Most of the Fiji islands were formed by volcanoes. Coral reefs surround nearly all the islands. The larger islands have high volcanic peaks, rolling hills, rivers, and grasslands. Tropical rain forests cover more than half the total area of Fiji. The islands also have fertile coastal plains and river valleys.
Cool winds make Fiji's tropical climate relatively comfortable.
Heavy rains and tropical storms occur frequently between November and April. Economy of Fiji is based primarily on agriculture. Most Fijians grow such crops as sugar cane and coconuts. Gold is the country's chief mineral. Tourism is a major economic activity, and it employs many islanders.