On Safari - Oct/Nov 2019

20 17

2019

20 18

IT’S A 3-PEAT FOR SIGATOKA RIVER SAFARI Sigatoka River Safari is thrilled to announce they have secured a historic three-peat by being announced as ‘Oceania’s Leading Adventure Tour Operator’ at the 26th Annual World Travel Awards staged over the weekend.

The finest travel brands in Asia and Oceania were unveiled at a star-studded gala ceremony in Vietnam, at the VinPearl Resort on the pristine island of Phu Quoc.

Josh Ratukuna, Jetboat Captain was on hand in Vietnam to receive the accolade on behalf of his colleagues and on behalf of the entire Sigatoka River Safari family that includes the 17 villages we work with on a daily basis.

When asked for his thoughts following receiving the World Travel Award as Oceania’s Leading Adventure Tour Operator, Josh Ratukuna stated “I joined the Safari in 2006 as the first jetboat captain and I have witnessed the growth and year to year success of Sigatoka River Safari. Tonight’s recognition only further enhances our reputation as being a truly world class operation in Fiji and I humbly receive this on behalf of my team mates, our 17 villages and the wider Fijian tourism industry which does an amazing job in sharing our love for Fiji with the world”.

20 17

2019

20 18

Sigatoka River Safari founder and Managing Director echoed Josh’s sentiments when he was asked for his thoughts on such an achievement he stated “We aim each and every day to share our love for Fiji and in particular our special part known as Navosa with the world. To receive this accolade for the third year means a great deal to the entire SRS team and we warmly receive it and thank the WTA for recognising the tremendous quality of Fijian tourism and our special operation. We believe this further solidifies our reputation as being the Must Do Fiji experience”.

LUX 2019 HOTEL AND SPA AWARDS Sigatoka River Safari is the world’s first village experience which has officially been recognised by the Lux Hotel & Spa Awards for BEST RIVER SAFARI HOLIDAY EXPERIENCE MELANESIA for 2019.

The team at Sigatoka River Safari see this as a further endorsement and industry recognition for the high quality and professional service that they offer the guests to Fiji each and every day. The team also see their efforts to help raise the profile of the adventures that are available to all who choose to visit Fiji.

Introducing the New Additions Sigatoka River Safari’s fleet has now doubled with the addition of the two new 19 seater vessels. We are able to easily cater for the large groups here in Fiji for conference and Incentive purposes and of course the FIT market is covered. Working with 17 villages, we can now cater and adjust according to any groups needs, anytime.

NUKUVURA Named after the Yavusa from Draiba Koro where the Safari legend began in 1991.

 � � � � � � � �  � �

NASAUNIVALU Named after the Yavusa from Keiyasi Koro, linking the villagers of the upper Sigatoka River to those in the lower region, home to the chiefly house Lodoni.

 � � � � � � � �  � �

20 17

2019

20 18

Discovering the beauty of Fiji’s interior is something we pride ourselves on. The Heart & Soul of Fiji is what our Managing Director Jay Whyte fell in love when he was 13yrs old and being able to share this region with others means a lot to the whole SRS team.

A true Fijian adventure, that includes immersion into the rich history and culture of the region, combined with the opportunity to journey back in time to the tribal war days is what your safari experience is all about.

We have had numerous guests who have varying degrees of mobility limitations, however here Sigatoka River Safari we have a simple policy of inclusion as opposed to exclusion. We believe that there are “No Limitations” and often tell our friends, “If you want to go, we will get you there”. This has seen the boat captains use their hands to chair lift guests in, other guests visit aboard the qasita and others in whatever mode of transport works, see the wheelbarrow service in Vunaqoru. You can rest assured that no matter what your situation, we do not see limitations, only opportunities to share a special part of Fiji with our friends.

Any and all queries can be made with our bookings co-ordinator or Sales team at any time.

20 17

2019

20 18

ROSIE DMC Site inspection with Sigatoka River Safari On Sigatoka River Safari we promised to deliver your “Simply Unforgettable” experience. On the 15th of October we welcomed Rosie DMC Director of Conference & Incentive Chris Green and his team for a site inspection visit to the picturesque village of RARABAHAGA located in the lush green rolling hills of the Navosa Province. A familiar face on safari Chris Green had more to say about his entire experience like this was his first time on tour.

“I would have done Sigatoka River Safari perhaps 10-15 times in the past 10 years, so for me it is a known experience but none the less, one I look forward to, it makes me appreciate what a fantastic industry I work in and what a spectacularly beautiful country we live in. The ultimate for me is when we get back to the river base with everyone buzzing about the village visit, how humbled it made them feel and how envious of such a simplistic and happy lifestyle, and when I hear expressions like ‘It was life changing’’ make me so happy because that’s what we are all about, these emotional connections that visitors have with the Fijian people, is transformational and can be life changing in many ways. its these experiences that really set us apart as a destination. Vinaka SRS you never miss a beat and never fail to impress.”

20 17

2019

20 18

2019 DREAMTRIP Since 2017, the Sigatoka River Safari Team had been accommodating the APTC Group known as the Dreamtrip in delivering quality, authentic Fijian experiences to their guests. This group series is made up of guests from all walks of life, different cultures and languages. On Safari there are no limitations and no language barriers that will prevent you from having a “Simply Unforgettable” experience.

Henry Lomanivere who we formally anointed as a Safari ambassador has a lot to say about their experience on Sigatoka River Safari.

“We are known as 'Dreamtrippers' - travellers who travels the world for ' Dream' experiences. World Venture is our Travel Club joined by millions of natives from other parts of the world, speaking more than 50 languages. The Club has been operating more than 20 years. What we look for are trips with authentic experience, interacting with the native people of the land through mutual cultures and lifestyles. The vision of our Club is - Fun, Freedom and Fulfillment.

Dreamtrippers have been travelling to Fiji for the past 2 years and each Half Day Safari trip has always been above our expectations - from the moment we arrive to the village, taste the local kava drink, interacting with the native people, eating lovo and till the moment we shake our hips on the dance floor to join the locals in dancing - it's amazing! . Not forgetting the crazy fun safari jet boat transportation along Sigatoka river, the 360 spin tops the boat ride! We were occupied every moment with a new activity and it felt like a full day tour - well worth it!

What kept us amazed the whole time was the 'Bula' smile and endless greetings and hugs with open arms from the elderly to the young ones - priceless moments! We may speak different language or lived in the busiest cities, the Safari experience definitely reminded us to appreciate what life has to offer regardless where we lived - only then, happiness will finds its way to you! Thank you so much Sigatoka River Safari for an 'unforgettable experience! #YOUSHOULDBEHERE#

20 17

2019

20 18

LLC GROUP (USA) ON OFF ROAD CAVE SAFARI The Off Road Cave safari team welcomes travellers from all over the world all year round. This year we once again welcomed Kenna Williams and her group on the Road Less Travelled. Taking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, here is what Kenna wish to share about her experience in the Heart & Soul of Fiji.

“I first came to Fiji in 2017 and totally fell in love with the people and culture of this country. I am the president and founder of Kenna L. Williams, LLC and decided to bring a group of people to Fiji to experience the same warmth and love I feel when I am there. In 2018, I brought a group of 25 people there and we had the time of our lives at the offroad cave experience. I decided to bring another group in 2019 earlier this month many of them went into a cave for the first time in their lives. Many had never had the experience of trying cava or even receiving the chief's blessing to enter the cave. This experience has been one for the books and I will be bringing additional groups back to Fiji in 2019 and beyond so they can see the beauty of this wonderful place.

20 17

2019

20 18

GUESTS QUESTIONAIRES Guests Name: Lawson Family Country of Origin: Australia Members of the Family: Michael, Daria, Bethany, Peter, Andrew & Sofia.

Resort: Mokusiga Villa, Maui Bay. Date of Experience: 23rd OCTOBER 2019/ AM SESSION. Email address: daria.romanovskaya@yahoo.com

How did you hear about OFF ROAD CAVE SAFARI? We first heard of Off Road Cave Safari five years ago during our holiday in Fiji. We were staying at the Outrigger Resort back then and have enquired at the Tour desk whereby the consultants recommended us on the tour. We had done the tour with our 2 children and as the years go by, our family grew and now we have 5 children altogether therefore our family of seven decided go ahead and do the tour again as we couldn’t get over our previous experience.

Describe in a few words your entire experience on Off Road Cave Safari?

There are so many words to use to describe our entire experience. The tour was EXHILARATING, EXCITING, LOTS OF FUN, INFORMATIVE AND THE TEAM HAD A GREAT SENSE OF HUMOR. Would you recommend Off Road Cave Safari after your experience today?

ABSOULUTELY, this one of the best activity to do whilst in Fiji for Holidays and I’m glad that my family get to experience it for the second time. Highly recommend to Family Groups.

How would you rate the Off Road Cave Safari Team on a given scale from 1 to 10?

I would give a 10 out of 10 and a 5 star to the team for the job well done. The team was amazing; they were professional and had great sense of humour which we love. We got soaked on the way back but that didn’t hinder our experience as we loved it especially my children and the team made it more enjoyable!!

20 17

2019

20 18

On Off Road Cave Safari Fiji Airways General Manager Online Packaging, Nigel Stocker and his beautiful wife Claudia took the Road Less Travelled into the Heart & Soul of Fiji. Their adventure was brought to life by the amazing Off Road Cave Safari team who took them on a journey of discovery into the beautiful Naihehe Cave System. Armed with great memories of the tour, Ratu Nigel as the team called him wish to share his experience about Fiji’s Original Off Road adventure.

“Wonderful tour with fantastic guides Emily and Moses, a real insight into the traditional way of life in Fiji Scenic drive through the hills and spectacular views of the Salad Bowl of Fiji. Arriving in the village, we had a delightful welcoming ceremony and the best bilo (or two!) of Kava I have tasted in Fiji, and then ventured into the pristine cave system.

Stalactites, stalagmite’s, hidden chambers, exciting access, mysterious shapes, enthralling history – these caves are a must to visit. A lovely lunch in a beautiful rural setting topped off the excursion. A real pro tour.”.miss a beat and never fail to impress.”

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT TIA AND ACE HEAD OFF ROAD TO THE RIVERS OF NEW ZEALAND Sigatoka River Safari has since its inception in 2006, been an equal opportunity employer and this extends to all facets of the business. SRS aims to provide educational equality and extensive training to the highest standard on professional grounds for all the team members. Over the years, the company has sent their numerous team members to undergo jet boat training with the only duly qualified MSAF instructor, Mr Neil Ross. Neil is a pioneer of jet boating in New Zealand.

Having seen the likes of Josh Ratukuna, Lepani Sulua, Jordana Whippy, Freddy Mudunavere, Josephine Traill and Inoke Qorovarua complete their intensive driver training in New Zealand, SRS recently sent two of our very popular guides from the Off Road Cave Safari team, ACE & TIA over to the South Island of New Zealand for 1 month to undertake this intensive jetboat driving course.

Tia and Ace enthusiastically took up the opportunity with confidence and passion. Tia & Ace joined the company in 2014, Ace as an ATV driver and Tia as a tour guide, this opportunity extended to them was the highlight of their years in Safari.

Braving the cold in the land of the long white cloud, Tia and Ace were tested in unfamiliar river systems and bravely fought the New Zealand chill to proudly return to Fiji to continue their training regime.

We are proud to advise that they have since been licenced as jetboat captains and next time you are on the river, keep an eye out for Tia and Ace!!

20 17

2019

20 18

MEET Captain Leps!!

Lepani Sulua, famously known within our safari family as Captain Leps began his career with Sigatoka River Safari 12 years ago. Starting out in the Workshop this shy, introverted young man worked hard and always did his job to a very high standard. His capabilities showing through very quickly and we could see that Lepani Sulua was a natural behind the wheel of anything with a motor. In the 12yrs as a key member of the Safari team, Leps has become a dearly loved and highly respected team player, loved by the thousands who have driven with him onboard the Safari jet boats or Off Road Cave Safari vehicles.

GET TO KNOW CAPTAIN LEPS NICKNAME: CAPTAIN Leps OCCUPATION: Jet Boat Captain SINCE: 2007 VILLAGE OF ORIGIN: Nalalawa, Rakiraki, Ra SPORTING HERO: Rupeni Caucau HIDDEN TALENT: Cooking GO TO KAROKE SONGS: Rosi ni Yasawa PHILOSPHY TOWARDS WORK: "Is to treat others with respect at all times. It’s pretty simple!”

Jetboating + culture = winning combination!

We took our two daughters (aged 7 and 9) on this trip, and they loved it, as did we! The bus trip to tvhe boat jetty was entertaining and informative, and the process to get kitted out was smooth and well-run. Our jet boat was driven by Captain Leps, who is funny, knowledgeable and drives really fast (according to my 7 year old). He also has the most beautiful smile, but that's an added bonus! The look at my kids' faces when the boat was fired up was fabulous, and the smiles didn't leave any of our faces for the duration of the safari. We were made to feel very welcome in the village we visited, and it was certainly enlightening to see traditional village life. The 360 degree spins on the way back cooled us down and got the adrenaline going nicely. We came away from the trip with a greater understanding of Fijian history and traditions, with a serving of fun thrown in as well. It's also nice to see a company working with the locals to provide them with employment and development opportunities.

Reviewed by KAT H, Melbourne Australia

MEET Saddam Iliesa Vasuira also known as Saddam recently joined the Off Road Cave Safari team early this year has made an instant impact. Born during the time of the first Gulf War was given the name Saddam due to the Iraqi leader who was in the news at the time. We are not saying our Saddam is a dictator but he is certainly a great tour leader. Saddam is well known for his natural “Star of the Show Quality” and Great Sense of Humour.

GET TO KNOW SADDAM NICKNAME: Saddam OCCUPATION: Off Road Cave Safari Tour Guide SINCE: April 2019 VILLAGE OF ORIGIN: Mavua Village, Nadroga Navosa SPORTING HERO: Israel Folau HIDDEN TALENT: Playing Netball & Cooking GO TO KAROKE SONGS: Yamacia na jimi vina PHILOSPHY TOWARDS WORK: "Is to do my best every single day”

Off Road Cave Tour A wet start to the day but with Saddam and Moses as our tour guides we managed to chase the rain away and had a fantastic boat ride across the river to our 4WD. The drive through the villages was accompanied by very informative commentary not only about the villages and their life style but also about the surrounding plants, crops and trees. The kava ceremony with the Chief was very interesting as was the Cave visit. Food that followed was excellent. It was great to have the input from the locals - became a much more personal tour. 5 stars for Saddam and Moses.

Reviewed by v641marianm, Sorentto Australia Date of Experience: 2019

TripAdvisor Review Must Do experience

This experience is amazing for many reasons. It’s background as to how it came about, the true experience of meeting the chief and his villagers, a taste of kava and a traditional lunch. Oh, and the muscle boats that round of a brilliant day. And yes, if you get Fabulous Fred, you will be entertained. Finally a percentage of your ticket goes back to the villagers which is excellent. When going to FIJI put in your suitcase some pens pencils etc. you have around the home.

They will greatly say Vinaka. Fijians deserve more reward for the eort and promotion of THEIR beautiful islands. Go and enjoy.

Date of experience: October 2019

Best day out...

When you need a trip away from the resort this is the best. The cultural visit to a village was authentic, warm and educational. The Fijian's, as always, were wonderful and the kava ceremony was enthralling. The key boat ride was exhilarating and Capt. Fini, a local female jet boat driver, was funny and skillful. Her spins were top class...Highly recommended.

Date of experience: October 2019

The best day out of our trip!!

Captain Jack was awesome! Showed us the best time. The village we visited put on a great day and made us feel super welcome. Recommend to all to go on this great experience Date of experience: October 2019

Heck yesssss!

Fabulous Freddy is AWESOME! We had an awesome jet boat experience and wonderful time at the village. Great to meet with locals and learn about their culture more in depth. We were referred to this excursion by a friend who went on it last year. So happy we did it! Worth every penny!! Vinaka Freddy!!

Date of experience: October 2019

River Safari

Great day out - interesting to drive up into the mountains and then hop onto the jet boat. Tour guide very informative and friendly and it was great visiting a local village and seeing how they live and their friendliness was great.

Recommend.

Date of Experience: 2019

TripAdvisor Review Great Trip

This experience is amazing for many reasons. It’s background as to how it came about, the true experience of meeting the chief and his villagers, a taste of kava and a traditional lunch. Oh, and the muscle boats that round of a brilliant day. And yes, if you get Fabulous Fred, you will be entertained. Finally a percentage of your ticket goes back to the villagers which is excellent. When going to FIJI put in your suitcase some pens pencils etc. you have around the home.

They will greatly say Vinaka. Fijians deserve more reward for the eort and promotion of THEIR beautiful islands.

Go and enjoy.

Date of experience: October 2019

Cave Tour

We loved this tour. From the minute we got on the bus the sta were fantastic. The ATV ride to the village was great with lots of information about the villages and Fijian life. Tia and Ace were awesome tour guides. Mela took us inside the cave. I was worried about my 7 year old but she loved it as did my 9 year old. We learnt about the use of the cave.

I loved that the cave was so natural untouched. Lunch was a great bbq, fruit, drinks and chips. A fantastic tour I would recommend to anyone! Vinaka!!!

Date of experience: October 2019

Amazing experience

We are a family of 4 with kids aged 4 & 6, staying at Denarau Island. This tour had absolutely everything if you want to experience ‘real’ Fiji. Our tour guide Saddam and driver Moses could not have made us feel more like part of their family if they tried. The hour and a half bus ride from Denarau took us through Nadi town and smaller farming towns, before arriving at the start of the o road tour. The tour allows you to get up close with families who live o the land along the Sigatoka River.

The scenery and experience is unbelievable. The cave tour is breathtaking and we had more access to the cave than what we thought! The ceremony to gain permission to enter the cave was great and involved drinking kava. Both our kids had an absolute ball and will talk about it for years to come. Bus driver Joe, thank you for getting us home safely.

A big, warm thank you from Australia to Saddam, Moses and Joe. We will see you guys again.

Date of experience: October 2019

Must do.

Our tour guides Tia and Nox were friendly and helpful. They looked after us very well and particularly looked after our son who has a disability. The cave was interesting and a little challenging - Tia helped my son to get through the diďŹƒcult bit. If going take reef walking shoes. The kava ceremony was interesting and enjoyable. BBQ lunch was nice in a lovely setting.

Date of experience: October 2019

Great tour with great guides!

Tour was brilliant. Me and my wife enjoyed it thoroughly. The guides added a personal touch by telling stories of their own villages and happily answered all the questions. Friendly and attentive to all our requests and was organised professionally. Would highly recommend this tour to all.

Date of experience: October 2019