 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
The South Pacific
Destination Guides:
Exclusive Resorts:
Eco-Tourism Fiji
Eco-tourism is often defined as “a tourism market, based on an area's natural resources, that attempts to minimize the ecological impact of the tourism.” Many countries and islands boast excellent opportunities for sustainable tourism, but Fiji is by far one of the finest locations for such travel, thanks to its diverse landscape and unique cultural history.
Eco-Friendly Fiji
Each year, thousands of travelers are attracted to Fiji because of its rich commitment to eco-tourism. From exploring rainforests to viewing unique archaeological sites to spending time in native villages full of welcoming Fijians, the possibilities for ecologically-friendly travel in this island nation are many.
It’s easy to be in a quandary as to how to balance a huge influx of tourists with the need to keep this South Pacific island pristine and well-nurtured. Fortunately, Fiji boasts an organization that’s devoted to just that. Thanks to the Fiji Ecotourism Association, formed by the government in 1995, eco-tourists can be sure that what they’re doing on their vacation won’t harm natural or cultural resources, and that eco-tourism operators who offer activities and excursions are legitimate.
Eco-Tourism Options
• Cultural – The best way to truly experience Fiji is through a stay at a Fijian Village. Indigenous Fijians live in bures and practice a very communal lifestyle, with dozens of extended family members living in the same village. Villages are quite basic, often without electricity or running water, yet Fijians are a happy lot and eager to welcome visitors. If you’d like to stay at a village, there are a number of “homestay” programs available throughout the country which will place you in a village prepared for visitors. Be prepared to make payment to your hosts as if this were a normal hotel/resort stay and greet them with a gift of groceries and/or the traditional Yaqona root. Your gift will go a long way!
• Historical/Archaeological – Fiji’s Coral Coast boasts a number of excellent historical sites that eco-tourists will appreciate. Visit the Sigatoka Sandunes National Park, protected by the National Trust of Fiji and the sight of many archaeological excavations. Look for shards of ancient Lapita pottery as you traverse the trails at this national park. If you choose a stay on the island of Vatulele in the southern group, you can view exquisite rock paintings of ancient times, affixed on the side of a cliff face and near inland caves.
• Natural – Of all the eco-tourism options Fiji offers, the natural ones are usually the most breathtaking. Kula Eco Park, on Viti Levu, is stunning and truly a showplace of the South Pacific, dedicated to the conservation of Fiji's indigenous flora and fauna. If you prefer, head to Bouma National Rainforest, a gorgeous tropical rainforest located in the Northern Group of Islands on the Garden Island of Taveuni.
Experienced guides who take great care to preserve nature will lead you on a trek along bush trails, past the beautiful Tavoro Falls, and along the rugged coast, where you can try your hand at sea kayaking. If you’re looking for eco-tourism that’s off-the-beaten-track and you have a few weeks to explore, consider traveling to the Lau group of remote islands, barely touched by tourism and home to much indigenous flora and fauna.