Top 10 Amazing Remote Islands in The World

Remote islands are islands that are located far away from mainland areas or other heavily populated regions. These islands are often characterized by their isolation and limited access to transportation and infrastructure. They are typically surrounded by vast bodies of water, such as oceans or seas, which contribute to their remote status.

Remote islands can be found in various parts of the world, including the Pacific Ocean, Atlantic Ocean, Indian Ocean, and other bodies of water. Examples of remote islands include Tristan da Cunha in the South Atlantic Ocean, Easter Island in the Pacific Ocean, the Falkland Islands in the South Atlantic Ocean, and the Seychelles in the Indian Ocean.

The remoteness of these islands can present both challenges and unique opportunities. On one hand, the isolation can make it difficult to provide essential services, such as healthcare and education, and to access goods and resources. On the other hand, remote islands often boast stunning natural landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and cultural richness, which can make them attractive for tourism and conservation efforts.

Remote islands are often home to unique flora and fauna, including endemic species that are found nowhere else in the world. They can also have distinct cultures and traditions shaped by their isolation and historical factors. In recent years, remote islands have gained attention as ecotourism destinations, offering visitors a chance to explore pristine environments and engage with local communities.

It’s important to note that the term “remote islands” can be subjective and vary depending on one’s perspective and location. What may be considered remote from one place could be relatively accessible from another.

Top 10 Remote Islands in The World

1. The Kerguelen Islands

The Kerguelen Islands, also known as the Desolation Islands, are a group of remote islands located in the southern Indian Ocean. They are part of the French Southern and Antarctic Lands (TAAF) and are considered one of the most isolated places on Earth.

The archipelago consists of one main island, Grande Terre, and numerous smaller islands and islets. It covers a total land area of around 7,215 square kilometers (2,786 square miles). The Kerguelen Islands are situated approximately 3,300 kilometers (2,050 miles) east of the southern tip of Africa and about 3,900 kilometers (2,420 miles) southwest of Australia.

The islands are of volcanic origin and are characterized by rugged and mountainous terrain, with the highest peak, Mount Ross, reaching an elevation of 1,850 meters (6,070 feet). The climate of the Kerguelen Islands is subantarctic, with cold temperatures, strong winds, and significant precipitation throughout the year.

Due to their remote location and harsh climate, the Kerguelen Islands are largely uninhabited. The only permanent inhabitants are the staff of the French research station, Port-aux-Français, which is primarily involved in scientific research and monitoring activities. The station supports a small community of scientists, researchers, and support personnel.

The Kerguelen Islands are known for their rich biodiversity and unique ecosystem. The subantarctic environment supports a variety of plant and animal species, including seabirds, seals, and marine mammals. It is also home to large populations of feral cats and rabbits, which were introduced in the past and have had significant ecological impacts.

The islands have attracted scientific interest and have been the site of various research expeditions. Studies conducted in the Kerguelen Islands focus on fields such as biology, geology, meteorology, and climate change. The unique ecosystem and remote location make the archipelago an important area for understanding the impacts of environmental change.

Although the Kerguelen Islands are not a popular tourist destination due to their inaccessibility and lack of infrastructure, they are occasionally visited by expedition cruises and scientific expeditions. These visitors can experience the pristine natural environment, observe wildlife, and appreciate the remote and untouched landscapes of the islands.

2. Spitsbergen

Spitsbergen, also known as Svalbard, is a remote archipelago situated in the Arctic Ocean, approximately midway between mainland Norway and the North Pole. It is an integral part of the Kingdom of Norway and is subject to Norwegian sovereignty, although it has a unique legal status granting it a high degree of autonomy.

Spitsbergen is the largest island within the Svalbard archipelago, covering an area of around 37,673 square kilometers (14,546 square miles). It is known for its rugged and glaciated landscapes, with mountains, fjords, and vast expanses of tundra. The highest peak on the island is Newtontoppen, standing at an elevation of 1,713 meters (5,620 feet).

The climate of Spitsbergen is Arctic, characterized by long, extremely cold winters and relatively cool summers. The archipelago experiences the polar night phenomenon, where the sun remains below the horizon for several months during winter, and the midnight sun period, when the sun does not set for about four months during summer.

Despite its harsh environment, Spitsbergen is home to a small population of around 2,700 inhabitants, primarily concentrated in the main settlement of Longyearbyen. The population consists of both Norwegian and international residents, with a significant presence of researchers, scientists, and support staff engaged in scientific studies and activities.

Spitsbergen is renowned for its rich wildlife and unique natural features. The archipelago serves as a sanctuary for various Arctic species, including polar bears, reindeer, Arctic foxes, and numerous bird species. It is also a breeding ground for seabirds, such as puffins and kittiwakes, and provides a habitat for marine mammals like seals and whales.

Tourism has become an increasingly popular industry in Spitsbergen, attracting visitors who are interested in Arctic exploration, wildlife observation, and experiencing the extreme beauty of the polar region. Visitors can engage in activities like dog sledding, snowmobiling, glacier hiking, and boat trips to witness the stunning landscapes and encounter the Arctic wildlife.

It’s worth noting that due to the delicate Arctic ecosystem and the presence of protected species, regulations are in place to ensure responsible tourism and environmental preservation in Spitsbergen. Visitors are encouraged to follow guidelines to minimize their impact on the environment and respect the local regulations and wildlife.

The archipelago also holds historical significance, as it has been a base for polar exploration and coal mining in the past. There are several historical sites and museums in Spitsbergen that showcase the region’s exploration history and the challenges faced by early Arctic explorers.

Overall, Spitsbergen offers a unique opportunity to explore the remote Arctic environment, witness incredible wildlife, and delve into the history of polar exploration in one of the world’s most extreme and captivating destinations.

3. Pitcairn Island

Pitcairn Island is a remote volcanic island located in the southern Pacific Ocean. It is part of the Pitcairn Islands group, which also includes three uninhabited islands: Henderson, Ducie, and Oeno. Pitcairn Island is the only inhabited island in the group and is the smallest British Overseas Territory by both land area and population.

The island is situated about 5,000 kilometers (3,100 miles) east of Tahiti and approximately halfway between New Zealand and Peru. Due to its isolated location, Pitcairn Island is one of the most remote inhabited places on Earth.

Pitcairn Island gained historical significance as the final refuge of the Bounty mutineers in the late 18th century. After the infamous mutiny on the British ship HMS Bounty in 1789, a group of mutineers, led by Fletcher Christian, settled on Pitcairn Island along with some Tahitian men and women. Their descendants, known as the Pitcairn Islanders, still inhabit the island today.

The population of Pitcairn Island is very small, with around 50 residents (as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021). The Pitcairn Islanders are mainly of mixed European and Polynesian ancestry, and their community is closely knit. The official language is English, though a unique blend of English and Tahitian, known as Pitkern, is commonly spoken among the locals.

Pitcairn Island is known for its rugged and scenic landscapes, with steep cliffs, rocky shores, and lush vegetation. The island offers opportunities for hiking, nature exploration, and diving in its surrounding marine environment. The waters around Pitcairn are home to a diverse range of marine life, including colorful coral reefs and numerous fish species.

Access to Pitcairn Island is challenging due to its remoteness and lack of transportation infrastructure. The island does not have an airport, and the only means of reaching it is by sea. Ships occasionally visit the island, usually from New Zealand or Tahiti, bringing supplies and tourists.

Tourism plays a significant role in the economy of Pitcairn Island. Visitors have the chance to experience the unique culture and way of life of the Pitcairn Islanders, learn about their history and traditions, and enjoy the unspoiled natural beauty of the island. However, it’s important to note that tourist numbers are limited due to the island’s limited capacity to accommodate visitors.

Pitcairn Island, with its rich history, pristine environment, and secluded way of life, continues to capture the curiosity and interest of adventurous travelers seeking a remote and off-the-beaten-path destination.

4. Novaya Zemlya

Novaya Zemlya is an archipelago located in the Arctic Ocean, in the northern part of Russia. It is an integral part of the Russian Federation and consists of two main islands, Severny (Northern) and Yuzhny (Southern), along with numerous smaller islands. The archipelago is separated from the mainland by the Barents Sea.

Novaya Zemlya has a total land area of approximately 90,650 square kilometers (34,925 square miles), making it one of the largest Arctic archipelagos. The landscape is characterized by rugged mountains, vast tundra plains, and numerous glaciers. The highest peak on the archipelago is Mount Karpinsky, reaching an elevation of 1,890 meters (6,201 feet).

The climate of Novaya Zemlya is harsh and subarctic, with long, bitterly cold winters and cool summers. The archipelago experiences the polar night phenomenon during winter, where the sun remains below the horizon for an extended period, and the midnight sun phenomenon during summer, when the sun does not set for several weeks.

Novaya Zemlya is sparsely populated, with a small number of inhabitants living in settlements primarily engaged in military and scientific activities. The main administrative center is the town of Belushya Guba, located on the western coast of Yuzhny Island.

Historically, Novaya Zemlya served as a base for nuclear weapons testing by the Soviet Union during the Cold War era. The archipelago was used for atmospheric and underground nuclear tests from the 1950s to the 1990s. However, these activities have since ceased, and efforts have been made to clean up and monitor the environmental impact of these tests.

Novaya Zemlya is also known for its wildlife, including various Arctic species. Polar bears are particularly abundant in the region and are a common sight, as the archipelago provides an important habitat and hunting ground for these iconic animals. Other wildlife found on the islands include Arctic foxes, reindeer, seals, and numerous bird species.

Tourism in Novaya Zemlya is limited due to its remote location, extreme climate, and restricted access to certain areas due to military and environmental concerns. However, adventurous travelers and scientists interested in Arctic exploration, wildlife observation, and research expeditions may visit the archipelago.

The unique Arctic environment, stunning landscapes, and abundant wildlife make Novaya Zemlya an intriguing destination for those seeking to experience the raw beauty and challenges of the extreme northern regions of the world.

5. Tristan da Cunha

Tristan da Cunha is a remote volcanic archipelago located in the South Atlantic Ocean. It is part of the British Overseas Territory of Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha. The archipelago includes several islands, with Tristan da Cunha Island being the largest and most inhabited.

Tristan da Cunha is considered one of the most isolated inhabited places on Earth, situated approximately 2,400 kilometers (1,500 miles) west of the southern coast of Africa. The nearest landmass is Saint Helena, located about 2,800 kilometers (1,700 miles) to the northeast.

The main island, Tristan da Cunha, is characterized by rugged volcanic landscapes, including the active volcano Queen Mary’s Peak, which is the highest point in the archipelago, reaching an elevation of 2,062 meters (6,765 feet). The climate is mild, with cool temperatures and high humidity throughout the year.

The population of Tristan da Cunha is small, consisting of approximately 250 inhabitants (as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021). The majority of the residents are of British and Saint Helenian descent, with English being the primary language spoken on the island.

The main settlement on Tristan da Cunha is called Edinburgh of the Seven Seas, named after the Duke of Edinburgh, who visited the island in the 19th century. The community is closely knit, and the residents rely on subsistence farming, fishing, and some income from the sale of philatelic items.

Access to Tristan da Cunha is challenging due to its remote location and lack of infrastructure. The island is reachable only by a limited number of ships that make occasional voyages from South Africa or Saint Helena, typically taking several days to reach the archipelago.

Tourism in Tristan da Cunha is relatively limited, mainly due to the difficulties of reaching the island and the small-scale nature of its tourism infrastructure. However, the archipelago’s unique natural beauty, including dramatic cliffs, volcanic landscapes, and diverse birdlife, attracts some adventurous travelers and nature enthusiasts.

Tristan da Cunha is known for its conservation efforts, and the island is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its remarkable wildlife and pristine environment. It serves as a habitat for a variety of bird species, including the critically endangered Tristan albatross.

The isolation and unique cultural heritage of Tristan da Cunha, along with its breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity, make it a destination of interest for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in a remote and untouched part of the world.

6. Easter Island

Easter Island, also known as Rapa Nui, is a remote volcanic island located in the southeastern Pacific Ocean. It is a special territory of Chile and is situated approximately 3,700 kilometers (2,300 miles) west of mainland Chile. The island is famous for its mysterious and iconic stone statues called moai.

Easter Island covers an area of about 163.6 square kilometers (63.2 square miles) and has a triangular shape. The island’s landscape is characterized by rolling hills, extinct volcanic cones, and a rugged coastline. The largest volcano on the island is Rano Kau, which has a crater lake and offers panoramic views of the surroundings.

The indigenous Polynesian people of Easter Island, known as the Rapa Nui, have a unique cultural heritage. They are believed to have settled the island around the 12th century. The Rapa Nui are known for their incredible stone-carving skills, which are evident in the massive moai statues found throughout the island. These statues, carved from volcanic rock, are known for their distinctive features, including large heads and elongated bodies.

Easter Island is home to nearly 900 moai statues, varying in size from a few meters to over 20 meters (66 feet) in height. The purpose of these statues and the means by which they were transported and erected remain the subject of ongoing research and speculation. The moai are considered one of the world’s most significant archaeological and cultural wonders.

In addition to the moai, Easter Island features other archaeological sites, including ceremonial platforms called ahu, rock art, and the Rano Raraku quarry, where the moai were carved. The island’s unique cultural and archaeological heritage has led to its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Easter Island has a relatively small population, with most inhabitants residing in the main town of Hanga Roa. The island’s economy is primarily dependent on tourism, with visitors coming to explore its archaeological sites, learn about Rapa Nui culture, and enjoy the natural beauty of the island. Tourism has contributed to the preservation and restoration of the moai and other important sites.

The island’s remote location and limited infrastructure mean that reaching Easter Island requires a flight from mainland Chile or other nearby islands. The Mataveri International Airport, located on the island, serves as the main gateway for visitors.

Easter Island’s natural environment is also noteworthy, with volcanic craters, pristine beaches, and unique flora and fauna. The island offers opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, diving, and experiencing Polynesian culture through traditional dance and music.

Preserving the cultural heritage and fragile ecosystem of Easter Island is a priority for both the local community and the Chilean government. Efforts are made to protect the archaeological sites, manage tourism sustainably, and support the Rapa Nui people in maintaining their cultural traditions.

Easter Island’s captivating blend of ancient history, captivating landscapes, and enigmatic moai statues continues to intrigue and inspire travelers from around the world.

7. South Georgia

South Georgia is a remote subantarctic island located in the southern Atlantic Ocean. It is part of the British Overseas Territory of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands. The island is situated approximately 1,400 kilometers (870 miles) east-southeast of the Falkland Islands and about 2,700 kilometers (1,700 miles) east of the southern tip of South America.

South Georgia is known for its stunning and rugged natural beauty. The island is of volcanic origin and features a mountainous terrain, with numerous glaciers and fjords. Mount Paget is the highest peak on the island, reaching an elevation of 2,934 meters (9,626 feet). The landscape is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including seals, penguins, and various bird species.

The island played a significant role in the early 20th century as a base for Antarctic exploration and whaling operations. The remains of whaling stations and associated infrastructure can still be found on South Georgia, offering a glimpse into its industrial history.

Today, South Georgia has a small population, primarily consisting of scientists, researchers, and support staff stationed at the British Antarctic Survey’s research station, King Edward Point. The station conducts research on topics such as climate change, wildlife, and oceanography.

The island is recognized for its abundant wildlife, particularly its large colonies of penguins, including king penguins and macaroni penguins. South Georgia is also a breeding ground for seabirds, such as albatrosses and petrels. Various species of seals, including Antarctic fur seals and elephant seals, can be found on the island’s beaches.

South Georgia is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and adventurous travelers interested in exploring the remote and pristine subantarctic region. Visitors have the opportunity to witness the incredible wildlife, visit historic sites, and immerse themselves in the island’s natural wonders.

Access to South Georgia is limited and typically involves travel by ship from the Falkland Islands or other nearby locations. Tourists are required to obtain permits to visit the island, and strict regulations are in place to protect the delicate ecosystem and wildlife.

Conservation efforts are a priority on South Georgia, and the island has been designated as a Special Area for Scientific Study and a Marine Protected Area. Measures are in place to protect the native flora and fauna, manage tourism sustainably, and prevent the introduction of non-native species.

In recent years, there have been successful efforts to eradicate invasive species, such as rats, from South Georgia, allowing the native bird populations to recover and thrive.

South Georgia’s unique combination of breathtaking landscapes, fascinating history, and abundant wildlife make it a captivating destination for those seeking an extraordinary adventure in the subantarctic region.

8. Diego Garcia

Diego Garcia is a small, remote coral atoll located in the Indian Ocean. It is part of the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) and is currently under the control and sovereignty of the United Kingdom. The atoll is situated approximately 1,600 kilometers (1,000 miles) south of the Maldives and about 3,200 kilometers (2,000 miles) east of the coast of Africa.

Diego Garcia is primarily known for its strategic military importance. The United States maintains a large military base on the island, which serves as a vital support and logistics hub for its military operations in the region. The base is operated under a long-term lease agreement between the United States and the United Kingdom.

The atoll itself is uninhabited by indigenous people. The original inhabitants of Diego Garcia, who were primarily of Maldivian and Seychellois descent, were forcibly displaced by the British government in the 1960s and 1970s to make way for the construction of the military base. They were relocated to Mauritius and the Seychelles, and efforts to return them to Diego Garcia have been a subject of ongoing legal disputes.

Diego Garcia is surrounded by a vast lagoon, and its land area is relatively flat and covered with tropical vegetation. The lagoon and its coral reefs are home to diverse marine life, including fish, turtles, and various coral species. However, access to the lagoon and the surrounding waters is highly restricted due to the military operations on the island.

Given its military role and restricted access, tourism on Diego Garcia is extremely limited. The island is not open to general tourists, and entry is primarily restricted to military personnel and authorized individuals associated with military or scientific activities.

Diego Garcia’s geopolitical significance, along with the controversial displacement of its original inhabitants, has led to debates and protests regarding its sovereignty and use. The United Kingdom maintains its position that the BIOT, including Diego Garcia, is a British overseas territory, while some argue that the sovereignty should be transferred back to the Chagos Archipelago, which includes Diego Garcia, and its original inhabitants.

It’s important to note that my knowledge is based on information available up until September 2021, and there may have been developments or changes in the situation since then.

9. Ellesmere Island

Ellesmere Island is a large island located in the northernmost part of Canada’s Arctic Archipelago. It is the third-largest island in Canada and the tenth-largest island in the world. Ellesmere Island is part of the Canadian territory of Nunavut and is situated between Greenland and the Canadian mainland.

The island has a total area of about 196,236 square kilometers (75,767 square miles), making it slightly larger than the U.S. state of Indiana. Ellesmere Island is known for its rugged and remote Arctic landscapes, including glaciers, ice caps, tundra, and towering mountains.

The northern part of Ellesmere Island is dominated by the Quttinirpaaq National Park is the most attractive remote island, which is the second-largest national park in Canada. The park encompasses diverse ecosystems, including ice fields, fjords, and high Arctic tundra. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including muskoxen, polar bears, Arctic foxes, and numerous bird species.

Ellesmere Island has a very harsh climate due to its extreme northern location. Winters are long, cold, and dark, with temperatures dropping well below freezing, while summers are short and cool. The island experiences the polar night during winter when the sun does not rise above the horizon for several months, and the midnight sun phenomenon during summer when the sun remains above the horizon for 24 hours a day.

The population of Ellesmere Island is small and primarily consists of indigenous Inuit communities, including Grise Fiord and Resolute. These communities rely on traditional activities such as hunting, fishing, and trapping for their livelihood.

Ellesmere Island is also significant for scientific research and exploration. It has served as a base for various scientific expeditions studying Arctic ecosystems, climate change, and geology. The island’s remote and pristine environment provides valuable opportunities for researchers to study the impacts of climate change on Arctic ecosystems.

Access to Ellesmere Island is challenging due to its remote location and harsh conditions. The main means of reaching the island is by air, with regular flights from Resolute Bay, which serves as the gateway to the island.

Ellesmere Island’s vast, untouched landscapes and unique Arctic ecosystems make it a destination of interest for adventurers, researchers, and nature enthusiasts. It offers opportunities for hiking, wildlife observation, and experiencing the breathtaking beauty of the Arctic wilderness.

10. Devon Island

Devon Island is the largest uninhabited island on Earth and is located in the Arctic Archipelago of Canada’s Nunavut territory. It is the second-largest island in Canada, following Baffin Island. Devon Island is situated to the north of Baffin Bay and is separated from the Canadian mainland by Lancaster Sound and Jones Sound.

Devon Island covers an area of approximately 55,247 square kilometers (21,331 square miles), making it slightly larger than Croatia. The island is characterized by its Arctic landscapes, including vast expanses of barren rock, tundra, glaciers, and polar deserts.

The island is known for its resemblance to the surface of Mars, which has earned it the nickname “Mars on Earth.” Due to its unique geological features and the absence of vegetation in many areas, Devon Island has been used as a testing ground for Mars mission simulations and scientific research related to the Red Planet.

Devon Island’s climate is harsh, with long, cold winters and short, cool summers. Average temperatures in winter can drop well below freezing, while summer temperatures typically range from 0 to 10 degrees Celsius (32 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit). The island experiences the polar night during winter and the midnight sun phenomenon during summer.

Devon Island’s wildlife is relatively sparse compared to other regions, but it is still home to several species that have adapted to the harsh Arctic environment. These include polar bears, Arctic foxes, Arctic hares, muskoxen, and various bird species.

Access to Devon Island is challenging due to its remote location and lack of infrastructure. There are no permanent settlements or communities on the island, and it is mostly uninhabited. The primary means of reaching the island is by air, with limited research and expedition bases operating during specific times of the year.

Devon Island’s isolation, vast untouched landscapes, and resemblance to Mars make it an attractive destination for scientific research, particularly in the fields of geology, climate change, and astrobiology. The island provides an opportunity to study the effects of extreme environments on geological processes, ecosystems, and human survival.

Visitors to Devon Island remote island, primarily scientists, researchers, and explorers, come to study its unique geology, conduct fieldwork, and gain insights into the challenges and possibilities of human exploration in extreme environments.

Overall, Devon Island stands as a testament to the incredible diversity and rugged beauty of the Arctic region, offering a glimpse into the pristine wilderness and captivating landscapes of the Far North.