The most crowded island on earth

Santa Cruz del Islote, a diminutive island off the coast of Colombia, is often cited as the most densely populated island in the world. Despite its tiny size of just 1% of a square kilometer, it is home to 816 people who navigate a life of remarkable overcrowding and limited resources.

Upon arrival, the density is immediately palpable. The island, which can be traversed in under two minutes, feels perpetually bustling with life. There are only four streets, and the entire space is constructed of concrete, without a single car or motorcycle. The constant presence of people, the mingling sounds of conversations, roosters, waves, and music, all contribute to a unique, if chaotic, atmosphere.

Homes on Santa Cruz del Islote tell the story of extreme adaptation. Every bit of space is utilized to its maximum potential. For instance, it's common to find multiple families sharing one small house, with up to ten people living in a single room. Without electricity, residents must cope with heat and darkness, often bringing mattresses outside to sleep more comfortably. The lack of running water forces them to use it sparingly, prioritizing drinking over all other needs.

The island's infrastructure is rudimentary. There is no sewage system, and waste management is a major issue. Garbage is often thrown into the ocean, creating significant pollution. Despite these challenges, the community functions through a deeply ingrained system of mutual aid and resourcefulness. Houses are built without official permits, leading to a maze-like layout where it's not uncommon to walk through someone else’s home to reach another part of the island.

Drinking water is precious and is collected from rain, stored in communal tanks, and distributed equally among families. However, this is only a temporary solution. When rain is scarce, the Navy assists by transporting water from the mainland.

Electricity is another scarce resource, primarily generated by solar panels. When the sun is shining, electricity is available for a few hours a day, but during cloudy days or storms, residents can be left without power for extended periods. The lack of consistent electricity affects everything from food preservation to basic comfort, with residents often forced to live without refrigeration and hot food.

Life on Santa Cruz del Islote is communal. Privacy is a foreign concept, as daily life spills into the narrow streets and shared spaces. The island has a single school, church, clinic, hotel, restaurant, and a few markets. Education is limited to primary school, as most families cannot afford to send their children to the mainland for further studies. Healthcare is rudimentary, with a nurse who has delivered most of the island’s babies over her 40-year career serving as the primary medical resource.

Despite these hardships, the islanders have a remarkable sense of community and resilience. There is no police force; instead, elders mediate disputes and maintain order. Crime is virtually nonexistent, and the residents pride themselves on their peaceful coexistence. Many have never left the island, and there is a strong attachment to their home and way of life.

Tourism is a vital part of the local economy, with the island charging a small fee for visitors. Tourists bring a welcome influx of money, but also add to the daily chaos. Fishing used to be a primary occupation, but overfishing and pollution have diminished the local fish populations, forcing residents to import seafood from the mainland.

The island’s children are a bright spot amidst the crowded conditions. They turn the limited space into a playground and dream of futures beyond the island, often aspiring to be soccer players in famous international teams. Despite the cramped conditions and limited opportunities, the people of Santa Cruz del Islote remain optimistic and find joy in their close-knit community.

In summary, Santa Cruz del Islote is a testament to human adaptability and communal living. While the island faces significant challenges, including overcrowding, lack of clean water, and waste management issues, its residents have developed a unique way of life centered on mutual support and resilience. The island may not be a paradise in the conventional sense, but for those who call it home, it offers a strong sense of community and belonging.