Traveling beyond the rugby-enthusiastic town of Sigatoka leads you to a captivating journey into Fiji’s agricultural heart, often referred to as the Salad Bowl. As you traverse the winding road alongside the Sigatoka River, the landscape transitions from lush greenery to semi-arid terrains that grace the majestic foothills of imposing mountains.
This region offers a feast for the senses. The breathtaking vistas of the valley floor and the sparkling Sigatoka River create a backdrop of both solitude and exhilarating beauty. The rich biodiversity along the route can evoke feelings of both quiet reflection and profound joy.
Nestled deep within this vibrant part of Viti Levu is a site of historical significance: the Tatuba Cave, located in Namataku within the Nadroga/Navosa province. Although lesser-known compared to prominent caves like Naihehe, Wailotua, and Sawa-i-Lau, Tatuba holds its own intriguing history. Onisimo Naioko, an elder from Sawene Village, recounts how the cave served as a refuge for his ancestors during turbulent times of tribal warfare and colonial strife.
During a visit by a team from The Sunday Times and local guides in mid-October, the cave revealed its unique character. With two main entrances, it conveys an air of majesty and mystique. According to geological experts, the formation of the caves is attributed to the continuous erosion of limestone by flowing water, crafting an extensive network that spans approximately 420 meters, with ceilings reaching heights of 25 meters.
Inside the cave, there exists a notable area known as Dre na bukete, or “the passage where pregnant women get stuck.” This passageway requires visitors to crawl, surrounded by narrow stone walls. Naioko shared that this challenging terrain was strategically beneficial, helping ancestors launch surprise attacks while remaining sheltered inside.
The entrance features a cliff made of layered stones, a testament to ancient geological processes. The cave’s ecosystem is also fascinating; it hosts bats and swiftlets, whose guano serves as a natural fertilizer for local farmers, highlighting the cave’s continuous contribution to the local community.
Photographer Sophie Ralulu described the interior as otherworldly and daunting, experiencing a fear akin to being “in the belly of a beast.” The cave’s religious significance is underscored by areas where ancestors would connect with their deities, seeking protection and blessings, particularly from a renowned warrior named Nadabe.
Ravuama Latilevu, considered the guardian of Tatuba Cave, provides permission for visits, symbolized by a rope that aids in navigating the cave’s interior. According to Julie Field, a researcher of Tatuba, the site bears witness to the tribal history that has shaped the region since the late 18th century.
Plans to develop Tatuba as a tourist attraction may soon come to fruition, opening this remarkable cave experience to a wider audience, while also acknowledging and respecting the site’s profound cultural heritage.
In summary, Tatuba Cave is not just a natural wonder; it symbolizes resilience and historical depth. As efforts to promote tourism grow, it offers a unique opportunity for visitors to connect with Fiji’s rich history and vibrant culture, paving the way for future exploration and appreciation of this captivating destination.
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