Lake Tagimaucia | Taveuni

Information

Landmark: Lake Tagimaucia
City: Taveuni
Country: Fiji
Continent: Australia

Lake Tagimaucia, Taveuni, Fiji, Australia

Lake Tagimaucia is a high-altitude volcanic crater lake located in the central highlands of Taveuni. Situated at an elevation of approximately 820m (2,700ft), it is one of Fiji’s most significant ecological and cultural landmarks.

Visual Characteristics

The lake occupies a dormant volcanic caldera and is characterized by its dark, still waters and surrounding montane cloud forest. Much of the lake's surface is covered by floating vegetation and peat bogs. The area is perpetually shrouded in mist and cloud cover, creating a cool, damp microclimate.

The Tagimaucia Flower

The lake is the primary habitat for the rare and endemic Tagimaucia flower (Medinilla waterhousei).

Appearance: The flower features clusters of bright red bracts surrounding small white blossoms.

Blooming Season: Typically occurs from October to December.

Cultural Significance: The flower is a national symbol of Fiji and is the subject of local legends involving the tears of a runaway princess. It is unable to be successfully transplanted elsewhere.

Location & Access Logistics

The lake is situated within the Taveuni Forest Reserve in the island's interior.

Access: Access is highly difficult and requires a strenuous, full-day guided trek.

Transit: The trail typically begins from the western side of the island, near the town of Somosomo or from the Des Voeux Peak road.

Requirements: A 4WD vehicle is required to reach the trailhead at Des Voeux Peak. From there, a steep and often muddy hike of 1–2 hours is necessary to reach the lake's rim.

Guides: Local guides are mandatory due to the unmarked and hazardous nature of the terrain.

Infrastructure & Amenities

There is zero infrastructure at the lake.

Facilities: None. Visitors must carry all water, food, and safety equipment.

Environment: The terrain is exceptionally wet and slippery. Leeches are common in the surrounding forest.

Connectivity: No cellular signal or GPS reliability in the crater.

Ecological Significance

The lake and its surrounding forest are part of a protected reserve. It is a critical catchment area for the island's water supply and provides a habitat for endemic bird species, including the Orange Dove and the Fiji Goshawk.