Add 22 Largest Islands In The World To Your Bucket List

Posted on Thursday, March 10th, 2022 by Pawanpreet Kaur Leave a Comment

The world’s largest islands are a diverse bunch, ranging from volcanic specks in the middle of the Pacific to massive landmasses that dominate entire countries. There are just a few places on the Earth that are as breathtaking as the largest island in the world. From their dramatic landscapes to their diverse wildlife, the list of the largest islands offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors. The world’s biggest islands are impressive feats of nature that are no less than a delight to explore. Whether it is the most populated island in the world or the geographically biggest island in the world, each one is filled with natural beauty and wonder, offering something amazing.

So let’s dig in deep and explore the list of islands of the world. If you are planning an island escape, pick any of the below-mentioned largest islands in the world and head over to the land packed with adventure. 

Islands	Continent	Area
1.Greenland	North America	2.166 million km²
2. New Guinea	Greater Australia	786,000 km²
3. Borneo	Asia	743,330 km²
4. Madagascar	Asia	587,041 km²
5. Baffin Island	North America	507,451 km²
6. Sumatra	Asia	473,481 km²
7. Honshu	Asia	230,500 km²
8. Victoria	Oceania	217,291 km2
9. Great Britain	Europe	209,33 km²
10. Ellesmere	North America	196,236 km²
11. Sulawesi	Asia	180,681km²
12. South Island	Oceania	145,836 km²
13. Java	Asia	138,794 km²
14. North Island	Oceania	111,583 km²
15. Luzon	Asia	109,965 km²
16. Newfoundland	North America	108,860 km²
17. Cuba	North America	104,556 km²
18. Iceland	Europe	101,826 km²
19. Mindanao	Asia	97,530 km²
20. Ireland	Europe	84,421 km²
21. Hokkaidō	Asia	78,719 km²
22. Hispaniola	North America	73,929 km²

1. Greenland

Greenland is the largest island in the world with an area of  2.166 million km². And, don’t just go by the name “Green”, this 1st largest island is mostly covered by a vast ice sheet, and only a small portion near the coast is habitable. It is a self-governing Danish territory, and its capital is Nuuk.  The economy of Greenland is based on fishing and fish processing, tourism, and mining. Fish account for more than 90% of exports. Greenland is a popular tourist destination, especially in the summer months when the weather is warmer. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, boating, fishing, and whale watching.

Three Facts About Greenland

• The climate of the largest island in the world is cold and harsh, with long winters and short summers.
• Greenland has significant deposits of uranium, gold, lead, zinc, copper, molybdenum, diamonds, and other minerals.
• The ice sheet of Greenland has caused the island to be very isolated from the rest of the world, and it has been inhabited by only a small number of people throughout its history.

Current Population: 56,367 

2. New Guinea

The island of New Guinea is the second-largest island in the world, after Greenland. It is located in the western Pacific Ocean and is divided between two countries: Papua New Guinea to the east and Indonesia to the west. The island of New Guinea has a rich history, which is evident in its many ancient cultures and archaeological sites. One of the most well-known ancient cultures on the island is the Asmat people, who are renowned for their wooden carvings. The island also has a number of significant archaeological sites, such as the Los Negros Island Ruins and the Sepik River estuary.

Three Facts About New Guinea

• New Guinea has a diverse range of cultures and languages, with over 850 spoken languages reported on the island.
• The 2nd biggest island in the world has the 5% of global biodiversity underwater. 
• There are more than 1000 cultural groups on the island of New Guinea that enjoy their own culture, costumes, traditions, food, music, and architecture. 

Current Population: 8.95 million 

3. Borneo

Located in Southeast Asia, Borneo island is the third largest island in the world. The island is shared by three countries: Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei. This is one of the most populated islands in the world and houses a variety of different cultures and has a wide range of natural resources. The people of Borneo have a rich culture that is heavily influenced by their Hindu, Buddhist, and Islamic religions. The main language spoken on the island is Malay, but many different dialects are also spoken. The food of Borneo is also diverse and includes dishes from all three countries that share the island.

Three Facts About Borneo Island

• Borneo houses many endangered species, including the orangutan and the Sumatran rhinoceros.
• Borneo island is most popular due to its rainforest which is around 130 million years old.
• This 3rd largest island has the world’s largest cave chambers like Sarawak Chamber, and the iconic deer cave. 

Current Population: 18.59 million 

4. Madagascar

Located in the Indian Ocean, Madagascar is an island country that is considered to be a part of Africa. The country has a large number of unique animals and plants, many of which can only be found in Madagascar. The economy of this 4th largest island in the world is mostly dependent on tourism, with travellers coming from around the world to explore the magnificent landscapes. Madagascar is a fascinating country with a rich culture and history. Visitors who make the trip to this unique island are sure to enjoy an unforgettable experience. The reason why more than 1 million tourists prefer visiting this island country every year. 

Three Facts About Madagascar

• Madagascar houses 70 species of Lemur which are the small primate only found in this island county. They are known for their playful nature and distinctive faces. 
• The island has the unique Baobab trees and other 10,000 native species of plants. 
• The name Madagascar was given by a Venetian merchant and adventurer, Marco Polo. 

Current Population: 20.77 million

5. Baffin Island

The fifth-largest island in the world and the largest in Canada, Baffin Island has some of the world’s most remote communities. Covered in mountains and tundra, the island is also a preferred tourist destination for those interested in Arctic exploration and wildlife. Booking your India to Canada Flights can make it a lot easier to reach Baffin. The economy of Baffin Island is based largely on fishing and hunting where a large seal population is hunted for its meat and fur. The island is an abode to polar bears, caribou, walrus, seals, and numerous bird species aswell. The Auyuittuq National Park is located on the island and offers hiking and camping opportunities.

Three Facts About Baffin Island

• The Baffin island was named by English explorer Martin Frobisher in 1576 after John Baffin, a navigator who sailed for the British East India Company
• A Dutch explorer Willem Barentsz was the first European to sight this world’s 5th biggest island in 1596. 
• Baffin Island is believed to be the native land of the last ice age. 

Current Population: 11,045 

6. Sumatra

The largest island in Indonesia and the 6th largest island in the world, Sumatra Island is known for its lush rainforest, volcanoes, and coffee plantations. This Indonesian island houses an array of traditions and religions including Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Islam. Sumatra island has a number of popular attractions including the Bukit Lawang nature reserve, the Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, and Mount Kerinci, the highest mountain on the island. The people of Sumatra are known for their warm hospitality, lively culture and traditional dishes like Rendang.

Three Facts About Sumatra Island

• Sumatran coffee is among the most sought-after coffees in the world and ample coffee stalls can be found at the Sumatra island. 
• The people of Sumatra Island do not allow marriage between the same clan. 
• The population of Java Island is more than most countries like Australia, Canada, Switzerland, and New Zealand. 

Current Population: 50.36 Million

7. Honshu

Honshu is the 7th largest island in the world and the most populated island of Japan, making up about 87% of the country’s land area. Get India to Japan flights and plan your journey further to Honshu. The island houses 5 regions and each region has its own distinct dialect, culture and cuisine. The varied climate of Honshu ranges from north to south. The northernmost Tohoku region has cold winters and hot summers while the Okinawa region in the south has a subtropical climate. The island also comprises many of Japan’s most famous landmarks and attractions. Some of the most popular destinations include Mount Fuji, Tokyo Disneyland, Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park and the ancient city of Kyoto.

Three Facts About Honshu Island

• Honshu is a highly volcanic island and comprises a few active volcanoes with Asama being the most active. 
• The island houses some of the most beautiful and sacred temples and shrines in Japan.
• The 7th largest island in the world is separated from the main body of the archipelago by the Tsugaru Strait, and from Kyushu by the Kanmon Straits.

Current Population: 104 million 

8. Victoria

Victoria Island is the 8th largest island in the world and the biggest in the Canadian Arctic Archipelago. Victoria Island is uninhabited except for a small military outpost on the southern tip. The island’s high elevation and remote location make it a challenging place to live, but its spectacular landscapes and wildlife are a major attraction for tourists. The island is about 320 miles long and ranges from 170-370 miles wide, making it larger than many longest islands in the world. Victoria Island has a variety of wildlife, including caribou, muskoxen, wolves, and bears. 

Three Facts About Victoria Island

• Victoria Island was first sighted by Europeans in 1613 when Jean de Fonte became the first European to see it. 
• The 8th largest island in the world was named in honour of Queen Victoria of England by English explorer John Richardson in 1819.
• The island is also the breeding ground for millions of migratory birds each year.

Current Population: 1,875 

9. Great Britain

The 9th largest island in the world, Great Britain is located in the North Atlantic Ocean, outside the Western coast of Europe. Great Britain is segregated from the European mainland from Ireland by the Irish Sea. This stunning island is made up of three main geographic regions: lowland England, highland Scotland, and Wales. Lowland England is dominated by a fertile central plain, while highland Scotland is a rugged landscape of mountains, lochs (lakes), and valleys. Wales is a mountainous region with numerous rivers and valleys. So, plan your trip today and check affordable India to UK flights with us.

Three Facts About Great Britain Island

• The island’s highest point, Mount Ben Nevis, rises to 1,344 meters (4,408 feet) above sea level. 
• The first humans to inhabit Great Britain were the Neanderthals, who arrived about 225,000 years ago.
• The next wave of settlers were the Celts, who arrived in the British Isles around 2000 BC. 

Current Population: 60.72 million 

10. Ellesmere

Located in the Arctic Ocean, Ellesmere island is the 10th largest island in the world and is part of the Canadian territory of Nunavut. The climate on Ellesmere Island is very cold and harsh, with average temperatures ranging from -10 to -30 degrees Celsius. The landscape is mostly made up of ice caps, glaciers, and tundra. There are few trees or other plants, and wildlife is limited to polar bears, wolves, caribou, and seals. Despite its harsh conditions, Ellesmere Island is preferred by travellers from around the world who are looking to experience the beauty of the Arctic region. 

Three Facts About Ellesmere Island

• The island was first explored by Europeans in 1848 by Sir John Franklin, who was looking for a Northwest Passage through the Arctic Ocean. 
• This 10th biggest island is the most northern in the world. It is located in the Arctic Ocean and is north of the Arctic Circle.
• The island has a rich history and has several archaeological sites that have been studied by archaeologists from around the world.

Current Population: 3,686 

11. Sulawesi 

Known for its rough geography and diverse wildlife, Sulawesi Island is one of the largest islands in Indonesia and the 11th biggest island in the world. It’s located in the eastern part of the country and is surrounded by the Java Sea, Makassar Strait, and the Celebes Sea. The island has a population of around 19.8 million people and has a variety of cultures and languages. There are also a number of endemic species that can only be found on Sulawesi Island, including the babirusa (a type of pig), the anoa (a type of buffalo), and the Celebes crested macaque. This beautiful island is also divided into four main regions: lowland, hill, mountain, and upland. 

Three Facts About Sulawesi Island

• Sulawesi is well known for its cuisine and is famous for its spicy dishes, which include chicken curry, beef rendang, and sambal (a type of chilli sauce). 
• The Portuguese people were the first to refer to Sulawesi island as a “hard to reach” place. 
• The island is flourished with 8 ethnic groups with each of them having its own customs and traditions.  

Current Population: 19.8 million

12. South Island

South Island is the 12th biggest island in the world and is also referred to as “the mainland”, despite having only one-third of the land area of the North Island. Get your India to New Zealand flights booked and reach closer to your destination. The island has a diverse landscape, ranging from rugged mountains and rainforest to a rolling Canterbury Plains. The Southern Alps run the length of the island, forming a natural barrier between the North and South Islands. The island has more than 26 ski areas and resorts for tourists as well as offers other adventure activities too like glacier climbing, kayaking, Bungee jumping and much more. 

Three Facts About South Island

• There are 24 peaks over 3,000 metres, the highest of which is Aoraki/Mount Cook at 3,724 metres. 
• Abel Tasman, a Dutch Explorer was the first European to set foot on the South Island and arrived via his ships. 
• The South Island was first settled by Māori tribes before European settlement. The island has been inhabited by Māori since at least 1280 AD. 

Current Population: 1.1 million

13. Java

Book your India to Indonesia flights and take off to one of the largest islands in Asia, Java Island which lies in the north of Indonesia.  The island is volcanic in origin and is composed of trachyte, phonolite and nepheline syenite. Java Island is the most recent island to form in the Java Sea, emerging from the sea in 1927. This 13th largest island in the world has a number of unusual geological features, including a large number of steaming fumaroles and hot springs. There are also several sulfuric lakes on the island. The island houses a wide range of rare plant species, including pitcher plants and rafflesia flowers. 

Three Facts About Java Island

• The island has a number of rare animal species, including the Javanese wild boar and the Javan leopard.
• Java Island has 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Prambanan Temple, Borobudur Temple, Ujung Kolon National Park and Sangria’s Archaeological Site.
• 60% of Java’s population is Indonesian and is one of the most populated islands in the world.

Current Population: 147.7 million

14. North Island

The North Island is the larger of New Zealand’s two main islands, with an area of about 26,000 square kilometers. Among the list of islands of the world, North Island is the 14th biggest and is highly mountainous, with many active volcanoes. Your flights to Auckland from India can bring you a lot closer to this island. The principal economic activity is agriculture, especially dairy farming. The first people to settle on the island were the Maori, who arrived about 800 years ago. While the European settlers began arriving in the 1800s. Moreover, this country island also has a significant Pacific Islander population, as well as people from other parts of the world. 

Three Facts About North Island

• The North Island is officially called Te Ika-a-Maui and consists of around 12 urban areas.
• Around 77% of the New Zealand people are settled in North Island. 
• The highest elevation of North Island is 2,797 m above sea level, which is 9,177 ft high. 

Current Population: 30.92 million

15. Luzon

Luzon Island is the 15th largest island in the world and the most populous island in the Philippines. It is located in the northern region of the country and houses around 53 million people, which is more than half of the entire population of the Philippines. Check cheap India to Philippines flights to explore some of the most popular tourist destinations on Luzon Island including Baguio City, Vigan City, and Mount Pulag. The island offers a wide range of attractions and activities, including beautiful beaches, delicious food, and rich culture. Visitors to Luzon Island are sure to have an enjoyable and memorable experience

Three Facts About Luzon Island

• The main languages that are spoken on Luzon Island are Tagalog, Ilocano, and Kapampangan. 
• The island consists of a large number of Catholics, which is the largest religion in the Philippines.
•  The island has a total area of around 109,965 square kilometres and is divided into several regions, including the Ilocos Region, Central Luzon, and the Cordillera Administrative Region.

Current Population: 53 million

16. Newfoundland

Located in the northeast of North America, Newfoundland is the sixteenth largest island in the world with an area of 108,869 square kilometres. The government of Newfoundland Island is working to develop new industries, such as oil and gas production, information technology, and tourism. The history of Newfoundland Island dates back to the early 1500s when European explorers first discovered the island. The Portuguese were the first Europeans to visit Newfoundland Island, and they named it “Terra Nova” which means “New Land”.

Three Facts About Newfoundland

• The first European settlers in Newfoundland Island were the British, who arrived in the early 1600s. 
• The British developed the fishing industry in Newfoundland Island, which became the main source of income for the islanders. 
•  The French also settled in Newfoundland Island in the early 1700s. They founded the colony of “Acadia” and developed the agriculture and fur trade industries.

Current Population: 0.522 million

17. Cuba 

A beautiful island country in the Caribbean Sea, Cuba Island is one of the most diverse countries in terms of its landscape, mountains, rain forests, and beaches. Take your India to Cuba flights to experience these exotic appearances on the island. Its capital city Havana is a popular tourist destination, due to its colonial architecture and lively nightlife. This 17th biggest island in the world has a rich history and was founded by the Taino people who were later defeated by the Spanish. The Spanish ruled Cuba for centuries until it gained its independence in 1898. Since then, Cuba has been ruled by a series of dictatorships, most recently Fidel Castro’s regime.

Three Facts About Cuba Island

• Baseball is the most popular sport in Cuba and this island nation has its own baseball league which was founded in 1878. 
• Cuban Cigars are world-famous due to their steps and making, and come with an authentic stamp that has a Cuban flag.
• Cuba Island has a literacy rate of around 99.8% which is the highest in the world.

Current Population: 11.3 million

18. Iceland

The second largest island in Europe and the 18th largest island in the world, Iceland is well known for its numerous hot springs and geysers, including the famous Geysir and Strokkur. The area of Iceland is mainly uninhabitable desert or lava fields, while green areas are along the coast. You can book your flights to Iceland from India to see incredible sights of 30 active volcanos, many of which are part of the Ring of Fire in addition to many glaciers, such as Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier. Geologically, this island nation lies on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge which expands from Greenland to Antarctica, dividing into the North American and Eurasian plates. 

Three Facts About Iceland

• Iceland doesn’t really look like what it sounds like, this island in Europe is covered with lush forests, mountains ranges, volcanoes, hot springs, and waterfalls.
• Only 11% area of Iceland is surrounded by glaciers.
• The Northern Lights are the most famous to see in Iceland which can only be experienced somewhere between September to March.  

Current Population: 0.366 million

19. Mindanao

The 7th largest island in Asia and the 19th largest island in the world, Mindanao Island is located in the southern part of the Philippines. The economy of Mindanao Island is largely based on agriculture. Some of the major crops grown on this island include corn, bananas, pineapples, sugarcane, rice and coffee.  There are as well many industries on the island, including manufacturing, mining, and tourism. The people of Mindanao Island are a diverse group, with many different cultures and religions. The main languages spoken on the island are Cebuano, Tagalog, and English.

Three Facts About Mindanao Island

• The Mindanao Island is mostly dominated by Islamic religion and also houses a beautiful Pink Mosque which is located at Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao.
• Pink Sand Beaches which are rare to watch is common in Mindanao island. They were also featured on the National Geography channel.
• This spectacular island also has some active volcanoes such as Mount Apo with is 2,954 metres high. 

Current Population: 26.25 million

20. Ireland

Ireland Island is a small, uninhabited island located in the middle of Boston Harbor. The island is named after the Emerald Isle and is a popular spot for boaters and fishermen. The island was originally owned by the Deer Island Club, a private social club. The club sold the island to the city of Boston in 1916. Today, the island is managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation. Each year visitors take flights to Ireland from India to explore the beauty of this island, but they must be careful not to disturb the wildlife or damage any of the property. The island houses several bird species, including roseate terns and common eiders.

Three Facts About Ireland

• There are several lighthouses on the island, including Governors Island Lighthouse and Deer Island Lighthouse. 
• It is prohibited to drink in public and doing so may result in strict charges or heavy penalties.
• There are no wild snakes found in Ireland and it has been believed that St. Patrick has thrown them out of the island. 

Current Population: 5.01 million

21. Hokkaidō

Hokkaidō Island is one of Japan’s main islands and the 21st largest island in the world. It’s located in the north of the country and is well known for its natural beauty, with towering mountains, pristine forests, and a rugged coastline. Hokkaidō houses a variety of wildlife, including bears, deer, and foxes. The island is divided into three regions, the Ishikari Plain in the centre, the Daisetsuzan National Park in the south, and the Shiribeshi Mountains in the north. Hokkaidō’s capital city, Sapporo, is located on the Ishikari Plain.

Three Facts About Hokkaido Island

• Hokkaidō is a famous tourist destination, with attractions including the Sapporo Snow Festival, the Otaru Music Box Museum, and the Shiretoko National Park.
• The beauty of Hokkaido Island lies in its colourful Lavender fields that attract thousands of tourists every year. 
• The island has 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Toya Caldera, Shiretoko World Heritage, Usu Volcana Geopark, and Mt. Apoi Geopark. 

Current Population:  52.8 million

22. Hispaniola

The 22nd biggest island in the world, Hispaniola Island is located in the Caribbean Sea and is shared by two countries: Haiti and the Dominican Republic. The island is mostly populated by African and European people. The official languages are French and Spanish, although Haitian Creole is also spoken by many people. And, the religions practised on the island include Christianity, Voodoo, and Santeria. Since its independence, Hispaniola Island has faced many challenges including political instability, natural disasters, and poverty. However, there are also many positive aspects of life on the island including its rich culture and beautiful landscape.

Three Facts About Hispaniola Island

• The history of Hispaniola Island is complex and includes a mix of Spanish, French, British, and African influences. 
• From 1492 to 1804, the Hispaniola island was controlled by Spain. After being occupied by the French for a period of time, it became a British colony in 1783. 
• Hispaniola Island’s Discovery Day is celebrated on December 5 each year as it was a day of its foundation by Columbus in 1492. 

Current Population: 22 million since now you are acquainted with a list of islands of the world, so plan your trip to one of these islands for an unforgettable experience. From the lush rainforests of Indonesia to the snow-capped peaks of Greenland, these islands have it all. The world’s largest islands are a sight to behold. With their vast size and stunning landscapes, they offer a unique travel experience that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. So be sure to get your tickets and itinerary confirmed for the trip to the largest island in the world. Pick up your phone and call our team at Travanya on +91-800-023-5865 for further details.