Viti Levu is the largest island of Fiji.
Viti Levu is the main geographic and population centre of the Republic of Fiji. The island covers about 10,388 square kilometres, roughly 57% of Fiji’s total land area, and contains the capital city, Suva. Other important centres on Viti Levu include Lautoka, Nadi, Ba, Nausori and Sigatoka.
A north–south mountain range divides the island into wetter eastern areas and generally drier western areas. The contrast influences settlement and agriculture: tropical forests dominate wetter slopes, while sugarcane production is especially important in the western lowlands. Mount Tomanivi, Fiji’s highest peak, rises to 1,324 metres on Viti Levu.
Fiji is an archipelago of hundreds of islands, so Viti Levu is sometimes confused with Vanua Levu, the country’s second-largest island. Vanua Levu lies northeast of Viti Levu, while smaller islands such as Taveuni and Kadavu also contribute to Fiji’s distinctive geography. Most of Fiji’s population lives on the two main islands, especially Viti Levu.