Meeting the locals, seeing the area by boat, visiting the caves, kids favourite beach

the people, the location, the experience

Staying in Malakati was an exceptional experience. Locals are incredibly welcoming, kind, and helpful. Families took turns in preparing delicious fresh meals 3 times a day. There are many opportunities to explore the island and surrounding areas such as caves, snorkeling, diving, fishing, and hiking as well as learn about Fijian culture. I would recommend this picturesque village for real travelers who are ready to experience Fijian everyday life. I am hoping to return soon.

There is nothing to do not to like :)

Living with locals Eating real Fijian food Having Kawa for birthday with local traditions Feel like a king Only for people who don't want to feel like tourists

I liked everything

We had an incredible experience at Malakati for three nights. It was worth trading in some creature comforts for the experience to get off the beaten tourist track, away from all the curated resorts and have the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the Fijian way of life. Our bure was VERY simple, but it was all we needed. It was located on the beachfront, with the village behind us, and the bay is absolutely stunning: White sand, turquoise warm waters and gorgeous sunsets. We were even treated to multiple rainbows after some tropical rain. We were invited into the homes of the villagers for each meal, where you sit on the floor and are treated to their local cuisine. It was lovely to have a chat with each family and learn a little about them, and kids were always peaking in at us from outside. We purposely booked over a Sunday so that we could join them for their church service. We are not a religious family (and the service was all in Fijian) but knew that the power of their music would be moving. The choral harmonies were incredible and gave me goosebumps. What a unique experience it was. Our children (6 and 8) had a wonderful time playing on the beach with the other kids in the village, collecting shells and swimming in the ocean. It was great to expose them to an authentic experience, where they were immersed in the Fijian culture and saw not just how they lived but also what they valued. If you are an adventurous and curious traveller, who is up for more rustic living in exchange for unique and amazing experiences, this should be high on your list. Couldn't recommend it more. PS. Take the Yasawa Flyer instead of the Tavewa Seabus - way less seasickness on the Flyer route (having done both we learned our lesson!)

It was an amazing experience for our family! The location and the beach and bay are simply stunning. The village people are very welcoming and super nice. Lots of „Bula!“ wherever you see someone. The kids a curious and happy to show you around. The water is superb for swimming and playing around in. We loved the different dog characters hanging out at the beach - all very friendly. You pay your „entrance“ fee and that‘s it, you are guests of the community instead of feeling like customers - the concept works really well and seems fair for everyone. It is simple, as that‘s what village life in the Yasawas is, but if you‘re somewhat open minded and up for trading some less comfort for having a unique and closer-to-authentic experience then this is for you. The hike up to the ridgeline in the early morning was fantastic. Amazing views and some village children and dogs as good company. We just loved it!

A wonderful place. When you stay here you become part of village life, eating with a different family for each meal in their homes. The food prepared was delicious. As much as you want to eat- fresh fish, papaya, mango, rice and dahl. Big breakfasts that were delicious. As a solo traveller it was perfect as I got to talk to so many people and learn about village life. The children are a joy to talk to. We sang together a lot and watching them play on the beach was all the entertainment needed! You can donate to the village school also. Everyone was so friendly and happy and it is a stunning location. Take a hike up the nearby mountain for a great view of all the islands.

Just to say it is basic so don’t expect to have tea or coffee in you room. if you bring it with you, you can find someone to give you hot water to make some. Nothing is lockable so let go of worrying about your stuff. it’s a small village and you can trust that everything will be where you left it. Bring bottled water with you if you are concerned about drinking here. also bring toilet roll if you can. resources are short here.

The beach is honestly the most beautiful beach we'd ever laid eyes on and our accommodation was right on the shoreline. The bure we were in was very basic but had loo roll, soap, access to a loo and shower (didn't work for us due to water shortage). It's rough and ready so be prepared for that but if you're happy having a true experience and don't mind lack of luxury then this is a great place. The food was very good, home cooked traditional Fijian food and every day we ate each meal with a different family, which was a lovely way to meet as many people from the village as possible. The people in the village are incredibly welcoming and friendly and you can go up to anyone to ask anything and they'll help you out. They suggested activities for us to do, took us fishing and hiking, made us hats and gave us a kava demonstration. You have to pay in cash for all of these but it's very reasonably priced and worth it for the help it gives to the community. All of the money you pay goes to their church and school and the families that cook for you. Also great for families with young children as there are lots of kids in the village who are always up for playing and are energetic and will invite you for a volleyball game every evening!

We liked it all. There were mice in our hut but it didn't bother us. Worth knowing before though if rodents scare you.