There are many lovely sites in the world, but some are still undisturbed by the busyness of contemporary life and offer quiet and natural beauty. The ten most isolated places on Earth are like secret gems. Their untamed environments, unspoiled ecosystems, and total solitude provide a quiet haven. These locations from the South Atlantic’s Tristan da Cunha to the frigid tundra of Antarctica’s Deception Island are what it means to be far away. Imagine vast deserts like the Gobi, islands devoid of population like Kerguelen, or the deep, unexplored Amazon jungle. Though difficult to get, these far-off locations reward adventurers with unspoiled surroundings and unusual species.
Traveling to far-off locations inspires a curiosity about the last few frontiers of Earth. Whether it’s the stark, gorgeous Wrangel Island in Russia or the lofty slopes of Gangkhar Puensum in Bhutan, every location offers a glimpse into nature unaltered by people. These locations are fantastic for thrill-seekers, environmentalists, and those who wish to be alone; they inspire respect and wonder for the variety of the earth. Discovering the most remote locations on Earth inspires adventure, supports environmentally sustainable travel, and helps you to understand the need of preserving these isolated natural beauties for next generations. Explore the uncharted to uncover the hidden jewels of the planet.
Top Ten Most Remote Places On Earth
10. Villa Las Estrellas, Antarctica
Tucked away on King George Island, Villa Las Estrellas, or “Star Town,” is one of only two civilian settlements in Antarctica, a continent synonymous with isolation. This Chilean village, about 75 miles off Antarctica’s coast and 2,000 miles from southern Chile, houses fewer than 200 people, mostly researchers and their families. Established in 1984 to strengthen Chile’s territorial claims, it features 14 homes, a school, gym, church, and a small souvenir shop.
The extreme remoteness demands unique precautions: residents must have their appendix removed due to the nearest hospital being 600 miles away, and dogs are banned to protect penguins and other wildlife. Tourists brave a two-day boat ride from Ushuaia, Argentina, to experience snowmobile tours, whale-watching, or ski expeditions. The brutal Antarctic winters, with scarce sunlight, make this isolated destination a testament to human resilience. For adventure travelers, Villa Las Estrellas offers a rare glimpse into life at the edge of the world, where pristine nature and scientific discovery collide in a frozen wilderness.
9. Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station, Antarctica
Perched 9,000 feet above sea level on a drifting ice sheet, the Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station is a beacon of scientific exploration in one of Earth’s most remote places. Located 850 nautical miles south of McMurdo Station, this U.S. research outpost endures temperatures as low as -90°C and experiences six months of continuous daylight followed by six months of darkness. Since its establishment in 1956, it has hosted 50 to 200 researchers studying climate, astrophysics, and glaciology. The station’s isolation, accessible only by specialized aircraft, makes it a pinnacle of untouched wilderness.
Its stark, icy landscape, devoid of native inhabitants, draws those fascinated by extreme environments. The station’s role in groundbreaking research, like studying cosmic microwave background radiation, underscores its importance. For those dreaming of adventure travel, this remote destination offers no tourist amenities but represents the ultimate frontier of human endurance, where the vast Antarctic expanse challenges even the most seasoned explorers.
8. The Changtang, Tibet
Sprawling across the Tibetan Plateau, the Changtang, or “Roof of the World,” is a high-altitude wilderness averaging 4 miles above sea level. This vast, rugged region, part of the Changtang Nature Reserve—the world’s second-largest—hosts a sparse population of nomadic Changpa herders, numbering a few hundred thousand. The harsh, windswept landscape, with its towering mountains and sparse vegetation, supports unique wildlife like Tibetan antelopes and wild yaks. Its isolation, far from urban centers, makes it a haven for those seeking solitude and authentic cultural experiences.
Access is limited, often requiring arduous overland journeys, which adds to its allure for adventure travelers. The Changtang’s untouched beauty and spiritual significance, tied to Tibetan Buddhist traditions, draw backpackers and researchers alike. Preserving this remote place is crucial, as its delicate ecosystem faces threats from climate change. For those craving an off-the-grid escape, the Changtang offers a profound connection to nature and a glimpse into a nomadic way of life.
7. Oymyakon, Russia
Deep in Siberia’s Sakha Republic, Oymyakon holds the title of the coldest inhabited place on Earth, with a record low of -90°F recorded in 1933. Home to about 500 residents, this remote village endures 21 hours of darkness in winter and temperatures averaging -58°F. Located 576 miles from Yakutsk, access involves a grueling two-day drive, as planes cannot land in winter’s extreme cold. Residents rely on hunting and herding, as crops cannot grow in the frozen soil.
The stark isolation and brutal climate make Oymyakon a unique destination for adventure travel enthusiasts willing to brave its challenges. The village’s resilience, seen in its simple wooden homes and traditional lifestyle, captivates those seeking untouched wilderness. Visitors might explore the nearby “Pole of Cold” monument or experience the eerie beauty of a landscape locked in permafrost. Oymyakon’s extreme remoteness and harsh conditions highlight human adaptability, making it a compelling stop for those chasing the world’s most isolated destinations.
6. Ittoqqortoormiit, Greenland
Nestled on Greenland’s eastern shore, Ittoqqortoormiit is a vibrant yet isolated village of 450 people, surrounded by 600 miles of uninhabited land. Positioned between the world’s largest national park and a stunning fjord, it’s a hotspot for wildlife like polar bears, seals, and arctic foxes. Access is limited to helicopters or boats during warmer months, as the harsh Arctic climate restricts travel. The village’s colorful houses and weekly pub opening reflect a tight-knit community thriving in solitude.
For adventure travelers, Ittoqqortoormiit offers unmatched natural beauty, with opportunities for dog-sledding, iceberg tours, and northern lights viewing. Its remoteness preserves a traditional Inuit-influenced culture, making it a cultural gem. The village’s isolation also supports scientific research on Arctic ecosystems, drawing researchers to its pristine wilderness. Sustainable travel is key here, as the delicate environment faces climate change pressures. Ittoqqortoormiit embodies the allure of remote places, offering a serene escape for those seeking to disconnect from the modern world.
5. Kerguelen Islands, Southern Indian Ocean
The Kerguelen Islands, often called the “Desolation Islands,” lie over 2,000 miles from the nearest civilization in the Southern Indian Ocean. This French territory hosts 50 to 100 scientists at Port-aux-Français, a research station accessible only by ship four times a year. The volcanic archipelago, with its rugged cliffs and windswept terrain, supports no permanent residents but is a haven for unique wildlife like penguins and seals.
Its extreme isolation makes it a prime spot for studying geology, meteorology, and marine ecosystems. Adventure travelers drawn to untouched wilderness find the Kerguelen’s stark beauty captivating, though reaching it requires meticulous planning. The islands’ history, tied to French exploration, adds intrigue, with remnants of past expeditions scattered across the landscape. The harsh climate and lack of infrastructure underscore its status as one of Earth’s most remote places. For those seeking solitude and raw nature, the Kerguelen Islands offer an unparalleled journey into a forgotten corner of the planet.
4. Devon Island, Canada
Devon Island, in Canada’s Nunavut Territory, is the largest uninhabited island on Earth, located 50 miles from Cornwallis Island. Its Mars-like terrain, marked by the 12.5-mile-wide Haughton meteorite crater, makes it a key site for NASA’s Haughton-Mars Project, simulating Martian exploration. The Arctic landscape, with its rocky expanses and freezing temperatures, is devoid of human settlements, offering a stark, untouched wilderness. Researchers study its geology and test space technologies, drawn by its isolation and extreme conditions.
For adventure travelers, Devon Island represents the ultimate remote destination, though access is limited to specialized expeditions, often by small aircraft or icebreaker ships. The island’s barren beauty, with polar deserts and rare Arctic flora, captivates those seeking solitude. Its role in advancing space exploration adds a futuristic allure, making it a unique draw for science enthusiasts. Preserving this pristine environment is vital, as it remains one of the planet’s last untouched frontiers, offering lessons in resilience and adaptation.
3. Easter Island (Rapa Nui), Chile
Easter Island, or Rapa Nui, a Chilean territory in the South Pacific, lies 2,200 miles from mainland Chile and 1,200 miles from Pitcairn Island. Famous for its 887 moai statues, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it hosts under 8,000 residents. Its proximity to Point Nemo, the oceanic pole of inaccessibility, underscores its isolation. The island’s volcanic landscape and ancient Polynesian culture draw tens of thousands of tourists annually, accessible by flights from Santiago.
The moai, carved centuries ago, stand as silent sentinels of a mysterious past, making Rapa Nui a must-visit for history buffs and adventure travelers. The island’s remoteness preserves its cultural heritage, though sustainable tourism is critical to protect its delicate ecosystem. Local markets, traditional dance, and archaeological sites offer immersive experiences. Easter Island’s blend of isolation, history, and natural beauty makes it a captivating remote destination, inviting exploration of one of Earth’s most iconic isolated places.
2. Pitcairn Islands, Southern Pacific Ocean
The Pitcairn Islands, a British Overseas Territory in the Southern Pacific, are home to about 50 residents, descendants of the HMS Bounty mutineers. Located over 3,000 miles from New Zealand, the main island, Pitcairn, spans just 3.2 kilometers. Access is by freighter from New Zealand, a journey of up to ten days, with no airstrip. The islands’ lush cliffs, sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters make them a hidden gem for adventure travel.
The community, rooted in a unique biracial heritage, relies on fishing, farming, and honey exports. Tourism is welcomed, with visitors staying in local homes, immersing in the island’s history at sites like the Bounty’s remains. The 2024 opening of a Marine Science Base highlights its pristine marine environment, ideal for researchers. The Pitcairn Islands’ extreme isolation fosters a tight-knit community, offering a serene escape for those seeking untouched wilderness and a glimpse into a storied past.
1. Tristan Da Cunha, South Atlantic Ocean
Tristan Da Cunha, a volcanic archipelago in the South Atlantic, holds the title of the most remote inhabited place on Earth. Located 1,750 miles from Cape Town, South Africa, its main settlement, Edinburgh of the Seven Seas, houses 238 residents, all British citizens. With no airport, access is by a six-day boat trip, with fishing vessels visiting 8-9 times yearly. The community thrives on farming, fishing, and stamp sales, maintaining a close-knit, self-sufficient lifestyle.
The active volcano, Queen Mary’s Peak, looms at 6,760 feet, adding both beauty and risk, as seen in the 1961 eruption that forced evacuation. The island’s unique dialect and communal land ownership reflect its diverse settler roots. Adventure travelers are drawn to its rugged trails, penguin colonies, and serene isolation. Sustainable travel is vital to preserve its pristine environment, home to rare seabirds. Tristan Da Cunha embodies the ultimate isolated destination, offering a profound escape into one of Earth’s last untouched corners.
