Situated just a 20-minute drive from Suva’s central business district, the lush Colo-i-Suva Forest Park and Reserve is a popular retreat for both locals and visitors seeking a break from city life. The serene environment attracts a significant number of guests during school and public holidays.
Recently, a team from The Sunday Times visited the park, experiencing a transformation as they entered the peaceful oasis of towering mahogany trees and the sounds of exotic birds. Established in 1952 and located at an elevation of 56 meters near the village of Colo-i-Suva, the park is easily accessible by various modes of transport.
Managed by the Ministry of Forestry, visitors can take a bus from the Suva bus station for under $2, which takes around 30 minutes, or opt for a taxi that typically costs up to $15. For those driving, the main entrance is located opposite the Ministry of Forestry station and the Colo-i-Suva Rainforest Eco Lodge.
Covering 4.97 square kilometers, the park serves as a sanctuary for numerous plant and animal species unique to Fiji. Historical records indicate that African Mahogany trees were planted during the 1940s and ’50s following extensive logging, aimed at stabilizing the soil while preserving native vegetation. The Ministry of Forestry outlines that the diverse plant life within the park plays a crucial role in air and water purification, soil erosion prevention, and mitigating climate change.
The Commonwealth Forestry Association reports that 45% of Fiji’s endemic plants thrive in Colo-i-Suva. The park is home to a variety of stunning flora, including bamboo orchids and white ginger, and features ferns unique to the region. Among the 57 land bird species in Fiji, 30 can be observed in this area, with the Barking Imperial Pigeon, known locally as the Soqe, being a notable presence.
The park is also rich in insect and reptilian life, with over 20 butterfly species contributing to the local pollination. Reptiles like the Pacific Flying Fox are commonly found in this vibrant ecosystem, along with sounds from the Small Indian Mongoose.
Offering several picturesque hiking trails, rock pools, and waterfalls, Colo-i-Suva is ideal for picnics and relaxation. Temperatures in the reserve can drop to between 15 to 20 degrees Celsius, and rainfall is frequent, making it a cooler option compared to other areas in Suva.
Waisiliva Creek is a significant waterway creating numerous swimming holes and is home to the well-known Waisila Falls, famous for its rope swing and suitable swimming areas. The park features two car parks, directing visitors to either the upper or lower pools.
Forest reserves like Colo-i-Suva are integral to maintaining a healthy ecosystem, providing essential resources and stability for the climate and biodiversity. The international significance of this natural oasis was recognized when it was included under the Queen’s Commonwealth Canopy by the late Queen Elizabeth II during a Commonwealth meeting in Malta in 2015.
In late October 2018, Prince Harry planted a Fijian Kauri tree during a visit with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, a gesture that the Ministry of Forestry continues to uphold.
Visitors to the Colo-i-Suva Forest Park are encouraged to take time not only for hiking and swimming but also to observe the diverse plants, birds, and insects that populate the area, ensuring an ever-engaging experience.