Destination Overview
Vanua Levu is the second-largest island of the Fiji archipelago. it is just over half the size of Viti Levu and has 18% of the country’s total population. Savusavu is one of the fastest-growing towns as well as a unique and distinctive tourism destination in Fiji. It is small and quaint, with a heritage yet bustling small-town quality. Savusavu Town is nestled on a peninsula that divides Savusavu Bay from the Koro Sea and is the main tourist destination for Vanua Levu. The landscape here is scenic, with many bays, rainforests, and coconut groves.
Labasa Town, located in the northern part of Vanua Levu, is a hidden gem offering visitors a unique blend of cultural heritage and scenic beauty. While many travelers flock to the more popular destinations, Labasa offers a quiet charm that’s rich in history and local traditions. With its diverse landscapes, lively markets, and strong Indo-Fijian cultural influence, Labasa provides an authentic and immersive Fijian experience away from the usual tourist crowds.
Getting Your Bearings
Savusavu was once a caldera1, and the area still has lots of geothermal activity, with hot springs near the wharf and vents of steam along the water’s edge. These hot springs have put Savusavu on the world’s tourist map. The main attraction for most travellers to Savusavu is its reefs. There are good dive sites at the entrance, within Savusavu Bay, and along the coast towards Taveuni. The Hibiscus Highway is scenic, running from Savusavu town to the road’s end at Darigala, passing sprawling copra estates, colonial-style homesteads, villages, rivers2, and forests. Towards the end of the Hibiscus Highway is the Tunuloa or Natewa Peninsula. This area is renowned for bird-watching, hiking, or exploration by bus or 4WD. The silktail, a rare bird listed as one of the world’s endangered species, is found only on this peninsula. (Birds List3)
South of Buca Bay, at the south-eastern end of Vanua Levu, is Dakuniba Village, where petroglyphs on boulders can be found in a creek bed nearby.
Labasa town’s development traces back to the colonial era, with its origins closely linked to the establishment of the Colonial Sugar Refining Company Mill in 1894. This significant event laid the foundation for Labasa’s growth into a regional hub. The town’s historical buildings, such as the old supermarket in Vulovi, stand as reminders of its colonial past. Today, Labasa thrives as the economic and cultural center of Vanua Levu, with its bustling street markets, diverse shops, and a blend of traditional and modern Fijian life.
Labasa also serves as a gateway to the natural wonders of Vanua Levu. The surrounding countryside offers an abundance of opportunities for adventure, from exploring the lush rainforests to relaxing at the Korotari Hot Springs. The Labasa Sugar Mill remains a focal point of the town’s heritage, offering insight into the role sugar production has played in the region’s development. With its mixture of culture, history, and natural beauty, Labasa provides an enriching experience for travelers looking to explore a less-touristed side of Fiji.
| Month | Min Temp * | Max Temp ** | Water Temp | Precipitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 25.0°C (77°F) | 30.0°C (86°F) | 29.0°C (84.2°F) | 335mm (13.2in) |
| February | 24.0°C (75.2°F) | 31.0°C (87.8°F) | 29.0°C (84.2°F) | 331mm (13.0in) |
| March | 24.0°C (75.2°F) | 29.0°C (84.2°F) | 29.0°C (84.2°F) | 358mm (14.1in) |
| April | 24.0°C (75.2°F) | 30.0°C (86°F) | 28.0°C (82.4°F) | 251mm (9.9in) |
| May | 24.0°C (75.2°F) | 29.0°C (84.2°F) | 27.0°C (80.6°F) | 122mm (4.8in) |
| June | 23.0°C (73.4°F) | 28.0°C (82.4°F) | 26.0°C (78.8°F) | 150mm (5.9in) |
| July | 23.0°C (73.4°F) | 28.0°C (82.4°F) | 26.0°C (78.8°F) | 81mm (3.2in) |
| August | 22.0°C (71.6°F) | 26.0°C (78.8°F) | 27.0°C (80.6°F) | 90mm (3.5in) |
| September | 22.0°C (71.6°F) | 28.0°C (82.4°F) | 27.0°C (80.6°F) | 113mm (4.4in) |
| October | 22.0°C (71.6°F) | 28.0°C (82.4°F) | 27.0°C (80.6°F) | 146mm (5.7in) |
| November | 24.0°C (75.2°F) | 30.0°C (86°F) | 28.0°C (82.4°F) | 278mm (10.9in) |
| December | 24.0°C (75.2°F) | 32.0°C (89.6°F) | 28.0°C (82.4°F) | 232mm (9.1in) |
Venues & Restaurants
Activities & Attractions
Transport
It’s easy to get to Vanua Levu from either Nadi or Suva, by air or by sea. So, no matter where you are in Fiji, you can get to ‘the Friendly North’ easily and comfortably. Like the main island of Viti Levu, Vanua Levu has a major road network spanning the full breadth of the island. An established transport network of local buses, taxis, coaches, and minibuses allows you to easily navigate the island at your own pace.
Resort Transfers: You can arrange your resort transfer from the airport by road or boat. Transfers may incur a fee, as some resorts use private services, while larger resorts often provide complimentary transfers.
Guided Sightseeing Tour: is a great choice for those looking to see the top attractions. These tours are led by passionate locals who love sharing the stories and experiences of their beautiful island home.
Taxi Services: Several taxi services are mainly based in Savusavu and Labasa, providing registered transportation. Contact details for these services can typically be obtained from the reception at most resorts.
Bus Services: A limited bus service, operated by Pacific Transport, runs across the island two or three times a day, with reduced services on Sundays. The best place to inquire about this service is the resort reception, as they usually have a timetable available.
Private Driver Services: Are also available for half or full-day hires, often offering a more affordable option. These private drivers provide a comfortable and personalized ride, and they also share valuable local insights during the journey.
Car Rentals: Renting a car is another popular option, offering complete freedom to explore at your own pace and discover the island’s sights on your own timetable. Most of the roads are sealed and well-maintained, but be aware that some areas, particularly in the southern part of the island, may have potholes and rough surfaces.
The quickest way to reach Vanua Levu is by taking a domestic flight from Nadi or Suva International Airport to Matei Airport in Northern Taveuni, with flight times ranging from 1hr to 1hr 30 minutes. Fiji Link, Island Hoopers, Sunflower Air and Northern Air all offer flights to Vanua Levu. To secure the best prices, it is recommended to book early. If you have plenty of time on your hands and wish to explore more of Vanua Levu upon arrival, Flights to Labasa, situated on the northern side of the island, are typically a lot cheaper than a direct flight to Savusavu; at certain times of the year, they can be as much as 40–50 percent cheaper. Upon arriving in Labasa, you can easily take a Coach or rent a car and navigate down the picturesque internal highway to Savusavu.
Fiji Link Airways: The domestic arm of Fiji Airways, offers convenient daily flights to Savusavu Airport, making it easy to plan your trips around Fiji. With a fixed schedule, it’s important to book early as seating is limited, especially during peak times. Ahead of the quieter off-peak season, Fiji Link often rolls out attractive promotions that significantly reduce one-way fares to various destinations across the Fiji Islands.
Island Hoppers: Departs from Nadi Airport on a direct flight to Cousteau, Namale, Savasi, Koro Sun, Hot Springs, Daku, Wavi Island These flights are equipped with a large cargo pod for surfboards, fishing rods, and dive gear. The modern aircraft feature air conditioning, large windows for optimal visibility, and an international baggage allowance, ensuring a comfortable and convenient journey.
Sunflower Air: At Sunflower Aviation, charter flights are available to Savusavu & Labasa.
Northern Air: Northern Air – Fiji operates affordable domestic flights across the islands. Their reliable and comfortable services connect travelers to the stunning destinations of Fiji, their fleet of seven aircraft offers flights to some of Fiji’s most beautiful locations, including Suva, Taveuni, Savusavu, Labasa, Levuka, Moala, and Nadi. They also provide a full charter service and are one of Fiji’s key medivac providers.
Lomaiviti Princess Ferry (SUVA TO SAVUSAVU): The Lomaviti Princess, operated by Gounder Shipping, offers overnight ferry services between Suva and Savusavu. The ferry typically departs Suva on Mondays and Fridays, with occasional departures on Tuesdays during holidays, and arrives in Savusavu. The journey takes approximately 14 hours, and passengers are advised to book a cabin and consider hiring a mattress for added comfort. The return ferry departs Savusavu on Tuesdays and Sundays. Ferry schedules are subject to change, particularly around public holidays, so passengers should confirm details with Gounder Shipping in advance.
| Location | Labasa | Savusavu | Buca Bay | Nabouwalu |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Labasa | 0 | 85 | 163 | 135 |
| Savusavu | 85 | 0 | 78 | 147 |
| Buca Bay | 163 | 78 | 0 | 220 |
| Nabouwalu | 135 | 147 | 220 | 0 |
Beautification of Vanua Levu
Vatu-i-Ra Seascape: The Vatu-i-Ra Seascape, a vibrant and ecologically rich area, spans across the channel linking Fiji’s two main islands, Viti Levu and Vanua Levu. This 27,000 km² region is home to diverse marine life, including over 300 species of reef-building corals, more than 1,000 fish species, sharks, and endangered sea turtles. The seascape is nourished by the deep Vatu-i-Ra and Lomaiviti Passages, which generate strong currents supporting a wealth of marine biodiversity, including humpback whales, black noddy sea birds, and dolphins. The coastal forests are equally diverse, hosting unique plant species, crested iguanas, and tree frogs. Vatu-i-Ra is essential to the local communities, providing food and livelihoods to over 116,000 people who rely on its resources.
Traditional management practices, such as temporal fisheries closures, are still in use by local communities, highlighting their strong cultural and historical ties to the land and sea. With a growing understanding of the need for ecosystem-based management, there is an unprecedented partnership between national governments, local communities, NGOs, and research institutions to protect and sustain the seascape’s vital resources.
Natewa Peninsula: The Natewa Peninsula, located on the southeastern coast of Vanua Levu in Fiji, is a rich and ecologically significant area known for its high levels of biodiversity. It is home to unique forests that support a diverse range of species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world. The region is particularly important for its endemic plants and animals, including the Natewa Swallowtail butterfly and the Natewa Silktail bird. These species, along with others, thrive in the peninsula’s largely undisturbed ecosystems, which include tropical lowland and hill forests.
The Natewa Peninsula also provides essential ecosystem services, such as carbon storage, flood regulation, and pollination. Its diverse landscapes contribute to the well-being of local communities by supporting agriculture and protecting natural resources. The region’s ecological importance makes it a critical area for ongoing environmental protection and sustainable management.
Counting Coral is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that designs, donates and installs sculptural coral gene banks that are specifically tailored to rehabilitate coral reefs. Through the innovative approach of submerging structural and functional artwork, Counting Coral brings about a transformation in the human engagement with coral reef restoration. Beneath the ocean’s surface, these sculptures become the home for exceptional coral—rare, genetically superior, and opportunistic—evolving into an initial coral nursery and ultimately serving as parent plants within a dynamic gene bank ecosystem. By installing a functional attraction that serves as a gene bank, we are able to divert diver traffic from fragile reefs, increase revenue to the local communities, strengthen marketing opportunities, and raise awareness for marine conservation. Video
The Savusavu Blue Town Model is designed to specifically target developing island and coastal communities within regions known for their rich tropical marine biodiversity, demonstrating a global commitment to protecting this vital “genetic bunker.” Through this model, Savusavu aims to highlight Fiji’s dedication to COP initiatives, focusing not only on reducing carbon emissions and raising climate change awareness but also on implementing tangible solutions to preserve and protect tropical marine ecosystems. By showcasing its incredible natural beauty and vibrant community, Savusavu serves as an example of how island nations can work together to safeguard their diverse genetic resources and ensure the resilience of their environments for future generations. United Nations Environment Program: Blue Town Model PDF. Partner With Savusavu: The Worlds First Blue Town Model Prospectus PDF
Tavola Villa Fiji is an eco-resort in Northern Fiji that operates in harmony with nature, utilizing sustainable practices to minimize its environmental impact. The resort collects rainwater, uses solar heating, and delivers water via gravity-fed tanks, ensuring a reliable, energy-efficient supply. Dishes are washed by hand, with dishwashers used only for drying, further conserving water and power. The team consists of native Fijians from the local community, reducing the resort’s carbon footprint and fostering strong ties with the Savusavu and Vanua Levu regions. Tavola relies on sea breezes and overhead fans for cooling, while laundry is air-dried under the sun. The resort also features an edible landscape with a vegetable and herb garden for guests to pick fresh produce, and offers a curated selection of local spirits and beers, including Blue Turtle Gin, Bati White Rum, and Fiji Bitter beer, highlighting the island’s unique flavors.
Savasi Island Resort is dedicated to sustainability and responsible travel, with a strong focus on preserving Fiji’s natural environment and cultural heritage. The resort promotes cultural awareness by respecting the land, supporting local businesses, and providing employment opportunities for the Fijian people, encouraging both guests and staff to contribute to protecting this unique destination for future generations. Sustainable practices are implemented throughout the resort, including eliminating single-use plastics, promoting water conservation, and sourcing over 80% of its food locally to reduce its environmental footprint. Savasi also invests in local communities by supporting healthcare, women’s services, and other essential needs. Guests can engage with Fijian culture through performances and activities led by local guides, while the resort celebrates local artistry and fosters economic growth within the community.
Nukubati Resort is a leader in sustainable tourism, dedicated to preserving both the environment and local culture. Powered by Fiji’s first and largest solar power plant, which generates over 50 kilowatts of electricity daily, the resort relies on harvested rainwater, filtered and UV-treated for sustainability, and solar water heaters for hot water, reducing dependence on non-renewable energy. The resort emphasizes responsible waste management by recycling domestic and grey water, using natural bio-cycle systems to treat sewage, and employing composted organic waste to grow fresh produce through tropical permaculture techniques. Avoiding air conditioning and swimming pools to minimize its carbon footprint, Nukubati uses natural ventilation from sea breezes and offers the South Pacific Ocean as its “swimming pool.” The resort also collaborates with local organizations to promote marine conservation and sustainable tourism, supporting local communities and safeguarding their way of life.
Glimpse of the Past
Vanua Levu, as with other Fiji islands was inundated with Europeans, a motley mixture of sailors, and escaped criminals from Australia. Sandalwood traders put in at Bua Bay. The sandalwood trade flourished for years until over-exploitation saw its demise. The subsequent years saw the copra industry flourish and fail in the 1930s and it wasn’t until sugar cane was eventually planted with the Labasa Sugar Mill opening in 1894 that Vanua Levu had an industry that looked long-term. In front of the Copra Shed Marina is a stone dated 1880 which is said to be from Fiji’s first Copra mill.
In 1643 Abel Tasman sights Vanua Levu, then known as Sandalwood Island. He sailed on past without landing. On May 6, 1789, Captain Bligh and his men sailed south of Vanua Levu on their voyage from Tofua to Timor in the Bounty’s lifeboat.
Island News & Tidbits
Savusavu Named Among World’s Most Beautiful Cities
Additional Information
- Caldera: A caldera is a large depression that forms when a volcano erupts and the magma chamber beneath it empties. As magma is expelled during the eruption, the structural support provided by the magma within the chamber is lost, leading to the collapse of the volcano’s summit and sides. This creates a hollow, often cauldron-like feature at the surface. The ground surface sinks into the emptied or partially emptied magma chamber, leaving a significant depression that can sometimes fill with water or volcanic material. ↩︎
- Rivers of Vanua Levu: Main River Boda River, Bua River, Buca River, Bucaisau River, Dama River, Dreketi River (1), Galogalo River, Kasavu River, Kilaka River, Korolevu River, Korotasere River, Labasa River (2), Lagalaga River, Lakeba River, Lekutu River (3), Mataniwai River, Naiselesele River, Nakura River, Nala River (4), Nalomate River, Naqereqere River, Nasavu River, Nasekawa River (5), Nasoni River, Natoavou River, Navilagolago River, Nubu River, Qaloyaqa River, Qawa River, Sarowaqa River (6), Suetabu River, Tabia River, Tibitibi River, Togolevu River, Vaturova River, Vunivia River, Vuniyaro River, Wailevu River, Wainikoro River (7), Wainunu River (8), Yanawai River Tributaries (1) Dreketi River – Tributaries (Nabiti River, Korovuli River, Nakorotolutolu River, Nanenivuda River, Nasuva River, Seaqaqa River, Vunibelebele River. Naua River (Tributary: Drawa River,Lutukina River, Navuturerega River) (2) Labasa River – Tributaries Wairikicake River, Wairikiqisi River (3) Lekutu River – Tributaries Kavula River (Tributary: Nadamanu River, Nawailevu River) (4) Nala River – Tributaries Koroivonu River (5) Nasekawa River – Tributaries Drakaniwai River (6) Sarowaqa River – Tributaries Tavua River (7) Wainikoro River – Tributaries Nadogo River, Nalagi River (8) Wainunu River – Tributaries Dawacumu River, Nabuna River, Navilevu River ↩︎
- Avian Life of Taveuni: Black Noddy, Blue-and-Yellow Macaw, Brown Booby, Collared Lory, Common Myna, Fiji Bush Warbler, Fiji Goshawk, Fiji Parrotfinch, Fiji Shrikebill, Fiji Whistler, Fiji Woodswallow, Fiji Kingfisher, Fiji Starling, Great Crested Tern, Great Frigatebird, Jungle Myna, Layard’s White-eye, Lesser Frigatebird, Metallic Pigeon, Many-colored Fruit-Dove, Natewa Silktail, Northern Wattled-Honeyeater, Orange-breasted Myzomela, Orange Dove, Pacific Golden-Plover, Pacific Kingfisher, Pacific Reef-Heron, Pacific Robin, Pacific Swallow, Peale’s Imperial Pigeon, Polynesian Starling, Polynesian Triller, Red Avadavat, Red Shining-Parrot, Red-vented Bulbul, Slaty Monarch, Spotted Dove, Streaked Fantail, Swamp Harrier, White Rumped Swiftlet, White Tern, White-faced Heron, Wandering Tattler ↩︎
Just a quick note—no footnotes to add this time!
This overview outlines what guests can generally expect from motels, hotels, and resorts displaying a Star Rating assigned by us. However, these features and amenities may not be available at condominiums, apartment-style facilities, bed-and-breakfasts, and other specialty properties. Items listed may not all be offered at every property in a specific rating classification. Some criteria may vary from country to country. Our hotel star rating classifications are not a representation or promise of any particular feature or amenity.
1 Star: These basic motels, hostels, and dormitories offer no-frills accommodations with minimal on-site facilities. Public access and guest reception may not operate 24 hours. Daily housekeeping service may not be offered. Guestrooms are small and functional, but may not have private bathrooms, TVs, or in-room telephones.
1.5 Star: Hostels and dormitories in this classification customarily offer additional amenities such as billiard games, Internet stations, and conversational seating areas. Basic motels may offer 24-hour reception, daily housekeeping service and private bathrooms.
2 Star: These budget properties offer clean accommodations. Most offer 24-hour reception, daily housekeeping service, TVs, telephones, clothes racks or small closets, and private bathrooms—possibly with showers only. On-site dining is usually limited to a Continental breakfast.
2.5 Star: This classification contains limited-service properties (often all-suite economy properties in North America) offering upgraded quality and expanded comfort, without the amenities of full-service hotels such as a restaurant or bell staff. An expanded Continental breakfast, including hot items, is often served in a breakfast room. In Asia, multiple on-site dining options may be offered, and at times in the Americas and Europe basic full-service properties will appear.
3 Star: Properties in this classification place a greater emphasis on comfort and service, with many offering an on-site restaurant and bar. Baggage assistance is often available. Guestrooms typically feature more space, comfortable seating, and better quality bedding. Bathrooms are often larger, with shower/tub combinations and expanded counter space.
3.5 Star: Many of these hotels feature multiple restaurants, uniformed bell staff, and enhanced lobbies with upscale decor and live plants. Most properties feature upgraded guestroom decor, large desks paired with comfortable workstation chairs, and TVs housed in armoires. Amenities may include larger bathrooms, incandescent lighting, and stone counters. Resorts, and some hotels in Asia, often feature attractive pool areas and small spa facilities or massage treatment rooms.
4 Star: Lobbies typically offer upscale decor and multiple conversational areas. Services often include a dedicated concierge, valet parking, turndown service by request, and 24-hour room service. Guestrooms usually feature superior amenities such as large beds, additional seating, minibars, laptop-compatible safes, pillowtop mattresses, bathrobes, and upscale bath products. Decorative features such as crown molding, bathroom artwork, and granite or marble accents may appear. Resorts, and some hotels in Asia, customarily feature full-service spas, tennis courts, golf access, child-care services, and upgraded pools with poolside food servers.
4.5 Star: Fresh flowers, original art, and luxurious furnishings often adorn the lobbies. Amenities customarily include fine-dining restaurants (occasionally award-winning), 24-hour room service with hot food items, and automatic turndown service. Personalized service aims to anticipate guest needs. Guestrooms typically feature premium hardwood furniture, luxurious bedding with triple sheeting, and large bathrooms with separate bathtubs and showers, and materials such as granite or marble.
5 Star: Amenities typically include gourmet dining, luxury spas, and full-service health clubs with lavish locker rooms. Staff members are generally polished, anticipate guest needs, and consistently address guests by name. Features may include upgraded check-in, a welcome amenity, and butler service on all or select floors. Guestroom decor is often elegant and may include coordinated fabrics on drapes, chairs, headboards, and duvets. Electronic features sometimes include bedside controls for drapes, lighting, and surround-sound. Oversized bathrooms are often clad in marble, with premium, custom-built features, dual-sink vanities, enclosed toilets, premium spa-brand toiletries, and fresh flowers or live plants. Five-star resorts typically offer signature golf courses, tennis centers with choice of playing surfaces, health clubs with personal trainers, luxurious spas, cultural activities, and children’s day camps. In Asia, both hotels and resorts often feature some of these amenities.
- Fiji Airways (n.d.). Savusavu destinations. Fiji Airways. Available at: Link [Accessed 19 December 2023].
- Fiji Sun (2018, November 17). New butterfly species discovered in Natewa. Fiji Sun. Available at: Link [Accessed 19 December 2023].
- Nature Glenelg (2018, August). Fiji Myzomela. Available at: Link [Accessed 19 December 2023].
- Savusavu.info (n.d.). Accommodations in Savusavu. Available at: Link [Accessed 19 December 2023].
- The Vatu-i-Ra Seascape (n.d.). Available at: Link [Accessed 19 December 2023].
- United Nations Environment Programme (2019, January 1). The Savusavu Blue Town Model. Available at: Link [Accessed 19 December 2023].
- Web Archive (2024, September 19). Getting around Savusavu. Available at: Link [Accessed 19 December 2023].