An EXPLORE Fiji® Feature
For those willing to lace up their hiking shoes and head inland, the reward is a Fiji far removed from sandy beaches and hotel pools.
The trails climb into Fiji’s highlands, winding through forest and across rugged terrain as the landscape opens to reveal mountain ridges, deep valleys and views stretching towards the coast. Each turn brings something new, from a striking viewpoint or an unfamiliar plant to stories about the people whose lives are tied to these mountains.
Fascination Fiji guides visitors into the mountains. The Nadi-based business is led by Raymond Lee, a former marine tourism professional who takes a hands-on role in its day-to-day operations, often leading hikes and working alongside the guides. His business partner, Dr Isoa Logavatu Tudia, is a general practitioner and sports medicine specialist who also lives in the busy airport town. Both are keen hikers, and their shared passion for the outdoors shapes the tours they offer.
Raymond’s fascination with Fiji’s mountains began around 2011, when he started exploring the interior and getting to know the communities and scenery beyond the main tourist centres. He soon wanted others to see it too.
“I wanted visitors to discover Fiji’s mountains and inland communities, even if they only had a day away from their hotel,” he says.
Fascination Fiji began in 2015, initially offering experiences around Nadi through Intrepid Urban Adventures. After the disruption of COVID, the business resumed operations in 2023 with a stronger focus on hiking and outdoor experiences.
Today, its tours lead visitors through highlands, forests and villages, with time to learn about the people and places along the way.
Trails into Fiji’s highlands
Tours leave from Nadi, with most day excursions taking around six hours. The trails are within reach of the town, allowing visitors to spend time in the mountains and return to their hotel for happy hour and dinner.
Guided options range from demanding mountain hikes to forest walks and waterfall visits. Its tours include the Batilamu Summit Experience, Hidden Peaks Fiji, a ridge trail in the Nausori Highlands, and the Koroyanitu National Heritage Park Small Group Hiking and Waterfall Tour. The line-up also includes hikes to Mount Tomanivi and sunset walks, with private and multi-day options available by enquiry.
The choice of tour depends on visitors’ interests, available time and fitness levels. Some visitors are drawn to the challenge of a summit, others to village life, local stories or quieter corners of the country.
Photo: Fascination Fiji.
A highlight is Koroyanitu National Heritage Park, near Abaca Village in western Viti Levu. Established in 1989, the park covers approximately 35 square kilometres and was created to protect the area’s distinctive flora and fauna. Its trails lead through varied terrain, with views across the surrounding highlands and a glimpse of a Fiji that many visitors never see.
For a tougher climb, there is Mount Tomanivi. Formerly known as Mount Victoria, this extinct volcano rises to 1,324 metres, making it Fiji’s highest mountain. It sits in the northern highlands of Viti Levu, with access through Navai Village.
Walking through these landscapes gives visitors time to notice the changes in vegetation, the character of the terrain and the relationship between the land and the communities who live nearby.
The people behind the hikes
Good guiding in Fiji depends on local knowledge. Fascination Fiji works with guides who understand the trails, the surrounding environment and the communities connected to the land. Depending on the destination, visits may involve asking permission from landowners and observing local customs.
Where appropriate, this includes a sevusevu, the customary presentation of yaqona, as a mark of respect when entering a village. These moments remind visitors that the places they walk through are home to communities with their own traditions, responsibilities and ties to the land.
Tourism can create opportunities for these communities through guiding, visitor spending and access fees. For Fascination Fiji, respect for local people and their land is central to every tour.
Preparation and safety on the trail
Hiking in Fiji’s highlands can be rewarding, but the terrain, weather and length of a route all require preparation. Before each hike, Fascination Fiji assesses the route, weather, trail conditions and guests’ fitness. Visitors are briefed and asked to disclose any relevant health or mobility concerns so the team can judge whether the hike is suitable.
If a guest becomes unwell or is injured, the team stops to assess the situation and arranges appropriate assistance, including evacuation or emergency medical help where necessary.
Visitors should follow their guide’s instructions, wear suitable footwear and clothing, carry water and prepare for changing conditions. Choosing a hike that matches their abilities makes the day safer and more enjoyable for everyone.
What visitors say
The appeal of exploring Fiji on foot is reflected in visitor feedback. In August 2026, TripAdvisor reviewer Mayada C. praised a hike adapted for children aged five and eight, along with the cultural stories and hotel pickup.
Another reviewer, PriscillaK26, called a March 2023 outing through the Nausori Highlands “An Unforgettable Adventure”, enjoying the landscape and the chance to learn about Fijian culture.
Reviews like these show what a guided hike adds to a visit. Guests can learn, ask questions and see Fiji from a new angle.
For Raymond and Isoa, hiking is also a way to connect with the country away from the usual visitor stops. They hope guests will slow down, take in the surroundings and appreciate the people who make each journey possible.
“What matters most to me is that they remember the people, appreciate the landscape and discover a side of Fiji they may not have expected,” Raymond says.
For visitors ready to venture inland, Fascination Fiji runs guided hikes across Viti Levu, led by people who know the land and its communities.
Explore the tours and book at https://www.fascinationfiji.com/tours
Fascination Fiji
2 Transville Rd, Namaka
Nadi.
Phone: 8651146
https://www.fascinationfiji.com/
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