Fiji

Region

🌍 Oceania

Population

👥 902

Currency

💱 Fijian dollar

Languages

🗣️ English, Fiji Hindi, Fijian

This mark means a fact is linked to a checked source. Hover or tap it to see the source. 34 of 141 facts on this page are sourced.

Fiji, a South Pacific paradise, beckons with its breathtaking natural beauty and warm, welcoming culture. Best known for its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs, Fiji is a dream destination for sun-seekers and divers. The country is comprised of over 300 islands, each offering unique landscapes, from lush rainforests to dramatic volcanic peaks. First-time visitors can expect a laid-back island pace of life, friendly locals eager to share their traditions, and an abundance of water-based activities. Prepare to be mesmerized by the vibrant underwater world and the stunning sunsets that paint the sky each evening.

Official NameSource: REST Countries

Republic of Fiji

Continent

Oceania

DemonymSource: REST Countries

Fijian

Independence

October 10, 1970 (from the UK)

Top-Level Domain

.fj

Calling CodeSource: REST Countries

+679

Time ZoneSource: REST Countries

UTC+12:00

Capital CitySource: REST Countries

Suva

ISO Alpha-2

ISO Alpha-3

FJI

UN Code

242

Geographic Coordinates

-18,175

Area (km²)Source: REST Countries

18,272#157 of 249

PopulationSource: REST Countries

902,623#163 of 247

Population Density (per km²)

50.58

Highest Point (m)

1,324 (Mount Tomanivi)

Lowest Point (m)

0 (Pacific Ocean)

Land Use

Agricultural land accounts for a significant portion, with forests also present.

Irrigated Land

A small portion of land is irrigated.

Coastline Length

1,129 km

Climate

Tropical marine; hot, humid; slightly cooler from May to October

Natural Resources

Timber, fish, gold, copper, offshore oil and gas potential

Bordering CountriesSource: REST Countries

No land borders

Major Rivers

Fiji has numerous rivers; the Rewa River is the largest.

Major Lakes

Fiji has some lakes, though they are not major in size.

Government Type

Parliamentary Republic

Administrative Divisions

4 Divisions (Central, Eastern, Northern, Western) and 1 dependency (Rotuma)

Legal System

Based on English common law

Chief of State

President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere

Head of Government

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka

Cabinet

The Cabinet is appointed by the President on the advice of the Prime Minister.

Elections

Elections are held every 4 years, with the most recent in 2022.

Judicial Branch

Judiciary includes the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal.

Legislative Branch

Unicameral Parliament

Major Political Parties

FijiFirst, People's Alliance Party, and others.

CurrencySource: REST Countries

Fijian dollar

GDP, Nominal (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: GDP (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026

6.2#166 of 211

GDP, PPP (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: GDP, PPP (current international $) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026

15.25#157 of 201

GDP per Capita (US$)Source: World Bank: GDP per capita (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026

6,642#121 of 211

GDP - Agriculture (%)Source: World Bank: Agriculture, forestry, and fishing, value added (% of GDP) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026

14.05

GDP - Industry (%)Source: World Bank: Industry (including construction), value added (% of GDP) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026

13.88

GDP - Services (%)Source: World Bank: Services, value added (% of GDP) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026

56.96

Inflation Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Inflation, consumer prices (annual %) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026

-1.38#187 of 191

Labor Force (people)Source: World Bank: Labor force, total (2025)Checked September 29, 2026

390,290

Unemployment Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Unemployment, total (% of total labor force) (modeled ILO estimate) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026

5.35#88 of 185

Public Debt (% of GDP)Source: World Bank: Central government debt, total (% of GDP) (1994)Checked September 29, 2026

36.63

Budget

Fiji's government budget includes revenues from taxes and expenditures on public services. Details are available from official government sources.

Exports (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: Exports of goods and services (current US$) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026

3.25#148 of 192

Imports (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: Imports of goods and services (current US$) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026

3.85#148 of 192

Foreign Reserves

Significant foreign reserves are held to stabilize the Fijian dollar.

Currency Exchange

Fiji uses the Fijian dollar (FJD). Exchange rates fluctuate; consult a reputable financial source for current values.

GDP by Sector

Primarily services (tourism), agriculture, and manufacturing.

Major Industries

Tourism, sugar, garments, and fishing.

Major Export Partners

Australia, United States, and New Zealand.

Major Import Partners

Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand.

Society

Literacy Rate (%)

Approximately 93% (2018 est.)

Birth Rate (per 1,000 people)Source: World Bank: Birth rate, crude (per 1,000 people) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026

17.9

Death Rate (per 1,000 people)Source: World Bank: Death rate, crude (per 1,000 people) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026

9.5

Net Migration Rate

Slightly negative migration rate.

Median Age

Approximately 29 years (2021 est.)

Urban Population (%)Source: World Bank: Urban population (% of total population) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026

59.54#127 of 214

Urbanization Rate

Urbanization is a gradual process in Fiji.

Life Expectancy (years)Source: World Bank: Life expectancy at birth, total (years) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026

67.5#170 of 214

HIV/AIDS Prevalence

Low prevalence.

Health Expenditures (% of GDP)Source: World Bank: Current health expenditure (% of GDP) (2023)Checked September 29, 2026

3.62

Ethnic Groups

Fijian (indigenous), Indo-Fijian, and other Pacific Islanders.

Religions

Christianity, Hinduism, and Islam.

LanguagesSource: REST Countries

English, Fiji Hindi, Fijian

Education

Education System

The education system in Fiji is based on the British model, with primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. Education is compulsory between ages 6 and 14.

School Life Expectancy (years)Source: World Bank: School life expectancy, primary to tertiary, both sexes (years) (2004)Checked September 29, 2026

13.9

Government Education Spending

Government expenditure on education accounts for a significant portion of the national budget, but may fluctuate.

Primary Education Access

—

Secondary Education Access

—

Higher Education Access

—

Major Universities

The University of the South Pacific (USP) has a main campus in Suva and several regional campuses, and the Fiji National University (FNU).

Culture

Cultural Overview

Fijian culture is rich and diverse, blending indigenous traditions with influences from India, China, and other cultures. Village life plays a vital role. Kava ceremonies, traditional dances and music are important.

National Holidays

Fiji Day (October 10), Christmas, New Year's Day, and various religious holidays.

Popular Music

Fijian music blends traditional and contemporary styles. Contemporary Fijian music incorporates elements of pop, reggae, and island music. Fijian Indian music is also prevalent.

Traditional Food

Traditional Fijian foods include root crops like taro and cassava, seafood, and dishes cooked in earth ovens (lovo). Indian cuisine is also widely available.

Sports

Rugby union and rugby sevens are extremely popular. Cricket, soccer, and netball are also played.

Major Festivals

Fiji Day celebrations, Diwali, and various cultural festivals throughout the year.

Famous People

Notable Fijians include athletes (e.g., rugby players), artists, and political figures.

Cultural Heritage Sites

Fiji has many significant cultural sites, including ancient temples and villages.

UNESCO Sites

Fiji has no UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Annual Tourist Visits

around 700,000/year

Tourism Overview

Fiji is primarily a beach and island destination, attracting honeymooners, couples, families, and diving enthusiasts. The main tourism regions are the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands, easily accessible from the mainland, offering a range of resorts from budget-friendly to ultra-luxury. Viti Levu, the largest island, provides a more diverse experience with its capital city, natural parks, and adventure activities. Typical trip styles involve island hopping, resort stays, and enjoying water sports. Travelers seeking a relaxing tropical getaway with opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and cultural encounters will find Fiji immensely rewarding. It's also a growing destination for eco-tourism and wellness retreats.

Top Tourist Attractions

The Garden of the Sleeping Giant: A stunning botanical garden featuring a vast collection of orchids.
Bouma National Heritage Park: Offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and pristine rainforest environments on Taveuni Island.
Sawa-i-Lau Caves: Ancient limestone caves with sacred significance, accessible by boat.
The Mamanuca Islands: A popular archipelago known for its beautiful beaches, surfing breaks, and clear waters.
The Yasawa Islands: A chain of volcanic islands offering secluded beaches, snorkeling, and cultural experiences.
Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park: Impressive sand dunes with archaeological significance.
Tivua Island: A small, idyllic island perfect for day trips and snorkeling.
Beit-e-Leh: A historic Fijian village offering cultural immersion and traditional performances.

Famous Cities

Suva, the capital, is a bustling hub on Viti Levu, offering a mix of colonial architecture and modern city life, alongside markets and museums. Nadi, also on Viti Levu, serves as the main international gateway and is a popular base for exploring the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands. Lautoka, known as the 'Sugar City,' is a significant commercial center with a lively local market. Port Denarau, a luxurious marina complex near Nadi, is the primary departure point for many island-hopping adventures and offers upscale dining and accommodation. While larger towns exist, many visitors focus on the resort areas and smaller island communities.

National Parks

Bouma National Heritage Park: Protects rainforests, waterfalls, and coastal areas on Taveuni Island.
Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park: Features significant archaeological sites and unique dune ecosystems.
Colo-i-Suva Forest Park: Offers hiking trails through lush rainforest to waterfalls and swimming holes.
Koroyanitu National Heritage Park: Showcases traditional Fijian life and pristine natural landscapes near Lautoka.
Ulta National Heritage Park: A protected marine area known for its vibrant coral reefs and biodiversity.

Protected Areas

—

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Fiji is during the dry season, from May to October, when the weather is pleasant with lower humidity and minimal rainfall. This period is ideal for enjoying the beaches, water activities like snorkeling and diving, and exploring the islands. The shoulder months of May and October offer a good balance of favorable weather and fewer crowds. For those interested in cultural festivals, visiting around the Hindu festival of Diwali (typically October or November) can be a unique experience. The wet season, from November to April, is hotter and more humid, with a higher chance of tropical storms, but can offer lower prices and fewer tourists.

Tourist Visa Info

For many nationalities, obtaining a tourist visa for Fiji is not required for short stays, with automatic entry permits granted upon arrival. Visitors should ensure their passport is valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay and carry evidence of onward travel, such as a return flight ticket. It's also prudent to have sufficient funds to support yourself during your visit. While visa-free entry is common, it's essential to verify the exact regulations pertaining to your specific nationality to avoid any issues at immigration. Some nationalities may require an advance visa application, so research is key.

Visa Requirements Overview

Many nationalities receive visa-free entry to Fiji for tourist stays, often for up to four months. This typically applies to citizens of countries like Australia, New Zealand, the United States, Canada, and most European nations. Visitors are usually required to have a valid passport, proof of onward or return travel, and sufficient funds to cover their stay. It is crucial to check the specific visa requirements for your nationality with the Fijian immigration authorities or your local Fijian embassy or consulate well in advance of travel. Visa policies can change, so verifying current regulations is always recommended.

Travel Advisory

Fiji is a popular and generally safe tourist destination. Visitors should exercise common sense precautions against petty theft, especially in urban areas. Be mindful of water safety, respecting local conditions and advice. It's advisable to drink bottled water and take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses. Familiarize yourself with local customs and dress modestly when visiting villages or religious sites. Travel insurance is highly recommended to cover any unforeseen medical needs or travel disruptions. Enjoy the natural beauty and warm hospitality Fiji offers.

Healthcare

Healthcare Quality

Healthcare quality varies; major hospitals are located in urban centers.

Medical Cost

Medical costs can vary significantly; private healthcare is available.

Number of Hospitals

Fiji has a number of hospitals and clinics, primarily located on the main islands.

Universal Healthcare

Fiji has a public healthcare system, but it faces challenges in terms of access and quality. Private healthcare options are also available.

Medical Services Overview

Medical services range from public to private, with hospitals and clinics throughout the islands.

Emergency Medical Access

Emergency medical services are available, with varying response times depending on location.

Emergency & Safety

Emergency Number (Police)

917

Emergency Number (Ambulance)

917

Emergency Number (Fire)

917

Crime Rate

—

Safety Index

—

Military Expenditure

—

Emergency Services Overview

Emergency services in Fiji are available, though response times can vary, particularly in remote areas or outer islands. The main hospital facilities are located in Suva and Lautoka, with smaller clinics on other islands. Tourists should have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation. In case of an emergency, it's best to contact your accommodation provider first, as they often have established procedures and contacts for local assistance. Dialing the general emergency number will connect you to the relevant services.

Safety Overview

Fiji is generally a safe destination for tourists, with violent crime against visitors being rare. However, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas, particularly in Suva and Nadi. It's advisable to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and avoid displaying valuable items openly. Some tourist areas may have touts or individuals offering unsolicited services; a polite but firm refusal is usually sufficient. Water safety is paramount; always heed warning signs and lifeguard instructions at beaches. Respect local customs and traditions to ensure a positive and respectful interaction with the Fijian people.

Military Branches

—

Infrastructure

Electricity Access

—

Water Access

—

Sanitation Access

—

Railways

Fiji does not have an active railway system.

Roadways

Roads in Fiji are generally paved on the main island of Viti Levu, especially the Queen's Road connecting Nadi and Suva, and the King's Road. Other islands may have less developed road networks, often unpaved or rough. Self-driving can be an option on Viti Levu, but caution is advised due to local driving habits, occasional potholes, and livestock on roads, especially at night. Rental car agencies are available at airports and in major towns. For many island destinations, driving is not feasible or necessary as transport is often boat-based. Navigation can be challenging outside of major routes, and GPS is recommended if self-driving extensively.

Transportation System

Transportation includes buses, taxis, ferries, and domestic flights. Roads vary in quality. Public transport is common.

AirportsSource: OurAirports

Nadi International Airport (NAN), Nausori International Airport (SUV), Labasa Airport (LBS)

Ports

—

Public Transit

Public buses are the primary mode of public transport in Fiji, particularly on the main island of Viti Levu. Major cities like Suva and Nadi have extensive bus networks connecting different parts of the urban areas and extending to surrounding towns and villages. Buses are generally affordable, with fares based on distance. Ticketing is typically done with cash directly to the conductor or driver. For tourists, buses offer an authentic local experience and are a budget-friendly way to get around. Taxis are also readily available in urban centers and at tourist hubs, but it's advisable to agree on a fare before starting your journey. Inter-island transport relies on ferries and small aircraft, not traditional urban transit systems.

Technology & Communication

Internet Penetration (%)Source: World Bank: Individuals using the Internet (% of population) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026

74.71#122 of 211

Mobile Subscriptions (per 100)

—

Tech Startups

—

Innovation Index

—

ICT Development Index

—

TV Broadcast Stations

—

Radio Broadcast Stations

—

Plug Type & Voltage

Type I, 240V, 50Hz

CO2 Emissions (t per capita)Source: World Bank: Carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions excluding LULUCF per capita (t CO2e/capita) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026

1.62#124 of 202

Air Quality Index

Air quality is generally moderate, with potential issues in urban areas.

Water Pollution Level

Water pollution is a concern, particularly from sewage, agricultural runoff, and industrial waste.

Renewable Energy Usage

Renewable energy sources, especially hydropower and solar, are being utilized and expanded.

Environmental Issues

Environmental issues include deforestation, soil erosion, coral reef degradation, and climate change impacts.

Natural Hazards

Prone to cyclones, floods, tsunamis, and volcanic activity.

Waste Management

Waste management infrastructure is developing, with challenges in collection, disposal, and recycling.

Environmental Agreements

Party to international environmental agreements on climate change, biodiversity, and others.

UN MembershipSource: REST Countries

Yes

Diplomatic Missions

Has diplomatic missions in various countries.

International OrganizationsSource: REST Countries

Commonwealth

Major Treaties

Party to major treaties, including those related to climate change and human rights.

Visa-Free Countries

Citizens can travel visa-free to numerous countries, particularly within the Pacific region and other nations.