How Big Is Africa?
Africa is the 2nd largest continent, covering approximately 30,365,000 square kilometers (11,723,987 square miles). It is made up of 55 countries. That's about 1.2 times the size of North America.
Africa
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Africa on the Map
Africa's Geography
Africa is the 2nd largest continent, and is made up of 55 countries. Drag it across the map above to see how its true size compares to other continents and countries.
How Far Across Is Africa?
Africa stretches approximately 8,018 km (4,982 mi) from north to south — roughly the distance from New York to Tokyo, and 8,357 km (5,193 mi) from east to west — roughly the distance from London to Beijing. At highway speeds, it would take roughly 93 hours to drive across.
How Many Times Does Africa Fit?
Similar in Size
How Big Is Africa Compared to Well-Known Places?
| Place | Area | vs Africa |
|---|---|---|
| Europe | 10,180,000 km² (3,930,518 sq mi) | 3× smaller |
| Russia | 17,098,242 km² (6,601,665 sq mi) | 44% smaller |
| South America | 17,840,000 km² (6,888,060 sq mi) | 41% smaller |
| North America | 24,230,000 km² (9,355,251 sq mi) | 20% smaller |
| Africa | 30,365,000 km² (11,723,987 sq mi) | — |
| Asia | 44,614,000 km² (17,225,555 sq mi) | 47% larger |
Africa at a Glance
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Area | 30,365,000 km² (11,723,987 sq mi) |
| Size Rank | #2 of 6 continents |
| Countries | 55 |