ATTRACTIONS

Bouma Falls

Bouma Falls is located near Bouma Village where villagers have improved access to the Falls, constructed trails, BBQ pits, benches and picnic spots. When you visit and pay your F$5 admission, think of it as a contribution to the village. A similar project has occurred at the picnic reserve.
It is approx. 40 minute drive from Lomani and a great attraction to see a series of beautiful waterfalls that you can swim in and hike between. There are also fantastic picnic spots to rest and take in the scenery. There are three major waterfalls- the first a spectacular 80ft and only 10 minute hike from the drop off point, the second a multitude of 20ft falls a further 20 minute hike and the third again a 20ft fall which is a further 20 minute hike.
Along some of the steeper grades there are step-like wooden levels with hand rails. Occasionally you must ford a creek but there is a rope to help navigate the rocks.

Lavena Walk & Lavena Village

This trip can be done in combination with Bouma Falls or separately. Past the falls turnoff you travel another 20 minutes along the road which brings you to one of the most picturesque villages on the island. This is the best beach on the island and is excellent for snorkeling. There is a five kilometer path that leads through the village vegetable gardens and along the pristine coastline. There are Fijian crafts for sale at the reception bure (there is also an admission fee to the park).

Lavena Walk offers an amazing hike including a shallow river crossing, beautiful beaches (some say the best in Taveuni) and also a isolated surfbreak. In addition, there is the opportunity to visit Lavena Village and enjoy an endless choice of picnic and resting spots.

Site of International Dateline

The international dateline once passed directly through Taveuni. The dateline was later changed so as not to bisect Taveuni. A five minute walk or less from the dateline is the Meridian Theater which was recently the subject of a documentary film (Reel Paradise). The theater was constructed in 1953.

Warrior Burial Cave

Created by a lava tube, this cave is about 350 meters long and terminates at the ocean edge. In former times it was used by Fijians as a secret burial cave for warriors. It is believed that Taveuni's greatest warriors were buried here in order to keep their remains hidden from enemies. Most of the large bones were removed in the 1950s after the cave was found. Guides will proudly show you the biers where their ancestors were laid to rest. As one would expect the cave is dark and damp. Be sure and bring your hiking shoes.

Wairiki Mission

The Wairiki Mission is the most architecturally interesting edifice on Taveuni. Situated on the edge of a splendid coconut plantation, it is also known at The Taveuni Catholic mission. It's a good example of British colonial Romanesque architecture. Located on a hill, it overlooks the historic site where Taveuni warriors turnedback thousands of invading Tongans in a battle that was fought in canoes just off the beach. It was this particular battle that turned the tide in a war that had seen the Tongan stake over much of Fiji. The locals celebrated by cooking their enemies and eating them with breadfruit. Modern day visitors are invited to attend Mass on Sundays from 7 am to 9 am. Definitely check it out, the singing is wonderful (note that there are no pews or seats so be prepared to sit on the floor).

Vuna Village, Blow Hole, Vatuwiri Estate and Navakawau

Vuna, a village near the southernmost end of Taveuni, played an important role in the early European settlement of the Island. The original plantations and homes of the early planters were purchased from Tui Vuna (the local chief) and at least one of the homes, Vatuwiri Farm, is within spitting distance of the village. (The Vatuwiri Estate is still owned by the Tarte family, who are descendants of the original settlers. On the property are the ruins of an old Fijian village and one can hike to an extinct volcanic crater). At the road's terminus you reach Navakawau Village which translates as `end of the road'. En route you will pass a blow hole where the sea has eroded a passage at the edge of the shoreline. A stop at Vatuwiri Farm costs extra but highly recommended.

Lake Tagimaucia

Lake Tagimaucia is the most famous geographical landmark in Taveuni. Situated in an extinct volcanic crater, at a height of 832 meters, the lake is filled with floating masses of vegetation. It is also home to the indigenous tangimaucia flower which produces red blooms with white centers. The lake is reachable on foot but the hike is an arduous all day affair. Better to take a 4-wheel drive vehicle and view the lake from afar.

Vunivasa Tour

A new excursion in Taveuni that has had good reviews is the Vunivasa Tour, which visits the archeological site of fortified Fijian village. Here you learn how the ancient Fijians conducted warefare, how they lived and survived in the good old days. It culminates with a trip to a waterfall, wherein visitors are transported by a “flying seat” that you’ll need to experience to describe.