Backpacker Hostels in Suva, Fiji

Suva, Fiji, is the country's capital city; although many travelers just pass through it, if you’re a backpacker who is planning to stay a few weeks in the country, it’s definitely worth spending a couple of days there to get yourself oriented. There are a few hostels in Suva, Fiji, and these are generally staffed by friendly, knowledgeable locals who can tell you about the local attractions and warn you of potential dangers and inconveniences. Suva, Fiji's hostels are also good places to connect with other island-loving, indie travelers and get information about Fiji’s idyllic outer islands, including the best surfing and diving locations, and good spots to learn about traditional Fijian culture.

Suva has many must-see attractions, especially for first-time visitors to Fiji. Thurston Gardens (Fiji’s botanical gardens) were established during the British Colonial era and are absolutely gorgeous, containing both local tropical plants and European species. Situated in the heart of the gardens, the Fiji Museum is also awesome, and gives visitors a good insight into Fiji’s history and culture. There are also loads of other cool things to do in Suva such as cultural experiences, adventure tours, cruises, and visits to local markets. If you’re into festivals there’s also a South Indian Fire-Walking festival held each July at the Mariamma Temple and an annual Hibiscus Festival, held in August.

Although Suva is basically a friendly and laid-back place to visit, visitors should still be careful and safety-conscious, especially women who are out on their own at night.

The closest international airport to Suva is Nausori International Airport, situated approximately twenty-six kilometres away. However Fiji’s main airport, Nadi International Airport, is where most flights arrive and depart from, and this is a couple of hours away.

Another fun way to get to Fiji if you’re an especially adventurous backpacker is to island-hop across the Pacific, or even further afield, by working for your keep as a crew-member on a yacht. Fiji is a popular stop for yachts traveling long-distance, and this can be an exciting and very affordable way to see an exotic part of the world, and visit places that would be otherwise inaccessible. One word of warning, though -- it’s strongly recommended to carefully check out the people who you’ll traveling with, especially if you’re a woman traveling solo. If you’re already in Fiji and interested in this kind of travel, be sure to visit the Royal Suva Yacht Club, as crewing positions are often advertised on the noticeboard. Also check out the noticeboards at hostels in Suva, Fiji, and other parts in Fiji. If you’re currently traveling in Australia or New Zealand and want to sail to Fiji, hostels in these places will also sometimes have advertisements on their noticeboards by yachties who are heading there and need crew.