How to Hike the Lavena Coastal Walk

Overview
 

Details
Type:	Out & Back
Length:	5km (one way) or 10km (return)
Difficulty	Easy to Moderate (though some sections are slippery when rainy)
Entry Fee	$35 /person (cash only)
Opening Hours	8am – 4pm every day

Description 

 

The Lavena Coastal Walk, a gem within Taveuni’s Bouma National Heritage Park, offers adventurers a full-day hiking trip that is nothing short of magical. This 10km round-trip trail starts at Lavena village guiding hikers along pristine beaches and lush forest edges to a stunning waterfall on the island’s wild and beautiful southeast coast. 
 

How to Get There 

 

The 1 hr drive to Lavena village from Matei is an adventure in itself, taking you along a rugged, unpaved road. Along the way you are rewarded with breathtaking views of the ocean and dense tropical jungle, showcasing just why Taveuni is known as Fiji’s Garden Island.

 

Travelling to Lavena Village
By Taxi or Tour	Organise a trip through your resort who work with trusted local taxi drivers and tour operators to take guests to all the key attractions on the island.  If you hire a taxi, they will either wait for you to return to the trailhead or return to pick you up at an agreed time. Find options for tours and taxi here.
By Bus	Getting around Taveuni by bus might be the cheapest way to see the island but you will have to plan around the bus schedule. Buses generally depart the small town of Naqara and travel north to Matei Point and beyond to Lavena village in the south-east before returning to base. Buses only run three times a day and only once on Sunday so plan accordingly. There is no bus service that will take you and return on the same day so an overnight stay in Lavena village will be needed.
By Boat	While the 10km round-trip hike to Wainibau Waterfall is a popular choice, you can also hire a boat in Lavena village for a direct ride to or from the waterfall’s entry point. This alternative option cuts your trekking time in half and, if tides and calm seas allow, offers a stunning detour along the rugged Ravilevu coast to view more amazing waterfalls. Note that payment is in cash only and that the longboat hire costs vary depending on the group size and waterfalls you choose to visit.

What to Expect 

The fairly flat trail is easy to navigate, passing gorgeous beaches, rocky outcrops and even the odd plantation and settlement. A challenging section is a rope-assisted stream crossing which can be tricky depending on the tide. It’s easy and straightforward at low tide but can reach nearly waist-deep at high tide, especially during the rainy season. Hiring a guide is recommended for navigating this section safely.   
 

Reaching Wainibau Waterfall at the trail’s end is the highlight of the hike. Tucked a little inland from the sea, you’ll need to swim through a charming gorge to reach it and discover another delightful surprise. It’s an idyllic spot for swimming and picnicking and a great reward for your effort getting there. 

 

What to Bring 

There aren’t any change or toilet facilities once you leave Lavena village so wear your swimwear under your clothes. Chances are you’ll get a bit wet on the trail so wear quick-drying attire and sturdy, water-friendly shoes. In addition, water, food, sunscreen, an extra towel and a change of clothes will make your trek a lot more comfortable and enjoyable.
 

Safety Tips 

Before you set out on your adventure, inform your resort about your plans and your expected return time. The trail can be more challenging during Fiji’ rainy summer months (November – March) and the path may become slippery. Take your time, wear sturdy shoes and take a local guide to help point out all the interesting sites, plants and history of this beautiful corner of Fiji.