Things To Do
in Nausori
Nausori is a small but lively town on the banks of the Rewa River on Viti Levu, Fiji’s largest island, serving as the gateway to Suva and the eastern interior. The town blends riverfront life, markets, and agricultural surroundings dominated by sugarcane and village communities. Visitors come for river cruises, market photography, nearby rainforest trails and authentic village experiences rather than big-city attractions.
Nausori feels local and approachable — a good base for exploring everyday Fijian life and nearby natural areas.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure at the Nausori Market, where you can interact with local vendors and sample fresh produce. The vibrant atmosphere and colorful stalls offer a true taste of Fijian culture. Don't forget to try some traditional Fijian snacks as you wander through the market.
After experiencing the market, head to nearby riverside parks for a picnic lunch. The scenic views along the river make for a perfect backdrop as you relax and enjoy the local cuisine. Take a leisurely stroll along the banks and soak in the serene environment.
As the sun sets, visit a local restaurant to savor authentic Fijian dishes, such as kokoda and palusami. Share stories with locals and fellow travelers while enjoying the lively atmosphere. Wrap up the evening with a stroll through the town, savoring the gentle evening breeze.
Begin your day by visiting a nearby Fijian village to immerse yourself in the local culture. Participate in traditional ceremonies and learn about the customs that shape village life. The warmth of the villagers will make you feel right at home.
Enjoy a guided tour around the village, where you can observe local artisans at work and perhaps even try your hand at woven crafts. Have lunch with the villagers, experiencing the hospitality that Fiji is famous for. This enriching experience will leave you with a deeper appreciation of Fijian traditions.
Return to Nausori and attend a cultural performance in the town center, featuring traditional dances and music. This vibrant showcase highlights the rich heritage of Fiji and its people. Connect with fellow guests and immerse yourself in the joyful celebration.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $30-50 |
| 🚌Local bus ride | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (within town) | $5-15 |
| 💧Bottle of water | $1.50-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic local Fijian atmosphere and markets
- Easy access to river cruises and nearby rainforest trails
- Good base for experiencing village culture and everyday island life
- Limited nightlife and fewer tourist facilities compared with Suva or Nadi
- Public transport can be infrequent; you may need to rely on taxis or hire a vehicle
- Services and specialty food options are fewer than in larger cities
- "Bula" - Hello / Welcome (very common greeting)
- "Vinaka" - Thank you
- "Moce" - Goodbye / Sleep well
- "Sota tale" - See you again
- "Na cava qo?" - What is this?
- "Au sa vinaka" - I am fine
- "Io / Sega" - Yes / No
Places to Visit in Nausori
Visit one of these nice places.
Vibrant stall scenes, colourful produce, local vendors and candid portraits — best at early morning when activity is highest.
Sunrise and sunset reflections, traditional boats, mangrove-lined banks and village life along Fiji’s largest river.
Expansive agricultural landscapes, early-morning mist and workers — classic shots of Fiji’s rural economy.
Lush rainforest trails, waterfalls and shaded pools perfect for nature and macro photography.
Simple wooden churches, community halls and traditional bure-style buildings provide cultural context and portrait backdrops.
Food in Nausori
Nausori Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fijian-style ceviche of raw fish marinated in coconut milk, lime and onions; often found at local seafood stalls and family restaurants.
Must-Try!
Foods slow-cooked in an earth oven (lovo) — often includes taro, fish and corned meats; sometimes available at village feasts or special events.
Coconut or tomato-based curries with chicken or lamb served with roti or rice, common at local eateries and market food vendors.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Central market where you can try fresh tropical fruits, coconut water, grilled fish and local sweets — excellent for photography and tasting many small dishes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Address elders with respect, follow the lead during village visits, and observe protocols like removing hats in formal settings.
If invited to a kava ceremony, accept the cup with two hands, clap once before drinking (if shown) and wait for the host to lead the ritual; dress modestly for village ceremonies.
Always ask before photographing people, especially inside villages and homes; many locals appreciate being asked and will pose if comfortable.
Modest clothing is appropriate around villages and churches — cover shoulders and knees when attending religious or cultural events.
Safety
Tipping in Nausori
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; small tips for exceptional service at restaurants or for guides are common. For kava servers and taxi drivers a small token is fine. In village settings gifts and participation are valued more than cash tips — ask your host.
Fiji uses the Fijian dollar (FJD). Nausori accepts cash widely; larger shops, some restaurants and hotels accept credit/debit cards (Visa/Mastercard). ATMs and banks are available in town, but carry cash for markets, village visits and smaller vendors; contactless mobile payment is limited.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, humid and wet with frequent afternoon showers and higher risk of cyclones between January and March; expect lush greenery and occasional travel disruptions during severe storms.
Drier, cooler and sunnier — the most pleasant time for outdoor activities, hikes and river cruises with lower humidity and calmer seas.
Nausori at Night
Hiking in Nausori
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Closest well-known rainforest reserve with shaded trails, waterfalls and swimming holes — suitable for short hikes, picnics and birdwatching (about 20–40 minutes drive from Nausori).
Informal walks along riverbanks and rural roads for easy, scenic strolls; best enjoyed with a local guide or during low-water conditions.
Short, off-the-beaten-path trails around nearby villages and hills that offer cultural insight and moderate walking — arrange access and guidance locally.
Airports
How to reach Nausori by plane.
Located in Nausori itself, this airport handles domestic flights and some regional services — convenient for arrivals to Suva and quick access to town (10–20 minute drive).
Fiji’s main international gateway on the west coast of Viti Levu. It’s a domestic flight away (≈45 minutes) or several hours by road; most international travellers arrive here and connect to domestic flights to Nausori/Suva.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous Fijian community forms a large portion of the population, particularly in villages and riverine settlements where traditional culture is active.
Descendants of South Asian labourers brought during the colonial era; they contribute significantly to commerce, markets and culinary variety.
Smaller communities include Europeans, other Pacific islanders and expatriates; the town is culturally diverse with Christianity and Hinduism as prominent faiths.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is the dominant sport across Fiji with strong local interest; community matches and school rugby are common.
Popular at grassroots levels, especially in towns and villages with local leagues and school competitions.
Widely played by women and girls, with local competitions and community participation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nausori.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but can be limited in small towns. Markets offer fresh fruit, vegetable dishes and dhal or vegetable curries at Indo-Fijian stalls. Ask for 'no fish' or 'no meat' and specify ingredients; cooking oil may be shared, so check if strict separation is required.
Possible but requires asking vendors; many dishes use coconut milk and local vegetables, yet fish stock and dairy occur in some preparations — clarify with cooks.
Rice-based dishes and fresh produce are generally safe, but rotis and some sauces contain wheat; notify restaurants and rely on fresh market foods for safer options.