Kimaya Fiji Group

Our Story

Embracing Emotions, Crafting Experiences

Purposeful hospitality,
proudly rooted in Fiji

Kimaya Fiji is a family of tourism and hospitality brands united by a belief that exceptional experiences begin with genuine human connection. Since 2005, our journey has been shaped by diversity, humility, integrity, innovation and a deep respect for the people and natural beauty of the South Pacific.

Kimaya Fiji hospitality and destination experiences

Our Mission

Leading and innovating across tourism and hospitality

Our mission is to lead and innovate in tourism and hospitality management across the South Pacific, consistently delivering exceptional experiences, fostering sustainability and exceeding expectations.

We challenge conventional practices by creating distinctive experiences that allow guests to reconnect with themselves, embrace their emotions and build extraordinary memories. Through continuous innovation and thoughtful service, we aim to pioneer new industry segments rather than simply follow established paths.

Every Kimaya experience is designed to combine the beauty of the natural world with sincere hospitality, operational excellence and a lasting sense of place.

Our Vision

Setting new benchmarks for the South Pacific

Our vision is to become the South Pacific’s premier, trendsetting and pioneering company of choice for tourism and hospitality management.

Inspired by some of the world’s most spiritually enriching destinations, including India, Japan and Fiji, our approach is centred on creating sanctuaries where people can step away from everyday pressures and reconnect with themselves, nature and the world around them.

From tranquil surroundings and thoughtful design to memorable service and meaningful local experiences, every detail is considered. Our commitment to responsible tourism guides us to create positive value for the environment and the communities in which we operate.

The vision behind Kimaya Fiji experiences
Mr. Damend Gounder, founder of Kimaya Fiji GroupFounder & Tourism Leader

Founder & Leadership

Mr. Damend Gounder

More than three decades of tourism leadership, grounded in service, resilience and a commitment to Fiji.

In the world of tourism and hospitality, Mr. Damend Gounder has built a distinguished career defined by vision, perseverance and a deeply personal commitment to the industry. Over more than three decades, he has helped set new benchmarks while contributing to the wider development of Fijian tourism.

His leadership extends beyond business. As a leader of the Fiji Tourism Action Group, he helped guide the industry through challenging periods and supported recovery efforts following major events and natural disasters.

Community service has remained central to his journey. His roles have included International President of Apex International and National President of Apex Clubs, alongside contributions to TISI Sangam and The Foundation for Rural Integrated Enterprises & Development (FRIEND).

At the heart of his achievements is the steadfast support of his family, including his wife, Saroj Gounder, and their children. Together, they form an important part of the values, strength and continuity behind the Kimaya journey.

Recognition

A legacy of tourism excellence

2001Excellence in Tourism Award
2022Excellence in Tourism: Lifetime Achievement
30+Years of tourism and hospitality leadership

These honours recognise not only corporate achievement, but a sustained contribution to tourism, community service and the resilience of Fiji’s visitor economy.

Our Journey

One family of distinctive Fijian experiences

01

Resorts

Yatule Resort & Spa, Fiji Hideaway Resort & Spa and Landers Bay Resort & Spa each offer a distinctive expression of island hospitality.

02

Journeys

Tour Managers Fiji connects visitors with dependable transfers, authentic experiences and knowledgeable local service across Fiji.

03

Celebrations

Paradise Bride Fiji and Villa Del Cowrie bring weddings, events and meaningful personal occasions to life with care and creativity.

04

Community

Brighter Minds and Kimaya’s wider responsibility initiatives connect tourism success with education, leadership and community wellbeing.

Explore Our Brands

What Guides Us

Values lived every day

01

Diversity

Welcoming different people, perspectives and cultures as a source of strength.

02

Humility

Remaining grounded in service, listening and continuous learning.

03

Integrity

Acting responsibly and doing what is right for guests, teams, partners and Fiji.

04

Excellence

Continually raising standards through thoughtful innovation and disciplined delivery.

Corporate Social Responsibility

Hospitality with a wider purpose

Sustainable tourism, community empowerment and conscious leadership shape the way Kimaya creates value for guests, people and Fiji’s environment.

01

Environmental Stewardship

Waste reduction, biodiversity protection, marine conservation and guest eco-experiences, including mangrove restoration.

02

Brighter Minds

Supporting child development, facilitator training and access to learning in underserved communities.

03

Heartfulness Leadership

Encouraging emotional intelligence, ethical growth and resilient leadership across teams.

Discover Brighter Minds

The Journey Continues

Creating meaningful experiences
for guests, communities and Fiji.

Connect With Kimaya Fiji