Island Adventures:

Taveuni is known for its rich diversity of animal and plant life and, because of its thriving eco-system, is one of the most significant islands in the South Pacific for biology and conservation. Taveuni's beautiful mountainous terrain and spectacular waterfalls provide endless opportunities for the eco-minded adventurer. As host to nearly all the bird species found in Fiji, the island is also a paradise for the avid bird watcher. The island is equally rich in culture and history. See how a traditional village operates or visit a hill fort site that was used by the ancient Fijians as a secret enemy lookout.

Short Hikes from the Resort:

Site of International Dateline:
No visit to Taveuni is complete without visiting the 180th meridian. Taveuni is one of the very few land masses in the world that the meridian crosses and the Resort is only a minute away. The saying here is "Every New Day starts at Garden Island Resort".

Waitavala Waterslide:
This natural waterslide is a 20 minute walk north of the hotel. Surrounded by rainforest, it is a secluded and picturesque spot and is sometimes filled with the laughter of the local children. Easy to find, we'll provide you with a small map to guide you on your way.

Wairiki Mission:
A 25 minute walk takes you to the lovely old Catholic mission at Wairiki. The mission is set into the hillside and overlooks the site where Taveuni warriors turned back thousands of Tongans in a battle, which was fought in canoes just off the beach. This battle was of historical significance in the history of Fiji, for Tonga was gaining control of the rest of the country through a series of undefeated battles. The Taveuni warriors therefore saved Fiji from the Tongans ... they then celebrated by cooking the Tongans in a lovo and eating them with breadfruit! The French Missionary priest who advised the Taveuni warriors on fighting strategy was 'rewarded' for his help by the grateful people of Taveuni by the building of the large mission. If you visit the Mission on a Sunday morning you will hear the wonderful singing of the Fijian villagers.

Waterfall Treks and Excursions:

Bouma Falls and Lavena area (Ravilevu) Nature Reserves:
Bouma Falls is one of the most beautiful spots on Taveuni. Located in Tavoro National Park, it is a perfect half- or full-day trip. Bouma Falls actually consists of three waterfalls: the first is an easy ten-minute walk from the main road. The waterfall is approximately 100 feet (30 meters) in height and falls into a large pool where one can go swimming and dive off the rocks. A wonderful trail has been built up to a second waterfall, which is a worthwhile trip for the more adventurous. About 60 feet high and perhaps more dramatic, this second waterfall takes about thirty minutes to reach from the first along a well-manicured trail which has steps, handrails and benches for rest stops. The walk to the third and final waterfall - which is only about 25 feet high (8m) - takes about thirty minutes but the path is not as well kept. However, the beauty of this waterfall is in the remoteness of the area and the perfect stillness - a wonderful place to meditate!

Lavena Village & Ravilevu Nature Reserve Tobu Vei Tui Falls:
Travel to the far northeast end of Taveuni to Lavena, one of the most picturesque villages on the island. One of the resort staff, Wani the bartender, who is originally from Lavena, sometimes accompanies guests on this trip. At Lavena village you can see how a traditional village operates, meet some of the villagers and perhaps the Village Chief. Lavena also features one of the most beautiful beaches on Taveuni. This beach, with its spectacular white sand and crystal clear water, was featured in the 'Return of the Blue Lagoon'. It is an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking. There is 3-mile (5km) graded walking path to the Tobu Vei Tui falls. The walk takes about one and a half hours of which the last 20-30 minutes is up a creek bed (Wainabau River). The falls are spectacular and, if you're lucky, your Fijian guide will show you how to jump off the face of the cliff into the pool below! It is also possible to take a boat trip to other spectacular falls further down the coast.

Lake Tagimoucia:
Lake Tagimoucia which is located in an old crater 2,699ft (823 meters) high in the mountains. The lake, which is filled with floating masses of vegetation, is located just below Des Voeux peak which is the second highest spot on Taveuni at 3,920ft (1,195 meters). The highest peak on the island is Mt Uluigalau which is 4,072ft (1,241 meters) high. These are among the highest mountains in Fiji. The hike to the lake is very strenuous and should only be attempted by the serious hiker. It takes about 3-4 hours each way. The highlands are also home to Fiji's most famous flower, the tagimoucia (tahng-ee-mow-thia), a red and white flowered creeper which is linked to a local romantic legend about love lost and love regained. It only grows above 2000ft, and usually blooms from end of September to end of December. Any attempt to transplant the flower at a lower altitude has failed.

Horse Back Riding:

Enjoy trail riding through the beautiful Taveuni plantations and rainforests with a journey, which starts at Vatuwiri Resort at the southern end of Taveuni. A guide will lead you on a breathtaking ride enabling you to view this wonderful island from a different perspective. Suitable for beginners as well as experienced riders.