If you’re tired of dealing with crowds at popular vacation hotspots, perhaps you should seek adventure in some of the most remote destinations on Earth. You won’t find a direct flight to these places—but they promise a retreat into untouched landscapes that will leave you completely satisfied. Whether you want to unplug from work or reconnect with a loved one, these remote destinations each offer a truly one-of-a-kind experience that will leave you refreshed.
From the frozen expanses of Antarctica, where icebergs reign supreme, to the isolated beauty of the Galapagos Islands, each remote destination holds a unique allure. This wide range of remote exploration offers not only a break from the ordinary but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in a completely new place and culture.
James Barrett
Antarctica
Antarctica stands as one of the most remote and inhospitable places on Earth, offering a unique and challenging destination for adventurous travelers. Located at the southernmost tip of the planet, its extreme conditions—characterized by frigid temperatures, fierce winds, and vast ice sheets—make it an isolated and pristine environment. Antarctica has no permanent residents, infrastructure is minimal, and access is primarily limited to scientific researchers and expedition groups.
For those craving adventure with all of the luxury accommodations of a five-star hotel, Ponant’s Le Commandant Charcot is a top-notch cruising option. As the only passenger ship able to navigate through ice-covered waters, you’ll be able to explore unexplored (and otherwise inaccessible) landscapes. Whether you’re taking in the beauty of cathedral-sized icebergs or spotting unique wildlife, immersing yourself in the polar world has never been more fabulous.
James Barrett
Galápagos Islands
The Galápagos Islands, located about 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, are renowned for their extraordinary biodiversity and isolation, making them one of the most fascinating destinations on the planet. This archipelago consists of volcanic islands and its unique geological features and diverse ecosystems have given rise to a multitude of species found nowhere else in the world. The remote location and strict conservation measures contribute to the islands’ beautiful environment.
Although there are hotels on some of the islands, the best way to experience the Galapagos is by boat. Ecoventura is an Ecuadorian luxury yacht expedition company where guests will travel for a week with a local guide. The small group won’t exceed 20 guests and will get to see sea lions, turtles, tortoises, and the joyfully bizarre blue footed booby birds. The yacht will travel to remote islands to give their travelers the most authentic experience.
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Faroe Islands
The Faroe Islands, a North Atlantic archipelago situated between Iceland and Norway, are renowned for dramatic cliffs and remote charm. Made of 18 rugged islands, the Faroes are characterized by steep mountains, green valleys, and picturesque fjords. The archipelago’s remote, ocean-surrounded location contributes to its unique atmosphere and sense of isolation.
Visiting the Faroe Islands requires a journey across the North Atlantic, often involving flights or ferry rides from neighboring countries. The Faroes’ small population and traditional way of life add to their allure. Travelers are drawn to the Faroes for their raw natural beauty, including iconic sights like the Mulafossur Waterfall and the towering sea stacks of Drangarnir. The unpredictable weather, with frequent fog, rain, and wind, adds an element of adventure, making it a sought-after destination for those seeking untouched landscapes.
If you want to stay on the island, we recommend booking a room or cottage at Hotel Hafnia. For a more rugged experience, set up camp in the great outdoors (you can look into different sites here).
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Wrangell-St Elias National Park, Alaska
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve in Alaska is the largest National Park in the United States and one of the most remote and awe-inspiring destinations. Encompassing over 13 million acres of rugged wilderness, the park is a vast expanse of towering mountains, massive glaciers, and pristine valleys.
Visiting Wrangell-St. Elias is an adventure into the heart of the Alaskan wilderness, with limited road access and vast expanses that are often accessible only by bush plane or on foot. The park is home to some of the highest peaks in North America, including Mount St. Elias, and features diverse ecosystems supporting a variety of wildlife.
Visitors can explore ancient glaciers, hike through alpine meadows, and witness the rugged beauty of the Wrangell and Chugach mountain ranges. Even though it’s no easy feat to get there, the views are worth it! Stay at the Ultima Thule Lodge, which offers fly-out adventure experiences daily as well as farm-to-table cuisine (including locally caught salmon, fresh vegetables, and wild game).
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Fiji
It’s no surprise that the fan-favorite competition show Survivor is filmed on a remote island in Fiji. With over 300 islands, this country is renowned for its pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and crystal clear water. This screensaver photo-worthy destination tops many bucket lists—and rightfully so.
It’s not uncommon to stay on a private island such as Kokomo Private Island Resort. Many SCUBA divers enjoy visiting Kokomo, as it’s close to the Great Astrolabe Reef. While Kokomo is known for its luxury, it also has one of the best dive centers in Fiji. Visiting requires taking a sea plane which has some of the best aerial views of the turquoise waters.
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Iceland
Iceland is known for its otherworldly landscapes, geothermal wonders, and little to no crowds. The island nation, often referred to as the “Land of Fire and Ice,” builds for an adventurous itinerary, including hiking and visiting glaciers, hot springs, volcanoes, and even vast lava fields. Iceland’s unique geological formations and its position near the Arctic Circle contribute to its captivating environment that you won’t forget any time soon.
Visitors to Iceland can experience the country’s remote beauty by exploring its various regions, from the iconic Golden Circle with landmarks like Geysir and Gullfoss Falls to the rugged landscapes of the East Fjords and the volcanic wonders of the Southern Coast.
Hotel Rangá, located in Hella, is the ideal home base for days of exploring. The family-owned hotel has hosted notable celebrities from Justin Bieber to Kim Kardashian. During the winter months, the concierge coordinates wake-up calls for the most optimal viewing of the Northern Lights.
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The Kimberley, Western Australia
Encompassing an ancient expanse that spans hundreds of thousands of square miles, the Kimberley, Australia stands as one of the world’s most precious and unspoiled wilderness regions. Covering an area three times larger than England yet inhabited by less than 40,000 people, the Kimberley, situated in Australia’s entire north-western corner, remains one of the last frontiers of untouched wilderness globally. This region boasts abundant wildlife, majestic canyons, and hosts one of Australia’s most spectacular 4WD road trips.
Another marvel not to be missed is the beehive-like domes of the 360-million-year-old Bungle Bungles. Despite its remote location, the Kimberley surprises with excellent culinary offerings, luxurious accommodations, welcoming locals, and the presence of one of the most romantic beach towns on the planet. Former cattle station turned luxury lodge El Questro features hot springs, freshwater pools fed by pounding waterfalls, and soaring escarpments.
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Umphang, Thailand
Umphang, located within the verdant jungles of western Thailand is one of the nation’s most secluded and enchanting destinations. Situated discreetly in the province of Tak, Umphang offers travelers a chance to embark off the beaten path while surrounded by surreal natural beauty and a wealth of cultural heritage.
The trek to Umphang is an adventure in itself, with serpentine mountain roads guiding explorers to the heart of the jungle. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted with panoramic views of tumbling waterfalls, verdant forests, and rugged landscapes. Many make the pilgrimage to Umphang to witness the grandeur of Thi Lo Su Waterfall, Thailand’s largest and most spectacular waterfall.
Beyond its natural wonders, Umphang provides opportunities for cultural immersion, inviting guests to explore local Karen Hill tribe villages and gain insights into their traditional customs and way of life. Since hotels are quite limited in this area, we recommend taking a day trip to Umphang or looking into Airbnb for overnight stays.
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Southwest National Park, Tasmania
As Tasmania’s largest National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage area, the Southwest National Park is a sanctuary of remote and untouched wilderness. Encompassing nearly 10 percent of the state, this region boasts untarnished landscapes, rugged mountain ranges, button grass moorlands, and ancient rainforests.
Some of Tasmania’s most dramatic and challenging mountains are here, but there are just as many accessible pockets that offer a glimpse of the great outdoors. Camping options are plentiful throughout the park, or you could opt for Pedder Wilderness Lodge which sits on Lake Pedder. The lodge caters to the adventurous backpacker with all the modern amenities of a luxurious, private getaway. Live music, Australian fare, local Tasmanian wine and spirits, and guided tours for bushwalking, fishing, kayaking, hiking, and more abound.
Explore Minnesota
Boundary Waters, Minnesota
Found in Minnesota’s northernmost reaches, the Boundary Waters area boasts 1,300 lakes and over 1 million acres of wilderness. Accessible via the 55-mile Gunflint Trail, entry is primarily by canoe and there is no cell phone service available. Boundary Waters is a true paddler’s paradise, featuring expansive bodies of water that allow hours of canoeing without ever setting foot on land. Sea Gull Lake, for instance, conceals a hidden waterfall on its southern shore. Adventurous travelers can also partake in the ritual of portaging—carrying their boat from one waterway to another for a change of scenery.
With a lack of hotels, the Boundary Waters wilderness has over 2,000 designated campsites. Tall pine trees, rocky shorelines, an abundance of glassy lakes, and crystal-clear streams ensure that each campsite has an unbelievable view to wake up to.