Sawa-i-Lau Caves
Nabukeru, Yasawa Islands
The beauty of the Sawa-i-Lau Caves feels otherworldly, and for good reason. Said to be the home of the Fijian god Ulutini, the spot gives you the chance to swim in the shimmering, cool water of the limestone caves. Natural light filters into the main cave and showcases the limestone formations—you’re sure to see why these caves are known to Fijians as “the heart of Yasawa”.
The basics
The Sawa-i-Lau Caves are rich in cultural significance, and the site of many local legends—keep your eyes out for fish and eels as you snorkel, as the caves are said to be home to the immortal Dema Leka, Demu Balavu, and Donu (two fish and an eel).
One cave can only be reached through a short underwater tunnel and is called Qara ni Bukete—the pregnancy cave. According to locals, no pregnant person (no matter how small their stomach) will be able to enter the cave and will instead become stuck in the entrance. Most multi-day tours of the volcanic Yasawa islands cover this sacred spot.
Things to know before you go
- You can only enter the caves by swimming—while there are one or two rocks to hold onto within the caves, there is no dry land, so it's only recommended for strong swimmers.
- Be respectful within the caves, as they are believed to be the home of the ancient god, Ulutini.
- If you have a waterproof camera, this is the perfect spot to bring it along.
How to get there
The caves are only accessible on a guided tour, but there are several options available. Most of the resorts on the neighboring islands offer day trips to the caves, with transportation via small boat. If you’re on a cruise, check with your provider to see if they offer packages that include the caves
When to get there
The caves are a popular destination and entrance is controlled so the caves don’t become too busy. If possible, opt for an early morning tour to beat the rush. If you’re adventurous enough to explore the hidden caves, check with your tour to see if it will align with the low tide needed to swim to the other caves.
The Yasawa group in a day
If you’re short on time in Fiji, the Sawa-i-lau caves are accessible from the main island of Viti Levu. Opt for the speed of a seaplane and soar over the volcanic archipelago of the Yasawa Group. After marveling at the beauty of the caves, you can opt to explore a local village, visit an art market, or enjoy lunch at one of the resorts in the region, before heading back to the main island.
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