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Cave · Sawa-i-Lau, Ba
Cavernas de Sawa-i-Lau (Sawa-i-Lau Caves)
Limestone caves with seawater pools, a dome about 15 meters high lit by light from above, and a dark chamber reached by a submerged tunnel, with a guide.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Cavernas de Sawa-i-Lau (Sawa-i-Lau Caves)
The Sawa-i-Lau caves are on a limestone island in the northern Yasawa, near the village of Nabukeru. The entrance is a stair cut into the rock that leads to the main cave, a hall with a domed ceiling about 15 meters high and a seawater pool lit by light entering through an opening at the top.
The water is clear and deep, and visitors swim inside the cave, floating beneath the dome. With a guide, strong swimmers can pass through a short submerged tunnel to a second chamber, dark and lit only by the guides' torches, where old marks can be seen on the walls.
The island has a place in Fijian tradition. According to a local legend, a young chief hid in the caves the woman he loved, the daughter of a rival chief, and brought her food by diving through the tunnel until they could escape together. The caves were also regarded as the home of a snake god.
The visit is managed by the people of Nabukeru, who welcome groups and collect the entrance fee. Tours usually last half a day from nearby islands.
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
1 to 2 hours in the caves, plus boat travel time.
Best time
Around midday, when the light enters through the opening and illuminates the pool. From May to October the sea is usually calmer for boats. Confirm the schedule with your accommodation.
How to get there
By boat only, from accommodations in the northern Yasawa such as Nanuya Lailai and Nacula. Tours usually include the guide and the entrance fee.
Tip
Bring a mask to see the water from inside and water shoes for the stone steps. Only attempt the dark chamber if you can swim safely and are with the guide.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cavernas de Sawa-i-Lau (Sawa-i-Lau Caves)
Do you need to dive to see the caves?
Not for the main cave, where you swim on the surface. The dark chamber requires a short dive through a tunnel, with a guide.
Is the cave water cold?
It is seawater, slightly cooler than the outside water because of the shade from the rock.
What is the legend of Sawa-i-Lau?
According to tradition, a young chief hid in the caves the woman he loved, the daughter of a rival chief, until they could escape together.
How long does the tour take?
About half a day, from nearby islands.