About Northern
Northern Fiji is the country's largest and most culturally rich division, offering travelers an authentic escape from the more developed tourist hubs. Encompassing the islands of Vanua Levu, Taveuni, and the remote Lau and Lomaiviti groups, this region is a paradise for adventurers and culture seekers. Vanua Levu, the 'Hidden Paradise,' boasts the stunning Savusavu Bay with its hot springs and world-class diving at Namena Marine Reserve. Taveuni, the 'Garden Island,' is famous for Bouma National Heritage Park with its breathtaking waterfalls and the lush rainforests of Des Voeux Peak. The Northern Division is the heart of traditional Fijian culture, where you can witness ancient ceremonies, visit authentic villages, and experience the warm 'bula' spirit. Key destinations include Labasa, known for its sugar cane fields and Hindu temples; the untouched beauty of the Lau Islands; and the historic Levuka on Ovalau, Fiji's first capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This region offers unparalleled opportunities for hiking, snorkeling with vibrant coral reefs, and immersing yourself in a way of life that has remained unchanged for generations.
Things to do in Northern
Full-Day Custom Tokaj Wine Tour
The only Wine Cocktail Club in Tokaj, Lunch & Fun, Hungary
From €213
5.0 (3)
UNESCO World Heritage Wine Day Tour in Tokaj Hungary with Food
From €213
5.0 (3)
Day Boat trip and City Tour in Tokaj Hungary with Wine Tasting
From €236
5.0 (1)
2 Days Tokaj Wine Tour in Mád Hungary with Meals
From €500
5.0 (1)
Tokaj Vineyard Tour Wine Tasting and Cellar Visit
From €79
4.8 (4)
Half Day Tokaj Wine Tasting Tour in Mád Hungary with lunch
From €250
4.5 (4)
Thermal bath at Egerszalok and Eger town private tour
From £420
4.0 (3)
Tokaj Sky Bridge with Wine Experience
From €250
Aszú Like It: The Sweetest Tour in Tokaj
From €270
2 Day UNESCO World Heritage Wine Tour in Tokaj Hungary with Food
From €420
Miskolc Data eSIM 0.5GB daily to 50GB 30 Days
From SGD 3.99
Eger Data eSIM 0.5GB daily to 50GB 30 Days
From SGD 3.99
Places to visit in Northern
Attraction
Murchison Falls
Masindi, Uganda
Resorts
Paraa Safari Lodge
Uganda, Africa
Wanale Ladders
Wanale Ladders, bunatsoma rd, Bunatsoma Upper, Uganda
ROCKY HOTEL
ROCKY HOTEL, Wanale Road, Mbale City, Uganda
Gents Section
Gents Section, 189 Sebie Avenue, Mbale City, Uganda
Geoffrey's house
Geoffrey's house, Sulaiman Gidima, Mbale City, Uganda
BB & P Guest House
BB & P Guest House, michele leane, Mbale City, Uganda
Mount Elgon Hotel
Mount Elgon Hotel, masaba, Mbale City, Uganda
Star light motel mbale
Star light motel mbale, Wanale Road, Mbale City, Uganda
CCP Girls Hostels
CCP Girls Hostels, Lira - Mbale Road, Mbale City, Uganda
Friends Inn
Friends Inn, Wanale Road, Mbale City, Uganda
Casa del Turista;Eco Shamba Cafe
Casa del Turista;Eco Shamba Cafe, 18 Sulaiman Gidima, Mbale City, Uganda
ROLINA COUNTRY SIDE CLUB
ROLINA COUNTRY SIDE CLUB, Bufumbo, Mbale City, Uganda
Salem Guest House
Salem Guest House, Nakaloke-Kabwangasi, Mbale City, Uganda
shalom palace motel
shalom palace motel, Pallisa, Mbale City, Uganda
Travel Tips for Northern
Getting Around
Transport options vary by island. On Vanua Levu, buses and minivans connect Labasa, Savusavu, and other towns, but services can be infrequent. Taxis are available in towns. Renting a car (4WD recommended for some areas) offers the most flexibility. On Taveuni and smaller islands, rental cars, taxis, and organized tours are the main options. Ferries (like the SOFI or Goundar Shipping) connect the main islands, but schedules can be irregular. Domestic flights (via Fiji Link) connect Labasa and Taveuni to Nadi and Suva. There are no ride-sharing apps like Uber; rely on local taxis or hotel transfers.
Best Time To Visit
May to October (the dry season) is the best time to visit. This period offers sunny days, lower humidity, minimal rainfall, and excellent conditions for diving, hiking, and beach activities. It's also the peak tourist season. Avoid the wet season (November to April) due to heavy rainfall, high humidity, and the risk of cyclones, although this is when the landscapes are at their lushest. The Hibiscus Festival in Suva (August) and the Fiji Day celebrations (October) are vibrant cultural events.
Local Customs
Fijian culture in the North is deeply traditional. When visiting a village, dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees), remove hats and sunglasses, and present a gift of kava (yaqona) to the chief—this sevusevu ceremony is essential for permission and welcome. It is polite to sit cross-legged during village gatherings. Tipping is not customary or expected in Fijian culture, but is appreciated in resorts and for exceptional service. Always ask permission before taking photos of people or villages. Sunday is a day of rest and worship; many businesses are closed, and activities are quiet.
Safety Information
Northern Fiji is generally very safe, with low violent crime rates. However, take normal precautions against petty theft, especially in towns like Labasa and Savusavu. Secure valuables and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas. Road conditions can be poor, especially in rural areas and on smaller islands; drive cautiously. When visiting villages, always seek permission from the village head (Turaga ni Koro) before entering, as it is customary and respectful. Be wary of unofficial tour guides. Weather-related safety is important; heed warnings during the cyclone season (November to April).
Health Information
Medical facilities in the Northern Division are limited compared to Suva or Nadi. The main hospitals are Labasa Hospital on Vanua Levu and Savusavu Hospital. For serious conditions, medical evacuation to Suva or overseas may be necessary. Travelers should ensure they have comprehensive travel health insurance. Recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, and routine vaccines. Dengue fever is present; use mosquito repellent. Tap water is not always safe to drink outside major resorts; drink bottled or boiled water. Be cautious of coral cuts and marine stings while swimming or diving.
Languages Spoken
EnglishFijianFiji Hindi
Quick Facts
Currency
Fijian Dollar (FJD)
$
$
Timezone
Pacific/Fiji +12:00 (GMT)
Calling Code
+679
Electricity
Driving Side
Left
Population
Approximately 130,000
Area
6184 km²
Government
Provincial Council within a parliamentary republic
ISO Code
FJ-03