This blog post was updated on November 5, 2019.
Sometimes life gets overwhelming. Between work, home, family, and social obligations, you feel like you don’t have a single second to yourself. That’s when it’s time to step back and take a breather. But taking a timeout can seem impossible with all the hustle and bustle surrounding you. So why not head off on vacation to an isolated locale? We’ve rounded up the most remote vacation spots in the world (and the best ways to get there). Get ready for the ultimate relaxation — and the adventure of a lifetime!
Easter Island – Chile
Famous for the fantastic enormous head sculptures (called Moai) that dot the landscape, Easter Island is a dream come true for those in search of peace and quiet. Although it’s part of Chile, Easter Island is over 2,000 miles away (and nearly 1,300 miles from another inhabited island). For those craving solitude, it’s a dream come true.
Getting there is an adventure in itself. Since it’s so isolated, most people land in Tahiti or Santiago in order to get to this remote location. But with breathtaking sights, a rich culture, and plenty of peace and quiet, the trip is well worth the effort.
Deception Island – Antarctica
An active volcano located in one of the most inhospitable places on Earth doesn’t sound like the ideal vacation spot — unless you’re talking about Deception Island, that is. This remote island is tens of thousands of miles away from any major city, making it the perfect place to get away from it all. Take a dip in the water; the geothermal temperatures make it perfect for a long, relaxing soak. For those with a love of history, there’s a ton of sites to explore, including the remains of the Hektor Whaling Station. The harsh beauty of this hidden gem will help soothe even the most stressed out of travelers.
Be forewarned: getting to Deception Island is no easy task. First, you’ll need to arrive in Buenos Aires. You can suffer through a 50-hour bus ride to Ushuaia, or take a plane instead (we’d suggest this option ourselves). Once you’ve arrived, you’ll need to secure passage to the island in the form of an overnight voyage. This trip isn’t for the faint of heart, but if you’re willing to take a chance, this could be an unforgettable getaway at the edge of the world.
Ozark Mountains – Arkansas
Want to get away from it all, but don’t feel like renewing your passport? Believe it or not, the USA still has a few remote spots out there that will get you away from the maddening crowds. For those that want to enjoy the peace and quiet, this is a dream come true. There are miles of trails that are perfect for hiking or horseback riding, stunning waterfalls, and pristine forests. Adventure-seekers can enjoy rafting down the river, while those who prefer solitude can spend some time getting in touch with nature and simply enjoying the sights.
Unlike a lot of places on this list, travel is a snap! Hop on a plane or take a drive to Arkansas, and get ready to experience some wonderful isolation — without the hassle of a long journey.
Alice Springs – Australia
Australia itself can seem pretty remote at times, and Alice Springs is quite possibly the most isolated spot on the continent. The nearest major city is a 17-hour drive away. But if you’re looking for natural beauty, Alice Springs is hard to beat. The rugged desert terrain is a wonder to behold; tourists are encouraged to hire a guide if they want to explore the flora and fauna of the area. Others can enjoy the rich history of the springs, while those who need some serious R&R can relax by the peaceful oasis.
Once you get to Australia (a lengthy journey in itself), getting to Alice Springs is relatively straightforward: you just need to drive. And drive. And drive some more. The nearest landmark is about six hours away, so consider this option ideal for those who really want to get away from it all.
Have you ever gone remote? Tell us where you went in the comments!
