(a 7 minute read)

Human height is different around the world. It can be shaped by many things, like family background, food, health, and living conditions.

World Population Review shared average height data by country. The numbers show where people tend to be taller or shorter on average.

This list looks at countries from the shorter end of the height scale, based on the information provided. These places are also interesting travel destinations, with rich culture, nature, and history.

1. Mauritania

a man standing on a mountain
Photo by Tadeja Pavšič on Unsplash

Mauritania is in Northwest Africa. It has wide desert views, old trading towns, and a strong nomadic culture.

In Mauritania, the average male height is about 5 ft 5 in. That is around 1.67 m. The average female height is about 5 ft 3 in, or 1.61 m.

Travelers often visit for desert landscapes, ancient towns, and a slower way of life that feels very different from big modern cities.

2. Liberia

girl in red shirt and blue denim jeans standing on gray concrete road during daytime
Photo by Mahmud Ahsan on Unsplash

Liberia sits on the west coast of Africa. It has beaches, forests, markets, and a long history tied to both Africa and the United States.

The average male height in Liberia is about 5 ft 5 in, or 1.67 m. The average female height is about 5 ft 2 in, or 1.58 m.

For visitors, Liberia offers coastal views, local food, and a warm culture. It is not as busy with tourists as many other places, which can make the trip feel more personal.

3. Cambodia

woman in white shirt and black shorts standing on gray concrete pavement during daytime
Photo by Evan Mach on Unsplash

Cambodia is one of Southeast Asia’s most famous travel spots. Many people know it for Angkor Wat, one of the most important temple sites in the world.

In Cambodia, men average about 5 ft 5 in, or 1.67 m. Women average about 5 ft 1 in, or 1.55 m.

Beyond the temples, travelers can explore busy markets, peaceful villages, rivers, and local food. Cambodia is a place where history and daily life meet in a very clear way.

4. Marshall Islands

Young woman with red hair looking up against wall
Photo by alex Roosso on Unsplash

The Marshall Islands are found in the central Pacific Ocean. They are made up of islands and coral atolls surrounded by blue water.

The average male height here is about 5 ft 5 in, or 1.67 m. The average female height is about 5 ft 1 in, or 1.55 m.

This island nation is known for ocean life, quiet beaches, and a strong connection to the sea. It is a very remote place, which makes it feel peaceful and far from the usual tourist crowds.

5. Nepal

jump, sky, man, nature, clouds, height, girl, woman, happiness, joy, happy, blue sky
Photo by 4993578 on Pixabay

Nepal is famous for the Himalayas, including Mount Everest. It attracts hikers, climbers, and travelers who love mountain views.

In Nepal, men average about 5 ft 5 in, or 1.67 m. Women average around 5 ft, or 1.52 m.

Height may be one part of the data, but Nepal’s travel story is much bigger. Visitors come for temples, mountain trails, tea houses, and the warm welcome of local communities.

6. Guatemala

10 Countries Where Average Height Is Shorter Than in Many Other Places 1
“Short People” by garryknight is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Guatemala is in Central America. It is known for volcanoes, colorful towns, lakes, and ancient Maya history.

The average male height in Guatemala is about 5 ft 5 in, or 1.65 m. The average female height is about 4 ft 11 in, or 1.50 m.

Travelers often visit places like Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and the ruins of Tikal. The country is full of bright markets, handmade textiles, and beautiful landscapes.

7. Papua New Guinea

10 Countries Where Average Height Is Shorter Than in Many Other Places 2
“Land of the short people” by Lars Plougmann is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

Papua New Guinea is in the Southwestern Pacific Ocean. It is one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world.

Men in Papua New Guinea average about 5 ft 4 in, or 1.64 m. Women average about 5 ft 2 in, or 1.58 m.

For travelers, the country offers rainforests, mountain villages, diving spots, and local traditions that are still very strong. It is a destination for people who want a deeper cultural trip.

8. Solomon Islands

Seamstress taking accurate measurements of a young woman to tailor a custom outfit.
Photo by Pavel Danilyuk on Pexels

The Solomon Islands are in the South Pacific. They are known for clear water, tropical forests, and World War II history.

The average male height is about 5 ft 4 in, or 1.64 m. The average female height is about 5 ft 2 in, or 1.58 m.

Visitors can enjoy quiet islands, snorkeling, diving, and village life. It is a good place for travelers who want natural beauty without large crowds.

9. Laos

A man and woman wearing white shirts stand smiling in a bright studio.
Photo by MART PRODUCTION on Pexels

Laos is a peaceful country in Southeast Asia. It is known for rivers, temples, green hills, and calm towns.

Men in Laos average about 5 ft 4 in, or 1.64 m. Women average about 5 ft, or 1.52 m.

Many travelers visit Luang Prabang, take boat rides on the Mekong River, or explore waterfalls and mountain villages. Laos is often loved for its relaxed pace.

10. East Timor

A loving parent fixing her child's hair indoors, creating a joyful bonding moment.
Photo by Yan Krukau on Pexels

East Timor, also called Timor-Leste, is in Southeast Asia. It is one of the youngest countries in the region.

It has the shortest average male height in the provided list. Men average about 5 ft 3 in, or 1.61 m. Women average about 5 ft, or 1.52 m.

For visitors, East Timor offers beaches, diving, mountains, and a culture shaped by both local traditions and Portuguese influence.

Average height is only one small way to look at a country. It does not tell the full story of its people, culture, or travel experience.

Each place on this list has its own beauty. Some offer beaches. Some offer mountains. Others are full of history, food, and local traditions.

For travelers, these countries are not just numbers on a chart. They are real places with stories worth exploring.