Suva Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Suva.
Healthcare System
Fiji operates a dual healthcare system with public facilities available to all and private clinics serving those with insurance or ability to pay. The Colonial War Memorial (CWM) Hospital in Suva is the country's main public hospital and largest medical facility in the South Pacific islands.
Hospitals
CWM Hospital (public) on Waimanu Road handles emergencies but expect long waits. Private options include Suva Private Hospital on Amy Street (higher standard, accepts international insurance) and MIOT Fiji (modern facility, good for specialist care). Suva Medical Centre on Amy Street is recommended for minor issues and has English-speaking doctors.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies are readily available throughout Suva, with several on Victoria Parade and in MHCC (Morris Hedstrom City Centre). Most common medications are available, though brand names may differ. Bring prescriptions for controlled medications. Some pharmacies stay open until 8 PM on weekdays. Popular chains include Patel's Pharmacy and New World Pharmacy.
Insurance
Travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage is strongly recommended and often required by tour operators. Ensure your policy includes medical evacuation coverage to Australia/New Zealand, as serious conditions cannot be treated locally. Most private facilities require payment upfront or insurance guarantee before treatment.
Healthcare Tips
- Bring sufficient supplies of prescription medications as specific brands may be unavailable in Suva
- Carry copies of prescriptions with generic drug names, not just brand names
- Private clinics require cash or credit card payment upfront; keep receipts for insurance claims
- Tap water in Suva is generally not safe to drink; stick to bottled or boiled water to avoid gastrointestinal issues
- Dengue fever occurs in Fiji; use mosquito repellent and consider staying in accommodations with screens or air conditioning
- Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date; Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines are recommended
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Theft of unattended belongings, bag snatching, and pickpocketing are the most common crimes affecting tourists in Suva. Thieves often target distracted visitors in crowded areas, particularly at markets, bus stations, and along the waterfront.
While violent crime against tourists is relatively uncommon, incidents of assault and robbery have occurred, particularly at night and in isolated areas. Alcohol-fueled altercations can escalate, especially on weekends.
Traffic accidents are common due to poorly maintained roads, aggressive driving, lack of street lighting, and pedestrians/animals on roadways. Driving standards are inconsistent, and roads can be hazardous during heavy rain.
Drowning incidents occur due to strong currents, rip tides, and reef edges. Some beaches lack lifeguards, and water conditions can change quickly. Contaminated water in some areas can cause illness.
Traveler's diarrhea and gastrointestinal issues are common, often from contaminated water, ice, or food prepared in unhygienic conditions. Typhoid and hepatitis A occur in Fiji.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Unlicensed or unmetered taxis quote inflated fares to tourists unfamiliar with local rates. Some drivers claim the meter is broken or refuse to use it, then charge excessive amounts at the destination.
Vendors at markets and tourist areas significantly inflate prices for handicrafts, knowing tourists are unfamiliar with fair market values. Some items sold as 'authentic Fijian' are mass-produced imports.
Tourists are invited to participate in kava ceremonies, then pressured to make donations far exceeding reasonable amounts or to purchase overpriced goods. While genuine ceremonies exist, some are staged specifically to extract money from visitors.
Individuals approach tourists offering discounted tours or activities, collect payment, then either provide substandard service or disappear entirely. Some operate without proper licenses or insurance.
Street money changers offer better rates than banks but use sleight of hand to shortchange tourists, provide counterfeit notes, or swap agreed amounts during the transaction.
Friendly locals offer to tie a bracelet or give a small gift, then aggressively demand payment once the item is on the tourist's person. Some become confrontational if payment is refused.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Personal Security
- Avoid walking alone after dark, especially in downtown Suva and isolated areas
- Use hotel safes for passports, excess cash, and valuables
- Keep a photocopy or digital copy of your passport separate from the original
- Don't display expensive jewelry, watches, cameras, or large amounts of cash
- Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts if a situation feels unsafe
- Avoid confrontations and comply if threatened during a robbery - possessions can be replaced
- Keep car doors locked and windows up when driving, especially at traffic lights
- Don't leave valuables visible in parked vehicles
Transportation Safety
- Use only licensed taxis with visible identification and insist on using the meter
- Pre-arrange airport transfers through your hotel when possible
- Avoid hitchhiking and accepting rides from strangers
- If renting a vehicle, choose a reputable company and inspect the vehicle thoroughly
- Drive defensively and expect unpredictable behavior from other drivers and pedestrians
- Avoid driving at night due to poor road conditions, limited lighting, and increased accident risk
- Be extremely cautious when walking as a pedestrian - drivers don't always yield at crosswalks
- Public buses are inexpensive but can be crowded; watch belongings and avoid during rush hour
Health and Hygiene
- Drink only bottled water; check seals are intact when purchasing
- Avoid ice in drinks unless you're certain it's made from purified water
- Wash hands frequently with soap or use hand sanitizer, especially before eating
- Apply mosquito repellent regularly, particularly at dawn and dusk
- Ensure food is thoroughly cooked and served hot; avoid buffets that have been sitting out
- Be cautious with street food; choose vendors that appear clean and busy with locals
- Seek medical attention promptly for any coral cuts, as they easily become infected
- Bring a basic first aid kit including anti-diarrheal medication, pain relievers, and bandages
Beach and Water Safety
- Never leave belongings unattended on the beach - theft is common
- Swim only at designated beaches and during daylight hours
- Heed warning signs and flags about water conditions
- Don't swim alone, especially in unfamiliar waters
- Wear water shoes or reef shoes to protect feet from coral, rocks, and sea urchins
- Be aware of your swimming abilities and don't venture beyond your comfort zone
- Avoid swimming after heavy rainfall when water quality may be compromised
- If caught in a rip current, swim parallel to shore rather than fighting against it
Cultural Respect and Etiquette
- Dress modestly when visiting villages or away from resort areas; cover shoulders and knees
- Remove shoes before entering homes and some shops
- Ask permission before photographing people, especially in villages
- Remove hats and sunglasses when entering villages as a sign of respect
- Don't touch people's heads, which is considered sacred in Fijian culture
- Accept kava (yaqona) if offered in a village setting, but you may politely decline additional cups
- Avoid public displays of affection, which are frowned upon in Fijian culture
- Be patient and flexible - 'Fiji time' means things often run slower than Western expectations
Money and Valuables
- Carry only the cash you need for the day; leave excess in hotel safe
- Use ATMs during daylight hours at secure locations like banks or shopping centers
- Notify your bank of travel plans to avoid card being blocked for suspicious activity
- Carry small denominations as change can be difficult to obtain
- Be discreet when handling money at markets or in public
- Keep credit cards in sight during transactions to prevent skimming
- Make copies of credit cards and keep emergency contact numbers separate from the cards
- Consider using a money belt or hidden pouch for important documents and backup cash
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Women travelers generally report feeling safe in Suva during daylight hours, and Fiji's tourism industry is accustomed to solo female visitors. However, women should exercise additional caution compared to some other destinations. Verbal harassment and unwanted attention can occur, particularly from intoxicated men in nightlife areas or on beaches. While serious incidents are relatively rare, they have occurred. The key is maintaining awareness, dressing modestly outside resort areas, and avoiding isolated situations, especially after dark.
- Avoid walking alone after dark; use registered taxis even for short distances at night
- Dress modestly when in town - cover shoulders and wear knee-length skirts or pants to avoid unwanted attention
- Be firm but polite when declining unwanted advances; avoid engaging in arguments
- Sit near other women or families on public transportation
- Book accommodation in well-reviewed, established hotels or guesthouses in safe neighborhoods
- Avoid accepting drinks from strangers and keep your drink in sight at bars
- Be cautious about sharing your accommodation details or travel plans with casual acquaintances
- Consider joining group tours rather than exploring isolated areas alone
- Trust your instincts - if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself immediately
- Keep your phone charged and have emergency numbers readily accessible
- Avoid beaches alone, especially isolated stretches and after dark
- Be aware that some Fijian men may misinterpret friendliness as romantic interest
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Same-sex sexual activity is legal in Fiji, and the 2013 constitution includes protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. However, same-sex marriage is not recognized, and there are no specific legal protections for same-sex couples.
- Exercise discretion regarding sexual orientation and gender identity, especially outside tourist resorts
- Avoid public displays of affection with same-sex partners to prevent unwanted attention or confrontation
- Book accommodation at international hotel chains or resorts known to be LGBTQ+-friendly rather than small local guesthouses
- Be aware that requesting a double bed for same-sex couples may be met with resistance or judgment
- Research LGBTQ+-friendly businesses and tour operators in advance if this is a priority
- Consider not disclosing sexual orientation to casual acquaintances or service providers
- Be particularly discreet when visiting villages or attending cultural events where traditional values are strongest
- Understand that transgender individuals may face additional challenges and scrutiny
- Connect with local LGBTQ+ organizations online for current advice, but be aware the community is small
- Use caution on dating apps as attitudes vary and safety cannot be guaranteed
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is essential for visiting Suva due to limited medical facilities, high costs of medical evacuation, natural disaster risks (cyclones), and potential for petty crime. Medical evacuation to Australia or New Zealand for serious conditions can cost USD $50,000-100,000+. Many private medical facilities require payment guarantees before treatment. Additionally, cyclones can cause significant travel disruptions during the November-April season, potentially leaving travelers stranded or requiring expensive itinerary changes.