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Historic site · Sigatoka, Nadroga e Navosa
Forte de Tavuni (Tavuni Hill Fort)
An 18th-century fortification on a hill above the Sigatoka valley, built by a chief from Tonga, with terraces, earth walls and views over the river.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Forte de Tavuni (Tavuni Hill Fort)
Tavuni Fort sits atop a limestone hill above the Sigatoka River, about 4 km northeast of town, above the village of Naroro. It was built in the 18th century by Maile Latumai, a chief from Tonga who settled in the area, and served as a refuge and military base during wars between valley peoples.
The site preserves terraces, house platforms, earth walls, defensive ditches and a ritual stone. The location explains the choice: from the hilltop the river and much of the valley can be monitored, and the steep slopes made enemy approach difficult.
Today the site is maintained by the Naroro community, which welcomes visitors at a centre with information about the site’s history and the arrival of Tonga peoples to this part of Viti Levu. Entrance fees go to the village.
The visit is short and easy to combine with the Sigatoka Dunes on the same day. The trail through the fort is level, with viewpoints over the river and valley.
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
About 1 hour.
Best time
In the morning or late afternoon, when the light over the valley is better and the heat lower. On rainy days the dirt road to the fort can become poor.
How to get there
It is about 4 km from Sigatoka, up the river’s east bank along the valley road, above the village of Naroro. By taxi it’s a few minutes from town centre.
Tip
Arrange for the taxi to wait or return, as there is little traffic on the road. At the fort the village asks visitors to be respectful: shoulders and knees covered.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Forte de Tavuni (Tavuni Hill Fort)
Who built Tavuni Fort?
Maile Latumai, a chief from Tonga, in the 18th century.
What can you see at the fort?
Terraces, house platforms, earthen walls, ditches and viewpoints over the river and the Sigatoka valley.
Is it far from Sigatoka?
About 4 km, a few minutes by taxi.