You’ll ride longboats through deep canyons, swim in hidden waterfalls, visit an authentic mountain village, and float down gentle rapids on an inner tube while enjoying warm Fijian hospitality. This is a full day out in the Namosi Highlands.
Instead of staying locked to the Coral Coast or Denarau beaches all day, this 5.5-hour river tubing inland adventure along the famous Navua River. This is one of the most exciting day trips in Fiji. Super engaging and perfect for travelers who want a mix of culture and action. This is for tourists that miss Hydrox on vacation.
Foodies Read Below
You’ll have traditional Fijian-style lunch served right along the riverbank after your morning swim. The spread features local favorites like chicken, fish, fresh tropical fruits, and native root crops (like dalo and cassava) prepared fresh. Do bring a bottle of water and packaged snacks in case of hunger at the end of this journey.
What You’ll Do
Your journey starts from your hotel pick up and off to Navua to have an exciting 1-hour motorized longboat ride straight up the winding Navua River. You’ll cut through limestone gorges, pass under rainforest canopies, and cruise past waterfalls dripping down the canyon walls.
Next, you’ll pull ashore for a guided walk into a traditional Fijian village nestled in the Namosi Highlands. This isn’t a staged performance because you’ll get a genuine look into daily rural life, learn local customs, and see how the tour directly supports the native community. Tip: Ladies will need to wrap a sulu/sarong around their waist for respect during the village stroll!
After the village visit, the longboat takes you deeper upstream to a massive hidden waterfall. You’ll hike up a short path and jump straight into the cool, crystal-clear plunge pool for a refreshing swim right under the cascade.
The main star of the trip comes right after your riverside lunch: the tubing downriver. You’ll gear up with a lifejacket, hop onto an inner tube, and float down the river’s natural currents. The route mixes serene, lazy-river floating through jungle canyons with fun, heart-pumping bumps over gentle rapids.
Want to explore more cultural activities? Explore Fijian cooking.
Pick-up and drop-off locations: Nadi, Denarau Island, Natadola Beach, Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay, Pacific Harbour, Sigatoka, Shangri-La Yanuca Island and Suva.
Hotels to Stay for Navua River Tubing
Click below to view our recommended hotel to stay (it’s beachfront) for this river adventure . Staying near Pacific Harbour or along the Coral Coast shortens your morning drive significantly compared to staying in Nadi.
+ Agoda
+ Expedia
+ Klook
+ Booking.com
+ Trip.com (Best for flight + hotel bundles)
Traveling to Fiji as a rich couple? Try Nanuku Resort (Pacific Harbour).
Traveling to Fiji as a broke couple? Try Beachouse Resort (Coral Coast)
Traveling to Fiji as a family? Try Shangri-La Yanuca Island or Warwick Fiji.
Travelling to Fiji wanting an adults-only resort with private plunge pool in your villa that’s actually affordable? Try this hidden resort.
Good to Know when Doing Navua River Tubing
Bring sturdy water shoes (strap-on sandals or wet boots—flip-flops will float away!), a dry bag for camera gear, a change of clothes, a towel, and sunscreen.
If you’re not an experienced swimmer or adventurer, don’t worry at all. The local Fijian guides are exceptionally attentive keeping everyone safe through safety briefings, fitted life jackets, and plenty of laughs along the way.
It’s a 5.5-hour active trip with plenty of sun and water exposure. Stay hydrated throughout the day and listen to your guides when navigating the river bends.
Free return transfers are included from most major resorts along Pacific Harbour, Coral Coast, Nadi, and Denarau Island. Choose your hotel during booking for pick up location.
Staying further away? Transfers can easily be arranged when you check out. Just enter your accommodation details during booking so the team can confirm your pick-up time.
FAQ: Navua River Tubing Fiji
1. What does the Navua River Tubing day tour include?
The tour is a full-day eco-adventure packed with traditional Fijian culture and natural highlights. Your booking includes:
+ Round-trip transfers from major resort areas (Nadi, Denarau, Coral Coast, Pacific Harbour, and Suva).
+ A motorized longboat ride through the Namosi Highlands.
+ Guided Fijian village visit and plantation walk.
+ A swim under a waterfall deep in the rainforest.
+ Riverside lunch.
+ Guided river tubing down the gentle rapids of the Navua River.
2. Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers or children?
Yes! You do not need to be an expert swimmer to enjoy river tubing. All participants are equipped with safety gear, including life jackets, and experienced guides stay close to floaters throughout the river stretch. Children aged 5 and above can join when accompanied by an adult.
3. What should I wear and bring with me?
To ensure a comfortable trip, make sure to bring footwear, sunscreen, dry clothes, spree cash (FJD), bottle of water and women must wear a sarong (sulu) or long skirt to cover shoulders and knees during the village visit.
4. How long does the trip take, especially if staying in Nadi or Denarau?
While the activity itself spans the morning and afternoon, travel times vary depending on where you are staying:
+ Pacific Harbour / Suva: ~20–45 minutes away.
+ Coral Coast: ~1–1.5 hours each way.
+ Nadi / Denarau: ~2.5–3 hours each way (approx. 5–6 hours round-trip transit).
Tip: If traveling from Nadi or Denarau, treat this as a dedicated full-day excursion and plan a low-key evening.
5. Are lockers and dry bags available on-site?
Yes. Facilities at the river base offer secure lockers to store your dry clothes and personal items while on the water. You can also rent water shoes or dry bags if you don’t bring your own.
6. What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel your booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Flex-booking options also allow you to reserve your spot now and pay closer to your trip date.
