Think you’re good at geography?
These 20 questions cover famous landmarks, capitals, continents, seasons, and natural wonders from around the world. Some are straightforward, while others are designed to catch out even confident travellers. See how many you can answer before checking the answers at the end.
Which country is the largest in the world?
This enormous nation stretches across multiple time zones and covers more land than any other country on Earth. Its vast size means it contains a huge variety of landscapes and climates.
Canada
United States
Russia
China
What is Ecuador’s capital city?
Located high in the Andes Mountains, this city sits close to the equator, despite enjoying much cooler temperatures than many people would expect.
Lima
Havana
Quito
Bogotá
Which of these cities is the furthest north?
All four are famous cities visited by millions of tourists every year. However, one sits noticeably further north than the others.
London
New York
Dublin
Montréal
If it is summer in the Northern Hemisphere, what season is it in the Southern Hemisphere?
The Earth’s tilt means the two halves of the planet experience opposite seasons throughout the year.
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter
In which US state would you find the Grand Canyon?
One of the world’s most famous natural landmarks was carved by a river over millions of years and attracts visitors from around the globe.
California
Arizona
Nevada
New Mexico
Which two continents meet in Iceland?
This island nation sits on a geological boundary where two massive tectonic plates are slowly moving apart.
North America and Eurasia
North America and Africa
Eurasia and Africa
Eurasia and Oceania
What is the name of the large peninsula that includes Spain and Portugal?
This region forms the south-west corner of mainland Europe and has played an important role in the continent’s history.
Balkan Peninsula
Iberian Peninsula
Scandinavian Peninsula
Crimean Peninsula
Can you normally see the Northern Lights in Iceland during the summer months?
Although Iceland is one of the world’s most famous destinations for viewing this natural phenomenon, visibility depends heavily on darkness.
Yes
No
Which country is the second largest in the world by land area?
Only one nation covers more land. This country stretches from one ocean to another and contains vast wilderness areas.
Australia
China
Canada
United States
How many official languages does Switzerland have?
This European nation is known for its linguistic diversity and officially recognises several languages across different regions.
One
Two
Three
Four
Which continent is home to the Sahara Desert?
Covering millions of square miles, this is the largest hot desert in the world and stretches across multiple countries.
Asia
Africa
South America
Australia
What is the capital city of Canada?
Many people incorrectly assume Canada’s largest city is also its capital, making this one of the most commonly missed geography questions.
Toronto
Vancouver
Montreal
Ottawa
Which country is famous for the ancient site of Machu Picchu?
This spectacular mountain-top settlement was built centuries ago and remains one of South America’s most visited attractions.
Mexico
Peru
Brazil
Chile
Which river flows through the Egyptian capital, Cairo?
This famous river has supported civilisations for thousands of years and is closely linked to one of the world’s oldest ancient cultures.
Amazon
Yangtze
Nile
Mississippi
Which country has the largest population in the world?
Recent population estimates changed the global rankings, placing this nation ahead of its long-time rival.
India
China
United States
Indonesia
Which ocean lies between Africa and Australia?
This is the world’s third-largest ocean and carries some of the busiest shipping routes on the planet.
Atlantic Ocean
Pacific Ocean
Indian Ocean
Arctic Ocean
What is the capital city of Australia?
Australia’s largest and most famous city is not the capital, a fact that regularly catches people out.
Sydney
Melbourne
Canberra
Perth
Mount Everest sits on the border of Nepal and which other country?
The world’s highest mountain lies between Nepal and one of the largest countries on Earth.
India
Bhutan
China
Pakistan
Which European country is shaped like a boot?
Its distinctive outline is one of the easiest national shapes to recognise on a world map.
Spain
Greece
Portugal
Italy
What is the smallest country in the world?
Despite its tiny size, this nation has its own government, postal system, and international recognition.
Monaco
Vatican City
San Marino
Liechtenstein
Answers
1. Russia
2. Quito
3. Dublin
4. Winter
5. Arizona
6. North America and Eurasia
7. Iberian Peninsula
8. No
9. Canada
10. Four
11. Africa
12. Ottawa
13. Peru
14. Nile
15. India
16. Indian Ocean
17. Canberra
18. China
19. Italy
20. Vatican City
How many did you get right? If you scored 16 or more, you’ve got a pretty impressive knowledge of world geography. A perfect 20 out of 20 means you’re probably the person everyone wants on their pub quiz team.
