Bouma National Heritage Park | Taveuni

Bouma National Heritage Park is a protected area covering approximately 15,000 hectares on the island of Taveuni. It was established in 1990 to preserve the island's rainforest and provide sustainable income for local villages.

Visual Characteristics

The park is dominated by dense, primary rainforest, dramatic volcanic ridges, and steep coastal cliffs. It features high-volume waterfalls, crystalline river pools, and expansive views of the Koro Sea. Vegetation includes prehistoric tree ferns, endemic orchids, and massive hardwood trees draped in epiphytes.

Location & Access Logistics

The park occupies the northeastern portion of Taveuni.

Access: Entry is via the Visitor Center at Bouma Village. An admission fee is required, which supports the four participating land-owning villages.

Transit: Accessible from Matei Airport (approx. 15km) via the coastal road. Public buses and taxis from Matei or Somosomo provide transport.

Navigation: The park is divided into four main areas: Tavoro Waterfalls, Vidawa Forest, Lavena Coastal Walk, and Waitabu Marine Park.

Key Highlights & Activities

Tavoro Waterfalls: A series of three distinct falls. The first is a 24m drop with a large swimming pool accessible via a flat 10-minute walk. The second and third falls require steeper uphill trekking.

Lavena Coastal Walk: A 10km return trail following the coastline to Wainibau Falls. It traverses white and black sand beaches and traditional villages.

Vidawa Forest Walk: A guided trek into the interior, focused on birdwatching (including the Silk-tail and Orange Dove) and historical fortified village sites.

Waitabu Marine Park: A tabu (protected) reef area designated for snorkeling.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Visitor Center: Located at the park entrance; provides briefings, maps, and restrooms.

Trails: Well-maintained paths with signage, though higher-elevation trails are rugged and require sturdy footwear.

Guides: Local guides are available and mandatory for the Vidawa Forest Walk.

Connectivity: Cellular signal is limited or non-existent in the deep interior and at the higher falls.

Nearby Landmarks

Matei Airport: 15km West

Lavena Village: 8km South (Coastal Walk terminus)

Somosomo Village: 25km West

Wainibau Falls: 13km East (via Lavena Walk)