Mount Batilamu
A path through golden grass.
Rickard Törnblad — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Rickard Törnblad — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Rickard Törnblad — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Rickard Törnblad — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Rickard Törnblad — CC BY-SA 4.0
Koroyanitu Heritage Park is a protected mountain area in the Evans Range, between Nadi and Lautoka in western Viti Levu. It shows another face of Fiji, far from the beaches, with golden pasture, dark cliffs and wide views over the western islands. Local communities manage it, and it draws walkers looking for a different day near Nadi. The park was created in 1989 and protects about 35 sq km around Mount Koroyanitu, Fiji's third-highest peak at 1,195 m. Wikipedia says the name means «Village of the Devil» in Fijian. The Important Bird Area covers 17,100 hectares around the mountain and the Vaturu Dam, supporting shy ground-doves and masked shining parrots. Walks usually start from Abaca village towards Mount Batilamu, climbing through tall golden grass and scattered trees. Then come sharp rock cliffs and a distant waterfall in the valley, and you may meet grazing cattle. From the top the land stretches to the sea, with the Mamanuca and Yasawa islands visible far off on clear days. It lies between Nadi and Lautoka, and the last stretch of road to Abaca is unpaved, so a suitable car or tour is best. Sources mention two routes to the summit and note that this is native land, so permission or a sevusevu ceremony may be needed if you walk without a local guide. Bring plenty of water, walking shoes and sunscreen. Cyclone season runs from November to April, so check the weather before you travel.
A path through golden grass.
Sharp rock above the valley.
The sea on clear days.
Abaca village, Evans Range, between Nadi and Lautoka, Viti Levu
A local guide is best, as this is native land and permission may be needed if you walk alone.
Presenting a traditional gift to the village to ask permission, so ask your guide how it works.