Vanua Levu is the second largest island of Fiji and was formerly known as "Sandalwood Island" and is also known as the "the Friendly North". The two (2) main towns, Savusavu and Labasa have 5000 and 25,000 people respectively. The other centres are small villages with little or no public facilities. There is a system of roads connecting the two towns and to other parts of the island. It is less developed compared to Viti Levu thus offering the guest with an ideal opportunity to indulge themselves in its pristine, untouched state with the local traditions and culture. The north is known for its fishing, diving, birdwatching and unhurried pace of life. The nothern islands of Vanua Levu is the "real" Fiji. It is a world of unabashed friendliness,gastronomic delights and personal caring.

The weather in Vanua Levu is similar to Viti Levu with its distinct dry and wet side. The north and western side is dry and dominated by the dry dusty town of Labasa and the southern coast of Vanua Levu to Savusavu is very scenic with a combination of lush rainforest and beaches.

The main industry on the island is sugar cane production and copra. There has been a recent increase in tourism activities which has contributed to the economic development in the North. The Government has also taken a proactive approach in initiating its new "Look North" Policy in providing tax incentives for tourism development. Vanua Levu has tremendouse potential for tourism development as we have identified sites still in its pristine and untouched state.

Vanua Levu is a volcanic island with the main part of the island being roughly shaped. It is slightly larger than half the size of Viti Levu, with an area of 5538 square kilometers and an average width of 33 kilometers. The island is rugged, untrammel and the coast is surrounded by coral reefs, and is rough and hilly. The highest peak in Vanua Levu is Nasoro Levu or Mt Thurston (3,139 ft/960 m) and the main river is the Dreketi. The large east peninsula is connected with the rest of the island by a narrow isthmus.

Driving along the main road from Savusavu to Labasa and vice versa is breathtaking. The scenery is refreshing as you go through the winding and hilly roads to see the versatile vegetation that Vanua Levu has to offer. Getting close to the surrounding countryside and away from the coast is hot with valleys and hills, covered with cane and golden sunburnt hills. The hillsides are covered with grassland and pine trees. Driving towards the coast is also breathtaking in its own way with the fresh cool air up in the hills overlooking the crystal blue pristine ocean, as if you are seeing sparkling diamonds floating on the sea.