Rivers Fiji: Whitewater Rafting the Upper Navua River for a Wild Side of Fiji

In this episode, we talk about Rivers Fiji and their whitewater rafting adventures on the Upper Navua River—an unforgettable way to experience Fiji beyond the beaches, deep in rainforest canyons where very few travelers go. If you’re planning a trip to Fiji and want help building an itinerary that blends relaxation with a true “wild Fiji” day, start at Far and Away Adventures.com and connect with our team at https://farandawayadventures.com. Normand Schafer interviews Casemiro, director at Rivers Fiji, about what the company specializes in and what guests should expect from a river expedition that’s designed around nature immersion as much as adrenaline. Casemiro explains that Rivers Fiji is focused on whitewater rafting and describes the experience as unique within Fiji. He also emphasizes that the trip can suit a surprisingly wide range of travelers—sharing that they have taken an 80-year-old guest down the river—which reinforces the idea that this can be a bucket-list adventure without requiring elite fitness. Normand and Casemiro discuss why the Upper Navua River is so distinctive compared to the Fiji most visitors imagine. Casemiro contrasts the upper river’s landscapes with typical coastal imagery, pointing out that beach photos can look similar around the world, but the Upper Navua corridor feels unmistakably Fiji once you’re there. He describes the setting as remote and isolated in the highlands, with dramatic canyon walls and rainforest scenery, and says the fact that no one lives along that upper corridor can make it feel like stepping back in time—especially in misty conditions that create a cinematic, ancient-world mood. The conversation also clarifies how Rivers Fiji structures its experiences across different river sections. Casemiro notes that kayaking is offered on a different (lower/middle) section, while the upper section is approached with rafting, and he describes the rapids discussed on the upper river as Class II and III. He presents that as an ideal range for beginners: exciting enough to feel real, but still approachable with the right guidance. He also notes that safety gear like life jackets is part of the experience and frames the day as accessible even for guests who are not confident swimmers. Another theme is what truly brings the landscape to life: the guides. Casemiro says the guides add depth to everything you see, sharing knowledge about rock formations, birds and animals, and stories tied to how their forefathers grew up in these places. That local perspective transforms the day from a “thrill activity” into a lived, meaningful encounter with Fiji’s interior. Normand asks what guests say after their first trip, and Casemiro describes the experience as consistently called unforgettable, with many visitors returning or sending friends and relatives because they don’t want anyone to miss it. The episode includes practical preparation tips as well. Casemiro asks guests to bring sunscreen—preferably biodegradable if you want to be environmentally friendly—plus sandals with secure straps so footwear won’t be lost, and a change of dry clothes for after the river. He adds that Rivers Fiji provides towels and covers the rest of the essentials, and suggests leaving dry items in the bus until the end. Finally, Casemiro shares the deeper purpose he hopes guests take home: a stronger respect for nature and a desire to protect the environment, not only in Fiji but wherever they live. If you’re ready to add a truly different Fiji day to your trip—something remote, scenic, and story-worthy—Far and Away Adventures can help you place it in the right spot of your itinerary and keep the whole trip flowing smoothly.