The Most Crowded Island on Earth: Life on Santa Cruz del Islote

TLDRSanta Cruz del Islote is the most densely populated island in the world, with 816 people living on just 1% of a square kilometer. The island is overcrowded, with houses housing dozens of people in tiny rooms. Basic necessities such as electricity, clean water, and sanitation are limited. The island relies on tourism and fishing for its economy. Despite the challenges, the community is close-knit and resilient, with a unique way of life.

Key insights

🌍Santa Cruz del Islote is the most densely populated island in the world, with a density of 68,000 people per square kilometer.

🏘️Houses on the island are overcrowded, with each house accommodating dozens of people living together in tiny rooms.

⚡Access to electricity is limited, and the island relies on solar panels for power.

💧Obtaining clean drinking water is challenging, with rainwater collection being the primary source of water.

🐟Fishing is an important activity for the islanders, but overfishing and marine pollution have impacted the availability of fish, requiring imports from the mainland.

Q&A

How is the island so crowded?

—Santa Cruz del Islote is densely populated because it was artificially enlarged by compressing coral rocks and seashells over time, allowing people to build houses wherever they wanted.

What are the living conditions like on the island?

—Living conditions on the island are challenging, with limited access to basic necessities such as electricity, clean water, and sanitation. Houses are overcrowded, with many people living together in tiny rooms.

What supports the island's economy?

—The island's economy is supported by tourism and fishing. Tourists pay an entrance fee, and locals provide services such as boat tours and snorkeling trips. Fishing is also an important source of income.

Is there a school on the island?

—Yes, there is one school on the island that serves around 240 students. Students from neighboring islands also attend this school, and transportation is provided by boat.

What are the environmental challenges faced by the island?

—The island faces environmental challenges such as marine pollution and overfishing, which have depleted the fish population. Waste management is also a concern, with garbage and sewage posing risks to the environment.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Santa Cruz del Islote is an overcrowded island with a population density of 68,000 people per square kilometer.

05:00Access to basic necessities such as electricity and clean water is limited on the island.

09:00Tourism and fishing are the main sources of income for the island's economy.

10:00The island faces challenges such as marine pollution, overfishing, and limited resources.

12:00Life on the island is unique, with a close-knit community and resilient spirit.

Browse more