Garden Of The Sleeping Giant
Nestled in the Sabeto foothills, not too far from Nadi airport (perhaps 15-20 min by taxi) is the "world famous in Fiji" Garden of the Sleeping Giant. Garden lovers - you really don't want to turn down a chance to visit this delightful spot.
There are 20 hectares (50 acres) to explore, with over 2,000 orchids as well as beautiful walks through the rainforest, lily ponds, shaded arbours, expansive lawns, and views out to the coast.
Established in 1977 by the American actor Raymond Burr (of Ironside and Perry Mason fame), the garden was created to house Mr. Burr's extensive collection of orchids. I'm told that the collection used to be much larger, but the attrition rate was quite high due to some varieties not doing well in the Fijian climate.
You will find the majority of the orchids near the start, in the formal garden area. As you explore deeper, you will see bromeliads in the rainforest, before coming out onto some open ground where you can take the (steepish) walk up to the lookout. Once you are ready to leave, you will probably be hot and thirsty, so the cold drink included in the entry fee is a welcome relief.
If I was going to be picky, I would ask for better signage. It's easy to take a wrong turn and go down a dead end track. They don't need to be fancy signs, just something to point the way!
Gallery
The gallery is some photos taken during a visit in 2019. I hope they give some idea of how beautiful this place is. 
Getting There, Hours, Entry
- Location:15-20 min from Nadi airport, turnoff is beside the service station on the Nadi-Lautoka road
- Entry Fee: fj$18pp
- Hours: Mon-Sat, 9am to 5pm. Sunday, 9am to midday
- Worth Visiting? I would say a definite yes. You don't have to love orchids (or even gardening in general) to enjoy the peace and serenity. Why not bring a picnic with you, and relax in a shady spot in the rainforest jungle?
We have more general information about Nadi.