Islands without the Wi-Fi: The Best Remote Getaways to Unplug and Unwind

Because sometimes, getting lost in the middle of nowhere is exactly where you need to be

Visiting remote islands makes for unique and unforgettable travel experiences for those seeking adventure and escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Their rugged and isolated conditions means visitors will need to disconnect and immerse oneself in nature.

These islands listed offer breathtaking landscapes, varied heritages, and unique flora and fauna not found anywhere else.

Whether exploring the mysterious Moai statues of Easter Island or marveling at the diverse wildlife of the Galápagos Islands, a trip to one of these remote destinations will surely be an unforgettable experience.

10 of the world’s most remote islands:

1. Bouvet Island: South of the Atlantic Ocean, considered one of the most remote islands due to its location and inaccessibility.
2. Easter Island: Known for its mysterious Moai statues and rich Polynesian cultural heritage.
3. Pitcairn Islands: A group of four islands in the Pacific known for being the home of the descendants of the mutineers of the HMS Bounty.
4. St. Helena Island: A remote island in the South Atlantic, notable for being the place of Napoleon Bonaparte’s exile.
5. The Galápagos Islands: Famous for its diverse wildlife, including endemic species such as giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies.
6. Henderson Island: A remote island in the Pacific known for its pristine beaches and unique ecosystem, including the largest population of palm trees.
7. The Marquesas Islands: A group of islands in the Pacific known for their rich Polynesian cultural heritage and unique endemic flora and fauna.
8. Kerguelen Islands: A small island group in the southern Indian Ocean, known for its rugged landscapes and unique ecosystem, including the Kerguelen cabbage, a flowering plant.
9. Tristan de Cunha: An active volcanic island that has 237 UK Citizens living in the world’s most isolated settlement of Edinburgh of the Seven Seas in the South Atlantic Ocean.
10. Jarvis Island: Halfway between Hawaii and the Cook Islands sits this tiny island in the Pacific Ocean. It’s home to the National Wildlife Refuge– not open to the public and entry is only allowed through a Special Use Permit for those that are scientists.

Of the remote islands listed above, some that travelers can visit include:

1. Easter Island
2. Tristan da Cunha
3. The Galapagos Islands
4. The Marquesas Islands
5. St. Helena Island

TIP: It’s important to note that access to some of these remote islands can be limited and expensive, and travelers should be prepared for the rugged, isolated conditions they may face while visiting

Travelers should be aware of the following before visiting remote islands:

• Accessibility: Some remote islands can be challenging to reach and may require multiple modes of transportation, such as planes, boats, and off-road vehicles.
• Cost: Visiting remote islands can be expensive due to the limited access and resources available.
• Climate: The weather on remote islands can be unpredictable and often harsh, so travelers should come prepared with the necessary clothing and gear.
• Health and Safety: Medical facilities and resources may be limited on remote islands, so travelers should have adequate travel insurance and any necessary medications.
• Respect for local communities and the environment: Travelers should respect the local communities and culture and take steps to minimize their impact on the island’s fragile ecosystem.
• Self-sufficiency: Travelers should be prepared to be self-sufficient and bring enough supplies, as it may take work to resupply on the island.

Did you know?

On some remote islands, the native languages are in danger of disappearing? Many of these languages have been passed down through generations, but the languages are forgotten as more young people leave for the mainland in search of opportunities.

According to UNESCO, around 600 languages are at risk of disappearing, many of which are spoken on remote islands. Some islands only have a handful of speakers left, and without efforts to preserve and promote these languages, they may be lost forever.

A little history:

Exploration: Many remote islands were first discovered by explorers searching for new trade routes or land to claim for their countries. For example, Christopher Columbus is credited with discovering the Canary Islands in 1492 during his journey to the New World.

Colonization: Once explorers discovered these islands, they often became the site of colonization efforts by various European powers. Some of the most well-known examples include the British colonization of Bermuda in the early 17th century and the French colonization of Tahiti and Bora Bora in the 18th century.

Natural disasters: Remote islands are often susceptible to hurricanes, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions. For example, the 1883 eruption of Krakatoa, an island in Indonesia, was one of the most powerful volcanic eruptions in recorded history and caused massive tsunamis that devastated nearby islands.

World War II: Many remote islands played a significant role in World War II as strategic military bases. For example, the island of Guadalcanal in the Pacific was the site of an important battle between Allied and Japanese forces in 1942.

Environmental conservation: Recently, many remote islands have become the focus of ecological conservation efforts due to their unique ecosystems and biodiversity. For example, the Galapagos Islands off the coast of Ecuador are home to a wide variety of rare and endemic species and have been the focus of conservation efforts for decades.