Taxis in Fiji: A Traveller’s Guide
Need to get across town? In Fiji, it’s easy and affordable to get a taxi, especially in some of the islands’ larger towns like Nadi, Suva and Lautoka. Taxi drivers are even happy to travel longer distances, making it possible to get across islands in the comfort of a private vehicle. There are some nuances, however, especially when you ask your hotel concierge to book a taxi and you get a “tours & transfers” company instead. We explain it all: the difference between “LT” and “LH” taxis, where to find them, how to use them, and more, in this complete guide to taxis in Fiji.
Table of Contents
5 Tips for Taking a Taxi in Fiji
Here are our top tips to ensure a smooth taxi ride in Fiji (and keep that holiday mood going)!
- Local taxis with meters have license plates that start in “ND” in Nadi, “LK” in Lautoka and “LT” elsewhere.
- Tour/transfer companies offering a similar service for a fixed rate have license plates that start in “LH”.
- There are no central numbers or Uber to call for a taxi in Fiji, so if you like a taxi driver’s service and want to book them again, ask for their driver’s card/number.
- “LT” taxis are only required to use meters within a 16 km (10 mi) radius of the town. However, they are usually happy to drive further afield for an agreed rate – see How to Negotiate a Taxi Price in Fiji for tips.
- You are not required to tip your taxi driver, but it’s good practice to round your fare up to the nearest dollar.
For more tips, check out the 10 Things You Need to Know About Taxis in Fiji.
© FijiPocketGuide.comThe Difference Between Metred Taxis (LT) and Hire Taxis (LH)
When it comes to getting around in Fiji, you’ll find two main types of taxi services, each with its own unique characteristics. Let’s dive into the world of Fijian taxis and explore what sets them apart!
Metred Taxis (LT)
Metred taxis, easily identifiable by their “LT” license plates (or blue plates starting with “ND” for Nadi or “LK” for Lautoka), are your go-to option for budget-friendly travel. These taxis come equipped with a metre, often sport a “Taxi” sign on top, and are generally lighter on your wallet compared to their LH counterparts.
If you’re flying into Nadi Airport, keep an eye out for the distinctive yellow taxis. These are the only ones licensed to pick up passengers from the airport. Do note that the flagfall rates for airport pick-ups are a tad higher than elsewhere in Nadi – for more details on taxi fares, check out our guide on Taxi Prices in Fiji: The Costs You Need to Know.
While metred taxis offer a more economical ride, they do come with a few trade-offs. The vehicles tend to be older, and the service quality can be a bit hit-or-miss. But if you’re looking to save a few dollars on your travels, they’re certainly worth considering!
© FijiPocketGuide.comHire Taxis/Tours & Transfers (LH)
On the other hand, we have the LH taxis, often referred to as transfer companies. These services usually have “Tours & Transfers” or something similar in their name and are easily recognised by their “LH” license plates.
While they might be a bit pricier than their LT cousins, LH taxis offer a more comprehensive service. They’re often the preferred choice for hotels and resorts when arranging transport for their guests. If you’re arriving at Nadi Airport and want a smoother experience, you can book these taxis in advance. They’ll greet you with a placard, and some companies even throw in refreshments or a welcome gift to start your Fijian adventure on a high note!
The perks of using LH taxis extend beyond just the airport pickup. By sticking with the same transfer company throughout your stay, you can simplify your travel arrangements. Most companies provide a contact number or WhatsApp, making it easy to schedule pick-ups whenever you need them. (Check out The Best SIM Card in Fiji for Travellers should you want to save money with a local SIM card to keep in touch).
While LH taxis offer more in terms of service and convenience, they do come at a higher price point. But for many travellers, the added comfort and ease are well worth the extra cost.
Whether you opt for the budget-friendly LT taxis or the service-oriented LH transfers, Fiji’s taxi services are ready to help you explore this beautiful island paradise.
© FijiPocketGuide.comWhich Islands Can You Get a Taxi in Fiji?
Taxis are only available on the islands of Viti Levu, Vanua Levu, Taveuni, Kadavu and Ovalau.
Taxis on Viti Levu
Fiji’s largest island with the largest towns and road network has plenty of taxis to transport you not only within towns but across the island if needed. Taxis are available in abundance at taxi stands and airports, and they are easily hailed down. Elsewhere, you can get accommodations to call taxi drivers for you. Taxis become less frequent the further inland you go, replaced by carriers, which you can learn more about in our guide, Minivans & Carriers in Fiji: What You Need to Know.
Taxis on Vanua Levu
Vanua Levu is Fiji’s second-largest island and has taxis in Labasa and Savusavu, which are easy to flag down in the towns. They are a useful method of transport to get across towns or to town attractions. Taxi drivers are also available to hire for countryside sightseeing and trips between Labasa and Savusavu. Learn more about getting around Vanua Levu here.
Taxis on Taveuni
There are limited taxis on Taveuni; some are found at the Matei Airport awaiting incoming flights, while others can be found in the towns of Matei, Waiyaevo and Naqara. If you can’t find one to flag down, accommodations can arrange taxis for you. Learn more about getting around Taveuni here.
Taxis on Ovalau
Taxis on Ovalau can be found in Levuka on the waterfront opposite the Church of the Sacred Heart. Local accommodations can also arrange taxis for you. Learn more about getting around Ovalau here.
Taxis on Kadavu
A tiny selection of taxis are available on Kadavu, only available to take you around the island’s main hub, Vunisea. Carriers are perhaps a better option to get further afield on the island’s limited roads but are generally at a higher rate compared to taxis. Learn more about getting around Kadavu here.
© FijiPocketGuide.com4 Ways to Book a Taxi in Fiji
Getting around in Fiji is a breeze with these handy taxi booking options. Whether you’re fresh off the plane or exploring the islands, here’s how to secure your ride:
- Book an airport transfer: Start your Fiji adventure stress-free by arranging a transfer with a Tours & Transfers company. Check out our 10 Best Airport Transfers in Fiji guide for easy online booking options. Here’s a pro tip: if you hit it off with your driver, grab their contact details for future rides!
- Hail from the roadside: In popular tourist spots like Wailoaloa, taxi drivers often cruise these areas, eagerly offering rides to anyone on foot.
- Let your accommodation do the work: Too relaxed to organise transport yourself? (We don’t blame you!) Simply ask your resort or hotel to call a taxi for you. It’s all part of the laid-back Fiji service.
- Head to a taxi stand: For a sure bet, make your way to a taxi stand. You’ll typically find these adjacent to bus stations and markets. It’s a great chance to soak up some local atmosphere while you wait for your ride.
Remember, whichever method you choose, you’re in for a treat. Fijian taxi drivers are known for their friendliness and local knowledge. Don’t be shy to strike up a conversation – you might just learn some fascinating island insights!
© FijiPocketGuide.comHiring Drivers for Sightseeing in Fiji
When it comes to hiring taxi drivers for sightseeing in Fiji, you’ll find that there’s no standard price across the board. Whether you opt for an “LT” or “LH” driver, you’ll typically be given a fixed rate for their services.
In bustling areas like Nadi, many drivers offer day rates or hourly rates to simplify charges for tourists. It’s a convenient system that takes the guesswork out of your sightseeing budget! On the outer islands, however, the pricing often factors in the specific destinations you’ll visit and any waiting time involved.
While licensed taxis are readily available, they can be a bit heavy on the wallet. For a more cost-effective option, we recommend hiring a driver from a tour or transfer company. These companies are not only often more affordable but are also more accustomed to providing sightseeing services. They know all the best spots and can offer valuable local insights.
For more detailed information on finding the perfect driver for your island adventures, check out our comprehensive guide on How to Hire a Driver in Fiji.
© FijiPocketGuide.comHow Much Does a Taxi Cost in Fiji?
Taxis can be an affordable way to get around towns in Fiji, where LT taxis must use meters for trips within town areas, and LH taxis set a fixed rate. Both LT and LH taxis will charge a fixed rate when leaving the town boundaries.
However, taxi drivers in LT-licensed vehicles must follow government-mandated taxi fares when transporting passengers within a 16 km (10) radius of the town they are registered to. These rates are available to view on the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission website.
As there is a lot to go through when it comes to metered fares and fixed rates, we have a complete dedicated guide: Taxi Prices in Fiji: The Costs You Need to Know. For fares specifically for Nadi Airport, check out How Much Does a Nadi Airport Taxi Cost?
More About Taxis in Fiji
That’s it for our guide to taxis in Fiji; for more information about transportation in Fiji, check out the following articles:
- Catching a Cab in Fiji: Everything You Need to Know
- How Much Does a Nadi Airport Taxi Cost?
- Should You Rent a Car or Use a Taxi in Fiji?
Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in The Guide to Transport in Fiji.
Sources:
The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across Fiji and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:
- Land Transport Authority (Road safety advice - Updated [2025])
- Tourism Fiji (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
- Fiji Immigration (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2025])
- Fiji Revenue & Customs Service (Customs and visitor taxes - Updated [2025])
- Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (Biosecurity advice - Updated [2025])
- Fiji Meteorological Service (Weather forecast and warnings - Updated [2025])
- Fiji Bureau of Statistics (Statistics and travel data - Updated [2025])
- Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation (Tourism statistics - Updated [2025])
- SPTO (Pacific tourism advice - Updated [2025])
- Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
- Safe Travel (New Zealand travel advisory for Fiji - Updated [2025])
- Smart Traveller (Australia travel advisory for Fiji - Updated [2025])
- Travel.State.Gov (U.S. travel advisory for Fiji - Updated [2025])
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