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Village · Nadi, Ba
Vila de Navala (Navala Village)
Fijian village in the Ba highlands, known for its traditional thatch houses (bure) arranged in rows along the river; visited with a guide on day tours from Nadi.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Vila de Navala (Navala Village)
Navala lies in the highlands of inland Viti Levu, in Ba province, on the banks of the Ba River, surrounded by grassy hills. It is known in Fiji for preserving almost all houses in the traditional bure style, with woven bamboo walls and high thatch roofs, at a time when most villages replaced thatch with corrugated iron and masonry.
The houses are aligned in rows along grass paths, with the chief’s house and the church in prominent positions, and the village maintains its own rules to preserve the ensemble. The sight of thatch roofs against the hills is one of the most photographed images of inland Fiji.
The visit is conducted with a guide and begins with the sevusevu, the offering of kava to the chief or his representative, followed by a tour of the village and often a lunch with families. The visitation fee goes to the community.
The road to Navala, a dirt track that climbs to the highlands from Ba, is part of the trip, with views over valleys and hills. As in any Fijian village, visitors should wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees, remove hats and glasses, and ask permission before photographing.
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
A full day from Nadi, with about 1 to 2 hours in the village.
Best time
On weekdays, in the morning. On Sundays the village is devoted to church and visits are generally not accepted. In the dry season, May–October, the dirt road is usually in better condition.
How to get there
It is in the Ba highlands, about a 2-hour drive from Nadi via Ba and the dirt road. The most practical option is a guided tour with hotel pickup from Nadi and Lautoka.
Tip
Bring a sarong and a bundle of kava if the tour does not include the gift. Ask permission before photographing houses and people.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Vila de Navala (Navala Village)
What is Navala known for?
Because almost all the houses retain the traditional style, with bamboo walls and thatched roofs.
Do you need a guide to visit Navala?
Yes. The visit is arranged with the village and begins with the kava ceremony.
Is it far from Nadi?
About 2 hours by car, via Ba and on unpaved highland roads.