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The Awe-Inspiring Bouma Waterfalls on Taveuni Island

Going to Fiji is about sitting on a picturesque, white sand beach, right? Of course it is. But a vacation to Fiji is also much more.

The archipelago is officially called the Republic of Fiji. It is located in the middle of the South Pacific Ocean, and only 10% of Fiji’s area is land. The rest of Fiji is comprised of the crystal-clear waters of the sea. While Fiji is made up of 332 different islands and over 550 small islets, tourism is only popular on a few.

The largest island in Fiji, Viti Levu, was the first place in Fiji to have sustained tourism and remains the main point of entry for foreign visitors. However, the nearby island Vanua Levu is gaining popularity as tourist destinations. Outside of the main towns, crowds in Fiji are rare, and Fiji’s third largest island, Taveuni, remains blissfully unscathed by visitors.

More About Taveuni

On Taveuni it is possible to find glorious small beaches all your own and kayak to islets entirely devoid of other people, unless you count the turtles and fish you see along the way.  It is the ideal jumping off point for visitors that want to dive the Rainbow Reef and other topnotch dive sites in Fiji. The waters around Taveuni are believed to have the most impressive assembly of soft coral in the world.

Up on dry land, Taveuni is equally impressive. The island is home to Raiwasa Private Resort and several other lower end properties. There are some of the best places to stay dotted along Taveuni’s coastline. However, the natural features of Taveuni are the real highlight, and Mother Nature truly shows off at the beautiful Bouma Waterfalls.

Bouma Waterfalls Facts and Figures

The Bouma National Heritage Park covers almost 80% of Taveuni. The Heritage Park was created back in 1990, and ensures this protected land remains lush, ancient jungle. The entire 57 square miles (157 square kilometers) in the park are covered with a variety of flora and fauna. The density and beauty of the Heritage Park has earned Taveuni the nickname, “The Garden Island.” To visit Bouma National Heritage Park is seeing a tropical jungle at its best. Here bird life is abundant and there is an array of small reptiles. Also within this pristine rainforest are three stunning waterfalls.

These three falls are actually called the Tavoro Waterfalls, but most locals and visitors simply refer to them as the Bouma Waterfalls or Bouma Falls, Whatever name you use, the waterfalls are a must-see for anyone visiting Taveuni or nearby islands.

Hiking To the Bouma Waterfalls

You can reach the Bouma Waterfalls via an easy day-hike, but we recommend you go with a tour group or private guide because the surrounding area is remote and secluded. If you stay at a property on Taveuni, such as the Raiwasa private resort, a guide will include transportation as part of your booking. However, there is a visitors’ center in Bouma National Heritage Park, if you decide to visit alone.

To enter the Heritage Park you must pay a fee and register at the visitors’ center. After that it is only a 10 or 15-minute walk to the first waterfall. This impressive waterfall is sure to inspire awe and wonder in any visitor. At the bottom of this first stop there is a swimming hole, where visitors can relax. Alternatively, head to the 10-foot ledge over the swimming hole, where locals and visitors jump into the clear water. You have between a 30 and 45-minute hike to the next waterfall, so be sure to cool off before you go.

The second of the Bouma Waterfalls has a similar swimming hole and idyllic setting. It is another 20 minutes to reach the third and final waterfall. A trip to this last waterfall is interesting for those fascinated with exploring one of the most pristine and private waterfalls in Taveuni. With a set of goggles or snorkel you can take a peek at the many prawns that call this swimming hole their home.

Visitors to Taveuni highly recommend hiking to all three waterfalls while you are visiting the island. However, the rainy season can make this treacherous, and the path to the third falls can be closed or inaccessible due to slippery surfaces after a long period of rain.

Where to Stay to See the Waterfalls

For a romantic holiday, corporate trip, or even an annual vacation, the best accommodation on Taveuni is Raiwasa, an exclusive, private resort. This stunning property overlooks the South Pacific Ocean and famous Somosomo Straight on Taveuni’s northern-most point. The infinity pool and gorgeous outdoor space at the private resort are the ideal places to relax after a day spent exploring Bouma Waterfalls.

Visit our website to learn more about the private resort and gorgeous Fijian island of Taveuni.