Firewallking in Fiji simply has to be seen to be believed. It’s a traditional and amazing ritual that should be near the top of your Things To Do in Fiji list.

Firewalking is what it sounds like. Walking in bare feet over white-hot stones. A firewalker can not only walk across the smoldering stones, but can do so completely unscathed.

No burns, no pain – nothing!

Really. Firewalking is the ultimate test of faith and a rite of passage for many young Fijian men. Firewalking in Fiji is typically performed by men. Both iTaukei – indigenous Fijians and Indian-Fijians practice firewalking.

Let’s take a look at how it all began.

People have been practicing firewalking in societies throughout the world for hundreds of years. Evidence of this amazing ritual dates all the way back to 1200 B.C. in India.

Legend has it that firewalking began in Fiji around 500 years ago. It all started in the small village Nakarovu on Beqa Island. Beqa (pronounced “ben-ga”) is just off the southern coast of Fiji’s main island Viti Levu. Plenty of people flock there for its world-class diving and fishing, but firewalking is what really makes Beqa famous.

The story goes that a young man Tuinaiviqalita was searching for an eel near a river in his village. He wanted to give the eel as a gift to a village elder.

However, instead of an eel, Tuinaiviqalita caught a small spirit god – called a veli. The veli begged Tuinaiviqalita to let him go and promised to give him a magical power if he did so. The spirit god said that he would give the young man the power to walk on fire.

Tuinaiviqalita was curious and agreed to the deal. The veli dug a pit and filled it with river stones. He then started a fire and before long the stones were white hot. The veli bounded across the fire and then urged Tuinaiviqalita to do the same.

He did so, and was astonished to find that not only was it painless, but he had no scars or burns. The spirit god had clearly delivered on his promise and the young man kept his word and set him free.

And so began the tradition of firewalking in Fiji. The powers are said to have flowed down along the bloodlines of Beqa’s Sawau tribe.

His descendants can be found in Beqa villages such as villages of Rookwa, Dakubeqa, Dakuni, Soliyaga and Naceva.

We can see this fascinating ancient ritual on Beqa Island as well as several other special locations around Fiji.

Preparing for the firewalk is serious business. First of all, the firewalkers mustn’t consume any form of coconuts. Ancient legend warns that they’ll suffer burns if they do. They also have to stay away from women, and must focus on their upcoming mission.

This all starts 10 days before the ritual. On the day of the firewalking, villagers prepare the fire pit. They dig a hole roughly 3 meters long and 1 meter deep.

Next they collect large river stones and place them in a pit. Finally, they cover the stones with firewood and set it alight. This all takes places some 8 hours prior to the walk, allowing the stones to reach maximum heat levels.

They prepare for the performance by dressing in traditional costumes. This includes a bunch of tree vines tied around their ankle to provide strength for the walk.

The rocks are covered with leaves and branches and the firewalkers are welcomed to the arena with singing and dancing.

One by one they calmly make their way across the rocks. No-one shows any sign of discomfort or pain. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. The firewalkers seem to gain an incredible feeling of strength throughout the experience.

When every member has finished their firewalk, they gather together at the pit and break into a song. Their ankle decorations are then thrown into the fire where they lie smoldering for several days. The firewalkers then eat these tree vines to complete the ceremony.

Not just anyone can perform the firewalk. Only the descendants of Tuinaiviqalita and members of the Sawau tribe are permitted to do so.

The Hindu firewalking is a ceremony of purification and gratitude that originates from South India. People would implore the goddess Kali for rain by demonstrating their faith through firewalking.

You can witness this spectacular display on Beqa Island, as well as several Coral Coast resorts on the main island of Viti Levu. You can also see firewalking at Fiji’s Hindu temples during the full moon season between May and September.

Be sure to leave some space in your schedule to enjoy firewalking in Fiji. It’s not just a spectacular feat to witness but is also an ideal way to intimately experience a unique part of Fijian culture and history.

Just don’t try it at home.

Bula! Obviously, the first thing on your mind when you head for Fiji is beach, beach and more beach.

And yes, beaches should definitely be in your plans.

However Fiji also boasts some truly majestic rivers that are seriously worth checking out.

Touring along Fijian rivers is not only great fun but gives you an up-close experience of the real Fiji.

You’ll see stunning rainforests, black volcanic rocks, unique flora and fauna, and then there are the waterfalls. Hundreds of them!

Best of all, there are so many ways to travel along Fijian rivers.

Inflatable rafts, traditional rafts, jet boats, canoes, kayaks and tubes are just some of the great options to get wet and take it all in.

So where to go?

The main island of Viti Levu has plenty of pristine rivers, with fun tours and expert local guides.

Navua River

This is one of the top picks of Fijian Rivers. The Navua kicks off near Pacific Harbour on the southern part of main island Viti Levu. The Upper Navua in particular is a special place in Fiji.

You’ll pass through lush rainforests and waterfalls, all surrounded by often towering walls of black volcanic rock.

This route will also take you through a protected wetland area known as the Upper Navua Conservation Area. This was set up by native landowners and the government.

It was established to protect the local eco-system and traditional cultures. The protected river canyons are well worth seeing.

There are several options for heading up the Navua. Canoes and kayaks are a great way to do it, or in big, safe inflatable rafts.

Rewa River

The Rewa is Fiji’s longest and widest river. It starts from Fiji’s highest peak at Mount Tomanivi in central Viti Levu and winds south towards Suva.

The Rewa River is an important river because it both drains a lot of excess water as well as providing crucial irrigation for farming along the way.

Rewa River Tours describe their eco-adventure as “a unique and breathtaking ride through the winding and amazing Rewa River”. Sounds good.

The tour starts near Suva and the hour or so trip takes you into the province of Rewa. Along the way you’ll go past traditional villages and subsistence farms.

The Rewa river is famous for its delicious fresh water clams and you can see local women and children diving in the river and catching clams.

Like many Fijian river tours, you get the chance to visit a village. You can learn about native root crops, vegetables, herbal medicines, and the famous kava plant.

Sigatoka River

Sigatoka is on the famous Fijian Coral Coast, on Viti Levu. From here, you can take part in a fantastic blend of river touring and eco-cultural insights.

Sigatoka jet boat river tours offer a thrilling means of heading along the river with stop offs in traditional Fijian villages.

From here you’ll get to experience life in real Fijian villagers. Mix and eat with the locals and take in a kava ceremony.

Your native guides will provide a rare glimpse into the life of a kaiviti – or “Fijian”.

So how to travel along the Fijian rivers? It’s entirely up to you. Rafting is definitely for the more adventurous, while canoeing allows you to go at your own pace and stop off wherever suits you.

For sheer thrills, jet boat river tours are hard to beat.

Tubing has become popular and is a great way to lazily take into the beautiful surroundings while possibly dozing off.

Fiji also has traditional raft tours, which focus on using not just hand-built rafts, but on educating guests on local eco-culture and traditional ways of life.

When you’re in Fiji, by all means hit the beach! But why not put a day or two aside to get really up close and personal with an incredible river tour?

A truly intimate experience.

Hiking in Fiji is a rare treat. You get to choose from lush rainforests, volcanic mountains, waterfalls and sweeping ocean views. Often, you’ll get them all.

For all ages and fitness levels! In fact, for some hikes you can even pack a swimming costume.

Fiji’s abundance of natural beauty means hikers can explore some of the more remote and scenic parts of the country in real detail.

You can opt for leisurely outings with the family, more strenuous half and full-day hikes or really aim high and go for multi-day adventures.

Of course, when hiking in Fiji you’ll get most bang for your buck with a local guide. They’ll not only know the best and safest routes, but can also give you some fascinating insights on your way around.

Mind you, going it alone or with friends is okay – just be sure to fully check your routes and let people know where you’re headed.

Here’s a taste of some of the outstanding options.

Lavena Coastal Walk

This classic walk is on the majestic Taveuni Island. You can see it all, on the Lavena Coastal Walk. You’ll see white and black sand beaches, wander through rainforests bursting with life and finish up at a waterfall to frolic around in.

Along the way, you’ll most likely bump into some villagers. Say “Bula”, share a smile but stick to the path.

The Lavena hike takes anywhere from 3-4 hours round trip. Taveuni is renowned for its waterfall hikes, and this is one of the more popular ones.

Mount Tomaniivi

Climbing the tallest mountain in a country is often high on travelers’ lists. Mount Fuji in Japan, Mount Cook in New Zealand and the list goes on.

Fiji’s Mount Tomaniivi is one of the more challenging hikes in Fiji but well worth the effort.

It’s based on the main island of Viti Levu and takes around 3 to 5 hours to reach the peak.

A good tip is to start early, so as to leave plenty of time to take in the incredible views before heading back. On a clear day you can see the picturesque Yasawa Islands and get a real sense of being on top of the world!

Sigatoka Sand Dunes Walk

Fiji’s first national park is host to one of its best hiking routes. If you’re hiking in Fiji and want to see some incredible wildlife, this is the one. Great for kids and all fitness levels.

The Sigatoka hike takes you through some protected areas that are home to 3,000 years old archaeological sites and rare birds.

Best of all, you can finish up right on the Coral Coast, ready to hit the surf for a reward.

Waya Island Walks

These hikes are on the beautiful Yasawa Islands. The great thing about the Waya Walks is that you can stroll along them, taking in the ocean vistas. The tracks are easily accessible and won’t be too challenging for hiking novices.

The hikes take you to the top of the island summits, where you can admire the stunning scenery of blue Pacific waters, scattered with islands.

This is a relaxing hike and very pleasant on the eyes.

Multi-day hikes

To really get your money’s worth, try a multi-day hike. Main island Viti Levu has a cross island hike that was designed by veteran guides.

This one takes four days and lets you get right into the heart of the real Fiji.

You’ll hike through rainforests, mountains and pass many a waterfall. Best of all, each night you get to stay in a local village and have a ball mingling with the locals.

Some elements of this famous hike feature in the TV series Eco Challenge Fiji: The World’s Toughest Race.

These are but a few of the magnificent options for hiking in Fiji.

Most of us think of water sports and lazing on the beach when we head to Fiji, but hiking is another excellent way to really get to know this truly unique part of the world.

Windsurfing in Fiji? Why not! FijiDream has already covered plenty of great water sports to get into when you visit the tropical paradise and windsurfing is definitely something you might want to try.

It’s a thrilling feeling to be whizzing along across the water, wind in your face and completely at one with nature. Windsurfing is also great exercise and excellent for your balance and coordination. When you can time it for when the winds are up, it’s a real buzz. Best of all, you don’t need swells like you do with surfing.

There are some top reasons why windsurfing in Fiji is a great option:

• You can do it pretty much anywhere
• You don’t to bring anything – just hire a set and hit the water
• Windsurfing is a water sport for all levels. Whether it’s to give the kids some fun for a day or hitting the windy swells for a full on workout, windsurfing is well worth looking into.

And as with all other water sports such as surfing, diving and fishing, Fiji is good pretty much all year round. For windsurfers, around late April all the way through to early January is especially good because of the strong trade winds. Trade winds blow around the equator region from east to west. Fiji is located reasonably near the equator making it a popular go-to for windsurfers.

Only diehards would actually take their windsurfing gear on holiday. Most can rent great quality equipment from the huge range of windsurfing schools and shops.

The only question is – where to go? The short answer is pretty much wherever takes your fancy.

There are of course, some islands and beach areas that stand out so let’s take a peek!

Nananu-i-Ra Island

This probably the best known spot for windsurfing in Fiji. Located just north of the main island Viti Levu, Nananu-I Ra has plenty of shores for windsurfers of all levels.

When the trade winds are really kicking in, you can expect wind speeds of anywhere between 15 to 30 knots. That’s over 25km/h, which will have keen windsurfers drooling!

There are heaps of places to stay too which makes it ideal. From affordable beach houses to luxury villas and family resorts, Nananu-i-Ra Island basically has it all.

Sigatoka

Sigatoka is located on Fiji’s main island on the magnificent Coral Coast. It’s a great option for families holidaying in Viti Levu or for those just wanting to try some windsurfing while they’re in Fiji.

Sigatoka is about halfway down the Coral Coast which is only a few hours from the main airport at Nadi. There are plenty of places to stay, with all ranges of luxury. Sigatoka is a popular spot so has numerous windsurfing outlets to get your gear and some lessons if needed.

As for the windsurfing itself, Sigatoka has an awesome beach break without huge waves. You can get strong winds of up to 25 knots so it ticks all the boxes.

Turtle Island

Turtle Island is a little different in that it’s a private resort island in the magnificent Yasawa Islands. While you mightn’t go there specifically to windsurf, it’s definitely an activity you should consider if you go.

The island has 12 private beaches and beautiful calm waters that are ideal for zipping around on your board and sail. A great way to experience windsurfing in Fijji because of the low number of people.

One idea is to be dropped off somewhere by boat and glide around. Or you could simply start off at one beach and make your way around to the next.

Plantation Island

Also known as Malolo Lailai Island, this is part of the Mamanuca Islands. Plantation Island is especially good for beginners and intermediate windsurfers because of it’s gentle swell.

The bays are protected from big swells which allows for plenty of practice time out on the water.

Like the Yasawa Islands, the Mamanucas are not only stunningly beautiful but also ideal for windsurfing because of the gentle winds and generally low swells.

Resorts such as Plantation Island and Mana Island also provide windsurfing boards free of charge.

These are only a sample of top-notch places to zoom around the Fijian waters. It basically depends on where you want to go. Choose your location and it’s likely you can enjoy windsurfing there.

Start off gently gliding across the waters and before you go home you’ll be enthralling people with your wave jumps and turns!