Fiji is made up of more than 800 islands and islets, 110 of which are inhabited. The largest islands are Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, which together comprise more than 85 percent of the total land area.

The largest islands are of volcanic origin and are mountainous. The highest peak is Tomaniivi (1,323 meters/4,341 feet) on Viti Levu. A number of rivers cut valleys in the mountainous terrain. Rich alluvial soil is found in the river deltas. Grouped around the larger islands are the small islands and islets, composed of coral reef and limestone formations.

Climatic conditions in the islands are tropical, tempered by the southeastern trade winds. The average annual temperature is 25°C (77°F). Rainfall is heavy in most areas and averages about 2,540 millimeters (about 100 inches) annually.

Despite having lost nearly one-third of their forests since 1970, the two main islands of Fiji are rich in species and ecosystems. As a result of erosion, soil is transported into coastal ecosystems, which are also affected by coral sand extraction, oil exploration, sewage, and overfishing. With its rich plant and animal life and low population growth, Fiji’s environmental problems are not severe.