Introduction
The largest of the Fijian islands, Viti Levu is the administrative, political and industrial hub of the country, and a good place to experience everyday Fiji away from the resorts.
Most travellers fly into bustling Nadi (pronounced Nandi) on the western coast and head straight for the sublime beaches of the outer islands, but there is plenty to see and do if you have a few days to spare on ‘Big Fiji', as Viti Levu is known.
The dense and steamy highlands offer mountain treks, waterfalls to cool of in and typical Fijian villages of wooden and thatched huts known locally as bures. The capital Suva, with its colonial architecture and the excellent Fiji Museum, is another attraction. Between Suva and Nadi lies a stretch of beaches, bays, resorts and rocky outcrops called the Coral Coast, which offers access to one of the largest fringing reef systems in the world.
Another popular beach option close to the mainland is Denarau Island, connected by a causeway to Viti Levu, with a number of luxury resorts and a wealth of holiday activities.