Just 15 minutes’ drive from downtown Suva Fiji, you’ll find one of the city’s best nature escapes – Colo-I-Suva Forest Park. This lush rainforest reserve is filled with walking trails, clear natural pools, birdlife and peaceful picnic spots, making it a perfect half-day or full-day getaway from the city.
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Why Visit Colo-I-Suva Forest Park?
Colo-I-Suva Forest Park is a must-see if you’re staying in Suva Fiji and want to experience real tropical rainforest without travelling far.
Highlights include:
- Only about 15 minutes from Suva’s CBD
- Cool, shaded rainforest – a refreshing break from the heat
- Natural swimming pools and small waterfalls
- Excellent bird watching – around 30 of Fiji’s 57 land bird species have been found here
- Easy-to-follow walking trails for casual walkers and nature lovers
Covering almost 5 square kilometres, Colo-I-Suva is a green sanctuary of tall trees, thick undergrowth and tropical plants. With heavy rainfall throughout the year, the forest stays lush and vibrant in every season.
Natural Pools, Creeks & Waterfalls
Running through Colo-I-Suva Forest Park is Waisiliva Creek, a clear rainforest stream that flows over smooth rocks as it makes its way to the Waimanu River. Along this creek you’ll find:
- Natural swimming pools
- Small waterfalls
- Shallow sections ideal for relaxing in the cool water
These rainforest pools are one of the park’s main attractions. Visitors come here to:
- Cool off with a refreshing swim
- Try the rope swing at some of the deeper pools
- Enjoy a picnic by the water
- Take photos surrounded by real Fiji jungle scenery
If you’re visiting Suva Fiji and looking for a natural swimming spot, Colo-I-Suva Forest Park is one of the best choices.
Walking Trails – How to Explore the Park
Colo-I-Suva has several marked trails that are easy to follow and suitable for most fitness levels, though some sections can be steep and slippery.
A popular circuit for visitors from Suva Fiji is:
1. Start at the Visitor Information Centre
As you approach the park from Suva, you’ll see the Visitor Information Centre on the left-hand side of the road.
Here you can:
- Buy your entry ticket
- Check trail conditions
- Ask about any current safety or security notices
- After this, you’ll cross to the other side of the road to enter the park.
2. Drive to the Main Car Park
Follow Kalabu Road as it skirts the edge of the forest
Turn up Pool Road to reach the main car park near the pools and trailheads
3. Walk to the Lower Pools
From the car park, take the Nature Trail down to the Lower Pools. This is one of the most popular areas in Colo-I-Suva Forest Park and is ideal for:
- Swimming in the natural pools
- Enjoying the rope swings
- Relaxing beside the creek
- Having your packed lunch in a forest setting
4. Return via the Falls Trail
When you’re ready to head back, follow the Falls Trail up towards the main road. This part of the walk is:
Mostly uphill
- Often hot and sweaty, especially later in the day
- Can be slippery after rain
Without long stops, this loop takes around 1.5 hours, but most visitors spend extra time swimming, taking photos and enjoying the forest atmosphere.
Bird Watching in Colo-I-Suva
For bird lovers, Colo-I-Suva Forest Park is one of the top bird-watching locations near Suva Fiji. Around 30 of Fiji’s 57 land bird species have been recorded in the park.
To make the most of it, bring:
- Binoculars
- Camera
- A bit of quiet time on the trails
You’ll often hear the birds before you see them, with calls echoing through the trees as you walk beneath the canopy.
Safety & Practical Tips
Colo-I-Suva Forest Park is generally peaceful, but it is still a natural area, so it’s important to be prepared.
Security
There have been occasional incidents of muggings and theft from parked vehicles
- Do not leave valuables in your car
- Visit in a small group if possible
- Stay on the main marked trails
Footwear & Clothing
- Trails can be very slippery after rain
- Wear sturdy walking shoes or sandals with good grip
- Light, quick-drying clothing is best for the humid forest environment
What to Bring
- Drinking water
- Swimsuit and towel
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen (for more open areas)
- Snacks or a picnic lunch
- A small day pack to keep hands free on the trails
Guided Walks
Park rangers offer guided walks of around two hours (approximately FJ$30)
A guided walk is a great way to learn more about the plants, birds and history of Colo-I-Suva and the Suva region
A Must-Do Nature Experience in Suva Fiji
If you’re looking to escape the busy streets of Suva Fiji and step into a cool, green rainforest, Colo-I-Suva Forest Park is the perfect choice. With its natural pools, shady walking trails and rich birdlife, it offers a true Fijian nature experience just minutes from the city.
Whether you come for a swim, a walk, a picnic or a bit of quiet time in the forest, Colo-I-Suva Forest Park will show you a side of Suva Fiji that many visitors never see.
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Email: booking@valentinetoursfiji.com
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