Visa and Mastercard are accepted at larger establishments. You will want to notify your bank that you’re traveling in Fiji beforehand to avoid any issues. If you need to visit a bank during your vacation, note that many aren’t open on weekends.

Language

English is the official first language of Fiji, however, many people also speak Fijian or Hindustani. It is worth knowing a couple of Fijian words and phrases before you go. “Bula!” means “hello”, while “Vinaka” is “thank you”.

Health Information

Fiji has a good standard of medical care and very low risk of illnesses. Nevertheless, if you do need to see a doctor, you will find clinics in most Fijian towns. For emergencies, it is worth noting down the following phone numbers:

Ambulance: 910
Police: 911
Fire services: 917

Vaccinations

There are no vaccinations that are strictly compulsory for Fiji. It is still a good idea to make sure you are up to date with general inoculations such as tetanus, measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria and polio. You may also want to update any vaccinations for hepatitis A and B and typhoid fever before you visit. 

If you’ve traveled through a country with yellow fever within six days of your arrival, Fijian authorities require that you carry an International Certificate of Vaccination for yellow fever.

Currently, Fiji’s borders remain closed. However, once they reopen, you will need to show proof of being vaccinated against COVID-19. This is the same of all Oceania countries within the Enchanting Travels offering.

Tipping

Tipping is not a part of the culture in Fiji and gratuity will rarely be added to your bill. Nevertheless, you may want to offer a tip for particularly good service. 

As Fiji has a communal society, you can expect any tip to be shared out. This is especially true in resorts and restaurants. If you want to reward an individual, it is best to hand them the tip in person rather than leaving it on the table or in a tipping box. 

Getting Around

The ease of traveling in Fiji will depend largely on which island/islands you are visiting. You can hop between them by plane or boat, and then explore either by car, bike, on foot or via private excursions. Here’s our Fiji travel guide to getting around the islands:

By road

Viti Levu and Vanua Levu are home to the majority of the country’s roads, although note that only one fifth of them are paved. You may want to hire a 4WD if you are planning on venturing away from the cities and towns as rural roads are typically unpaved.

Urban areas tend to have the best road systems in Fiji. If you’re hoping to soak up the Fijian countryside, it’s a good idea to fill your car up before you set off on your journey as gas stations are limited beyond the towns and cities. 

Remember, if you’re planning on hiring a car in Fiji, you’ll need a valid driving license from an English-speaking country. If you don’t have one, you’ll have to apply for an international driving permit before you set off on your vacation. 

By plane

If Viti Levu is not your final destination, you’ll be able to take domestic flights to smaller islands from both Nadi and Suva-Nausori airport. Some islands have small airstrips, while many other islands in the Mamanuca and Yasawa Groups can be accessed by seaplane or helicopter. 

Domestic flights are often infrequent to some locations. Also, don’t be surprised if you arrive at your final destination before your luggage! It’s a good idea to take a change of clothes in your hand baggage just in case of a delay.

By ferry

It is also possible to reach other islands by ferry. Services operate between Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, Kadavu and Taveuni. Note that the timetables can change regularly and you may end up having to wait a while at certain ferry ports.

By bike

Cycling is a lovely, leisurely way to view some of the islands’ interiors. Go off the beaten path at your own pace by hiring bicycles via your accommodation or tour guide. Viti Levu, Vanua Levu (specifically the Hibiscus Hwy), Ovalau and Taveuni are among the best places to cycle in Fiji.

Your Trip Coordinator will be available round the clock to assist you with any domestic travel while you are visiting Fiji with us. Your local guides and hotels will be able to make recommendations and make safe and seamless arrangements for you. 

Have a query about something that has not been covered in our Fiji travel guide? Get in touch with our experts for advice and to book your tailor-made vacation to this idyllic archipelago.