The 10 Smallest African Countries By Landmass And Population

Africa, a continent of vast deserts, sprawling savannas, and towering mountains, is also home to some of the world’s smallest nations. These compact countries, often overlooked in favour of their larger neighbours, offer unique cultures, stunning landscapes, and fascinating histories. In this article, we explore the 10 smallest African countries by land mass and population, uncovering what makes each one remarkable. Whether you’re a geography buff, a traveller, or simply curious, here’s everything you need to know about Africa’s tiniest nations.

10 Smallest African Countries by Land Mass

Africa’s smallest countries by land area are often island nations or microstates dwarfed by the continent’s giants. Below, we list the top 10, ranked by square kilometres, with detailed insights into each.

1. Seychelles

Seychelles, an archipelago of 115 islands, is Africa’s smallest country by land mass. Known for its postcard-perfect beaches and crystal-clear waters, this tropical paradise is a biodiversity hotspot, home to the giant Aldabra tortoise and the rare coco de mer palm. Its capital, Victoria, is a quaint hub with a clock tower reminiscent of London’s Big Ben. Tourism drives the economy, with luxury resorts dotting islands like Mahé and Praslin.

2. São Tomé and Príncipe

São Tomé and Príncipe, a volcanic twin-island nation, blends lush rainforests with colonial charm. Once a global cocoa powerhouse, it’s nicknamed the “Chocolate Islands.” Today, its untouched beaches and marine biodiversity attract eco-tourists. The capital, São Tomé, features colourful markets and Portuguese architecture, while the equator’s proximity adds a geographical thrill.

3. Mauritius

Mauritius, a cultural mosaic in the Indian Ocean, is famed for its beaches, reefs, and extinct Dodo bird legacy. Port Louis buzzes with markets and history, reflecting influences from Africa, India, and Europe. A thriving tourism sector and sugar industry bolster its economy, making this small nation a global player despite its size.

4. Comoros

Comoros, dubbed the “Perfume Islands,” thrives on ylang-ylang and vanilla exports. Its volcanic landscapes, including Mount Karthala, contrast with idyllic beaches. Moroni, the capital, blends Arab and African vibes, but political instability—over 20 coups since 1975—marks its history. Divers flock here for its coral reefs.

READ MORE: The 20 Richest African Countries 2024 

5. Cape Verde

Cape Verde’s 10 islands offer a mix of volcanic peaks and serene shores. Praia, on Santiago Island, reflects its Portuguese roots, while the morna music of Cesária Évora echoes worldwide. Positioned in the Atlantic, this small nation thrives on tourism and its diaspora’s support.

6. Gambia

Gambia, mainland Africa’s smallest country, stretches along the Gambia River, encircled by Senegal. Its narrow shape—never wider than 50 kilometers—hosts vibrant markets and birdwatching havens. Banjul, the capital, hums with energy, while peanuts and tourism sustain its economy.

7. Eswatini

Eswatini, a landlocked monarchy, features rolling hills and cultural festivals like the Umhlanga Reed Dance. Mbabane and Lobamba share capital duties, showcasing its dual identity. Sugar and timber exports drive its economy, while its small size belies a rich Swazi heritage.

8. Djibouti

Djibouti, a strategic Horn of Africa nation, borders the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Its arid landscapes and salt lakes, like Lake Assal, draw adventurers. Djibouti City’s port is a trade lifeline, leveraging its location near global shipping routes.

9. Rwanda

Rwanda, the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” packs lush greenery and gorilla trekking into its small frame. Kigali, a clean and modern capital, symbolizes its post-1994 rebirth. Coffee, tea, and ecotourism fuel its rapid growth.

10. Burundi

Burundi, nestled near Lake Tanganyika, offers scenic beauty amid a turbulent past. Gitega, its political heart, contrasts with rural landscapes. Coffee dominates exports, though its small size and dense population pose challenges.

Comparing the Smallest African Countries by Land Mass

10 Smallest African Countries by Population

Now, let’s shift focus to the 10 smallest African countries by population, where sparse inhabitants shape unique identities.

1. Seychelles

Seychelles leads again, its tiny population spread across 115 islands. This low count fosters an intimate community, with tourism sustaining its idyllic lifestyle. Victoria’s small-town feel enhances its charm.

2. São Tomé and Príncipe

São Tomé and Príncipe’s modest population enjoys a slow-paced island life. Cocoa legacies and tourism shape its economy, with tight-knit communities preserving Portuguese influences.

READ MORE: 10 Most Beautiful Islands In Africa

3. Cape Verde

Cape Verde’s scattered islands host a small but vibrant population. Its morna music and Atlantic isolation define its culture, with tourism and fishing supporting its people.

4. Comoros

Comoros’ population squeezes into its volcanic islands, creating a dense yet aromatic society. Ylang-ylang and political flux shape its narrative, with fishing supplementing livelihoods.

5. Djibouti

Djibouti’s sparse population thrives in a harsh desert, centered around its bustling port. Its strategic location draws international presence, balancing small numbers with big impact.

6. Eswatini

Eswatini’s small population cherishes its monarchy and traditions. Festivals and sugar production define its rhythm, with a close-knit society rooted in Swazi culture.

7. Mauritius

Mauritius packs a dense population into its small frame, blending cultures seamlessly. Tourism and sugar thrive, with Port Louis as a bustling multicultural hub.

8. Gambia

Gambia’s population lines the riverbanks, creating a lively yet compact nation. Peanuts and tourism sustain its people, with Banjul as a spirited center.

9. Lesotho

Lesotho, a mountainous kingdom within South Africa, hosts a small population. Known as the “Kingdom in the Sky,” its rugged terrain shapes a resilient, pastoral society.

READ MORE: 10 Coldest Countries In Africa

10. Equatorial Guinea

Equatorial Guinea’s small population belies its oil wealth. Spanning a mainland and islands, its shift to a new capital reflects ambition amid a complex history.

Comparing the Smallest African Countries by Population

Why Are Many of Africa’s Smallest Countries Islands?

A pattern emerges when exploring the smallest countries in Africa: most are island nations. Seychelles, São Tomé and Príncipe, Mauritius, Comoros, and Cape Verde all lie off the mainland, shaped by their isolation and oceanic surroundings. This isn’t a coincidence—Africa’s continental landmass favors larger countries, while its islands naturally form smaller, self-contained states. These nations often rely on the sea for trade, fishing, and tourism, making their size an advantage.

What Makes These Small Countries Unique?

Africa’s smallest nations stand out for their diversity. Seychelles offers luxury, Rwanda showcases resilience, and Comoros blends aromas with adventure. Whether by land or population, their smallness amplifies their individuality, from volcanic wonders to cultural crossroads.

Why Visit Africa’s Smallest Countries?

Africa’s smallest countries may lack the vastness of nations like Nigeria or Kenya, but they offer intimate experiences you won’t find elsewhere. From Seychelles’ luxury retreats to Comoros’ volcanic trails, these destinations cater to travellers seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion. Their small size makes them manageable to explore, often in a single trip, without sacrificing depth or diversity.

Conclusion

The 10 smallest African countries, whether measured by land mass or population, reveal a continent of contrasts. From Seychelles’ tiny 459 km² to Burundi’s dense millions, each nation brings something extraordinary to the table. Explore these hidden gems to uncover Africa’s lesser-known treasures. Which will you visit or learn more about next?