Eight Out-of-the-way Destinations for a Solitary Journey Away from Society
In this wild, fast-paced world, it's rare to find solitude. Yet, when you do, it's an exhilarating and revitalizing experience. Whether you're longing for a peaceful retreat in a remote location, an isolated oasis on a secluded island, or a serene wildlife adventure, these destinations offer a true escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
From specks of sand with scarcely any footprints to endless deserts and untouched wilderness, our planet still holds pockets of undisturbed nature. These quiet sanctuaries are perfect for a contemplative sojourn, providing beauty and tranquility in their silence.
Need some inspiration for your getaway from it all in 2022? Here are some destinations that will help you find a moment of peace and clarity:
Patagonia, Argentina and Chile
This breathtaking region straddling Argentina and Chile is a remote adventurer's paradise. Offering cinematic mountains, gorgeous glaciers, and sprawling wilderness, Patagonia humbles nature on a seismic scale. Whether you're venturing on a solo trek or taking it all in from a secluded cabin, the silence here is intoxicating.
Despite the vast, empty spaces, it's often advisable to tackle these landscapes with assistance. A small group hiking exploration can help ensure you make the most of your adventure while sharing unforgettable moments like kayaking alongside whales and learning from local guides.
Karakalpakstan, Uzbekistan
Covering a vast area in western Uzbekistan, Karakalpakstan is the 'Stan you might not have heard of. It's distinct in cultural and linguistic terms from Uzbekistan, but it's the lack of towering Silk Road cities that makes it an ideal secluded escape. Visitors who venture out here will be rewarded with a barren landscape filled with unique historical sites.
Drive for hours across nothingness to spend a few nights in a traditional yurt camp on the water's edge, and you'll feel like you've left Earth entirely. The fast-retreating Aral Sea, once one of the world's largest lakes, gives off a haunting silence, reminding us of the precariousness of our environment.
Falkland Islands
Few places have left me feeling as alone as the Falkland Islands. Lying off the coast of South America, the islands are known for their coastal wars – but those mines have long been cleared, leaving a peaceful haven for wildlife. Here, you'll find sheep, penguins, seals, and seabirds aplenty – conversation is never far away.
This is one of the best places to observe the four types of Falkland penguins without boarding an expedition ship with others. You can still enjoy the company of others at local farm stays, where meals can be shared family-style. But whether you're strolling along the beach amid seals or chatting with penguins in a craggy corner, the sense of isolation is palpable.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, USA
Americans seeking a remote escape don't have to travel far. The Great Smoky Mountains, a 522-acre national park spanning North Carolina and Tennessee, provides an ideal get-away-from-it-all retreat. With ridge-upon-ridge of forest, endless hiking trails, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife spotting opportunities, it's easy to reconnect with nature without traveling halfway around the world.
And while some hikes may see their fair share of footfall, there are plenty of secluded tracks to explore. Looking for a small-group guided hiking adventure? Tennessee's glamping options are top-notch and offer a great way to get off-grid in style.
Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Raja Ampat may have been the best scuba diving of my life. And while the journey there is long and arduous, the marine life rewards are worth it. With diverse concentrations of marine life, you can dive, relax on pristine beaches, and embrace a simpler way of life far from the modern world.
Staying at a locally-run island resort ensures you respect Raja Ampat and its people while injecting any money spent into local pockets. For an authentic tropical escape, this is the place to be.
The Wahiba Sands, Oman
The road trip I took through Oman was unforgettable. Unlike its neighbor Dubai, I found Oman to be a genuinely friendly and raw destination. With its liberal wild camping laws, a car, tent, and a few sure-footed friends are all you need to embark on a memorable adventure.
Three of us piled into a car, set up camp in the desert, and discovered a magical, secluded world. There's no need to camp alone – official desert camps are available if you prefer. But for me, waking up alone under the desert sky is an experience I'll never forget.
The Faroe Islands
The Faroe Islands are a paradox – remote but well-developed, harsh but still homey. Away from the colorful capital city, you can easily disappear into your own world. With ferries connecting to outer islands and family-style guest houses or rentals available, you can find a peaceful retreat amid incredible landscapes.
Stand on a cliff's edge with fierce waves crashing below or circle a sea stack with puffins clinging to the side, and imagination will tell you there's no one else around for miles.
Australia's Outback
Arid, endless, and awe-inspiring, Australia's Outback offers a secluded adventure that's truly unforgettable. Red deserts, vast wilderness, and the sacred sandstone icon of Uluru provide a breathtaking escape from the world. From Uluru to Kata Tjuta, you can immerse yourself in Anangu culture, ancient traditions, and the vast expanse of the Outback. Plan carefully and prepare for an epic adventure.
Points of interest:
- Folegandros, Greece: Untamed natural beauty, white-washed town, secluded beaches, and ancient paths.
- Tobago Cays Marine Park, St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Clear lagoons, coral reefs, sea turtle nesting sites, and pristine beaches.
- Little Bay, Anguilla: Tucked-away beach, calm turquoise waters, tropical fish, and peaceful hours.
- Botswana: Untouched wildlife habitats, immersive safaris, and low tourist density.
- Galápagos Islands: Unique wildlife, rich biodiversity, and secluded adventure.
- Montenegro: Quiet natural landscapes, mountains, coastal hiking trails, and rugged beauty.
- Finland and Estonia: Extensive wilderness areas, hiking trails, and tranquil nature experiences.
- For a travel destination where lifestyle is characterized by rugged natural beauty and seclusion, consider Patagonia, straddling Argentina and Chile, known for its cinematic mountains, glaciers, and wilderness.
- In search of a remote escape that offers a serene wildlife experience, Raja Ampat in Indonesia stands out with diverse marine life, pristine beaches, and an authentic tropical getaway.
