Skip to content
Some scams

Melanesia

Tourist scams in Fiji

Tourist scams in Fiji include overpriced souvenirs, pushy sellers, misleading free offers and taxi fares that cost more than a metered ride. Pickpocketing and petty theft also occur, while more serious robbery is a concern after dark, especially in Suva and the outer suburbs of Suva and Nadi.
  1. 1 TheftCommonPetty theft and pickpocketingThieves take money or belongings. Pickpockets are reported in both Suva and Nadi, but no specific distraction method is described.Suva, Nadi 2Read
  2. 2 TheftCommonGroup muggingRobbers confront a traveller and take their belongings. Muggings are often carried out by large groups, so travelling with other people does not guarantee protection.Suva, Nadi 1Read
  3. 3 ShoppingCommonPersonal questions leading to overpriced souvenirsSomeone asks your name and country, then tries to lead you to a shop. They offer souvenirs at heavily inflated prices and may say they made the goods themselves.Suva 2Read
  4. 4 ShoppingOccasionalPushy market sellingSome sellers pester visitors to make a purchase. Shopping in local markets can require firm refusals and bargaining.Nadi 3Read
  5. 5 TaxisOccasionalHigher taxi fares without the meterA negotiated taxi fare can cost much more than a metered ride. Visitors who do not check normal prices may agree to an unnecessarily high fare.Taxis across Fiji. 2Read
  6. 6 On the streetOccasionalInvitation to an isolated placeSomeone offers to show you something, such as a ship from your country. They lead you away to isolate you and put you in a vulnerable position. Robbery may follow.Suva 1Read
  7. 7 On the streetOccasionalMisleading free offersAn offer is presented as free when it may not be. Friendly conversation can make a visitor less likely to question the offer.Suva 2Read
  8. 8 TheftOccasionalSmall belongings taken as borrowingSmall items, such as shoes, may be taken as borrowing without the visitor's agreement. Some belongings can be recovered by speaking with the village chief.Village settings are mentioned as places where a chief may help recover belongings.Read
  9. 9 TheftOccasionalHome invasion and robberyIntruders enter a residence. Reports include robbery and serious assault, including sexual violence. Security measures vary between hotels and resorts.Suva, Nadi 1Read

Where to stay alert

  • Outer suburbs of SuvaMost crime is reported away from resort areas. Suva has particular concerns about violent robbery and crime after dark.
  • Outer suburbs of NadiThese areas are identified, alongside Suva's outer suburbs, as places where most crime occurs.
  • SuvaPickpockets, souvenir touts, misleading free offers and invitations intended to isolate visitors are reported.
  • NadiScams and pickpocketing are reported. Some sellers in traditional local markets can be persistent.

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • Ask for the meter if the taxi has one.
  • For a fixed fare, agree on the full price before getting in.
  • Check typical fares with your hotel or tour guide.
  • Avoid drivers who have been drinking kava or alcohol.

Money

  • Compare souvenir prices before buying.
  • Do not buy just because someone starts a friendly conversation.
  • Check the full price before accepting goods or services.
  • Keep spare cash separate from your everyday spending money.

Your belongings

  • Keep bags closed and valuables close to your body.
  • Avoid leaving phones, wallets or small belongings unattended.
  • Carry only what you need for the day.
  • Do not follow strangers to quiet places to see an attraction.

Where you stay

  • Consider security when choosing a hotel or resort.
  • Keep room doors and windows locked.
  • Check unexpected visitors with reception.
  • Use secure storage for valuables when available.

Nights out

  • Use extreme caution in urban areas after nightfall.
  • Stay on hotel grounds after dark where practical.
  • Arrange your return transport before going out.
  • Do not assume being in a group will prevent a mugging.

What travellers say about Fiji

Discussions on other sites, summarised in our words. Open a link to read the full thread.

Questions

How worried should I be about scams in Fiji?

Watch for souvenir sales pressure, misleading free offers and expensive taxi quotes. Petty theft also occurs. Take greater care after dark, especially in Suva and the outer suburbs of Suva and Nadi.

Should I use a taxi meter or agree on a price?

Ask for the meter if one is fitted, as it can be much cheaper than a negotiated fare. If using a fixed price, check normal fares with your hotel and agree on the full amount before getting in.

Why might someone ask my name and country in Suva?

Some souvenir touts use these questions to start a conversation and lead visitors to shops selling heavily overpriced goods. You can decline the invitation and keep walking.

Is it safe to follow someone offering to show me a ship?

Decline an unsolicited invitation to see a ship from your country. This is a reported trick in Suva to isolate visitors, and robbery may follow.

Can I trust an offer described as free?

Be cautious, particularly with unsolicited offers in Suva. Ask clearly whether any payment is expected. Decline if the terms are unclear.

How should I handle persistent market sellers in Nadi?

Compare prices, bargain if you want to and give a clear refusal when finished. Walk away if you feel pressured. Shops with set prices may be easier if you dislike bargaining.

Does travelling in a group prevent muggings?

No. Muggings are often carried out by large groups. Arrange transport after dark and avoid unfamiliar urban areas on foot.

What should I check when choosing accommodation?

Look at the property's security measures, as these vary between hotels and resorts. Keep doors and windows locked and verify unexpected visitors with reception.

What if someone takes my shoes or another small item?

Ask calmly for it back. If this happens in a village, the village chief may be able to help arrange its return.

Where can I report a theft in Nadi?

There is a police station in the centre of Queens Road. Bring any useful incident details. Also contact your bank if cards were stolen and your embassy or consulate if your passport is missing.

Reviewed by