Famous for being the private island playground of the rich and famous (some resorts secretly pride themselves on being the place billionaires go to escape the millionaires), Fiji doesn’t typically come to mind as a budget-friendly destination. Fortunately, a trip to the islands doesn’t have to cost a pretty penny.
With a little planning and local knowledge, you can experience the beauty of Fiji without taking out a loan. Armed with a comfortable pair of shoes, a bathing suit and your own snorkeling gear, you’ll have a trip that’ll rival that of a big spender.
When it comes to experiencing Fiji on a budget, here’s what you can expect to spend on essentials as well as insider tips to saving money.
If you’re traveling to an outer island in Fiji and are about to book a resort stay, be sure to read the fine print on how much your stay will cost. Oftentimes, you’ll be required to purchase a mandatory meal plan and boat transport through the accommodation, which can add a huge cost to your trip. Before you commit, compare a handful of options to find the real winner of value for money.
For each island you visit, you’ll lose not only time, but also money. Once you leave Viti Levu, you’ll need a boat transfer or flight to connect you to the next island. If you’re still set on seeing as many islands as possible, it’s worth spending your time within the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands and staying on islands that the Yasawa Flyer – a high-speed catamaran with hop-on hop-off passes – goes to.
Most Fijians get around the islands of Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, Fiji’s two largest islands, by bus. The public bus is very affordable, with fares starting at around FJD$1 per journey. An hour-long trip typically costs around FJD$4. These buses tend to have open windows and stop frequently. For longer trips, it’s worth booking a trip with Sunbeam or Pacific Buses, which are air-conditioned and each passenger is guaranteed a seat. Taxis start their meter at FJD$2 and cost around FJD$15 for a 15-minute journey.
Many Fijians also venture around the island by minibus, which is also affordable. However, many minibus drivers are notorious for driving above the speed limit. You’d be riding in one at your own risk.
Most tour companies on Viti Levu will provide free transportation within a certain radius from their departure point, saving you money on taxi fares. You can often use this to your advantage if you wish to be picked up at one spot and dropped off at another. For example, perhaps you’re staying at a resort that isn’t within walking distance from where you’d like to have dinner.
Some travel companies in Fiji offer a variety of tours. South Sea Cruises, for example, offers trips to private island day clubs, day cruises onboard
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