Travelling to Fiji in 2023? What Australian Surfers Need to Know!
It’s fair to say that travelling in 2023 is not the same as what used to be pre-pandemic. The good news is that travel is very much possible, it can be done safely, and we can now access most of those wonderful ocean experiences this beautiful planet has to offer!
Summary:
- Fiji no longer requires travellers over 16 to be vaccinated for Covid 19 to enter the country
- All travellers must also show valid travel insurance
- Australia does not require testing or vaccination for Covid 19 to either depart or return to Australia
- There may regulations when entering other countries as a stop over, but not if just in transit
- All other travel regulations still apply – its up to the traveller to make themselves aware and ensure they comply check Smarttraveller
How It Works
Whilst the host communities, waves and marine environment await for your 2022 travels, there might be a few more steps in your travel process. To help you work your way through the new and fast-changing world of travel we have summarized everything here in this article! The Australian Government Smarttraveller site offers a useful step by step planner. Perfect Wave Travel also has a FAQ document to answer many of the questions that may arise.
Travel Insurance has evolved to cover many Covid related risks.
Over the last couple of years travel insurers have adapted their cover so many common Covid risks are insurable. Things like the costs if denied boarding, compulsory quarantine if suspected or diagnosed with Coronavirus during travel. Some of the better policies also include coverage for childcare costs and even pet care back home if your travel is disrupted by Coronavirus diagnosis during your trip. Talk to Perfect Wave Travel or your preferred insurer about a policy that works for you.
South Coast Breaks
Pre Departure
International travellers should be prepared with full vaccination for Covid-19 and other regular travel vaccines. This will need to be completed at least 2 weeks prior to departure from your home country. Travellers should also carry both paper and digital certificates of vaccination status, so they satisfy any official requests en route. If travelling to Europe or other destinations that will require certification you can get a free International Vaccination Certificate HERE.
Australia to Fiji: Travel Requirements
Learn more and stay up to date here!
Couple enjoying the beautiful waters SUPPING in Qamea, Fiji
Tips for travellers
- Take some masks. Clean comfortable face masks will be very important to travellers as they will be required in many settings. Take lots of spares!
- Take some RAT tests. It is possible RAT Tests may be required at stages of your journey – if you are able to provide your own you may reduce delays.
- Stay patient. After a couple of years without travel we all realise it is a privilege. There will be more delays and hassles than before – but we will be back travelling again – so just smile and go with it!
Travelling out of Australia
The Australian International borders are open to tourists again.
For more info see Smart Traveller official advice on leaving Australia.
In Transit
Where possible, travellers en route to Fiji are advised to travel by the most direct flights possible (Nadi Airport), reducing risk of the virus or the requirement to get further tests prior to arriving into the Fiji.
Nadi Airport
Between Islands in Fiji
You can travel between Fiji and Vanua Levu, and maritime islands without needing to quarantine. Capacity on shipping vessels is restricted.
For official Government Travel Advice see the following; Australia – SmartTraveller.
Surf in Fiji
And lastly and most importantly, check out our Fiji Surf Travel Guide to learn more about what Fijis waves are on offer!