Destination: Fiji

LONELY PLANET'S OFFICIAL ITINERARY INFORMATION

Itinerary: Middle of nowhere

ONE WEEK / LOMAIVITI ISLANDS

Heading into the middle of nowhere will plant you in the unhurried Lomaiviti islands. Exploring colonial heritage and Fijian history in Levuka plus a round of hopping across coral islands and remote beaches will cover about 200km.



If you prefer a diversion from the beaten track and you’re happy to put in a little effort, the following should be just the ticket. From Suva head to Lomaiviti, ‘middle Fiji’. The easiest way is to fly, but if you’re feeling adventurous take the ferry from Natovi Landing. Start your travels in Ovalau island, home to one of Fiji’s most picturesque towns and original capital, Levuka.

Littered with colonial buildings and boasting a harmonious, multicultural population, this town and its surrounds easily deserve three days or so, particularly if you explore it by bike. Or, make the most of the sights by travelling on foot, including revisiting the town’s rich history at the branch of the Fiji Museum here. Spend a day in the village of Lovoni, nestled into a crater in the centre of Ovalau, and in Arovudi (Silana) with its remarkable church.

Once you’ve had your urban fix head to the beach. From Levuka, book a passage to the coral island of Caqalai and leave consumer crutches behind. Take a day or two to circumnavigate this tiny island (it only takes 15 minutes). Make the most of its dazzling beaches and dabble in some excellent snorkelling and diving. Finish up the week with a flutter on some of the less frequented islands of Yanuca Lailai or Leleuvia. Boasting chilled-out budget resorts and pocket-size beaches, both are a quick trip from Levuka, or catch a weekly service between Caqalai and Leleuvia. From Caqalai and Leleuvia you can also catch a boat to the mainland and make the whole jaunt a round trip.