AMERICA
Description North America, the planet's 3rd largest continent, includes (23) countries and dozens of small island possessions and territories - mostly in the Caribbean. It contains all Caribbean and Central America countries, Canada, Mexico and the United States of America - three of the largest countries on the planet, as well as Greenland - the world's largest island.
Continent Size:
24,474,000 sq km
9,449,460 sq miles
Percent of Earth's Land: 16.5%
Population: 501,500,000
Highest Point: Mt McKinley in Alaska, 20,322ft (6,194m)
Lowest Point: Death Valley in California, -282 ft (-86m) below sea level.
Caribbean
Indians were the first inhabitants here, and then, in 1492, Christopher Columbus began his exploration of these islands, becoming the first European to venture into the area.
After reportedly landing in the Bahamas, Columbus named these islands the Indies, because he thought he had finally reached Asia (and the East Indies).
Numerous explorers followed in his path, then settlers arrived from the Americas and Europe. Included in that mix were religious outcasts, slaves from Africa, and a small army of pirates.
Great military powers would fight for control of the islands, and finally, a blended mix of African and European cultures and languages transformed this large group of islands and its peoples into one of the premier tourist destinations on the planet.
Long called the West Indies, the overall area is now commonly referred to as the Caribbean, a name that became popular after World War II.
Note: In reality the Bahamas are not considered a part of the Caribbean, however, we show them here because of their cultural, geographical and political associations with the Greater Antilles, and other Caribbean Islands.
Details
The Dutch built a small fort on Anguilla in 1631. Then, in the mid-17th Century, English settlers arrived and colonized the island.
Anguilla is known as a quiet, peaceful island, with miles and miles of white sand beaches, all ringed by crystal clear waters.
Tourism is the major industry, and visitors (many coming to scuba dive), arrive by air, while some take one of the convenient ferries linking Anguilla with Marigot, St. Martin.
Anguilla is mostly flat land, with the highest point only 213 ft. above sea level. There are no rivers or streams, and the average high temperature is near 80º.
Facts and Figures
Official Name Anguilla, a British dependent territory, claimed in 1650
Population 12,300
Capital City The Valley
Languages English (official)
Official Currency East Caribbean Dollar
Currency Converter here
Religions Anglican, Methodist, others
Flag and description here
Land Area 39 sq miles (102 sq km)
Latitude/Longitude 18º 15N, 63º 10W
Highest Point Crocus Hill, 213 ft. (65m)
Details
As the headquarters for the British fleet in the Caribbean during the 18th and 19th centuries, Antigua is an historic and very popular tourist destination. Cruise ships use the deep water port at St John's and its international airport serves jumbo jets from around the world.
The island is known for its low humidity, shopping bargains, a passion for cricket by the locals, sugar cane fields, rain forests and small, scenic coastal villages.
Barbuda, (a dependency) 26 miles to the north, is sparsely populated and famous for hunting and diving venues. Redonda (a dependency) 25 miles to the southwest, is an uninhabited rock.
Facts and Figures
Official Name Antigua and Barbuda
Capital City St. John's
Languages English (official), local dialects
Official Currency East Caribbean Dollar
Religions Anglican, Protestant, Catholic
Flag and description here
Population 67,897 (July 2003 est.)
Land Area 443 sq km (Antigua 280 sq km) (Barbuda 161 sq km) (Redonda (2 sq km)
Latitude/Longitude 17º 03N, 61º 48W
Highest Point Boggy Peak (402 meters)
Details
The wind-swept island of Aruba was discovered and claimed for Spain in 1499, later acquired by the Dutch in 1636.
Once part of the Netherlands Antillies, Aruba withdrew, and subsequently became an independent member of the Kingdom of the Netherlands
Oil refining (even gold mining) were the major industries here, but then tourism developed, and the economy of Aruba changed. In fact, Aruba remains one of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean.
This sunshiny place of balmy (some say perfect) weather, sandy beaches, duty-free shopping, and one of the most fascinating ecosystems on the planet, is surrounded by the warm, aquamarine waters of the Caribbean Sea.
Official Name Aruba, an autonomous member of the Kingdom of the Netherlands
Population 71,500
Capital City Oranjestad (22,000)
Languages Dutch (official), Papiamento, English
Official Currency Aruban Guilder
Currency Converter here
Religions Catholic, Protestant, others
Flag and description here
Land Area 74 sq miles (193 sq km)
Latitude/Longitude 12º 30N, 69º 58W
Highest Point Mt. Yamanota, 620 ft. (188m)
Details
The Bahamas, a wide-spread archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean located off the eastern coastlines of Florida and Cuba, includes over 700 islands, along with dozens of cays and hidden coves.
Columbus first sighted these islands in 1492, and at that time they were the established home of the Lucayan Indians.
Over the next few centuries the Indian population was decimated, and the islands became a major launching base for the Spanish conquest of the Caribbean, as well as the American mainland.
In the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries, American and British factions gained control of this valuable real estate, until the Bahamas finally gained total independence on July 10, 1973.
These low-lying islands (all similar in appearance) are ringed by coral reefs and aqua-green waters that teem with sea life of all descriptions.
Today tourism is the major industry, and these stunning islands of gregarious people, beautiful scenery and sunny skies are one of the most popular vacation destinations in the Caribbean, and for that matter - the world.
Read more about the Bahamas here!
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Commonwealth of the Bahamas
Capital City Nassau (222,000)
Languages English, Creole
Flag and description here
Official Currency Bahamian Dollar
Currency Converter here
Religions Baptist, Anglican, Catholic, others
Population 320,000
Land Area 10,010 sq km (3,864 sq miles)
Latitude/Longitude 24º 15N, 76º 00W
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Barbados
Population 264,000
Capital City Bridgetown (99,000)
Languages English
Flag and description here
Official Currency Barbados Dollar
Religions Protestant, others
Population 264,000
Land Area 430 sq km (166 sq miles)
Latitude/Longitude 13º 10N, 59º 32W
Highest Point Mt. Hillaby 1,102 ft. (336m)
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Bermuda
Capital City Hamilton
Flag here!
Latitude/Longitude 32° 20'N, 64° 45'W
Languages English, Portuguese
Official Currency Bermudian Dollar
Religions non-Anglican Protestant 39%, Anglican 27%, Roman Catholic 15%, other 19%
Population 67,837 (2009 est)
Land Area 53.3 sq km (20.5 sq miles)
Landforms generally flat land rising to low hills. It includes about 140 offshore coral islands and/or islets. There! are no rivers or lakes.
Land Divisions 9 parishes and 2 municipalities*; Devonshire, Hamilton, Hamilton*, Paget, Pembroke, Saint George*, Saint George's, Sandys, Smith's, Southampton, Warwick.
Island Details
Mexico's Isla Cozumel is located in the western Caribbean, 12 miles off the coastline of the Yucatan Peninsula, about 45 miles south of Cancun.
The island (mostly flat land) is approximately 30 (48km) miles long and 10 (16km) miles wide.
Famed for its numerous Maya ruins, pristine reefs and diving venues, sandy beaches, duty-free shopping and perfect weather, it has developed into a significant cruise ship port-of-call.
From Cozumel (by ferry or airplane), there's easy access to the many attractions of the Yucatan Peninsula, including Cancun, Chichen Itza and Tulum.
Major Town San Miguel de Cozumel
Population 66,000 (2003 est)
Languages Spanish, English
Official Currency Mexican Peso
Currency Converter here
Religions Catholic, others
Land Area 243 sq miles
Latitude/Longitude 20º 29N, 86º 54W
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Cayman Islands, a British dependent territory, claimed 1670
Population 45,000
Capital City George Town (29,000)
Languages English
Flag and description here
Official Currency Caymanian Dollar
Religions Anglican, Baptist, Catholic, others
Land Area 260 sq km
Latitude/Longitude 19º 30N, 80º 30W
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Cuba
Population 11,822,800
Capital City Havana (2.3 million)
Languages Spanish
Flag and description here
Official Currency Cuban Peso
Currency Converter here
Religions Catholic, others
Land Area 110,860 sq km
Latitude/Longitude 21º 30N, 80º 00W
Details
Dominica was the last Caribbean island to be colonized by the Europeans, due in part to its rugged topography, and the fierce resistance of the native Carib Indians. Approximately 3,000 Carib descendants still live on the island.
The British took control in 1763, and Dominica became a colony in 1805, finally gaining total independence in 1978.
Called the "Nature Island," Dominica is certainly that, and much more. It's literally covered with thick green jungle, punctuated by sharp-edged volcanic peaks, mountains, lakes, rivers, hot springs and waterfalls and a wide variety of green vegetation and wildlife.
It's a popular cruise ship destination, and a magnet for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The offshore reefs attract divers from around the world.
Agriculture is the major industry here, followed closely by tourism. Travelers fortunate to visit this Eden will tell you that Dominica is a true paradise, wonderfully preserved for all to see.
Official Name Commonwealth of Dominica
Population 70,500
Capital City Roseau (20,000)
Languages English (official)
Flag and description here
Official Currency East Caribbean Dollar
Currency Converter here
Religions Catholic, Protestant, others
Land Area 290 sq miles (750 sq km)
Latitude/Longitude 15º 25N, 61º 20W
Highest Point Mt. Diablotin, 4,747 ft. (1,447m
Detail.
The island of Hispaniola, the second largest island in the Caribbean, contains two separate countries; the Dominican Republic and Haiti.
Columbus claimed Hispaniola in 1492, and it later became the major launching base for the Spanish conquest of the Caribbean, as well as the American mainland.
Subsequently, disease and slavery were introduced by the Spanish conquistadors, and the indigenous Arawak peoples were destroyed.
In the 17th Century, with the Spanish in control, the French established a colony on the island. The Spanish later ceded the western third of Hispaniola in 1697, which in 1804 became known as Haiti.
The remainder of the island, then known as Santo Domingo, declared its independence in 1821, however, it was immediately occupied by Haiti. It finally gained total independence in 1844, and became the Dominican Republic.
Ruled by a series of dictators for the next 134 years, democracy was finally introduced in 1978. Today this beautiful island of gregarious people and stunning scenery is a popular Caribbean destination, as unlike its neighbor to the west, the country's economy is one of the fasting growing in the western hemisphere.
Read more about the Dominican Republic here!
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Dominican Republic
Population 9,219,800
Capital City Santo Domingo (2.25 million)
Languages Spanish (official)
Flag and description here
Official Currency Dominican Peso
Currency Converter here
Religions Catholic (95%)
Latitude/Longitude 19º 00N, 70º 40W
Land Area 48,730 sq km (18,815 sq miles)
Highest Pt. Pico Duarte, 10,417 ft. (3,175 m)
Landforms The Dominican Republic, occupying the eastern two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola, is mountainous in the central and west, while extensive lowlands dominate the east.
Details
Christopher Columbus landed on the island of Guadeloupe on November 3, 1493 - and over 500 years later - it's one of the most popular travel destinations in the Caribbean.
Though initial efforts to colonize the area failed, it was finally annexed by the French in 1674, and declared an official overseas department in 1946.
The Guadeloupe Archipelago includes the large islands of Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre, the nearby islands of Marie-Galante and La Desirade and numerous smaller islands.
It also includes the island of Saint Barthelemy (not shown), and the French controlled part of the island of Saint Martin (not shown).
The Guadeloupe cuisine and surroundings are decidedly French, and the beaches, casinos and nightlife are all first-class.
Pigeon Island and the Jacques Cousteau Underwater Park are considered one of the world's best dive destinations, and local sailing conditions are unrivaled in the Caribbean.
The bustling port city of Pointe-A-Pitre is the main entry point, and it's crammed with local markets, shops and cruise ship passengers.
The Guadeloupe pages and maps are currently being revised, however you can read more about it here!
Facts and Figures
Official Name Guadeloupe, a French overseas department
Population 440,000
Capital City Basse-Terre (12,000)
Flag here
Languages French (official), Creole Patois, English is common in most hotels and visitor areas
Latitude/Longitude 16º 15N, 61º 35W
Currency Euro
Currency Converter here
Religions Catholic (95%), others
Land Area 629 sq miles (1,629 sq km)
Landforms Basse-Terre is lush, with dense forested areas. It's dominated by a single (still-active) volcano, La Soufriere. It stands at 4,687 ft. (1,484m).
Details
Columbus landed on Martinique (near Le Carbet) in 1502. The French arrived in 1635, built permanent settlements, began the cultivation of sugarcane, and the importation of slaves from Africa.
After brief periods of bloody battles with Carib Indians, and numerous English occupations, the French finally took firm control in 1815.
In 1848, the French government signed an Emancipation Proclamation document, which ended all slavery in the French West Indies.
On May 8, 1902, Mt. Pelee erupted, destroying the once thriving capital city of Saint Pierre, and killing its 30,000 residents in less than three-minutes.
A long-time French colony, Martinique was declared an official French overseas department in 1946, and the island's beauty, charm and historical sites attract visitors from around the world.
Fort-de-France, fronted by lush, green mountains, surrounds a yacht-filled harbor, and is one of the most strikingly beautiful ports in the Caribbean.
Point du Bont is the island's main resort area, offering a wide selection of hotels, along with casinos, great golf, shopping and night life.
The Martinique pages and maps are currently being revised, however you can read more about it here!
Facts and Figures
Official Name Martinique, a French overseas department
Population 391,000
Capital City Fort-de-France (97,000)
Flag here
Languages French (official), Creole Patois
Flag and description here
Latitude/Longitude 14º 40N, 61º 00W
Currency Euro
Currency Converter here
Religions Catholic (95%), others
Land Area 426 sq miles (1,060 sq km)
Landforms Martinique is dominated by single (active) volcano, Mt. Pelee. It stands at 4,583 ft. (1,397m).
Details
On his third voyage to the New World in 1498, Columbus sailed by Grenada and named it Concepcion.
The British attempted a small settlement in 1609, but it was the French that successfully battled the cannibalistic Carib Indians, finally driving them off the island in 1651.
Military and political struggles continued on the islands for two centuries, with Grenada finally becoming an independent country in 1974.
Then, in 1983, Grenada was seized by a Marxist military group. This action facilitated an invasion by US forces and those of six other Caribbean nations; they captured the ringleaders and hundreds of Cuban advisers and free elections were reinstituted the following year.
Grenada (the country) includes the large island of Grenada, and a few islands on the southern edge of the Grenadines, with Carriacou and Petit Martinique the most significant.
Volcanic in origin, Grenada is dominated by a central ridge of mountains, all covered with lush rainforests. The island is blessed with numerous bays and harbors, and some of the best beaches in the Caribbean.
Once famed only for its indigenous spices (namely mace and nutmeg), Grenada's modern focus is tourism, and the islands are deservedly garnering the attention of the travel industry.
Official Name Grenada
Population 94,000
Capital City St. George's (4,500)
Languages English (official), French patois
Flag and description here
Official Currency East Caribbean Dollar
Currency Converter here
Religions Catholic, Anglican, others
Land Area 133 sq miles (345 sq km)
Latitude/Longitude 12º 06N, 61º 74W
Highest Point Mt. St. Catherine, 2,756 ft. (840m)
Details
Christopher Columbus landed on the island of Guadeloupe on November 3, 1493 - and over 500 years later - it's one of the most popular travel destinations in the Caribbean.
Though initial efforts to colonize the area failed, it was finally annexed by the French in 1674, and declared an official overseas department in 1946.
The Guadeloupe Archipelago includes the large islands of Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre, the nearby islands of Marie-Galante and La Desirade and numerous smaller islands.
It also includes the island of Saint Barthelemy (not shown), and the French controlled part of the island of Saint Martin (not shown).
The Guadeloupe cuisine and surroundings are decidedly French, and the beaches, casinos and nightlife are all first-class.
Pigeon Island and the Jacques Cousteau Underwater Park are considered one of the world's best dive destinations, and local sailing conditions are unrivaled in the Caribbean.
The bustling port city of Pointe-A-Pitre is the main entry point, and it's crammed with local markets, shops and cruise ship passengers.
The Guadeloupe pages and maps are currently being revised, however you can read more about it here!
Facts and Figures
Official Name Guadeloupe, a French overseas department
Population 440,000
Capital City Basse-Terre (12,000)
Flag here
Languages French (official), Creole Patois, English is common in most hotels and visitor areas
Latitude/Longitude 16º 15N, 61º 35W
Currency Euro
Currency Converter here
Religions Catholic (95%), others
Land Area 629 sq miles (1,629 sq km)
Landforms Basse-Terre is lush, with dense forested areas. It's dominated by a single (still-active) volcano, La Soufriere. It stands at 4,687 ft. (1,484m).
Details
The island of Hispaniola, the second largest island in the Caribbean, contains two separate countries; the Dominican Republic and Haiti.
Columbus claimed Hispaniola in 1492, and it later became the major launching base for the Spanish conquest of the Caribbean, as well as the American mainland.
Subsequently, disease and slavery were introduced by the Spanish conquistadors, and the indigenous Arawak peoples were destroyed.
In the 17th Century, with the Spanish in control, the French established a colony on the island. The Spanish later ceded the western third of Hispaniola in 1697, which in 1804 became known as Haiti, at the conclusion of the Haitian Slave Revolt.
Since then, Haiti has been ruled by a seemingly-endless line of dictators; who imposed absolute obedience to their authority. That political turmoil has continually divided Haiti into a very small and wealthy elite, and a large underclass of people with little or no economic or political power.
At the beginning of the 21st century, Haiti did struggle to establish the legitimacy of its government and to improve the economic and social conditions of its people.
In 2004, once again, the people revolted, as they continued to search for freedom and equality - long absent in their beloved country of Haiti.
Read more about Haiti here!
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Haiti
Population 8,490,200
Capital City Port-au-Prince (1.4 million)
Languages French (official), French Creole (official)
Flag and description here
Official Currency Gourde
Currency Converter here
Religions Catholic (80%), others
Latitude/Longitude 18º 54N, 72º 34W
Land Area 27,400 sq km (10,569 sq miles)
Landforms Haiti, occupying the western third of the island of Hispaniola, consists of two peninsulas, separated by the Gonave Gulf.
Country Details
Discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1494, Jamaica remained a Spanish colony until captured by the English in 1655. It gained its independence in 1962, and is an important force in the tourism economy and politics of the Caribbean.
It's about the size of the U.S. State of Connecticut, and measures 4,400 square miles. It's 145 miles from east to west, and 20 and 50 miles from north to south.
Jamaica is dominated by mountains, mostly covered with lush, green forests. Blue Mountain is the highest point, at 7,402 feet.
White beaches suround this tropical island, and over 100 small rivers (mostly streams) flow from the mountains to the Caribbean coast.
Located 95 miles south of Cuba, Jamaica is known for many things - but certainly on top of any list are the numerous idyllic beach resorts, local pirate history, Reggae music, culture and food, and of course, delicious Blue Mountain Coffee.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Jamaica
Capital City Kingston (590,000)
Languages English, Creole
Flag and description here
Official Currency Jamaican Dollar
Currency Converter here
Religions Protestant, others
Population 2,772,000
Land Area 10,830 sq km (4,181 sq miles)
Latitude/Longitude 18º 15N, 77º 30W
Highest Point Blue Mountain (2,256 meters)
Details
Isla de Margarita (Margarita Island) is a somewhat mountainous island, located about 40 miles north of the Venezuela mainland. Together with Isla de Coche and Isla de Cubagua, they collectively form the Venezuelan state of Nueva Esparta.
The island is fabled for consistently sunny weather, and some of the most desirable beaches in the Caribbean.
Official Name Isla de Margarita
(an island territory of Venezuela)
Population 352,000
Capital City La Asuncion
Languages Spanish (official)
Flag and description here
Official Currency Bolivars
Currency Converter here
Religions Catholic, others
Land Area 413 sq miles (1071 sq km)
Latitude/Longitude 10º 30N, 64º 10W
Highest Point unavailable, however some mountain peaks reaching up to 3000 ft. (1000 m)
Details
Soufriere Hills, a volcano on the island of Montserrat, began erupting on July 18, 1995.
This is the first recorded eruption of the volcano in modern times, and that eruption spread ash across the island.
Most of Montserrat (the Emerald Isle) was devastated and more than two-thirds of the population left.
Looking at beautiful Montserrat today, it would appear that the eruption never happened, even though the southern two-thirds of the island is closed.
However, in the north, homes and commercial buildings are clean of ash and debris, roads are clear, and gardens and crops have been replanted.
In short, Montserrat is going through a complete resurgence, as this once popular (and very proud) Caribbean tourism destination is fighting to get back on its feet, and it appears to be winning the battle.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Montserrat,
British dependent territory, claimed 1632
Capital City Plymouth (abandoned in 1997) Note that temporary government buildings have been built along the northwest edge of the island.
Languages English (official)
Flag and description here
Official Currency East Caribbean Dollar
Currency Converter here
Religions Catholic, Anglican, others
Population 7,300
Land Area 102 sq km
Latitude/Longitude 16º 45N, 62º 42W
Details
The Netherlands Antilles are part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and the islands within were granted full internal-affairs autonomy in 1954, however, the Netherlands is still responsible for their defense.
It includes the individual islands of Bonaire and Curacao, (just off the coast of South America), as well as Saba, St. Eustatius and Sint Maarten in the northeastern Caribbean.
Note that it no longer includes Aruba, as that island seceded from the Netherlands Antilles in 1986, and became a separate (yet autonomous) member of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
Official Name Netherlands Antilles, an autonomous part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands
Capital City Willemstad, Curacao
Languages Dutch (official), English, others
Official Currency Netherlands Antillean Guilder
Currency Converter here
Religions Baptist, Catholic, Protestant, others
Flag and description here
Population 216,000
Land Area 960 sq km
Facts and Figures
Official Names
St. Martin: a dependency of the French overseas department of Guadeloupe
Sint Maarten: a part of the Netherlands Antilles
Populations
St. Martin: 44,600
Sint Maarten: 40,100
Capital Cities
St. Martin: Marigot
Sint Maarten: Philipsburg
Flag
St. Martin here
Sint Maarten here
Languages
St. Martin: French, English
Sint Maarten: Dutch, English
Latitude/Longitude 17º 59N, 63º 10W
Currency
St. Martin: Euro
Sint Maarten: Netherlands Antilles florin
Note: U.S, Dollar widely accepted
Currency Converter here
Religions
St. Martin: Catholic
Sint Maarten: Catholic, Protestant, others
Land Area (Island) 33 sq miles (85 sq km)
St. Martin: 20 sq miles (52 sq km)
Sint Maarten: 13 sq miles (33 sq km)
Landforms The island is famed for its white sandy beaches and secluded coves. The interior is a vibrant green mix of hills and valleys. The highest points are in the 1,200 ft. range. There are no significant rivers.
Details
St. Eustatius, commonly called Statia (stay-sha) is today a part of the Netherlands Antilles. Over its long history, it changed hands more than 20 times.
Vocanic in origin, and quite rugged along the coastal areas, it was once one of the busiest and most powerful commercial ports in the Caribbean.
As a result of the British blockade during America's Revolutionary War, most goods destined for the new colonies flowed into St. Eustatius. It was not uncommon to see hundreds of supply ships off Oranjestad.
When that war ended and mail and supplies were sent directly to the new United States, the economy of St. Eustatius changed dramatically.
Tourism is the major industry today, and the island is a favorite destination for scuba diving aficionados and nature lovers.
Official Name St. Eustatius
Population 2,400
Capital City Oranjestad
Languages Dutch (official), English, others
Flag and description here
Official Currency Netherlands Antillean Guilder
Currency Converter here
Religions Baptist, Catholic, Protestant, others
Land Area 8 sq miles (21 sq km)
Latitude/Longitude 17º 49N, 62º 98W
Highest Point Mt. Mazinga, 1,968 ft. (602m)
Details
Saba, the smallest island in the Netherlands Antilles group, is the remains of a dormant volcano, and juts abruptly out of the blue Caribbean Sea.
Mt. Scenery is the highest point, and it dominates the island's beautiful and rugged terrain.
Saba is famous for its numerous scuba diving venues, lack of commercialism, and relaxing, isolated solitude.
This somewhat little-known speck of land remains one of the favorite honeymoon destinations in all of the Caribbean.
Official Name Saba
Population 1,500
Capital City The Bottom
Languages Dutch (official), English, others
Official Currency Netherlands Antillean Guilder
Currency Converter here
Religions Baptist, Catholic, Protestant, others
Flag and description here
Land Area 5 sq miles (13 sq km)
Latitude/Longitude 17º 38N, 63º 13W
Highest Point Mt Scenery, 2,855 ft. (871m)
Island Details
After Christopher Columbus arrived in 1493, the island was colonized in 1508, and the capital city of San Juan founded in 1521.
As a result of the Spanish-American War, Puerto Rico was relinquished to the USA by Spain in 1898. Today it is a self governing (very independent-minded) territory of the USA, and enjoys much autonomy.
The narrow coastal plain rises into green (low) hills and mountains central and south. A few small rivers and lakes dot the landscape.
The climate is usually hot and humid, with some lower temperatures found in the higher elevations. Like most Caribbean islands, Puerto Rico is subject to an occasional hurricane warning (May - October).
The island is a mecca for Caribbean cruise ships and tourists from around the world. Old San Juan is the most popular destination.
Compared to other islands in the Caribbean, Puerto Rico has a high standard of living with a vibrant industrialized economy.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Puerto Rico, Commonwealth territory
of the USA, claimed 1898
Population 3,949,000 (July 2003 est.)
Capital City San Juan (434,000)
Languages Spanish, English
Flag and description here
Official Currency US Dollar
Religions Catholic, Protestant
Land Area 9,100 sq km
Latitude/Longitude 18º 15N, 66º 30W
Highest Point Cerro del Punta at 4,389 ft. (1,338m)
Details
It is widely believed that St. Barts was discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493, and he named it in honor of his brother Bartolomeo. In the mid-1600s, the French arrived, took control from the indigenous indians, and built small settlements.
In 1784 it was sold (traded) to Sweden, and even though the French bought it back in 1878, some Swedish influences remain, including the name of the its capital, Gustavia.
The island is part of the French overseas department of Guadeloupe, and the French influence and style are everywhere.
It is considered by many to be the Caribbean's most beautiful island, with dozens of white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and a green, hilly landscape punctuated by numerous lagoons.
St. Barts is definitely upscale, and a favorite of the rich and famous. The island is chic and simply stunning. Gustavia, a duty-free port, is a picturesque place of red-roofed buildings, boutiques, a yacht-filled harbor, and a very relaxed lifestyle.
The St. Bart's pages and maps are currently being revised, however you can read a bit more about it here!
Facts and Figures
Official Name Saint Barthelemy, a sub-prefect of Guadeloupe, a French overseas department.
Population 6,900 (est)
Capital City Gustavia
Languages French (official), English, others
Flag and description here
Latitude/Longitude 17º 50N, 62º 50W
Currency Euro
Currency Converter here
Religions Catholic, Protestant, others
Land Area 8 sq miles (21 sq km)
Landforms St. Barts is not of volcanic origin, but rather a hilly island of ancient coral reefs. In fact, the island is almost completely surrounded by shallow-water reefs. The island's highest point is Mt du Vitet, at 938 ft. There are no significant rivers or lakes.
Details
Discovered by Columbus in 1493, St. Kitts and Nevis were settled by the British and French in the early 17th Century.
Using St. Kitts (St. Christopher) as a "Mother Colony" base of operations, British and French explorers traveled the Caribbean, colonizing a wide assortment of islands.
Long associated with Britain, St. Kitts and Nevis gained their total independence in 1983, becoming a (very proud) individual country.
Both of these mountainous islands are volcanic in origin, and covered with lush rain forests, green valleys and miles and miles of pristine beaches.
St. Kitts is today a (growing in popularity) cruise ship destination, and the surrounding waters are a magnet for scuba divers and snorkelers.
Separated by a narrow channel from St. Kitts, Nevis is dominated by the remnants of a single volcano, and famed for its restored sugar plantations (now secluded inns), black sand beaches and local charms.
Both islands are known for their low-key, relaxed atmosphere, and for their welcoming hospitality.
Official Name Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis
Population 38,500
Capital City Basseterre (11,500)
Languages English (official)
Flag and description here
Official Currency East Caribbean Dollar
Currency Converter here
Religions Anglican, Protestant, Catholic
Land Area 104 sq miles (269 sq km)
St. Kitts: (68 sq miles) Nevis: (36 sq miles)
Latitude/Longitude 17º 20N, 62º 45W
Highest Point Mt. Misery (Liamuiga), 3,793 ft. (1,156m)
Details
After driving the indigenous Arwak peoples off St. Lucia, the Carib Indians were eventually wiped out by disease inadvertently introduced to the island by the French in the 17th Century.
After changing hands between the British and French (14 times), the Brits finally took control of St. Lucia in 1814, and the island gained independence in 1979.
Agricultural industries were the mainstay on St. Lucia for decades, but Caribbean tourism made this (simply stunning island) famous. The two towering volcanic cones on the southwest coast, Gros Piton and Petit Piton (shown to the right) remain navigational aides for mariners, and are regarded as one of the Caribbean's most famous landmarks.
Volcanic in origin, St. Lucia is dominated by dense jungle and a central ridge of forested mountains. The island is ringed with sandy beaches, friendly villages and spectacular scenery at every turn.
The capital city of Castries and the surrounding resorts, as well as the coastal village of Soufriere and the nearby nature attractions are the major draws for visitors.
Official Name Saint Lucia
Population 150,000
Capital City Castries (50,000)
Languages English, French Patois
Official Currency East Caribbean Dollar
Currency Converter here
Religions Catholic, Protestant, others
Flag and description here
Land Area 238 sq miles (616 sq km)
Latitude/Longitude 13º 54N, 60º 50W
Highest Point Mt. Gimie, 3,145 ft. (959m)
Facts and Figures
Official Names
St. Martin: a dependency of the French overseas department of Guadeloupe
Sint Maarten: a part of the Netherlands Antilles
Populations
St. Martin: 44,600
Sint Maarten: 40,100
Capital Cities
St. Martin: Marigot
Sint Maarten: Philipsburg
Flag
St. Martin here
Sint Maarten here
Languages
St. Martin: French, English
Sint Maarten: Dutch, English
Latitude/Longitude 17º 59N, 63º 10W
Currency
St. Martin: Euro
Sint Maarten: Netherlands Antilles florin
Note: U.S, Dollar widely accepted
Currency Converter here
Religions
St. Martin: Catholic
Sint Maarten: Catholic, Protestant, others
Land Area (Island) 33 sq miles (85 sq km)
St. Martin: 20 sq miles (52 sq km)
Sint Maarten: 13 sq miles (33 sq km)
Landforms The island is famed for its white sandy beaches and secluded coves. The interior is a vibrant green mix of hills and valleys. The highest points are in the 1,200 ft. range. There are no significant rivers.
Details
St. Eustatius, commonly called Statia (stay-sha) is today a part of the Netherlands Antilles. Over its long history, it changed hands more than 20 times.
Vocanic in origin, and quite rugged along the coastal areas, it was once one of the busiest and most powerful commercial ports in the Caribbean.
As a result of the British blockade during America's Revolutionary War, most goods destined for the new colonies flowed into St. Eustatius. It was not uncommon to see hundreds of supply ships off Oranjestad.
When that war ended and mail and supplies were sent directly to the new United States, the economy of St. Eustatius changed dramatically.
Tourism is the major industry today, and the island is a favorite destination for scuba diving aficionados and nature lovers.
Official Name St. Eustatius
Population 2,400
Capital City Oranjestad
Languages Dutch (official), English, others
Flag and description here
Official Currency Netherlands Antillean Guilder
Currency Converter here
Religions Baptist, Catholic, Protestant, others
Land Area 8 sq miles (21 sq km)
Latitude/Longitude 17º 49N, 62º 98W
Highest Point Mt. Mazinga, 1,968 ft. (602m
Details
Saba, the smallest island in the Netherlands Antilles group, is the remains of a dormant volcano, and juts abruptly out of the blue Caribbean Sea.
Mt. Scenery is the highest point, and it dominates the island's beautiful and rugged terrain.
Saba is famous for its numerous scuba diving venues, lack of commercialism, and relaxing, isolated solitude.
This somewhat little-known speck of land remains one of the favorite honeymoon destinations in all of the Caribbean.
Official Name Saba
Population 1,500
Capital City The Bottom
Languages Dutch (official), English, others
Official Currency Netherlands Antillean Guilder
Currency Converter here
Religions Baptist, Catholic, Protestant, others
Flag and description here
Land Area 5 sq miles (13 sq km)
Latitude/Longitude 17º 38N, 63º 13W
Highest Point Mt Scenery, 2,855 ft. (871m)
Island Details
After Christopher Columbus arrived in 1493, the island was colonized in 1508, and the capital city of San Juan founded in 1521.
As a result of the Spanish-American War, Puerto Rico was relinquished to the USA by Spain in 1898. Today it is a self governing (very independent-minded) territory of the USA, and enjoys much autonomy.
The narrow coastal plain rises into green (low) hills and mountains central and south. A few small rivers and lakes dot the landscape.
The climate is usually hot and humid, with some lower temperatures found in the higher elevations. Like most Caribbean islands, Puerto Rico is subject to an occasional hurricane warning (May - October).
The island is a mecca for Caribbean cruise ships and tourists from around the world. Old San Juan is the most popular destination.
Compared to other islands in the Caribbean, Puerto Rico has a high standard of living with a vibrant industrialized economy.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Puerto Rico, Commonwealth territory
of the USA, claimed 1898
Population 3,949,000 (July 2003 est.)
Capital City San Juan (434,000)
Languages Spanish, English
Flag and description here
Official Currency US Dollar
Religions Catholic, Protestant
Land Area 9,100 sq km
Latitude/Longitude 18º 15N, 66º 30W
Highest Point Cerro del Punta at 4,389 ft. (1,338m
Details
It is widely believed that St. Barts was discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493, and he named it in honor of his brother Bartolomeo. In the mid-1600s, the French arrived, took control from the indigenous indians, and built small settlements.
In 1784 it was sold (traded) to Sweden, and even though the French bought it back in 1878, some Swedish influences remain, including the name of the its capital, Gustavia.
The island is part of the French overseas department of Guadeloupe, and the French influence and style are everywhere.
It is considered by many to be the Caribbean's most beautiful island, with dozens of white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and a green, hilly landscape punctuated by numerous lagoons.
St. Barts is definitely upscale, and a favorite of the rich and famous. The island is chic and simply stunning. Gustavia, a duty-free port, is a picturesque place of red-roofed buildings, boutiques, a yacht-filled harbor, and a very relaxed lifestyle.
The St. Bart's pages and maps are currently being revised, however you can read a bit more about it here!
Facts and Figures
Official Name Saint Barthelemy, a sub-prefect of Guadeloupe, a French overseas department.
Population 6,900 (est)
Capital City Gustavia
Languages French (official), English, others
Flag and description here
Latitude/Longitude 17º 50N, 62º 50W
Currency Euro
Currency Converter here
Religions Catholic, Protestant, others
Land Area 8 sq miles (21 sq km)
Landforms St. Barts is not of volcanic origin, but rather a hilly island of ancient coral reefs. In fact, the island is almost completely surrounded by shallow-water reefs. The island's highest point is Mt du Vitet, at 938 ft. There are no significant rivers or lakes.
Details
Discovered by Columbus in 1493, St. Kitts and Nevis were settled by the British and French in the early 17th Century.
Using St. Kitts (St. Christopher) as a "Mother Colony" base of operations, British and French explorers traveled the Caribbean, colonizing a wide assortment of islands.
Long associated with Britain, St. Kitts and Nevis gained their total independence in 1983, becoming a (very proud) individual country.
Both of these mountainous islands are volcanic in origin, and covered with lush rain forests, green valleys and miles and miles of pristine beaches.
St. Kitts is today a (growing in popularity) cruise ship destination, and the surrounding waters are a magnet for scuba divers and snorkelers.
Separated by a narrow channel from St. Kitts, Nevis is dominated by the remnants of a single volcano, and famed for its restored sugar plantations (now secluded inns), black sand beaches and local charms.
Both islands are known for their low-key, relaxed atmosphere, and for their welcoming hospitality.
Official Name Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis
Population 38,500
Capital City Basseterre (11,500)
Languages English (official)
Flag and description here
Official Currency East Caribbean Dollar
Currency Converter here
Religions Anglican, Protestant, Catholic
Land Area 104 sq miles (269 sq km)
St. Kitts: (68 sq miles) Nevis: (36 sq miles)
Latitude/Longitude 17º 20N, 62º 45W
Highest Point Mt. Misery (Liamuiga), 3,793 ft. (1,156m)
Facts and Figures
Official Names
St. Martin: a dependency of the French overseas department of Guadeloupe
Sint Maarten: a part of the Netherlands Antilles
Populations
St. Martin: 44,600
Sint Maarten: 40,100
Capital Cities
St. Martin: Marigot
Sint Maarten: Philipsburg
Flag
St. Martin here
Sint Maarten here
Languages
St. Martin: French, English
Sint Maarten: Dutch, English
Latitude/Longitude 17º 59N, 63º 10W
Currency
St. Martin: Euro
Sint Maarten: Netherlands Antilles florin
Note: U.S, Dollar widely accepted
Currency Converter here
Religions
St. Martin: Catholic
Sint Maarten: Catholic, Protestant, others
Land Area (Island) 33 sq miles (85 sq km)
St. Martin: 20 sq miles (52 sq km)
Sint Maarten: 13 sq miles (33 sq km)
Landforms The island is famed for its white sandy beaches and secluded coves. The interior is a vibrant green mix of hills and valleys. The highest points are in the 1,200 ft. range. There are no significant rivers.
Details
Columbus sailed past these islands in 1492, and for another 130 years the thickly forested landscape of St. Vincent deterred any serious European exploration and settlements.
For most of the 18th Century, the British, French and Carib Indians fought for control. There were numerous bloody battles, with the British gaining total control in 1790s, as all of the remaining Caribs were shipped to Central America.
St. Vincent & The Grenadines are some 32 islands and cays stretching south (about 48 miles) to the country of Grenada.
The big island of St. Vincent (volcanic in origin) has a rugged mountainous terrain, lush forests and many uncluttered beaches and inlets. The port city of Kingstown is one of the most picturesque in the Caribbean.
The Grenadines includes Bequia, Canouan, Mustique and Union, and a group of smaller (many unpopulated) islands. All are low-lying, ringed by coral reefs, and famed for some of the best beaches and sailing conditions on the planet.
The overall economy of the St. Vincent & The Grenadines revolves around agriculture, with bananas and coconut palms the major cash crops.
Tourism is a growing business (especially on St. Vincent), but on the outer islands, smaller crowds, isolated beaches and quiet days are the norm.
Official Name Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Population 121,000
Capital City Kingstown (17,600)
Languages English (official), French patois
Flag and description here
Official Currency East Caribbean Dollar
Currency Converter here
Religions Anglican, Methodist, Catholic, others
Land Area 150 sq miles (389 sq km)
Latitude/Longitude 13º 16N, 61º 23W
Highest Point Mt. Soufriere, (active volcano)
Details
San Andres is located 90 miles off the eastern coastline of Nicaragua. This series of cays and islands also includes the larger islands of Providencia and Santa Catalina.
All of them belong to the country of Colombia, 480 miles to the southeast.
Facts and Figures
Official Name San Andres
Population 75,000
Major Town/Island San Andres (55,200)
Languages Spanish, English
Official Currency Colombian Peso, U.S. Dollaer
Currency Converter here
Religions varied...
Land Area (all islands and cays) 47 sq km
Latitude/Longitude 12º 58N, 81º 68W
Details
Trinidad and Tobago came under British control in the 19th century, then gaining their independence in 1962.
The country is one of the most prosperous island nations in the Caribbean, primarily due to its offshore petroleum and natural gas production and processing.
Tourism is a significant industry here, with most visitors favoring the idylic island of Tobago.
Quick Facts and Figures
Official Name Republic of Trinidad and Tobago
Population 1,362,000 Tobago (75,000)
Capital City Port-of-Spain (45,300)
Languages English (official), Hindi, others
Flag and description here
Official Currency Trinidad and Tobago Dollar
Currency Converter here
Religions Catholic, Hindu, others
Land Area 5,128 sq km
Latitude/Longitude 11º 00N, 61º 00W
Details
The Turks and Caicos includes 45 islands and cays. It's believed that Columbus' first landfall in the New World was on Grand Turk island.
These islands, once annexed by both the Bahamas and Jamaica, have long been associated with the UK, and today are still a British overseas territory.
This group of flat islands (southeast of the Bahamas) are favored by scuba divers and fisherman, and renown for turquoise waters and endless white-sand beaches.
Tourism is becoming the major business here, but these islands are also a recognized offshore tax haven for worldwide investors.
Official Name Turks and Caicos Islands, a British overseas territory.
Population 18,700
Capital City Cockburn Town (5,000)
Languages English (official)
Flag and description here
Official Currency U.S. Dollar
Currency Converter here
Religions Baptist, Methodist, Anglican, others
Land Area 193 sq miles (500 sq km)
Latitude/Longitude 21º 48N, 71º 13W
Highest Point Blue Hills xxx (49m)
Details
The British Virgin Islands, about 50 (mostly uninhabited) islands and cays, are one of the Caribbean's most popular destinations.
Fought over for centuries, they were finally controlled by the British in the mid-1600s, and later became an official British colony.
Tourism is a major business in the islands, as it generates an estimated 45% of the national income. The BVI economic structure is similar to that of the U.S. Virgin Islands, and both use the U.S. Dollar as their local currency.
Steeped in the history of the British Navy, the islands are ringed by shipwrecks; the most famous of these - The RMS Rhone - is now a national marine park, and a favorite scuba diving point.
Road Town, the capital city, is crammed with markets, boutiques and restaurants, and remains a favorite stop for experienced cruise ship passengers.
Ferry service to the outer-islands is convenient and economical, but outer-island air service is limited.
Official Name British Virgin Islands, (BVI) a British dependent territory, claimed in 1672
Population 22,700
Capital City Road Town (9,400)
Languages English (official)
Flag and description here
Official Currency U.S. Dollar
Currency Converter here
Religions Protestant, others
Land Area 59 sq miles (153 sq km)
Latitude/Longitude 18º 30N, 64º 30W
Highest Point Mt Sage, 1,780 ft. (521m)
Details
The British Virgin Islands, about 70 (mostly uninhabited) islands and cays, are one of the Caribbean's most popular destinations.
Fought over for centuries, they were finally controlled by the British in the mid-1600s, and later became an official British colony.
Tourism is the major business, and the BVI are closely associated with the economy and culture of the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Steeped in the history of the British Navy, the islands are ringed by shipwrecks; the most famous of these - The RMS Rhone - is now a national marine park, and a favorite scuba diving point.
Road Town, the capital city, is crammed with local markets and boutiques, restaurants, government buildings, and cruise ship passengers.
Ferry service to the outer-islands is convenient and economical, but outer-island air service is limited.
Official Name British Virgin Islands, (BVI) a British dependent territory, claimed in 1672
Population 22,530
Capital City Road Town (19,000 est.)
Languages English (official)
Official Currency U.S. Dollar
Currency Converter here
Religions Protestant, others
Flag and description here
Land Area 59 sq miles (153 sq km)
Latitude/Longitude 18º 30N, 64º 30W
Highest Point Mt Sage, 1,780 ft. (521m)
Details
Named by Christopher Columbus in 1493, the Virgin Islands are famed for white sand beaches, crystal-blue waters and idyllic sailing venues.
Steeped in maritime history, and the remnants of the Danish, Dutch, English, French and Spanish cultures, the Virgin Islands are one of the busiest cruise and vacations destinations in the Caribbean.
The U.S. Virgin Islands (almost 50 cays and islands), includes the large islands of St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas.
Tourism is the major business, and the U.S. Virgin Islands are closely associated with the economy and culture of the British Virgin Islands.
Covered with red-roofed buildings and houses, the capital city of Charlotte Amalie sits amidst lush green hills, and is widely considered the most beautiful port in the Caribbean. The duty-free shopping, hotels and restaurants on St. Thomas and St. Croix are second to none.
Air and ferry service to all major islands is convenient and economical.
Official Name U.S. Virgin Islands, an unincorporated territory of the USA, claimed 1917
Population 119,000
Capital City Charlotte Amalie (12,100)
Languages English (official)
Flag and description here
Official Currency U.S. Dollar
Currency Converter here
Religions Baptist, Catholic, others
Land Area
St. Croix: 84 sq miles (216 sq km)
St. John: 20 sq miles (52 sq km)
St. Thomas: 32 sq miles (83 sq km)
Latitude/Longitude 18º 20N, 64º 50W
Highest Point Mt Crown, on St. Thomas, at 1,556 ft. (474m)
WEST INDIES
The West Indies is a large group of islands that separate the Caribbean Sea from the Atlantic Ocean. They comprise three main island groups:
Bahamas (north)
Greater Antilles (central)
Lesser Antilles (southeast)
The Bahamas consist of over 3,000 individual islands and reefs.
The Greater Antilles include the island countries of Cuba, Jamaica, Haiti and the Dominican Republic (Hispaniola), and Puerto Rico.
The Lesser Antilles are the much smaller islands to the southeast, and they are divided into two (2) groups, the Leeward Islands and Windward Islands.
Indians were the first inhabitants, and then, In 1492, the explorer Christopher Columbus became the first European to arrive at the islands. It's believed by historians that he first stepped foot in the Bahamas. Columbus called these islands the Indies because he thought he had finally reached Asia (and the East Indies). Spain, when Columbus' mistake was discovered, (pardon the pun) renamed them the West Indies, to distinguish them from the Spice Islands in the Pacific Ocean, (the East Indies) which we now call Indonesia.
Today the West Indies, better know as the Caribbean, is comprised of many island countries, dependencies and territories, and (as a group) remain one of the premier tourist destinations on the planet.
Description South America, the planet's 4th largest continent, includes (12) countries and (3) major territories. It contains the massive Amazon River and surrounding basin - the largest tropical rain forest in the world; the toothy-edged Andes Mountains, that stretch the entire length of the continent, and some of the most diverse and spectacular landforms on the planet.
Continent Size:
17,819,000 sq km
6,879,000 sq miles
Percent of Earth's Land: 12%
Population: 379,500,000
Highest Point: Cerro Aconcagua
Andes Mountains, Argentina - 22,833 ft (6,959m).
Lowest Point: Peninsula Valdes
Argentina coastline -151 ft (-40m) below sea level.
Facts and Figures
Name Argentina
(long form) Argentine Republic
Population 39,537,900
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Buenos Aires (11.5 mil)
Currency Argentine peso (ARS)
Currency Converter here
Languages Spanish, English, Italian, others
Flag here
National Day May 25
Religions Catholic (92%), Protestant, others
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
34º 36' S, 58º 27' W
Relative Location Argentina is positioned in both the western and southern hemisphere. It's located in southern South America, and bordered by Chile, Bolivia, Paraguay, Brazil, Uruguay and the Atlantic Ocean.
Country Dialing Code 54
Electricity Argentina uses 220 volts AC (50 Hz)
Electrical adapters, products and tips here
Travel Warnings here
Facts and Figures
Name Bolivia
(long form) Republic of Bolivia
Population 8,857,900
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City La Paz (seat of government) (812,000); Sucre (legal capital and seat of judiciary) (224,000)
Currency Boliviano (BOB)
Currency Converter here
Languages Spanish, Quechua, Aymara, others
Flag here
National Day August 6
Religions Catholic (95%), Protestant (5%)
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
16º 30' S, 68º 10' W
Relative Location The landlocked country of Bolivia is positioned in the southern and western hemispheres. It's located in west-central South America, and bordered by Peru, Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina and Chile.
Land Statistics
Coastline 0 miles (0 km) (landlocked)
Land Areas
(land) 418,685 sq miles (1,084,390 sq km)
(water) 5,479 sq miles (14,190 sq km)
(TOTAL) 424,164 sq miles (1,098,580 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms Bolivia's western half is covered by the Andes, as three meandering high mountain chains dominate the landscape.
Facts and Figures
Name Brazil
(long form) Federative Republic of Brazil
Population 186,112,800
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Brasilia (2.2 mil)
Currency Real (BRL)
Currency Converter here
Languages Portuguese (official), and most widely spoken language. Less common languages include Spanish, German, Italian, Japanese, English, and a large number of minor Amerindian languages.
Flag here
National Day September 7
Religions Catholic (74%), Protestant (15%), others
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
15º 45' S, 47º 57' W
Relative Location Brazil, dissected by both the Equator and Tropic of Capricorn, is positioned in the northern, southern and western hemispheres. Covering almost 50% of South America, Brazil is bordered by Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, Bolivia, Peru, Colombia, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana and the Atlantic Ocean.
Land Statistics
Coastline 4,655 miles (7,491 km)
Land Areas
(land) 3,265,075 sq miles (8,456,510sq km)
(water) 21,411 sq miles (55,455 sq km)
(TOTAL) 3,286,486 sq miles (8,511,965 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms Brazil is divided into five primary geographic areas: the northern Guiana Highlands; Brazilian Highlands (or plateau) central and east; the massive Amazon River Basin; Pantanal wetland areas of the southwest, and the Southern Highlands - to the west and south of Curitiba.
Facts and Figures
Name Chile
(long form) Republic of Chile
Population 15,980,912
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Santiago (6.3 million in metro area)
Currency Chilean Peso (CLP)
Currency Converter here
Languages Spanish
Flag here
National Day September 18
Religions Catholic (89%), Protestant (11%)
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
33º 27' S, 70º 40' W
Relative Location Chile is positioned in both the western and southern hemispheres. It's located on the western and southwestern coast of South America, and bordered by Argentina, Bolivia and Peru, and by the Pacific Ocean
Land Statistics
Coastline 3,998 miles (6,435 km)
Land Areas
(land) 289,113 sq miles (748,800 sq km)
(water) 3,147 sq miles (8,150 sq km)
(TOTAL) 292,261 sq miles (756,950 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms With a toothy coastline of almost 4,000 miles, pencil-thin Chile is wedged between the Pacific Ocean and the rugged Andes, the world's longest mountain range. This land of incredible and unusual contrasts is also home to the numerous beaches, fjords, deep sea channels, glaciers and icebergs - and the Atacama Desert - a virtually rainless plateau made up of salt basins and lava flows.
Facts and Figures
Name Colombia
(long form) Republic of Colombia
Population 42,954,279
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Bogota (6.1 million)
Currency Colombian Peso (COP)
Currency Converter here
Languages Spanish
Flag here
National Day July 20
Religions Catholic (90%), others
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
04º 38' N, 74º 05' W
Relative Location Colombia is positioned in the northern, southern and western hemispheres. It's located on the northwestern corner of South America, and bordered by Venezuela, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Central America and the country of Panama, and by the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean.
Land Statistics
Coastline 1,993 miles (3,208 km)
Land Areas
(land) 401,044 sq miles (1,038,700 sq km)
(water) 38,691 sq miles (100,210 sq km)
(TOTAL) 439,735 sq miles (1,138,910 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms Fronted by the Caribbean and Pacific lowlands, as well as the eastern Amazon lowlands that extend to its borders with Brazil and Venezuela, the western third of Colombia is crossed by three rugged parallel ranges of the Andes Mountains, namely the Eastern, Central, and Western Cordilleras.
Highest Pt. Cristobal Colon - 18,947 ft. (5,775 m)
Lowest Pt. Pacific Ocean - 0 ft. (0 m)
Land Divisions 32 departments and 1 capital district: departments include; Amazonas, Antioquia, Arauca,
Facts and Figures
Name Ecuador
(long form) Republic of Ecuador
Population 13,363,600
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Quito (1.4 mil)
Currency U S dollar (USD)
Currency Converter here
Languages Spanish, Amerindian
Flag here
National Day August 10
Religions Catholic (95%), others
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
2º 00' S, 77º 30' W
Relative Location Ecuador sits directly on the Equator, and subsequently is positioned in the northern, southern and western hemispheres. It's located on the northwestern edge of South America, and bordered by Colombia, Peru and the Pacific Ocean.
Land Statistics
Coastline 1,390miles (2,237 km)
Land Areas
(land) 106,888 sq miles (276,840 sq km)
(water) 2,595 sq miles (6,720 sq km)
(TOTAL) 109,483 sq miles (283,560 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms Ecuador is divided into four regions: the coastal lowlands and mountains areas; the central Andes Mountains and it's two major chains (Cordillera Occidental in the west) and the (Cordillera Oriental in the east); the lower mountains that fade into rolling hills and lowlands of the east, and the territory of the Galapagos Islands - officially called the Archipiélago de Colón - located about 1,000 km to the west.
Highest Pt. Mt. Chimborazo - 20,561 ft. (6,267 m)
Lowest Pt. Pacific Ocean at 0 ft. (0 m)
Land Divisions 22 provinces, including: Azuay, Bolivar, Canar, Carchi, Chimborazo, Cotopaxi, El Oro, Esmeraldas, Galapagos, Guayas, Imbabura, Loja, Los Rios, Manabi, Morona-Santiago, Napo, Orellana, Pastaza, Pichincha, Sucumbios, Tungurahua and Zamora-Chinchipe.
Facts and Figures
Name Guyana
(long form) Co-operative Republic of Guyana
Population 765,300
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Georgetown (250,000)
Currency Guyanese dollar (GYD)
Currency Converter here
Languages English, Amerindian, Creole, others
Flag here
National Day February 23
Religions Christian (50%), Hindu (35%), Muslim (10%), others
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
06º 46' N, 58º 10' W
Relative Location Guyana is positioned in the northern and westernhemisphere. It's located on the northern edge of South America, and bordered by Suriname, Brazil, Venezuela, and the Atlantic Ocean.
Land Statistics
Coastline 285 miles (459 km)
Land Areas
(land) 76,004 sq miles (196,850 sq km)
(water) 6,996 sq miles (18,120 sq km)
(TOTAL) 83,000 sq miles (214,970 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms Guyana can be divided into four main geographical regions; there's a narrow and swampy coastal plain, a hillier sandy region in the east; the (15,000 sq km) Rupununi Savannah of the south, and the tropical rain forests and interior highlands - central and west.
Facts and Figures
Name Paraguay
(long form) Republic of Paraguay
Population 6,347,900
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Asuncion (508,000)
Currency Guarani (PYG)
Currency Converter here
Languages Spanish, Guarani
Flag here
National Day May 15
Religions Catholic (90%), Mennonite and other Protestant (10%)
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
25º 16' S, 57º 40' W
Relative Location Paraguay, dissected by the Tropic of Capricorn, is located in both the southern and western hemisphere.. It's positioned in central South America, and bordered by Bolivia, Argentina and Brazil.
Land Statistics
Coastline 0 miles (0 km) (landlocked)
Land Areas
(land) 153,398 sq miles (397,300 sq km)
(water) 3,659 sq miles (9,450 sq km)
(TOTAL) 157,057 sq miles (406,750 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms Paraguay is landlocked and criss-crossed by many rivers. The three largest - the Paraguay, Parana and Pilcomayo - form over 75% of the country's borders
Facts and Figures
Name Peru
(long form) Republic of Peru
Population 27,925,600
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Lima (6.9 mil)
Currency Nuevo Sol (PEN)
Currency Converter here
Languages Spanish, Quechua, Aymara, others
Flag here
National Day July 28
Religions Catholic (81%), others
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
10º 00' S, 76º 00' W
Relative Location Peru, just to the south of the Equator, is positioned in both the western and southern hemispheres. It's located on the western coast of South America, and bordered by Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, and by the Pacific Ocean.
Land Statistics
Coastline 1,500 miles (2,414 km)
Land Areas
(land) 494,211 sq miles (1,280,000 sq km)
(water) 2,015 sq miles (5,220 sq km)
(TOTAL) 496,226 sq miles (1,285,220 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms The rugged Andes Mountains cover almost 40% of Peru. Hundreds of snowcapped peaks jut skyward here, with many exceeding 20,000 ft.
Facts and Figures
Name Suriname
(long form) Republic of Suriname
Population 438,100
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Paramaribo (250,000)
Currency Surinam dollar (SRD)
Currency Converter here
Languages Dutch (official), English (widely spoken), Sranang Tongo, others
Flag here
National Day November 25
Religions Hindu (27%), Protestant (25%), Catholic (23%), others
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
5º 50' N, 55º 10' W
Relative Location Suriname is positioned in the northern and western hemispheres. It's located on the northern edge of South America, and bordered by Guyana, French Guiana, Brazil, and the Atlantic Ocean.
Land Statistics
Coastline 240 miles (386 km)
Land Areas
(land) 62,343 sq miles (161,470 sq km)
(water) 695 sq miles (1,800 sq km)
(TOTAL) 63,038 sq miles (163,270 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms Suriname can be divided into two main geographic regions; the coastal lowlands of the north, and the tropical rainforests and savanna of the west and south.
Facts and Figures
Name Uruguay
(long form) Oriental Republic of Uruguay
Population 3,415,900
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Montevideo (1.3 mil)
Currency Uruguayan peso (UYU)
Currency Converter here
Languages Spanish, Portunol
Flag here
National Day August 25
Religions Catholic (66%), Protestant (2%), others
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
34º 53 S, 56º 11' W
Relative Location Uruguay is positioned in both the southern and western hemisphere. It's located on the southeastern coast of South America, and bordered by Brazil, Argentina and the Atlantic Ocean.
Land Statistics
Coastline 410 miles (660 km)
Land Areas
(land) 67,035 sq miles (173,620 sq km)
(water) 1,004 sq miles (2,600 sq km)
(TOTAL) 68,039 sq miles (176,220 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms The eastern, southern, and western plains in Uruguay eventually flow into the rolling hills and low mountains of the interior.
Facts and Figures
Name Venezuela
(long form) Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela
Population 25,375,300
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Caracas (1.8 mil)
Currency Bolivar (VEB)
Currency Converter here
Languages Spanish, others
Flag here
National Day July 5
Religions Catholic (96%), Protestant, others
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
10º 30' N, 66º 55' W
Relative Location Venezuela is positioned in both the northern and western hemispheres. It's located on the northern edge of South America, and bordered by Guyana, Brazil, Colombia and the southern waters of the Caribbean Sea.
Land Statistics
Coastline 1,740 miles (2,800 km)
Land Areas
(land) 340,561 sq miles (882,050 sq km)
(water) 11,583 sq miles (30,000 sq km)
(TOTAL) 352,144 sq miles (912,050 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms The Orinoco River and Venezuela's mountain ranges divide the country into some distinct regions, all with different climates.
Description Central America, a part of North America, is a tropical isthmus that connects North America to South America. It includes (7) countries and many small offshore islands. Overall, the land is fertile and rugged, and dominated through its heart by a string of volcanic mountain ranges that are punctuated by a few active and dangerous volcanos.
Population of Central America: 41,135,300
Population all countries here
Highest Point: Volcan Tajumulco in Guatemala - 13,816 ft (4,211 m)
Lowest Point: Pacific Ocean 0 ft (0 m)
Facts and Figures
Name Belize
(long form) none
Population 287,730
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Belmopan (52,000)
Currency Belizean Dollar (BZD)
Currency Converter here
Languages English (official), Spanish, Mayan, Garifuna, Creole
Flag here
National Day September 21
Religions Catholic (50%), Protestant (27%), others
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
16º 13' N, 88º 48' W
Relative Location Belize is positioned in both the northern and western hemispheres. Located in North America on the northern edge of the Central America isthmus - a somewhat narrow strip of land that connects North and South America - the country is bordered by Guatemala, Mexico, the Gulf of Honduras and the Caribbean Sea.
Land Statistics
Coastline 240 miles (386 km)
Land Areas
(land) 8,805 sq miles (22,806 sq km)
(water) 62 sq miles (160 sq km)
(TOTAL) 8,867 sq miles (22,966 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms Belize is divided into four main geographic regions, including the relatively low Maya Mountains of the south that dominate all but the narrow coastal plain; the northern lowlands and its many rivers and streams; the flat and swampy coastal plain, and the almost countless cayes, islands and lagoons that fringe its Caribbean coastline.
Facts and Figures
Name Costa Rica
(long form) Republic of Costa Rica
Population 4,016,200
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City San Jose (300,000)
Currency Costa Rican Colon (CRC)
Currency Converter here
Languages Spanish (official), English
Flag here
National Day September 15
Religions Catholic (76.3%), Evangelical (13.7%), none (3.2%), others
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
9º 56' N, 84º 05' W
Relative Location Costa Rica is positioned in both the northern and western hemispheres. Located in North America on the Central America isthmus - a somewhat narrow strip of land that connects North and South America - the country is bordered by Nicaragua, Panama, the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.
Land Statistics
Coastline 802 miles (1,290 km)
Land Areas
(land) 19,560 sq miles (50,660 sq km)
(water) 170 sq miles (440 sq km)
(TOTAL) 19,730 sq miles (51,100 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms Most of Costa Rica is dominated by the Sierra Madre mountains, literally fractured into individual ranges and valleys by violent volcanic eruptions over eons of time.
And speaking of volcanoes, the country's most active one (cone-shaped Arenal), located in the Tilaran Mountains erupts in some measure almost everyday. To the southeast, the Poas, Barva, Irazu and many other volcanoes form the Central Mountain's most spectacular landforms, while the higher Talamanca Mountains front its southern border with Panama.
Facts and Figures
Name El Salvador
(long form) Republic of El Salvador
Population 6,822,378
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City San Salvador (592,000)
Currency U.S. Dollar (USD)
Currency Converter here
Languages Spanish (official), Nahua
Flag here
National Day September 15
Religions Catholic (83%), Protestant, others
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
13º 40' N, 89º 10' W
Relative Location El Salvador is positioned in both the northern and western hemispheres. Located in North America on the western edge of the Central America isthmus - a somewhat narrow strip of land that connects North and South America - the country is bordered by Guatemala, Honduras and the Pacific Ocean.
Land Statistics
Coastline 191 miles (307 km)
Land Areas
(land) 12,875 sq miles (20,720 sq km)
(water) 199 sq miles (320 sq km)
(TOTAL) 13,074 sq miles (21,040 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms El Salvador is a mountainous country with two parallel ranges bordering a central plateau. In the south, the land lowers into a coastal plain.
Highest Pt. Cerro El Pital - 8,957 ft. (2,730 m)
Lowest Pt. Pacific Ocean - 0 ft. (0 m)
Land Divisions 14 departments; including Ahuachapan, Cabanas, Chalatenango, Cuscatlan, La Libertad, La Paz, La Union, Morazan, San Miguel, San Salvador, San Vicente, Santa Ana, Sonsonate and Usulutan
Facts and Figures
Name Guatemala
(long form) Republic of Guatemala
Population 14,655,200
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Guatemala City (973,049)
Currency Quetzal (GTQ), US dollar (USD), others accepted in major cities
Currency Converter here
Languages Spanish, Amerindian
Flag here
National Day September 15
Religions Catholic, Protestant, Mayan beliefs
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
14º 38' N, 90º 31' W
Relative Location Guatemala is positioned in both the northern and western hemispheres. Located in North America on the northwestern edge of the Central America isthmus - a somewhat narrow strip of land that connects North and South America - the country is bordered by Belize, Honduras, El Salvador, Mexico, the Gulf of Honduras, Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean.
Land Statistics
Coastline 249 miles (400 km)
Land Areas
(land) 41,865 sq miles (108,430 sq km)
(water) 178 sq miles (460 sq km)
(TOTAL) 42,043 sq miles (108,890 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms Guatemala, except for the coastal areas, is a mountainous country of rolling hills, plateaus, deep river valleys, and numerous volcanoes - some active.
Highest Pt. Volcan Tajumulco - 13,816 ft.
(4,211 m)
Lowest Pt. Pacific Ocean - 0 ft. (0 m)
Land Divisions 22 departments; including Alta Verapaz, Baja Verapaz, Chimaltenango, Chiquimula, El Progreso, Escuintla, Guatemala, Huehuetenango, Izabal, Jalapa, Jutiapa, Peten, Quetzaltenango, Quiche, Retalhuleu, Sacatepequez, San Marcos, Santa Rosa, Solola, Suchitepequez, Totonicapan and Zacapa.
Facts and Figures
Name Honduras
(long form) Republic of Honduras
Population 6,975,200
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Tegucigalpa (1,435,000)
Currency Lempira (HNL)
Currency Converter here
Languages Spanish, Amerindian dialects
Flag here
National Day September 15
Religions Catholic (97%), Protestant (3%)
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
14º 06' N, 87º 13' W
Relative Location Honduras is positioned in both the northern and western hemispheres. Located in North America in the middle of the Central America isthmus - a somewhat narrow strip of land that connects North and South America - the country is bordered by Guatemala, El Salvador, Nicaragua and the Gulf of Honduras, Gulf of Fonseca, Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean.
Land Statistics
Coastline 510 miles (820 km)
Land Areas
(land) 43,201 sq miles (111,890 sq km)
(water) 77 sq miles (200 sq km)
(TOTAL) 43,278 sq miles (112,090 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms Honduras has three major topographical regions, including a vast interior plateau of hills and mountains that dominate the landscape; the Caribbean lowlands, and the Pacific lowlands- fringing the Gulf of Fonseca.
Highest Pt. Cerro Las Minas - 9,416 ft.
(2,870 m)
Lowest Pt. Caribbean Sea - 0 ft. (0 m)
Land Divisions 18 departments; including Atlantida, Choluteca, Colon, Comayagua, Copan, Cortes, El Paraiso, Francisco Morazan, Gracias a Dios, Intibuca, Islas de la Bahia, La Paz, Lempira, Ocotepeque, Olancho, Santa Barbara, Valle and Yoro.
Facts and Figures
Name Nicaragua
(long form) Republic of Nicaragua
Population 5,465,100
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Managua (1.5 million)
Currency Gold Cordoba (NIO)
Currency Converter here
Languages Spanish (official), Miskito and others
Flag here
National Day September 15
Religions Catholic (73%), Evangelical (15%), Moravian (1.5%), others
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
12º 09' N, 86º 17' W
Relative Location Nicaragua is positioned in both the northern and western hemispheres. Located in North America in the middle of the Central America isthmus - a somewhat narrow strip of land that connects North and South America - the country is bordered by Honduras, Costa Rica, the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean.
Land Statistics
Coastline 565 miles (910 km)
Land Areas
(land) 46,430 sq miles (120,254 sq km)
(water) 3,568 sq miles (9,240 sq km)
(TOTAL) 49,998 sq miles (129,494 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms Nicaragua is geographically divided into three major areas, including the Pacific Ocean Lowlands and Lakes, the Central Highlands and the Caribbean Lowlands.
Highest Pt. Mogoton - 7,999 ft. (2,438 m)
Lowest Pt. Pacific Ocean - 0 ft. (0 m)
Land Divisions 15 departments and two autonomous regions; the departments are: Boaco, Carazo, Chinandega, Chontales, Esteli, Granada, Jinotega, Leon, Madriz, Managua, Masaya, Matagalpa, Nueva Segovia, Rio San Juan and Rivas. The autonomous regions: Atlantico Norte and Atlantico Sur.
Facts and Figures
Name Panama
(long form) Republic of Panama
Population 3,039,200
Population & Density (all countries) here
Capital City Panama City (451,000)
Currency Balboa (PAB), U S dollar (USD)
Currency Converter here
Languages Spanish (official), English
Flag here
National Day November 3
Religions Catholic (85%), Protestant (15%)
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude/Longitude (Capital City)
8º 58' N, 79º 32' W
Relative Location Panama is positioned in both the northern and western hemispheres. Located in North America on the southern edge of the Central America isthmus - a somewhat narrow strip of land that connects North and South America - the country is bordered by Colombia, Costa Rica, the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean.
Land Statistics
Coastline 1,547 miles (2,490 km)
Land Areas
(land) 29,340 sq miles (75,990 sq km)
(water) 853 sq miles (2,210 sq km)
(TOTAL) 30,193 sq miles (78,200 sq km)
Land Area (all countries) here
Landforms The most dominate features of Panama are the forested, volcanic-in-origin, mountains that extend from its Costa Rican border to Colombia, South America. Significant ranges include the lengthy Central Mountains, as well as the San Blas, Talamanca and Tabasara.
Highest Pt. Volcan Baru - 11,401 ft. (3,475 m)
Lowest Pt. Pacific Ocean - 0 ft. (0 m)
Land Divisions 9 provinces and 1 territory; the provinces include Bocas del Toro, Chiriqui, Cocle, Colon, Darien, Herrera, Los Santos, Panama and Veraguas; the territory is San Blas (Kuna Yala).
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