Top Things to Do in Suva

Trade the city’s hustle and bustle for the cool, rainforest vibes of Colo-i-Suva Forest Park, about 15mins drive outside the city centre. The 90-hectare Park is part of the Queen’s Commonwealth Canopy – a network of preserved forests in Commonwealth countries.

Great walks don’t always have to be confined to the great outdoors. Guided Walking Tours offers a 2.5-hour walking tour around 14 of Suva’s most culturally and historically important landmarks, led by local legend and poet Peter Sipeli. From the chaos and colour of the bus depot and local market to the cool calmness of Thurston Gardens and the Fiji Museum, the walk will introduce you Suva beyond the brochures. Along the way you’ll be regaled with personal stories about life in Suva, learn about the city’s rich and sometimes tumultuous history, and see this multi-cultural city through the eyes of a local.

If you’re a history buff with time on your hands, head over to the Fiji Museum in its leafy haven at the end of town. The modest building is packed with interesting exhibits that date back some 3,700 years to the Lapita age, when sea-faring people first settled the Pacific islands. Take your time to explore the exhibits and you’ll discover a treasure trove of information on early voyagers to Fiji and the history of the Girmitayas in Fiji. There’s a little giftshop to browse and a small café overlooking Thurston Gardens that serves up some decent coffee and great food.

Suva’s lively food market near the main wharf is the beating heart of the city. Vendors sell seasonal fresh fruit and veg there all week but it really brims with colour, variety and bargains on Fridays and Saturdays. Get there early to avoid the crowds and catch the freshest deals. When you’re done, take a stroll to the nearby Suva Handicraft Centre for cultural treasures like printed masi, kava bowls, war clubs or drums. Lots of stalls sell similar items so take your time to wander around and compare prices. Don’t be afraid to haggle with vendors for a fair price too – it’s all part of the experience and you’ll get a better deal! All markets are closed on Sundays.