Fiji Geography – Number of Islands

When people hear Fiji referred to as an “island nation,” some assume that this means that Fiji is a small island. In actuality, it is a group of many islands bound together under a common culture, history, and government to form a single, united nation. Fiji boasts 322 islands and 522 small islets.

Of the 322 large islands, only 106 are inhabited. While every island or islet that comprises Fiji is a unique gem of the Pacific, there are several islands of Fiji that stand out a bit from the rest. These islands are the “must-sees” of Fiji geography.According to Fiji geography, the island of Viti Levu is the largest of the nation. Viti Levu is also home to Suva, the nation’s capital city, and Nida, home to Fiji’s international airport.

As Fiji’s largest and most important island, Viti Levu also houses some of the most interesting sights that Fiji has to offer. Aside from its museums, traditional villages, and pristine beaches, you can also find a large Hindu temple in Nadi, the tomb of an infamous cannibal chief in Rakiraki, and various outdoor activities, including hiking through the rainforest and watersports. After all, a visit to Fiji wouldn’t be complete without a romp in its waters. Matagi Island is an interesting part of Fiji geography.

This extinct volcano has been eroded away until its enormous crater fell in on one side and formed the breathtaking Horseshoe Bay. The island of Matagi was privately owned for many years before its owners agreed to allow a resort to be built here. Now, Matagi is a premier spot in Fiji for windsurfing, snorkeling, fishing, sailing, and water-skiing. Add in the fact that all of these activities take place against the stunning backdrop of this ancient, extinct volcano and this trip to Matagi Island is sure to be unforgettable. Few places in Fiji geography are more fascinating than the Yasawa Islands.

The Yasawa Group of islands is an archipelago of twenty volcanic islands located in the Western Division of Fiji. The Yasawa Islands are all mountainous and boast peaks as high as 600 meters. This wild haven of the South Pacific was Fiji’s best-kept secret all the way until 1987, when the government of Fiji finally opened it up to land-based tourism. Now, you can take a beach-hopping tour of Yasawa’s islands and islets, including Turtle Island, one of Fiji’s most popular resorts.