The equator passes through 13 nations across Africa, South America, and islands in the Indian and Pacific oceans, touching land in most and crossing territorial waters for a few island states.
Overview of the Equator
The equator is the 0° latitude line that circles the Earth, dividing it into the Northern and Southern Hemispheres and giving equatorial countries very consistent day length and typically warm climates.
Which Countries the Equator Crosses
The equator passes through São Tomé and Príncipe, Gabon, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, Kenya, Somalia, Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, Maldives, Indonesia, and Kiribati.
Land Versus Territorial Waters
In most listed countries the equator crosses mainland or island landmasses, while in a few cases such as the Maldives and Kiribati the line passes through national territorial waters rather than making substantial landfall.
Why This Is Interesting
Being on the equator affects climate, daylight patterns, biodiversity, and sometimes geopolitical or navigational considerations, and it creates unique natural features such as very short sunrises and sunsets at equatorial locations.
Quick Related Facts
- Total countries crossed: 13
- Continents involved: Africa, South America, Oceania (islands)
- Typical climate: tropical, with little seasonal daylight variation