Summary of Beautiful Isolated Destinations
- 1. Itelliq, Greenland
- 2. Deception Island – Antarctica
- 3. Ivavik National Park – Canada
- 4. Mongolian Steppe and Gobi Desert
- 5. Laya Bhutan
- 6. Hershel Island – Canada
- 7. The Nubian Desert – Sudan
- 8. Boz Uchuk Lake Kyrgyzstan
- 9. Hudson Bay Canada
- 10. Embera Tribe – Darien Rainforest
- 11. Ethiopia
- 12. Siberian Russia
- 13. Missianabi Arctic Watershed Trek
- 14. Pinnacles of Borneo
- 15. Coiba National Park, Panama
- 16. Dempster Highway – Canada
- 17. American Samoa
- 18. Fiji
- 19. Inuvik – Canada
- 20. Wilpena Pound – Australia
- 21. Galapagos Islands
- 22. Peruvian Amazon
- 23. The White Desert of Egypt
- 24. Easter Island Chile
- 25. The Kerguelen Islands
- 26. Pitcairn Island
- 27. Changtang, Tibet
- 28. Tristan Da Cunha
- 29. Ittoqqortoormiit Greenland
- 30. Supai Arizona
- 31. Longyearbyen, Norway
- 32. Oymyakon, Russia
1. Itelliq, Greenland
Greenland is one of the most isolated countries we have ever experienced. Without any roads connecting cities and villages, traveling requires either flying or taking an expedition ship. Our visit to the picturesque village of Itelliq felt like stepping back in time, where the number of sled dogs often surpasses the human population, with communities that continue to hunt and fish as they have for centuries.
2. Deception Island – Antarctica
Antarctica is unique, hosting no permanent settlements. Only scientists and researchers reside there, and they often visit McMurdo Station. One of the most breathtaking locations in this archipelago is Deception Island. Accessible from Ushuaia in Argentina, it offers an unparalleled adventure for travelers.
3. Ivavik National Park – Canada
Ivavik National Park in Canada’s Yukon is undoubtedly off the beaten path. After enduring several flights on small twin-engine planes, we finally reached this remarkable destination. We spent our days amidst fences to protect ourselves from roaming Grizzly bears, fully immersing in the remote wilderness.
4. Mongolian Steppe and Gobi Desert
While participating in the Mongol Rally from England to Mongolia, we crossed through numerous countries, but it was upon reaching Mongolia that we truly felt isolated. We often found ourselves on dirt trails in the vastness of the Gobi Desert, where the only encounters were with nomads who welcomed us with traditional gifts of fermented mare’s milk and cheese.
5. Laya Bhutan
In Bhutan, one of the least visited countries globally due to its tourism policies, our trek through the Himalayas showcased the isolation experienced by local communities. After a full day of driving from Thimpu and an overnight stay in Gasa, we embarked on a two-day hike to the Himalayan village of Laya, nestled among majestic peaks.
6. Hershel Island – Canada
Before our journey to Hershel Island off Northern Canada’s coast, its existence was unknown to us. Once a thriving whaling station with a population of nearly 1500, it now remains a historical site controlled by Parks Canada. Visitors can explore its museum and remnants of a bygone era.
7. The Nubian Desert – Sudan
During our cycling journey across Africa, we traversed the Nubian Desert, where the solitude was palpable. Often riding for hours without encountering anyone, we witnessed nomadic life as camel caravans continued their age-old practices under the glaring sun.
8. Boz Uchuk Lake Kyrgyzstan
Our horse trek to Boz Uchuk Lake in Kyrgyzstan provided one of the most isolated trekking experiences. For days, it felt like we were the only souls in the mountains, surrounded by nature, with the beauty of the landscapes serving as our sole company.
9. Hudson Bay Canada
Traveling to Nanuk and Seal River Lodges on Hudson Bay immersed us in one of the most remote regions in Canada. Exploring this untouched landscape allowed us to witness some of nature’s most breathtaking wildlife while completely cut off from the outside world.
10. Embera Tribe – Darien Rainforest
Our expedition into the Darien Gap brought us directly to the Embera Tribe. Traveling via dugout canoes through the rainforest, we encountered a culture that remains largely untouched by the modern world, providing a glimpse into their timeless traditions.
11. Ethiopia
Cycling through remote regions of Ethiopia revealed stunning landscapes and cultures. Climbing the Blue Nile Gorge, we experienced isolation in its purest form, away from civilization and surrounded by breathtaking views.
12. Siberian Russia
As we drove through Siberia, the vastness of the land created an eerie sense of isolation. Camping in the fields and interacting with local motorcyclists made for a unique experience amidst the daunting landscapes.
13. Missianabi Arctic Watershed Trek
The Missianabi trek was one of our most challenging adventures, requiring resourcefulness and resilience in the face of freezing temperatures, as we navigated the harsh, yet beautiful, Canadian wilderness.
14. Pinnacles of Borneo
Diving into Borneo’s lush landscapes, we ventured to the Pinnacles of Gunung Mulu National Park, where isolation enveloped us in nature’s grandeur, creating unforgettable memories of raw beauty.
15. Coiba National Park, Panama
Granito de Oro, within Coiba National Park, is a slice of paradise. This pristine area boasts stunning marine life and untouched nature, making it the perfect spot for those seeking solitude.
16. Dempster Highway – Canada
Driving the Dempster Highway was a dream realized, as we crossed this isolated path filled with natural beauty and wildlife. It stands as one of the most remote roads in the world.
17. American Samoa
American Samoa provided a unique travel experience, showcasing the beautiful landscapes of the Pacific. With deserted beaches, we explored its remote territories, allowing for peaceful reflection.
18. Fiji
Although Fiji is well-traveled, the surrounding islands offer true isolation and tranquility. Exploring these secluded beaches by boat grants visitors a rare opportunity to experience such natural beauty without interruption.
19. Inuvik – Canada
Located above the Arctic Circle, Inuvik embodies isolation. Once a thriving oil town, its cultural significance remains, showcasing the rich heritage of both the Inuvialuit and Gwich’in peoples.
20. Wilpena Pound – Australia
In South Australia, Wilpena Pound is an iconic landscape, offering stunning views without the crowds of typical tourist destinations. This magnificent formation highlights the beauty of the Australian outback.
21. Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos Islands offer a unique experience, maintaining their isolation despite increasing tourism. Interactions with wildlife in untouched settings were truly extraordinary during our time there.
22. Peruvian Amazon
The Amazon presented an unparalleled feeling of isolation during our travels, particularly during an unexpected emergency. The lack of access and connectivity highlighted its remote nature, allowing us to appreciate the pristine wilderness.
23. The White Desert of Egypt
The White Desert of Egypt feels otherworldly, providing a stunning backdrop for camping under endless stars. Its stark beauty is just a short drive from bustling Cairo, yet worlds apart in experience.
24. Easter Island Chile
Easter Island stands as one of the most isolated inhabited islands globally. Its fascinating culture and stunning landscapes showcase a rich heritage preserved through time due to its geographical remoteness.
25. The Kerguelen Islands
The Kerguelen Islands, often referred to as the “Desolation Islands,” embody raw beauty and isolation. With limited access, their stunning landscapes provide a glimpse into untamed nature.
26. Pitcairn Island
The remoteness of Pitcairn Island makes it inaccessible by traditional means. Known for its rich history associated with the HMS Bounty, the island’s isolation is both captivating and challenging.
27. Changtang, Tibet
The high Tibetan Plateau of Changtang offers an extraordinary glimpse into isolation defined by vast landscapes and a unique nomadic culture that thrives despite isolation.
28. Tristan Da Cunha
As the most remote inhabited archipelago in the world, Tristan da Cunha offers a unique experience entwined with community values and natural beauty. Its isolation fosters tranquility and a deep connection with nature.
29. Ittoqqortoormiit Greenland
This remote settlement on Greenland’s eastern coast showcases the beauty of isolation. Limited access to the town enhances its unique appeal in the stunning Arctic landscape.
30. Supai Arizona
Supai is a hidden gem inside the Grand Canyon, accessible only by foot, mule, or air, providing a beautiful sanctuary steeped in history and cultural significance.
31. Longyearbyen, Norway
Longyearbyen is not only the northernmost settlement of significant size but also a remarkable experience in isolation among stunning Arctic landscapes, far from the fast pace of modern life.
32. Oymyakon, Russia
Known as the ‘Pole of Cold,’ Oymyakon represents a remarkable blend of isolation and harsh climate, earning its place as one of the most unique destinations on the planet.
These astounding locations represent some of the most isolated places on Earth. Where have your travels taken you away from everything?