Receive a formal sevusevu welcome into a traditional Yasawan village, participate in a kava ceremony with the village chief, and share in meke dance and a lovo feast prepared in an earth oven. The deepest, most genuine cultural encounter the islands offer.
What to expect
Dressed modestly per Fijian custom, you are formally welcomed at the village entrance with song before being introduced to the chief for the sevusevu — the traditional gift-giving and kava-sharing ritual that opens all formal visits. You sit cross-legged on woven mats as the bilo (kava cup) is passed, and village women demonstrate traditional weaving and tapa cloth making. A communal lovo feast follows, with whole fish, root vegetables, and tropical fruit slow-cooked in the ground overnight. Meke dancers perform ancient stories of the island's history as the feast concludes.
Good to know
Dress respectfully — cover shoulders and knees; bring a small sevusevu gift (a bundle of kava root, sourced locally, is customary). Remove sunglasses and hats upon entering the village. Photography is warmly welcomed but always ask permission first. Book well ahead; village visit slots on the Yasawa Explorer are limited.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Yasawa — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.