The islands of Kadavu are essentially a cluster of volcanic masses, sheltered from the South Pacific ocean swells by one of the world's largest coral formations.
Within Kadavu's barrier reef are numerous lagoons, passages, islands and beaches - a sea-kayakers paradise.
Kadavu is the fourth largest island in all the Fiji group, at 411 square km (159 square miles). It is long and narrow, with the coastline shaped so that it appears almost cut in three by deep bays.
Kadavu lies about 100 km (62 miles) south of Fiji's main island, Viti Levu.
A rugged expanse of hills and mountains covers the island, with the volcano Nabukelevu (Mt. Washington) the highest peak, 838 metres (2747 feet).
Much of the island is covered by tropical rainforest, habitat for a wide variety of bird-life, including four species found nowhere else.
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