The Nausori Highlands of Fiji: How to Get There and What to Expect

For a different type of Fiji experience, visit the Nausori Highlands on the southwest section of the main island. Unlike the usual Fiji vacation full of palm trees and sandy beaches, you will see the steep mountain ranges of Viti Levu. Despite its reputation as a beach resort, Fiji is actually made up of over 80 percent mountains. Driving through the Nausori Highlands can be a bit of a challenge, but the amazing view of the Fiji coast below is definitely worth the trip. Here is a quick guide on how to reach the Nausori Highlands of Fiji by four-wheel drive vehicle.

The Nausori Highlands of Fiji: What to expect

The Nausori Highlands of Fiji were created by ancient volcanic eruptions, rising straight out of the coastal plains below. Most of Fiji's residents choose to live down on the coastal plains to enjoy the beaches and avoid the steep climbs of the Nausori Highlands. There are only a few ways to reach the remote Nausori Highlands, all of which bring you into the area at the village of Bukuya. This small village consists of about seven hundred people and most residences are either thatched huts or corrugated iron lean-tos. The three unpaved roads converge at Bukuya, making this a convenient destination to see other parts of Fiji when your trip to the Nausori Highlands is done.

The Nausori Highlands of Fiji: Driving the unpaved roads

Be extremely careful if you are driving in the Nausori Highlands of Fiji. It is best to hire a guide if you are unfamiliar with the area or do not have the proper vehicle. None of the roads in the Nausori Highlands are paved, requiring the use of a four-wheel drive vehicle at all times. Even in a four-wheel drive vehicle, these roads will be rather challenging to drive, with deep potholes, loose gravel, mud, and other harsh conditions. Drive slow and pay attention to changing road conditions at all times.

The Nausori Highlands of Fiji: Adverse weather

The weather conditions can also alter the drive through Fiji's Nausori Highlands. Because of the unpaved and rough nature of the road itself, a severe storm can wash out entire portions of the trip through Nausori Highlands. Several bridges in the area are also susceptible to closure due to weather damage. Check the road status with the Fiji Visitors' Bureau before setting out on a drive into Nausori. There will not be any gas stations or restaurants as you drive through the Nausori Highlands, so be sure you have sufficient supplies of both fuel and food for you and your passengers.