WHITEWATER RAFTING

Rafting the Upper Navua Gorge

Your journey begins with about five kilometers of Class Ill to IV whitewater and continues into a deep, narrow canyon where the whitewater wanes and the scenery intensifies. In this spectacular gorge, waterfalls plummet, bars of sunlight illuminate moss—covered cliffs, and exotic geological forms seem to guard the treasures of their tropical home. Rafting through the Navua Gorge, explore small grottoes where aqua light reflects from the deep, pure water. Brilliant, green vegetation contrasts with black volcanic walls, and mighty waterfalls cascade over twisting vines, transforming the river canyon into a divine work of art. After the spellbinding journey through the gorge, your trip ends in the village of Wainadiru, where friendly residents and highland scenery greet you.

Trip Details

Day 1:
The day begins early with a meeting time of 6:45am at the Rivers Fiji office in Pacific Harbour. Climb aboard a 4-wheel drive highland carrier and head west along the coast with the sun rising behind you. For those guests coming from Nadi or the Coral Coast who have arranged transportation with O.A.R.S., you will meet the carrier at the junction of the Queens highway and the logging road that leads to the river put-in. Pick-up time from your hotel will vary, depending on location.

The drive along the bumpy but scenic logging track ascends steeply to a coastal ridge before winding into the rainforested interior. After just over an hour, arrive at the end of the road where you’ll unload, stretch your legs and enjoy a homemade snack. You’ll pack what is needed for the day, leaving dry clothes with the carrier, and begin a short, 15-minute hike to the river and rafts.

After a safety talk and paddling practice, head down river and into the gorge. The rapids start right away and you’ll just be hitting your stride when you come to Moce Falls, the biggest drop of the day, just a half mile downstream. Pass a waterfall around almost every bend as you are carried swiftly along.

Come midday, you’ll pull over to a sandy beach for a delicious picnic lunch. Your guides will present an abundant spread of cold cuts, cheeses, veggies and bread along with all the fixings, fresh fruit, cookies and juice.

Back on the river, each mile brings more stunning scenery and more fun whitewater. Gradually, the narrow canyon walls fall away and you begin to see signs of civilization. You may encounter a friendly local aboard a bamboo raft on this stretch of the river as you make your way to the take-out at the village of Wainadiro. Here you will have the opportunity to change into dry clothes for the one-hour drive back to the Rivers Fiji office in Pacific Harbour, arriving at approximately 5:00pm.