Dunas de Sigatoka (Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park)

National park · Sigatoka, Nadroga e Navosa

Dunas de Sigatoka (Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park)

Fiji’s first national park, with dunes 20–60 metres high at the mouth of the Sigatoka River, trails through forest and sand down to the beach, and sites where Lapita pottery about 2,600 years old has been found.

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About Dunas de Sigatoka (Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park)

The Sigatoka Dunes lie at the mouth of the Sigatoka River, west of town, and make up Fiji’s first national park, established in 1989 and managed by the National Trust. There are about 5 km of dunes along the coast, with heights ranging from 20 to 60 metres, formed by sand the river brings from inland and winds push ashore.

The dunes are also an important archaeological site. Lapita pottery dating to around 2,600 years ago has been found there, linked to the first peoples who arrived in the Pacific islands, along with ancient burials that help tell the story of Fiji’s settlement. The site has been on UNESCO’s tentative World Heritage list since 1999.

The visitor centre sits on Queens Road and has a small display about the dunes and the finds. Two trails start there: a short one of about 1 hour and a longer one of roughly 2 hours that pass through forest, climb the dunes and descend to the dark-sand beach, where the sea is often rough.

The ground is soft sand and the climbs are tiring, especially during strong sun. At the beach, the open sea and currents make swimming inadvisable.

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Before you go

Practical information

Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.

How much time to set aside

From 1 to 2 hours, depending on the trail.

Best time

Early, before the heat and while the sand is firmer, or late afternoon. From May to October days are usually cooler. Check the visitor centre opening hours before you go.

How to get there

The visitor centre is on Queens Road, about 5 km west of Sigatoka. From Nadi it’s about a 1-hour drive. Queens Road buses stop near the entrance on request.

Tip

Bring water, a hat and sunscreen, and wear trainers: the sand gets hot. Do not swim at the dunes’ beach.

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Get your questions answered

Frequently asked questions about Dunas de Sigatoka (Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park)

Are the Sigatoka dunes a national park?

Yes, the first in Fiji, established in 1989.

How long is the trail?

There is a short trail of about 1 hour and a long one of about 2 hours.

Can you swim at the dunes’ beach?

Not recommended: the sea there is open and has strong currents.

What has been found in the dunes?

Lapita pottery dating to about 2,600 years ago and ancient burials.

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