Koro

Koro is a volcanic island in Fiji's Lomaiviti Archipelago, covering 105.3 km². Its name means "village" in Fijian. The Koro Sea is named after this island, which has a chain of basaltic cinder cones running along its crest. Koro is the seventh-largest island in Fiji with a population of 2,937 (2017 census), spread across 14 villages — eight in Mudu District on the east coast and six in Cawa District on the west coast. The island is known among Fijians as the most fertile in the archipelago, with plantations of kava and copra. Koro was severely impacted by Cyclone Winston in 2016. Captain William Bligh became the first European to sight the island in May 1789. The climate is tropical, with the wet season from November to April and the drier season from May to October.

By Plane

Koro Airport (KXF) is located on the eastern coast. Fiji Link operates scheduled flights from Nausori (SUV), usually once per week on Fridays. Flight time is about 25 minutes.

By Car / Road

A roll-on/roll-off ferry operated by Patterson Brothers Shipping Company services Koro weekly from Suva, and also connects Koro to Vanua Levu. The ferry arrives at the main jetty on the western coast.

The island has basic roads connecting villages, but 4WD vehicles are recommended. Walking is the most common way to get around within villages. Boat transport is used for travel between coastal settlements.

• Nacamaki village turtle-calling ceremony — A traditional ceremony on the northern side of Koro where villagers chant to call turtles to the surface.

• Dere Bay — A scenic bay on the northwestern tip with a resort and residential subdivision.

• Koro cinder cones — The volcanic cones running along the island's crest offer dramatic geological features.

• Fertile plantations — Koro is renowned for its tropical forests and large plantations of kava and coconut.

• Visit Dere Bay Resort — A beachfront resort offering accommodation, dining, and water activities.

• Koro Beach Resort — Another resort option with beach access and local Fijian hospitality.

• Hiking — Trails through the volcanic interior offer views of the Koro Sea and neighbouring islands.

• Birdwatching — Koro's forests host native Fijian bird species.

• Resort restaurants — Dere Bay Resort and Koro Beach Resort serve meals to guests.
• Village homestay meals — Fijian dishes including fish, dalo, cassava, and fresh tropical fruits.
• Nacamaki village — Visitors may arrange traditional meals through prior arrangement.

Kava (yaqona) is widely grown and consumed. Bottled water is recommended. Fresh coconut water is available.

• Budget: Village guesthouses in Nacamaki and other villages offer basic rooms from FJ$40–60 per night; advance booking required.
• Mid-range: Dere Bay Resort and Koro Beach Resort offer rooms from around FJ$150–300 per night.
• Upscale: Koro Seaview Estates offers rental homes with private beach access; rates vary by property.

Copra and kava are the main economic products. Small village stores sell basic supplies. For significant shopping, visitors should bring provisions from Suva.

• Gau Island (35 km south, by boat) — Fifth-largest island, home to the critically endangered Fiji petrel.
• Levuka / Ovalau (by ferry) — Fiji's historic former capital, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Suva (by ferry or flight) — Fiji's capital with museums, markets, and cultural attractions.
• Vanua Levu (by ferry northward) — Fiji's second-largest island, with Savusavu and Labasa.
• Makogai (15 km west) — Former leper colony turned marine reserve.