In a world where bustling cities never sleep, a few places still enjoy peace, emptiness, and silence. The Least Populated Countries in the World are vast lands where people are scarce but beauty is abundant. From the icy wilderness of Greenland to the dry deserts of Namibia, these nations offer more space, more nature, and fewer crowds. Let’s explore these remote corners, understand why their populations remain so low, and learn what makes them some of the most fascinating places on Earth.
Top 10 Least Populated Countries in the World
| Country | Approx. Population | Land Area (sq km) | Density (people per sq km) |
| Greenland | 56,000 | 2,166,000 | 0.14 |
| Mongolia | 3,300,000 | 1,564,000 | 2.1 |
| Namibia | 3,200,000 | 824,000 | 3.8 |
| Australia | 27,000,000 | 7,682,000 | 3.5 |
| Iceland | 400,000 | 103,000 | 3.9 |
| Suriname | 630,000 | 164,000 | 3.9 |
| Libya | 7,400,000 | 1,759,000 | 4.2 |
| Guyana | 830,000 | 215,000 | 4.0 |
| Botswana | 2,500,000 | 582,000 | 4.3 |
| French Guiana | 300,000 | 83,500 | 3.6 |
1. Greenland - The Land of Ice and Silence
Greenland tops the list of least populated countries by area and population. Though it’s the world’s largest island, it has only about 56,000 people. Around 80% of its surface is covered by an ice sheet, leaving only the coastal regions habitable.
Life revolves around small fishing towns along fjords and icy bays. Most travel happens by boats or small aircraft since roads between towns are rare. Despite the challenges, Greenland is a stunning place filled with northern lights, glaciers, and deep traditions.
Key Facts & Highlights about Greenland
- Population: Approximately 56,000
- Density: Only 0.14 people per sq km
- Capital: Nuuk
- Climate: Arctic; long, dark winters
- Economy: Fishing, small trade, and tourism
- Fun Fact: Over 85% of Greenland is permanently frozen
2. Mongolia - The Land of Nomads and Endless Sky
Mongolia is one of the countries with lowest population density and reasons that are deeply cultural. With about 3.3 million people living across vast grasslands and deserts, its density is just over two people per square kilometre.
Most of the land consists of steppes and semi-arid regions. Winters are freezing, and summers bring dry winds. Traditional nomadic families move with their herds, living in portable tents called “gers.” Despite its low population, Mongolia maintains a strong national identity rooted in freedom, open land, and harmony with nature.
Key Facts & Highlights about Mongolia
- Population: About 3.3 million
- Density: 2.1 people per sq km
- Capital: Ulaanbaatar
- Major Terrain: Steppe, desert, mountains
- Economy: Mining, herding, tourism
- Fun Fact: Horses outnumber people in Mongolia
3. Namibia - Africa’s Desert Jewel
Namibia’s low population density is shaped by its deserts and arid climate. Around 3.2 million people live in a country nearly as large as Pakistan. The Namib and Kalahari deserts dominate the landscape, making settlements scarce.
Despite this, Namibia is known for its natural wonders - towering sand dunes, national parks, and rich wildlife. Its low population allows ecosystems to flourish. The country is a global leader in eco-tourism and wildlife protection.
Key Facts & Highlights about Namibia
- Population: 3.2 million
- Density: 3.8 people per sq km
- Capital: Windhoek
- Terrain: Desert and savanna
- Economy: Mining, tourism, ranching
- Fun Fact: Namibia’s Namib Desert is over 55 million years old
4. Australia - A Vast Land of Few People
Australia is enormous, but its population is heavily concentrated on the coast. Out of 27 million people, nearly 90% live in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth. The interior, known as the Outback, remains almost empty due to its extreme heat and dryness.
This makes Australia one of the least populated countries in the world by density, even though it’s one of the largest nations. The Outback’s vastness adds to its mystique - endless red earth, rocky landscapes, and starlit skies.
Key Facts & Highlights about Australia
- Population: Around 27 million
- Density: 3.5 people per sq km
- Capital: Canberra
- Geography: Coastal cities, desert interior
- Economy: Mining, agriculture, services
- Fun Fact: 85% of Australians live within 50 km of the coast
5. Iceland - Fire, Ice, and Peace
Iceland combines stunning natural wonders with one of the lowest population densities in Europe. Around 400,000 people live mostly along the coast, where temperatures are moderate compared to the interior.
The island’s landscape is filled with volcanoes, glaciers, geysers, and lava fields. Harsh winters and rugged terrain make inland areas difficult to inhabit. However, Iceland’s population enjoys one of the highest living standards in the world, thanks to renewable energy and strong community life.
Key Facts & Highlights about Iceland
- Population: 400,000
- Density: 3.9 people per sq km
- Capital: Reykjavik
- Terrain: Volcanic mountains and glaciers
- Economy: Tourism, fishing, renewable energy
- Fun Fact: Iceland runs almost entirely on green energy
6. Suriname - The Green Heart of South America
Suriname, located on the northeastern coast of South America, has a population of around 630,000. Most people live along the coastline, while the interior remains covered in rainforest.
This small country is a treasure of biodiversity. Indigenous groups continue to live traditionally within forest areas, maintaining sustainable lifestyles. Suriname’s small population has helped it preserve vast sections of untouched Amazon rainforest.
Key Facts & Highlights about Suriname
- Population: 630,000
- Density: 3.9 people per sq km
- Capital: Paramaribo
- Terrain: Rainforest and rivers
- Economy: Mining, agriculture, forestry
- Fun Fact: Over 90% of Suriname is covered by forest
7. Libya - Sand, History, and Silence
Libya is the largest nation in North Africa but has a surprisingly small population. With about 7.4 million people, most of them live near the Mediterranean coast, leaving the Sahara desert almost empty.
Over 90% of Libya is desert. Harsh weather and lack of water make much of the country uninhabitable. Despite this, Libya is rich in oil and ancient heritage sites that reflect its long history as a trade hub.
Key Facts & Highlights about Libya
- Population: 7.4 million
- Density: 4.2 people per sq km
- Capital: Tripoli
- Terrain: Desert, coastal plains
- Economy: Oil and gas production
- Fun Fact: 95% of Libya’s land is desert
8. Guyana - Forests, Rivers, and Cultural Blend
Guyana, located in northern South America, has about 830,000 residents. Most people live near the Atlantic coast, where agriculture and trade thrive. The interior remains a wilderness of mountains and tropical forests.
Its low population density preserves diverse ecosystems and wildlife. Guyana’s rivers and rainforests also attract eco-tourism and research visitors who seek nature in its rawest form.
Key Facts & Highlights about Guyana
- Population: 830,000
- Density: 4.0 people per sq km
- Capital: Georgetown
- Terrain: Forests, rivers, and plains
- Economy: Agriculture, mining, tourism
- Fun Fact: The famous Kaieteur Falls is five times taller than Niagara Falls
9. Botswana - The Deserted Beauty of Africa
Botswana’s 2.5 million people live mainly near the eastern border, leaving the central Kalahari region almost empty. The country’s large conservation zones help protect its rich wildlife.
The Okavango Delta, one of the world’s most famous natural habitats, lies at the heart of Botswana. Its low population supports eco-tourism and wildlife conservation, making Botswana a model for sustainable development.
Key Facts & Highlights about Botswana
- Population: 2.5 million
- Density: 4.3 people per sq km
- Capital: Gaborone
- Terrain: Desert and delta
- Economy: Diamonds, tourism, livestock
- Fun Fact: 40% of Botswana’s land is protected for nature
10. French Guiana - Europe’s Quiet Corner in South America
French Guiana, a French overseas territory, has a population of just 300,000. Located on South America’s northeast coast, it is covered by tropical rainforest and rivers.
Most of the population lives near the coastline. The region’s isolation helps preserve its biodiversity. French Guiana is also known for the European Space Agency’s launch site near Kourou - one of the few high-tech facilities in a largely untouched environment.
Key Facts & Highlights about French Guiana
- Population: 300,000
- Density: 3.6 people per sq km
- Capital: Cayenne
- Terrain: Rainforest, rivers, wetlands
- Economy: Space center, fishing, forestry
- Fun Fact: It hosts Europe’s main spaceport in the Amazon
Why Are These the Least Populated Countries in the World?
Several shared reasons explain why these countries remain sparsely populated:
- Extreme climates: Ranging from Arctic cold to desert heat.
- Challenging terrain: Ice sheets, rainforests, or mountains.
- Economic focus: Mining, fishing, or tourism in small zones.
- Cultural traditions: Nomadic and rural lifestyles over urban growth.
- Environmental conservation: Large protected areas and natural reserves.
These nations remind us that progress doesn’t always mean more people - sometimes it means living better with less.
How the Least Populated Countries in the World Shape Our Planet’s Future?
The Least Populated Countries in the World play a crucial role in protecting biodiversity, fresh air, and climate balance. They preserve forests, wildlife, and natural beauty that densely populated nations struggle to maintain. Their existence reminds us that Earth still has untouched corners - where silence is louder than cities, and peace has no price.
Why Population Density Matters?
Low population density shapes how people live, travel, and interact with the land. Fewer people mean cleaner air, more space, and less pollution. However, it also means limited services, fewer schools, and long distances between towns.
These Least Populated Countries in the World remind us that progress and peace can exist together. Their emptiness preserves wildlife, ancient cultures, and natural balance that crowded countries often lose.
FAQs on the Least Populated Countries in the World
1. Which country has the lowest population density in the world?
Greenland, with only 0.14 people per square kilometre.
2. What is the most sparsely populated independent nation?
Mongolia, with roughly 2 people per square kilometre.
3. Which African country is least populated by density?
Namibia ranks first in Africa, followed by Botswana.
4. Why is Iceland’s population so low?
Its harsh terrain and cold climate limit settlement.
5. Why is most of Australia uninhabited?
Its interior is hot, dry, and lacks water sources.
6. Which South American country has low density?
Suriname and French Guiana are the least populated in South America.
7. What are common features of low-density countries?
Extreme geography, small populations, and preserved natural environments.
8. Do low-population countries face development challenges?
Yes, providing healthcare, roads, and communication across vast areas is costly.
9. Are these nations good for tourism?
Absolutely. Their untouched nature and open landscapes attract global travelers.
10. Why are such countries important to the planet?
They protect biodiversity, clean air, and cultural heritage.