Accommodation in Malevu

Malevu is on Naviti Island. The village stays are in entire private homes, not bures; Qeleni is a sister accommodation in the village. When choosing a place to stay, consider not only the type of house but also which local activities the host can arrange for guests. Before booking, check availability and the specific arrangements, as current operator information and arrangements may change.

Ferry and arrival in the village

For the villages of Qeleni, Vatia, Vaturua and Waitauvou in Malevu, Barefoot Manta Island Resort is listed as a disembarkation point for the Yasawa Flyer. The red Tavewa SeaBus ferry serves village stays; the journey from Lautoka Wharf on Viti Levu to the Yasawas takes less than three hours.

Ferry schedules and disembarkation arrangements may change. Check the latest operator information before departure and ask your host how to get from the designated disembarkation point to your accommodation. There is no vehicle traffic in the village accommodation area; take this into account when planning your arrival.

Upon arrival in Malevu, all visitors must present a sevusevu to the village chief. Discuss local customs with your host before travelling.

Possible activities for guests

Guests staying in the village may be offered a free village tour upon arrival, depending on the host, availability and weather; hikes may also be possible under the same conditions. Authentic Fijian Meke dances, which guests can watch or join in, as well as evening and night-time kava sessions, may also be offered depending on the host, availability and weather. The range of activities includes getting oriented in the village, exercise and cultural activities in the evening.

Kayaks and surfboards may also be available to guests, depending on the host, availability and weather. Under the same conditions, guests may be able to join rugby games with local boys and men; spearfishing with traditional spear guns is also possible. These activities are arranged locally for guests staying in the village, so they should not be assumed to be part of a fixed programme.

A full-body massage by women from the village may be available, depending on availability. Guests may be able to hire a boat for deep-sea fishing or trips to more remote snorkelling spots, depending on the host, availability and weather.

Manta sightings in the area

A manta ray channel is located on Naviti Island, near Malevu. A 2013 marine survey describes tourist visits during the cooler months. It recorded an average of two manta rays per trip; at least 14 individual animals were identified as returning. These figures are historical observations; seasonal animal presence and visitation patterns may vary. Therefore, do not plan on a guaranteed sighting.

Discover more destinations: Matayalevu, Nabila, Vomo, Nanuya Balavu Island, Vunaniu, Naviti Island, Naisisili, Nakorokula.

For the broader travel overview: Western Division.