In Vunidawamoli Village, Tikina Wailevu, Cakaudrove, a long-held dream has finally taken shape. Last weekend marked a historic first as Nukuramase Eco Tours welcomed 25 international cruise ship guests, signalling the village’s formal entry into Fiji’s tourism landscape.
For decades, the community aspired to share its culture and natural beauty with visitors but lacked the means and access to do so. Through determination, collective effort, and the right support, that aspiration has now become reality.
This milestone was achieved through the Micro and Small Enterprise (MSE) support of the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation, complemented by ongoing technical guidance from the Na Vualiku Tourism Development Programme Office. The Ministry’s 2025 grant enabled the community to strengthen its product, build confidence, and prepare to host visitors to a standard aligned with Fiji’s tourism expectations.
Beyond infrastructure and readiness, this success has unlocked new income opportunities for village families, renewed belief in community-led enterprise, and created a sustainable pathway where culture, conservation, and livelihoods are mutually reinforced. It reflects tourism not as an external industry, but as a locally owned opportunity.
The first arrivals were made possible through strong partnerships, including the support of US Peace Corps Volunteer Ms. Lynda Lubranski and market linkage facilitated by Savusavu-based emerging tour operator Maze Tours, demonstrating the power of collaboration in opening doors for rural communities.
Nukuramase Eco Tours now stands as a compelling example of how targeted MSE support can transform potential into progress—ensuring that communities in maritime and rural Fiji are not left watching tourism pass them by but are actively shaping its future.