Santa Cruz Island is situated in the northern Caribbean Sea, part of Colombia in South America.

Spanning only 0.012 square kilometers, this island is home to 1,200 residents, making its population density four times higher than Manhattan, New York. It tops the list of the world’s most densely populated islands, with over 1,000 people per square kilometer.

Though labeled an island, it more closely resembles a reef with tightly packed structures. Remarkably, it is free of mosquitoes, a factor that has contributed to its rapid population growth.

Belonging to the San Bernardo Archipelago, Santa Cruz measures approximately 200 meters in length and 60 meters in width—an incredibly narrow space without skyscrapers like Manhattan. This limited land area has led to high-density construction.

Some homes and buildings naturally extend into the sea, creating an “artificial island.” The largest open space on the island is about half the size of a tennis court, serving as a communal gathering spot for the islanders.

However, living conditions on the island are challenging. There is only one generator providing electricity for five hours daily, and there is no running water or urban drainage system. Residents primarily rely on fishing or seek employment as guides or workers in nearby areas to sustain themselves.

Traveling to Santa Cruz involves a two-hour boat journey from the nearest port city, Cartagena. A quarter of the island is a national park, while the rest is part of a natural reserve. Spanning 96 square miles (248 square kilometers) and 32 kilometers in length, Santa Cruz is the largest island in the archipelago, with a significant portion designated as a protected national park.

The ferry ride takes only an hour, offering picturesque blue waters and scenic landscapes, giving visitors ample time to explore the island, even on a day trip. Upon arrival, they can trek along paths amid roaring cliffs, scale heights for panoramic views, or indulge in the serenity of secluded bays.

Nestled along the Caribbean shores of Colombia, Santa Cruz Island stands as a testament to human perseverance amidst nature’s beauty. This small oasis, a blend of vibrant life and humble dwellings, echoes with stories of resilience and communal harmony.

Despite its small size, this reef-like haven, adorned with clustered buildings, unveils a microcosm of human ingenuity thriving amidst the gentle sway of the sea. Amidst the tightly packed homes that seem to dance on the water’s edge, Santa Cruz Island tells a story of adaptability and harmony with the elements.

Yet, within this picturesque simplicity, life is a tapestry woven with challenges. Limited electricity, the absence of running water, and a lack of modern amenities reflect a way of life shaped by resourcefulness and a strong communal spirit.

As the sun dips beyond the horizon, casting a warm glow upon the island, Santa Cruz’s allure endures—a testament to human resilience, unity, and an unbreakable bond with nature’s abundance.

Santa Cruz Island, with its blend of natural beauty and human determination, stands as a unique example of life shaped by both nature and community. In its simplicity and strength, it reminds us of the power of resilience and the deep connection between people and the environment.