Traffic Rules and Driving in Fiji
Fiji follows left-hand traffic. This is the key thing to get used to before you drive. Most vehicles have the steering wheel on the right. Road signs comply with international standards and are usually written in English, so navigation is generally straightforward.
Speed limits:
- 50 km/h in built-up areas
- 80 km/h on rural roads
- Up to 100 km/h on main highways
Limits may vary on different stretches, so always check the posted signs. For example, a 40 km/h limit is commonly in effect near schools.
Roads between major towns are generally in good condition, but outside urban areas they tend to be narrower and may lack lane markings. Uneven surfaces are common, so reduce your speed in advance and adjust to road conditions. Grip deteriorates in rainy weather, especially on secondary roads.
The driving style in Fiji is mostly relaxed, particularly outside the main towns. Drivers tend to observe speed limits and avoid aggressive manoeuvres. Traffic becomes busier on the main routes and near the capital, Suva, where lane changes and slowdowns caused by turns and side-road exits are more frequent — so keep a safe following distance.
Petrol Stations in Fiji
On the larger islands, petrol stations are located in towns and along the main roads. In smaller or remote areas they may be few and far between, so avoid driving on a near-empty tank, especially if you plan to venture outside urban centres.
Most stations in Fiji offer full service — an attendant fills your tank for you. Simply tell them how much fuel you need and wait for the process to finish. Payment is usually made at the cashier inside the station.
Petrol stations typically stay open until late evening, and many operate 24 hours.
Parking in Fiji
Parking in Fiji is mostly free. In smaller towns and away from the centres of tourist areas you can usually park along the road as long as there are no restriction signs.
Dedicated paid parking zones, similar to those in large cities, are rare in Fiji. They can be found in bigger towns such as Suva, Nadi, Ba and a few others. These zones use a Pay and Display system:
- Payment is usually made at a parking meter, most often with coins.
- After paying, place the parking ticket on the dashboard under the windscreen so it is visible from outside.
- Parking applies during the hours displayed on the signage next to the parking area.
- In many areas, paid parking operates Monday to Saturday during the day. In the evenings and on Sundays, parking is usually free unless the sign states otherwise.
As with any country, always check the road signs and markings. Do not leave your car where stopping is prohibited or where it could obstruct traffic. Finding a parking spot in most parts of Fiji is generally easy, especially outside the larger towns.
How to Find and Book a Rental Car in Fiji
Renting a car in Fiji is easy to do online. Here is how:
- Choose your location and dates. Enter the pick-up and return dates to see available vehicles.
- Use the filters. Narrow down the results by body type, transmission, deposit amount and other criteria.
- Open the vehicle page. Review the terms, driver requirements and included options. Add any extras you need, such as a child seat, additional equipment, extended insurance or other services.
- Select the exact pick-up location and time.
- Enter driver details and complete the booking by making a prepayment with a bank card.
Once confirmed, you will receive a voucher by email. At the pick-up point, inspect the car and sign the rental agreement.