The British Virgin Islands (BVI), a British Overseas Territory in the Caribbean, are located to the east of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, and north-west of Anguilla. This archipelago comprises around 60 islands and cays (depending on how 'island' is defined), with a total land area of approximately 153 km2 (59 mi2). Furthermore, the BVI possesses no rivers.
Tortola Region: Tortola, the largest and most populous island, represents the core of the BVI's geography. Measuring about 19 kilometers (12 miles) long and 5 kilometers (3 miles) wide, it features a mountainous landscape with lush hills and valleys. The island's highest point, Mount Sage, rises to 523 meters (1,716 feet), offering a commanding view of the surrounding sea and islands. The coastline of Tortola is indented with numerous bays and harbors, including the capital, Road Town.
Virgin Gorda Region: Virgin Gorda, to the east of Tortola, is known for its unique geological formations, such as the Baths, a collection of giant boulders forming natural tidal pools, tunnels, and arches. The island's terrain is a mix of rolling hills and flat areas, with the highest elevation reaching 417 meters (1,370 feet) at Gorda Peak. The southern part of Virgin Gorda is relatively flat and includes the area known as the Valley.
Anegada Region: Anegada stands out as the only coral island in the volcanic BVI chain. With its highest point at just 8 meters (28 feet) above sea level, it is strikingly flat compared to its mountainous counterparts. The island is surrounded by one of the largest coral reefs in the Caribbean, and its geography is marked by long, white sandy beaches and a large salt pond in the center, dubbed "Red Pond."
Jost Van Dyke Region: Jost Van Dyke, to the northwest of Tortola, is smaller and less mountainous. It has a hilly landscape, with the highest peak, Majohnny Hill, reaching about 321 meters (1,053 feet). The island is known for its beautiful beaches and secluded coves.
Outer Islands and Cays: The remaining islands and cays, such as Peter Island, Norman Island, and Cooper Island, are generally small and less developed. Their geography varies from hilly and rocky to flat and sandy, reflecting the diversity of landscapes found across the BVI. These islands are often home to private resorts, secluded beaches, and are popular with sailors and tourists.
Being an Overseas Territory of the United Kingdom, the British Virgin Islands do not have any major administrative divisions.
Covering a total area of only 153 sq. km, the British Virgin Islands comprises of 4 large islands namely, Tortola, Anegada, Virgin Gorda, and Jost Van Dyke; along with 50 smaller islands and islets. Situated in the center of the southern coast of Tortola Island is Road Town – the capital of the British Virgin Islands. It serves as the principal town, port, and tourist center of the British Virgin Islands.
The British Virgin Islands is a British Overseas Territory located in the northeastern Caribbean. It is geographically positioned both in the Northern and Western hemispheres of the Earth. The islands are a part of the Virgin Islands archipelago and are situated in the Leeward Islands group of the Lesser Antilles. The British Virgin Islands are located to the east of the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico and to the northwest of Anguilla. The islands are surrounded by the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean.
Regional Maps: Map of North America
Legal Name | British Virgin Islands |
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Flag | |
Capital City | Road Town |
18 25 N, 64 37 W | |
Total Area | 151.00 km2 |
Land Area | 151.00 km2 |
Water Area | N/A |
Population | 30,030 |
Currency | US Dollar (USD) |
This page was last updated on November 13, 2023