For an experience not to be missed, the Sawa-i-Lau limestone caves are a treat for the adventurer in us all. The caves are located on Sawa-i-Lau island, in the more northern section of the Yasawa chain off the north coast of Nacula Island. Many of the northern resorts are 30 to 45 minutes away and literally every resort is willing to arrange a guided trip to this, one of the area’s most famous natural attractions.

What you can expect to see is a magnificent natural formation that to this day is still thought of as a sanctuary for local gods by the some traditional Fijians. Uluitini, a ten-headed god is thought to reside in these caves and reign supreme. The cave is friendly to swimmers, snorkelers and divers and offers a varied experience for each.

When approaching the caves it is impossible not to notice the striking outside rocks that garnish the tiny but beautiful beach near the entrance. Cement stairs have been constructed so you will have absolutely no difficulty gaining entrance into the cave and having a proper look-see.

At first thought, many will hesitate to take a plunge into the dark waters of the cave. Rest assured it is warm and safe.

Arriving at the Caves

Looking for Uluitini, the 10-Headed God

There are floatation devices available for those who prefer to stay afloat with the least amount of effort. The first cave, the tallest, is adorned with natural light. The cave rises up nearly 50 feet, and depending upon the time of day and the ensuing penetrating light, offers more or slightly less view of the colors of the wall and water below you.

There are actually approximately 100 caves, many that are truly accessible solely by divers. Swimmers will need to hold their breath for a few seconds when the tide is high in order to access a number of smaller caves in one particular cavern. Snorkelers will obviously not have that as a concern. The next sets of caves will be seen only with your guide’s flashlight as you and your newly acquired adventurous friends will be slowly ushered through these enclosed passages where you will probably be told stories of days gone by, local lore and where you can make all those crazy sounds that reverberate in the caves for others to enjoy as well. Your guide may also point out petroglyphs on the walls etched from days long gone. If you’re really lucky you may find a guide who will scale the first cave and take a plunge from a point that will surely have your heart pounding.

The Sawa-i-Lau caves are an experience you will forever treasure and one that will provide you with that rare sense of accomplishment, adventure and just a bit of trepidation. As you exit these mystical caves you will feel that you have been bound and linked with old gods, new friends and Mother Nature in a uniquely Fijian experience.

  Legend

The Blue Lagoon Caves are the resting ground of the great ten-headed god of Uluitini. Each chamber of the caves represents each of the God’s nine snake-heads and one like a human head. It is said that the God’s central human face possesses an angelic beauty that is almost too much for any mortal’s gaze to behold and embedded in the God’s forehead is a shimmering diamond-like stone, which is the source of great mana. You can just make out the silhouette of the ten heads while in the caves but rest assured the ever-hospitable God has already vacated the premises for to the relief of mortal guests.