Rivers of all sizes shape the places they pass through — even the tiniest streams influence local ecosystems, settlement patterns and folklore. Across different climates and terrains, short channels can mark borders, feed springs or drain seasonal wetlands, giving surprising insight into regional geography.
There are 10 Smallest Rivers in the World, ranging from Aril to Tamborasi. For each entry you’ll find below Length (m), Country, Measurement method — full details and notes you’ll find below.
How is the length of a very small river measured?
Length can be measured several ways: the river’s channel centerline from source to mouth, straight-line distance, or by seasonal/average flow extent; tidal influence, springs that begin underground, and mapping resolution all affect results, which is why the Measurement method column clarifies how each figure was determined.
Why do some tiny rivers appear on lists even if their status is disputed or seasonal?
Lists include rivers for historical, hydrological or local recognition reasons; disputes arise from varying definitions of a river, seasonal flow, human alterations, or measurement differences, so the Country and Measurement method columns help explain inclusion and context.
Smallest Rivers in the World
| Name | Length (m) | Country | Measurement method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kovasselva | 20 | Norway | Local survey from Lake Kovassvatnet to the sea |
| Tamborasi | 20 | Indonesia | Local survey from source to the Flores Sea |
| Republika | 27 | Georgia | Official geodetic survey by local authorities |
| Ombla | 30 | Croatia | Hydrological survey from spring to the Adriatic Sea |
| D River | 37 | USA | Guinness World Records measurement at high tide |
| Jezernica | 55 | Slovenia | Official hydrographic survey |
| Roe River | 61 | USA | Guinness World Records measurement |
| Azuis | 147 | Brazil | Official state survey |
| Aril | 175 | Italy | Official local government survey |
| Correntoso | 250 | Argentina | Variable based on lake levels; survey range |
Images and Descriptions
Kovasselva
Flowing on the island of Hitra, Norway, the Kovasselva is a leading claimant for the world’s shortest river title. It runs just 20 meters from its source at Lake Kovassvatnet to the sea, a length that varies slightly with the tide.
Tamborasi
Situated in Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia, the Tamborasi River is a popular tourist spot and a contender for the shortest river title. It emerges from a rocky outcrop and travels a mere 20 meters before emptying into the Flores Sea.
Republika
Located in Gagra, Abkhazia, this karstic river emerges from a powerful cave spring and flows directly into the Black Sea. It is a strong contender for the world’s shortest river, though its claim is less internationally famous than some others.
Ombla
This powerful karstic spring near Dubrovnik, Croatia, forms a river that flows for only about 30 meters before meeting the sea. Its immense discharge provides drinking water for the entire region, making it a vital, if tiny, waterway.
D River
Located in Lincoln City, Oregon, the D River connects Devils Lake to the Pacific Ocean. Its length varies with the tide, and it once held the Guinness World Record. Its title dispute with Montana’s Roe River is a famous geographic rivalry.
Jezernica
As Slovenia’s shortest river, the Jezernica flows for only 55 meters from its source at Wild Lake (Divje jezero) before becoming a tributary of the Idrijca River. Its source is a stunning and protected karstic spring, a national natural monument.
Roe River
Flowing near Great Falls, Montana, the Roe River held the Guinness World Record for the world’s shortest river until the category was discontinued. It runs for 61 meters between Giant Springs and the Missouri River, a testament to its short but significant flow.
Azuis
Known as the shortest river in Brazil and one of the shortest in the Americas, the Rio Azuis flows for 147 meters in Tocantins. Its name, meaning “Blues,” comes from its crystal-clear, strikingly blue water, making it a popular local attraction.
Aril
Often cited as Italy’s shortest river, the Aril flows for just 175 meters through Cassone, a village on Lake Garda. It is so short that it is crossed by three bridges and has its own small waterfall before emptying into the lake.
Correntoso
Located in Argentina’s Lake District, the Correntoso connects Correntoso Lake to Nahuel Huapi Lake. Its length varies from 200 to 300 meters depending on the lakes’ water levels, and its powerful current makes it a famous spot for fly fishing.
