The 9 countries with the most islands in the world: nature, culture, and unexplored corners

Despite not being a tropical destination, Sweden tops the list with more than 267,000 islands , many of them uninhabited. Most are located in the Stockholm archipelago and the Baltic Sea coast. Although many of these islands are small and forested, the country offers unique sailing, fishing, and Nordic nature experiences.

With more than 188,000 islands , Finland combines both sea and lake islands. The Åland Archipelago is one of the most visited, but the country is also home to thousands of lake islands in the Thousand Lakes Region. They are ideal for ecotourism, birdwatching, and cabin vacations.

Norway has around 55,000 islands , many of them with spectacular views of fjords, mountains, and the Arctic Ocean. Islands like Lofoten and Svalbard offer everything from wild beaches to polar bear encounters and the Northern Lights. The tourist infrastructure makes it easy to explore even remote islands.

With more than 52,000 islands , Canada stands out for its size and diversity. From the marine-rich islands of British Columbia to the icy and remote Canadian Arctic , the country offers experiences for adventurers and lovers of silence. Some, like Vancouver Island , combine nature with vibrant cultural life.

Indonesia has more than 17,000 islands , many of them volcanic, such as Java , Sumatra , Bali , and Sulawesi . This country is one of the most biodiverse on the planet, with jungles, dream beaches, and ancient cultures. It is ideal for those seeking both adventure tourism and relaxation by the sea.

Although Australia is itself an island continent, it also boasts more than 8,000 islands , many of them tropical. Tasmania , Fraser Island , and the Great Barrier Reef are some of the most visited, offering everything from trekking and wildlife to snorkeling and colorful reefs.

Japan is made up of around 6,800 islands , including Honshu , Hokkaido , Kyushu , and Shikoku , as well as thousands of smaller islets. These islands combine technology, spirituality, and nature. Some, like Okinawa , have a subtropical climate and landscapes similar to the Caribbean.

With more than 7,600 islands , the Philippines is a popular destination for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and warm hospitality. Archipelagos like Palawan , Cebu , and Boracay are famous among travelers for their natural beauty, although many islands remain largely unexplored.

Chile closes this list with more than 5,000 islands , many located in the Patagonian fjords region and others as remote as Easter Island or the Juan Fernández Archipelago . Its isolated location has allowed it to preserve endemic species and unique landscapes.

The countries with the largest number of islands offer much more than idyllic beaches . They are home to a wealth of ecological , cultural , and territorial resources. From uninhabited islands to coastal urban centers, these island geographies are key to understanding the planet's diversity and the challenges it faces in the face of climate change, mass tourism, and biodiversity conservation.