Santa Cruz del Islote, a tiny island off the coast of Colombia, is known as one of the most densely populated places on Earth. Spanning just 2.4 acres—smaller than the average soccer field—this manmade island is home to an estimated 800 people, making it a fascinating yet shocking example of extreme population density.
Originally constructed in the 19th century by fishermen who built it on a coral platform, the island has grown into a community bursting at its seams. A recent visit by filmmaker and YouTuber Ruhi Çenet provided a firsthand look at life on this overcrowded island.
Life on Santa Cruz del Islote
In a video shared on his YouTube channel in March 2024, Ruhi Çenet documented his experience on the island, describing the atmosphere as “chaotic.” He noted, “There are people everywhere you go. It’s impossible to be alone on these crowded streets.”
Due to the lack of space, nearly every inch of the island has been developed, leaving no room for additional housing. This has led to extreme living conditions, with as many as 10 people crammed into small homes. In one household, Ruhi discovered that 10 residents shared just three beds. In another, seven children were sleeping in a single room with two double beds.
Overcrowding and Resource Challenges
Santa Cruz del Islote is home to approximately 200 families, many of whom live in homes built illegally wherever space can be found. According to Ruhi, “When they can’t find any space, they build on top of existing buildings.”
Despite the overcrowding, the island’s residents continue to grow their population. Many women reportedly have their first child by the age of 16 and often have up to five children with different partners.
While the island lacks space for crops, it has managed to incorporate vital amenities, including a school, church, clinic, and even a small hotel. There is also a restaurant and a pub on the island. However, these amenities don’t make up for the lack of basic infrastructure like sewage and garbage disposal systems. Waste is instead dumped directly into the sea, which further exacerbates environmental challenges.
Reliance on Outside Support
With limited space for agriculture, the residents depend heavily on food deliveries from the Colombian Navy, which arrive every few weeks to sustain the community. This reliance highlights the precarious nature of life on the island, as residents depend on external resources for their most basic needs.
A Unique Yet Challenging Existence
Ruhi’s visit to Santa Cruz del Islote offers a rare glimpse into a way of life that is both fascinating and fraught with challenges. The island’s residents have created a functioning community against all odds, but the overcrowding and lack of infrastructure reveal the difficulties of living in such a densely packed space. While the island’s culture and resilience are remarkable, its struggles underscore the importance of addressing the environmental and social consequences of extreme population density.