Authentic Fiji: Hidden Paradise

Transfer To Domestic Flight

We arrive on Fiji’s Main Island, Viti Levu and board our 45-minute flight to Savusavu. Check in at our resort where we will cover all the activities available to your during your stay so you can spend the rest of the day at your leisure to get your bearings and dump some jet lag. Tonight we host a welcome dinner at our host resort. D

Accommodation: Koro Sun Resort (7 nights)
Koro Sun Resort & Rainforest Spa offers a truly native Fijian experience, dedicated to adventure, rejuvenation and romance. The 18 enchanting bures are private, exclusive and fully air-conditioned, and offer all-encompassing views of the ocean and reefs beyond. Your stay is all-inclusive – from the tenderly prepared and presented gourmet feasts, to the meticulous attention you receive from the dedicated staff. All non-motorized water sport activities are included, so the world outside is yours to discover.

Today is an early start, with a hike into the forestry to see the incredible and diverse nature of the Fijian Islands. This hike takes us over steep hills and beautiful waterfalls. The footpaths are challenging and rewarding in every respect.

The Waisali Reserve is one of the few remaining unexploited forests in Fiji and is the natural habitat for the native Fijian hardwood – some of the trees being over 100 years old. During our hike we may see or hear the redbreasted musk parrot or the beautiful orange dove – both endemic and rare bird species. The quiet serene is disturbed only by the occasional sound of the barking pigeon and moving stream water. We’ll take time to rest in the bure beside the rock pool which is home to fish, eel, prawn and freshwater snails. The reserve freshwater fauna are unique so the pool is kept undisturbed and is not suitable for swimming. BLD

Our day starts with a drive along the picturesque coastal Hibiscus Highway to visit a working copra plantation. Copra is the meat of coconuts and is the main ingredient of coconut oil. ‘Nukutoso’ (meaning ‘shifting sands’) is one of the few surviving working copra plantations on Vanua Levu. The Savusavu economy began with copra and in the 1950s/60s the plantation owners reaped the benefits of a thriving industry.

Owner, Clarence Lepper, will personally guide us through the process of the cutting of copra and removing the white meat from the shell and how it is processed before being sent to a mill to be made into coconut oil. You’ll also see many other products and items made from the entire palm tree. Nukutoso boasts a beautiful white sandy beach and you are invited to wade in the water or just relax under the trees.

Spending the day with the village farmers and sharing their skill in cultivating their vegetable and root crop gardens is fascinating. You’ll learn the different types of locally planted vegetables that the villagers depend on to make their bread and other staples. Fiji is well known for the friendly villagers and the time here is geared toward you learning about their lives and you sharing yours. BLD

We spend some more time in the village where we will also host a picnic lunch.

Today we travel along the delightful coast road to visit Nukubalavu Village (pronounced Nookoo-m-bar-lar-voo), home of the Tui Nasavusavu, paramount chief of Savusavu. We will be greeted by the village elders and invited to witness and participate in a yaqona (kava) ceremony where the powdered kava is mixed with water and presented in a ‘bilo’ (coconut cup) to those who wish to taste this ceremonial drink. Kava ceremonies take place at important Fijian occasions.

Following the ceremony guides will take us on a tour of the village where we will experience the warmth of the Fijian people. Mingle with the villagers and their children and learn more about their culture and see them work at their traditional crafts and of course, shop! BLD

We’ll host a morning beach walk if you care to join us. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy the many active opportunities offered by the resort. Chill by the pool, beach or make it a spa day. The choice is yours. BLD

We travel on the pretty bayside road to Flora Tropical Gardens, a plant nursery comprising of five acres of hillside and creek flats. Wander along the elevated timber walkways and stone paths to view the many varieties of variegated and flowering shrubs including orchids, heliconias, water lilies and more than forty different tropical fruit trees. The highlight of the gardens is the palm collection with more than 250 species from around the world including many that are classified as rare and endangered species.

Enjoy the glorious views over the gardens and across Savusavu Bay. You can also chat with our hosts, Jim and Marijani while you enjoy a fresh fruit juice pressed from fruits harvested from the garden, or tea and coffee.

Flora Tropica Gardens is a registered participant in the worldwide implementation of the International Agenda in support of plant conservation, environmental awareness and sustainable development as recognized by BGCI (Botanical Gardens Conservation International).

Spectacular Savusavu Bay provides the perfect environment for creating Fiji’s natural gems, the J. Hunter pearls, renowned for their beautiful hues of soft pastels and exceptionally bold tones together with the rare “Fiji Gold”. Thousands of black lip pearl oysters adorn the Bay and the pristine, nutrient rich waters, along with dedicated farm management, produce some of the world’s largest and most beautiful pearls. A short boat ride will take us to the farm where you will see the different stages of black pearl development. We then return to J. Hunter Headquarters and witness the opening of a mature oyster to reveal a natural underwater treasure. BLD

We travel along the cross island road into the interior of Vanua Levu taking advantage of the panoramic views en route to add to your photo collection.

On arrival at Bagata we will be met by local village guides and accompanied on a trek up and down hill through natural rainforest featuring an incredible variety of indigenous flora and fauna. Take a dip in the refreshing pool at the waterfall or just relax and enjoy the serene environment while enjoying a picnic lunch. This is a wonderful day of Fijian hospitality and incredible views. BLD

Today we depart The Koro Sun Resort and transfer to the airport to connect to our flight back to Nadi, on Fiji’s Main Island of Viti Levu.

On arrival we are transferred to our hotel, the Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa. Tonight we enjoy a sumptuous farewell buffet dinner as we bid farewell to our new-found friends. BD

Accommodation: Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa
On Denarau Island, just 20 minutes from Nadi International Airport. This resort is set along absolute beachfront, adjacent to the world class Denarau Golf and Racquet Club.

Bon voyage and continued safe travels to wherever they may take you. B