Fijian culture is built on community, respect and hospitality. These guides explain the traditions you may encounter and how to take part without offending.
Topics include the kava ceremony, village visit etiquette, meke song and dance, and the customs around greetings, dress and gifts. Articles are written for visitors, so they focus on what’s appropriate and what to avoid. To see how these traditions show up in daily life, read Fijian Lifestyle.
Many destinations keep culture behind glass. In Fiji it’s something visitors are often invited into: a welcome ceremony, a shared kava bowl, a village visit, a song at the end of a meal. That openness comes with expectations, and knowing them makes the experience better for you and for your hosts.
Kava, or yaqona, is made from the root of a pepper plant and prepared as a drink. It has a mild numbing effect on the mouth and a calming effect, and it’s central to Fijian social and ceremonial life. In a formal ceremony, participants sit in a circle, the drink is served in a coconut shell, and there are set ways to receive it. Typically you clap once before drinking, drink the bowl in one go, and clap three times afterwards. Our kava guide explains the steps in detail and what to expect if you’re invited.
Village visits are one of the most meaningful experiences in Fiji when done respectfully. Customs usually include dressing modestly (shoulders and knees covered), removing hats and sunglasses, and not touching people’s heads, which is considered disrespectful. A visitor is often expected to present a gift of kava roots, known as sevusevu, to the village chief. Always visit through a guide or host who has permission from the village rather than turning up uninvited.
The meke is a traditional performance combining song, dance and storytelling, and it’s part of celebrations across Fiji. Drums, particularly the lali, are used for signals and ceremony. Some performances at resorts are shortened versions for visitors, but meke in a village or community setting carries deeper meaning. Fire walking is also associated with the island of Beqa.
Masi (bark cloth) is decorated with patterns and used in ceremonies and clothing. Bure are traditional thatched houses. The tabua, a whale tooth, has a role in formal exchanges and is treated with great respect. Our products and culture guides cover these items and how to buy or admire them appropriately.
Christianity is widely practiced among the iTaukei population, and Hinduism, Islam and Sikhism are practiced within the Indo-Fijian community. Festivals including Diwali are widely observed. Visitors are generally welcome at services, but dress modestly and follow guidance.
Greet people with “Bula,” smile, and be patient. “Fiji time” describes a relaxed approach to schedules, so build flexibility into your plans. Ask before photographing people. Avoid wearing swimwear away from the beach or resort.
For the practical side of daily living, read Fijian Lifestyle. For the food that goes with these traditions, see Fijian Food.