Best time to visit Fiji

Sandboarding in Sigatoka in Fiji

There are no real trodden paths on the dunes and it’s hard to hike up but worth the effort

Best time: May–October

Sandboarding in Sigatoka
Sandboarding in Sigatoka

One of the most beautiful sights in Fiji is the Sigatoka Sand Dunes. They are located in the eponymous national park, at the mouth of the Sigatoka River on the island of Viti Levu. The dunes have been forming over millions of years. Occasionally you may see shards of ancient pottery, ceramic pots, or another artefact poking through the sand.

These do not look like the dunes of the Sahara; they are not yellow. Dunes in Fiji are grey-brown, partially covered with green shrubs. The undulating dunes hug the territory for 5 km with their soft sand as fine as flour. The tops of these 20 to 60-metre sand hillocks afford a beautiful vista of green mountains to one side and the boundless ocean to the other.

For fans of sandboarding, this is the best place on the island. To get full satisfaction from sandboarding, you need to choose the right time for the descent. The best time for this sports activity is the dry season (May-October). As to the daytime, it's better to slide in the morning (no hot sun) or on a cloudy day.

Practical info

What is the best time to visit Sigatoka Sand Dunes for sandboarding?

To fully enjoy sandboarding in Sigatoka Sand Dunes, it is best to visit during the dry season which is from May to October. Sandboarding is more favorable during this time as the dunes are dry and the wind is calm. On the other hand, rainy season may cause the sand to be difficult to slide down and the winds may be too strong. This is why visitors should avoid the season. Show more

What is the ideal time of the day for sandboarding in Sigatoka Sand Dunes?

Sandboarding is best enjoyed in Sigatoka Sand Dunes during the morning as the sun is not too hot yet. The scorching heat of the afternoon may cause the sand to become too hot and difficult to stand on. At times, the weather can be cloudy, and during these times, visitors can also enjoy sandboarding much better because the sun would not be too harsh. Bringing water to stay hydrated is also necessary. Show more

What is the color of the sand in Sigatoka Sand Dunes?

The sand in Sigatoka Sand Dunes is greypish brown and perfectly complemented with green shrubs around the dune. The soft and fine sand is grainy like flour, sculpted into challenging dunes undulating at an expanse of 5 km. The color of the sand is due to the eroded volcanic rocks and minerals found in the area, creating such a picturesque panorama suitable for a place worth visiting. Show more

Can visitors hike to the top of the sand dunes?

Yes, physically fit visitors can hike to the peak of the sand dunes, though there are no well-trodden paths in the sand. The view of the boundless ocean and the surrounding green mountains makes it worthwhile for visitors. Hikers should bring enough water, wear comfortable shoes, or boots to endure the sand and heat. It is recommended to avoid hiking during hot afternoons. Show more

Are there any ancient artefacts found in Sigatoka Sand Dunes?

Sigatoka Sand Dunes is home to ancient artefacts such as pottery and ceramic pots which date back 2,600 years or more, artifacts used by early settlers in Fiji. These finds make Sigatoka Sand Dunes a significant archaeological site in Fiji. It is a reminder of the rich history behind the sand dunes. Visitors must leave such artifacts untouched and should report such findings to the authorities. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin