🐾 Traveling to Fiji with Pets
Pet-Friendly Fiji
Fiji offers a tropical paradise for pets and families, with many resorts and beaches welcoming well-behaved animals. While not as ubiquitous as in Europe, pet-friendly options are growing, especially in coastal areas. Always confirm policies in advance for a smooth island adventure.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
Import Permit
All pets require an import permit from Fiji's Ministry of Agriculture, issued after application with health details.
Apply at least 7 days before travel; permit costs F$50-100 and is valid for 30 days.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination administered at least 30 days before entry and valid for the stay.
Vaccination certificate must be endorsed by an official veterinarian from the origin country.
Microchip Requirements
Pets must have an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip implanted before vaccination.
Include microchip number on all documents; scanners are available at entry points.
Non-Rabies Free Countries
Pets from high-risk rabies countries face up to 48-hour quarantine upon arrival in Nadi.
Additional blood tests may be required; contact Fiji Quarantine Service for specifics.
Restricted Breeds
No specific breed bans, but aggressive dogs may be denied entry at biosecurity discretion.
All dogs must be leashed in public; muzzles recommended for larger breeds during travel.
Other Pets
Birds and exotic animals require separate CITES permits and veterinary checks.
Cats and small mammals follow similar rules to dogs; quarantine may apply based on origin.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Fiji on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like shaded areas and water bowls.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Resorts (Nadi & Coral Coast): Beachfront resorts like Outrigger Fiji welcome small pets for F$20-50/night, with beach access and pet areas. Many offer dog beds and nearby walks.
- Island Bures & Villas (Yasawa Islands): Eco-resorts and private villas often allow pets at no extra fee, providing space for play. Ideal for relaxed beach holidays with dogs.
- Vacation Rentals & Apartments: Airbnb and local listings in Suva and Denarau frequently permit pets, especially family homes with yards.
- Village Homestays: Traditional Fijian villages on Viti Levu welcome pets alongside families, offering cultural immersion and outdoor space.
- Campsites & Beach Huts: Coastal campsites in Pacific Harbour are pet-friendly with fire pits and beach access. Fees F$10-20/night per site.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: High-end resorts like Shangri-La Yanuca Island provide pet amenities including grooming and beach walks for premium stays.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Beach Walks & Snorkeling
Fiji's pristine beaches like Natadola and those on the Coral Coast allow leashed dogs for walks.
Pet-friendly snorkel spots in shallow reefs; keep pets away from marine protected areas.
Island Hikes & Trails
Easy coastal paths in Sigatoka and Taveuni welcome pets on leash.
Colo-i-Suva Forest Park has shaded trails suitable for dogs; check for off-leash areas.
Cities & Parks
Suva's Thurston Gardens and Nadi's parks permit leashed pets; outdoor markets often allow dogs.
Denarau Island's marina area is pet-friendly with shaded seating and water stations.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
Beachside cafés in Nadi and Pacific Harbour provide outdoor seating for pets.
Many spots offer water bowls; inquire about indoor access, though outdoor is standard.
Village Tours
Cultural village visits on Viti Levu welcome leashed pets during outdoor tours.
Respect local customs; avoid bringing pets into sacred areas or homes.
Boat Trips & Ferries
Some inter-island ferries allow small pets in carriers for F$10-20; larger dogs on deck.
Book pet spots in advance; calm seas make for enjoyable pet-inclusive cruises.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Buses (Viti Levu): Public buses allow small pets free in carriers; larger dogs F$5 with leash/muzzle. Avoid crowded routes.
- Shared Taxis & Vans: Local "mama taxis" in Nadi accept pets for F$2-5 per trip; negotiate upfront.
- Taxis: Standard taxis welcome pets with driver approval; add F$10 for cleaning if needed.
- Rental Cars: Agencies like Avis allow pets with F$20-50 deposit; 4x4s ideal for island roads and pet comfort.
- Flights to Fiji: Check airline policies; Fiji Airways allows cabin pets under 8kg. Book early and review carrier requirements. Compare flight options on Aviasales to find pet-friendly airlines and routes.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Air New Zealand accept pets in cabin (under 8kg) for F$100-200 each way. Larger pets in hold with health certificate.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
Vets in Nadi (Fiji Animal Health) and Suva offer 24-hour care; call ahead for emergencies.
Travel insurance should cover pets; consultations F$50-150.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Pet shops in Nadi and Suva stock food, flea treatments, and accessories from brands like Pedigree.
Pharmacies carry basic meds; import specialized items if needed.
Grooming & Day Care
Grooming services in resort areas F$30-60 per session; limited daycare available.
Resorts may offer pet minding; book through front desk.
Pet-Sitting Services
Local sitters via resorts or apps like PetBacker for F$20-40/day.
Many homestays include pet care as part of family hosting.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in public areas, beaches, and near villages. Off-leash only in designated private spaces.
- Muzzle Requirements: Not mandatory but recommended for large dogs on transport; carry one for compliance.
- Waste Disposal: Carry and dispose of waste properly; bins available at resorts and parks. Fines up to F$100 for littering.
- Beach & Water Rules: Pets allowed on most beaches but not in swimming zones; respect turtle nesting areas.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Outdoor resort dining welcomes pets; keep them calm and away from food service areas.
- Protected Areas: National parks like Bouma restrict pets to protect wildlife; always follow signage.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Fiji
Fiji for Families
Fiji is a dream for families with its safe beaches, warm waters, cultural experiences, and kid-focused resorts. From snorkeling adventures to village visits, children thrive in the relaxed, welcoming Fijian culture. Facilities include kids' clubs, pools, and family bures everywhere.
Top Family Attractions
Natadola Beach (Coral Coast)
Family beach with calm waters, horse riding, and picnic areas for all ages.
Free access; horse rides F$20-40. Perfect for sandcastle building and swimming.
Shark Reef Marine Reserve (Pacific Harbour)
Snorkeling with fish, turtles, and safe shark encounters in a protected area.
Tours F$50-80 adults, F$30 kids; life jackets provided for young swimmers.
Garden of the Sleeping Giant (Nadi)
Orchid gardens, rainforest walks, and picnic spots with easy trails for kids.
Entry F$15 adults, F$8 kids; includes orchid house tour and nature play areas.
Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park
Mystical dunes with fossil sites, boardwalks, and storytelling for children.
Free entry; guided tours F$10-20. Adventure for young explorers.
Yasawa Islands Day Trips
Boat cruises to remote islands with beachcombing, caves, and cultural shows.
Tours F$150-250 family; includes lunch and snorkel gear for all ages.
South Sea Fishing (Beqa Lagoon)
Family fishing trips and soft coral gardens with easy access for kids.
Half-day trips F$100-150; catch-and-release options keep it fun and educational.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Fiji on Viator. From island hopping to cultural experiences, find skip-the-line tickets and age-appropriate adventures with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Resorts (Nadi & Denarau): Properties like Fiji Marriott offer family bures (2 adults + 2 kids) for F$300-500/night. Includes kids' clubs, pools, and babysitting.
- Beachfront Family Villas (Coral Coast): All-inclusive resorts with kids' programs and water sports. Shangri-La provides family suites and entertainment.
- Village Homestays: Authentic stays with Fijian families for F$100-200/night, including meals and cultural activities for kids.
- Vacation Apartments: Self-catering options in Suva with kitchens and beach access, ideal for larger families.
- Budget Guesthouses: Family rooms in Pacific Harbour for F$150-250/night with shared facilities and proximity to adventures.
- Island Eco-Lodges: Remote stays like those on Taveuni for immersive family nature experiences with guided activities.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Nadi & Denarau with Kids
Beach resorts, Sleeping Giant gardens, Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple visits, and pool play.
Firewalking shows and kava ceremonies adapted for children make it engaging.
Coral Coast with Kids
Snorkeling at reefs, Sigatoka sand dunes exploration, and river safaris.
Horseback riding on beaches and farm visits with animal interactions.
Pacific Harbour with Kids
Shark encounters, zip-lining, and Arts Village cultural shows.
Beqa Lagoon kayaking and waterfall hikes suitable for families.
Suva with Kids
Fiji Museum, Thurston Gardens, and waterfront playgrounds.
Market explorations and easy harbor cruises for young adventurers.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Buses: Children under 5 free; ages 5-12 half fare F$1-3. Family seats available on longer routes.
- Local Transport: Resort shuttles and taxis offer family rates F$20-40/day. Ferries to islands are stroller-friendly.
- Car Rentals: Child seats F$10-20/day mandatory for under 12; book SUVs for island terrain and family space.
- Stroller-Friendly: Resorts and main roads are accessible; beaches may require all-terrain strollers for sand.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Resorts offer child portions of fish, chips, or pasta for F$10-20. High chairs standard.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Beach barbecues and lovo feasts welcome kids with play areas and casual vibes.
- Self-Catering: Markets in Nadi stock fresh fruits, baby food, and diapers. Resorts have grocery delivery.
- Snacks & Treats: Coconut treats, fresh pineapple, and Fijian sweets keep kids happy on the go.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: Available in resorts, airports, and major attractions with nursing areas.
- Pharmacies: Stock formula, diapers, and kids' meds; English-speaking staff assist.
- Babysitting Services: Resort kids' clubs offer supervised care F$10-20/hour; certified sitters available.
- Medical Care: Clinics in Nadi and Suva with pediatric services; travel insurance recommended.
♿ Accessibility in Fiji
Accessible Travel
Fiji is improving accessibility with resort upgrades, but challenges exist on uneven terrain. Major hotels and attractions offer wheelchair access, and tourism operators provide assistance for inclusive tropical getaways.
Transportation Accessibility
- Buses: Limited accessibility; private transfers recommended with ramps for wheelchairs.
- Local Transport: Resort shuttles and taxis accommodate wheelchairs; ferries have basic access.
- Taxis: Wheelchair-adapted taxis available in Nadi; book via hotels for F$30-50/trip.
- Airports: Nadi International offers full assistance, ramps, and accessible facilities for all passengers.
Accessible Attractions
- Resorts & Beaches: Many like Denarau have ramps, pools with lifts, and accessible bures.
- Historic Sites: Fiji Museum in Suva is wheelchair-friendly; village tours may need adaptation.
- Nature & Parks: Boardwalks at sand dunes and gardens provide access; snorkel tours offer seated options.
- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; look for roll-in showers and wide paths.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (May-Oct) for sunny beaches and mild temps (22-28°C); wet season (Nov-Apr) for lush greenery but rain.
Avoid cyclone season peaks (Jan-Mar); shoulder months offer deals and fewer crowds.
Budget Tips
Family resort packages include meals; local markets save on food. Combo tours discount attractions.
Public buses and shared vans keep transport affordable for groups.
Language
English, Fijian, and Hindi spoken; resort staff fluent in English for easy communication.
Learn "Bula" (hello); Fijians are warm and helpful with families.
Packing Essentials
Light clothes, reef-safe sunscreen, hats, and insect repellent. Rain gear for wet season.
Pet owners: bring food, leash, waste bags, tick prevention, and vaccination records.
Useful Apps
Fiji Pocket Guide for maps, MyFiji for transport, and resort apps for bookings.
WhatsApp for local communication; download offline maps.
Health & Safety
Fiji is safe; drink bottled water. Dengue risk in wet season—use repellent.
Emergency: dial 911. Travel insurance covers medical and evacuation.