Islands of Solitude: Where Fewer Than 100 People Call Home
If you're dreaming of the ultimate off-the-grid adventure, these remote islands, each with fewer than 100 residents, provide the perfect escape from the modern world. These secluded destinations offer a rare chance to experience unparalleled solitude, untouched natural beauty, and unique, intimate interactions with local culture and wildlife. Far from the typical tourist routes, these islands offer a slower pace of life, where you can hike rugged landscapes, relax on deserted beaches, or explore vibrant ecosystems filled with unique species. The appeal lies not only in their remoteness but in the sense of discovery they offer. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey to these hidden gems, explaining how to get there, where you can stay, and the must-see attractions that await. Whether you’re an adventurer, nature lover, or simply seeking peace, these islands are worth the journey for those looking to disconnect and reconnect with the wild.
1. Pitcairn Island, South Pacific
Population: ~50
Pitcairn Island, the only inhabited island in the remote Pitcairn archipelago, holds a unique place in history as the home of the descendants of the HMS Bounty mutineers. Located in the vast South Pacific, it is renowned for its rugged cliffs, untouched beaches, and lush tropical vegetation. With a population of just around 50 people, this tiny, isolated island offers visitors a rare opportunity to step back in time and experience life in one of the most remote communities in the world. Adventure seekers can explore its unspoiled landscapes, hike through volcanic terrain, or snorkel in pristine waters. Pitcairn’s rich history and natural beauty make it an ideal destination for those seeking both adventure and solitude far from the modern world.
How to Get There: Getting to Pitcairn is an adventure in itself. Most visitors fly to Mangareva in French Polynesia, from where a boat or cargo ship takes about 32 hours to reach Pitcairn.
Where to Stay: There are no hotels, but visitors can stay with local families through homestays, giving you an intimate look at the island’s unique culture.
Main Attraction: Explore Christian's Cave, the spot where Fletcher Christian reportedly watched for passing ships, or snorkel in the stunning Bounty Bay. The island’s rich history and natural beauty make it an ideal destination for explorers.
Worth the Journey?
Yes, Pitcairn’s isolation and rich history make it a unique travel experience for adventure seekers. The journey is long, but the reward of stepping into this remote world is worth the effort.
2. Palmerston Island, Cook Islands
Population: ~62
Palmerston Island is a tiny coral atoll in the Cook Islands, home to about 62 people, all descendants of an Englishman named William Marsters who settled here in the 19th century. With its turquoise lagoons, powdery white sand beaches, and vibrant coral reefs, Palmerston feels like a forgotten paradise. Despite its remoteness, visitors are treated like family, as the island sees few tourists. The island’s warm community, combined with its natural beauty, creates a deeply personal and authentic island experience. Visitors can spend their days snorkeling in the crystalline waters, exploring the atoll’s palm-fringed shores, and learning about its fascinating history from the local Marsters descendants themselves.
How to Get There: Accessible by boat from Rarotonga, a journey of about two days.
Where to Stay: Stay with local families in welcoming homestays.
Main Attraction: Snorkeling in the clear lagoons, relaxing on palm-fringed beaches, and enjoying the island’s close-knit, friendly community.
Worth the Journey?
Absolutely! For those willing to venture far, Palmerston’s tropical beauty and warm hospitality make it worth the journey.
3. Foula, Shetland Islands, Scotland
Population: ~28
Foula, one of the most remote inhabited islands in the UK, is a rugged gem in the Shetland archipelago with a population of around 28 people. Known for its dramatic cliffs and windswept landscapes, Foula offers a unique blend of natural beauty and solitude. The island’s remoteness has helped preserve its Norse-influenced traditions and way of life, making it a cultural as well as a natural escape. Birdwatchers flock here to spot puffins, arctic skuas, and other seabirds, while hikers can enjoy challenging trails along towering cliffs that offer breathtaking views of the North Atlantic. Foula is perfect for travelers seeking solitude and untouched wilderness.
How to Get There:
Ferry from Walls, Shetland (2.5 hours) or fly from Tingwall Airport. Weather can be unpredictable.
Where to Stay:
Self-catering cottages provide simple, comfortable accommodations.
Main Attraction:
Birdwatching for puffins and arctic skuas, and hiking along the towering cliffs.
Worth the Journey?
Yes! Foula’s isolation, rugged beauty, and rich birdlife make it perfect for nature lovers seeking a remote retreat.
4. Niuafo'ou, Tonga
Population: ~60
Niuafo'ou, also known as Tin Can Island, is one of Tonga’s most remote islands, with a population of just 60 people. Famous for its history of receiving mail via tin cans thrown into the sea by passing ships, Niuafo'ou is a volcanic island with rugged beauty. Its striking landscapes feature a dormant volcano, black sand beaches, and a central caldera lake. The island’s isolation makes it a perfect destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts looking to explore untouched wilderness. Hiking through tropical forests and exploring volcanic craters are just some of the activities visitors can enjoy, along with the serene beauty of its beaches.
How to Get There:
Infrequent flights or boats from Nuku’alofa, Tonga’s capital.
Where to Stay:
Stay in small guesthouses or local family homes for an authentic experience.
Main Attraction:
Explore the volcanic caldera, hike the island’s trails, and relax on its black sand beaches.
Worth the Journey?
Yes, for those who love adventure and exploring volcanic landscapes. The journey is challenging but rewarding.
5. Pebble Island, Falkland Islands
Population: ~40
Pebble Island, located in the northern part of the Falkland Islands, is a peaceful retreat with a population of around 40 people. The island is known for its diverse wildlife, including penguins, sea lions, and a wide variety of bird species. With its pebble-strewn beaches, rolling hills, and historical significance as a site during the Falklands War, the island offers a perfect mix of nature and history. Visitors can hike across its scenic landscapes, explore the remnants of military aircraft, or simply enjoy the incredible wildlife that thrives in this remote corner of the world. Pebble Island’s tranquil charm makes it a unique and rewarding destination.
How to Get There:
Fly via FIGAS (Falkland Islands Government Air Service) from Stanley. The flight takes about an hour.
Where to Stay:
Pebble Island Lodge offers comfortable accommodations with stunning views.
Main Attraction:
Wildlife spotting, especially penguins and sea lions, along with exploring Falklands War sites.
Worth the Journey?
Yes, especially for wildlife lovers and history enthusiasts. The island’s peace and natural beauty make it a worthwhile stop in the Falklands.
6. Kerguelen Islands, Southern Indian Ocean
Population: ~45 (scientists and researchers)
The Kerguelen Islands, also known as the "Desolation Islands," are one of the most remote and isolated places on Earth, located in the southern Indian Ocean. With a population of only 45 scientists and researchers, these islands are a stunning display of nature’s raw beauty. Towering volcanic peaks, glaciers, and rugged coastlines define the landscape, while wildlife like elephant seals, penguins, and seabirds thrive here. The islands are mostly inaccessible to tourists, but for those adventurous enough to join a scientific expedition, the Kerguelen Islands offer a once-in-a-lifetime chance to explore a truly untouched environment, far from civilization.
How to Get There:
Only accessible by joining a French research vessel from Réunion Island, a journey of several days.
Where to Stay:
Port-aux-Français research station is the only accommodation for visitors.
Main Attraction:
The untouched volcanic landscapes, glaciers, and wildlife, including elephant seals and seabirds.
Worth the Journey?
Yes, for extreme adventurers. The long journey and harsh conditions are worth it for those seeking total isolation and breathtaking wilderness.
7. New Island, Falkland Islands
Population: ~5
New Island, one of the most remote islands in the Falkland Islands, is a wildlife haven with a population of only five people, mostly researchers and conservationists. The island is famous for its rich biodiversity, including large colonies of penguins, fur seals, and various seabirds. Its rugged cliffs and pristine beaches make it a stunning location for nature lovers and birdwatchers. As part of a conservation area, New Island offers a rare opportunity to witness wildlife in an unspoiled environment. For those seeking peace, tranquility, and a close connection to nature, New Island’s remote beauty and thriving wildlife make it a perfect escape.
How to Get There:
Fly to New Island via FIGAS from Stanley, a flight of about an hour.
Where to Stay:
There are limited accommodations, usually arranged through the conservation group managing the island, or you can camp with permission.
Main Attraction:
Wildlife is the island’s main attraction, with large colonies of penguins, seals, and seabirds. The island’s rugged beauty is also a highlight.
Worth the Journey?
Absolutely! New Island is a hidden gem for nature lovers and photographers, offering unparalleled peace and wildlife experiences.
8. South Georgia Island, South Atlantic
Population: ~20 (Seasonal scientists and researchers)
South Georgia Island, a sub-Antarctic island in the South Atlantic, is a remote wilderness inhabited by around 20 seasonal scientists and researchers. This icy land is renowned for its massive wildlife populations, including thousands of king penguins, elephant seals, and albatrosses. The island’s stunning landscapes, featuring glaciers, fjords, and dramatic mountain peaks, provide a breathtaking backdrop for adventurers. The island’s whaling history, combined with its role in Ernest Shackleton’s famous Antarctic expedition, makes it historically significant as well. South Georgia is a dream destination for wildlife enthusiasts and explorers, offering a rare and raw natural experience.
How to Get There:
Only accessible via expedition cruises from Argentina or the Falkland Islands. The journey takes several days.
Where to Stay:
Visitors stay aboard their expedition ships or at the Grytviken research station.
Main Attraction:
Wildlife, including vast colonies of king penguins and elephant seals, along with stunning glacial landscapes and whaling history.
Worth the Journey?
Yes! South Georgia’s combination of wildlife and polar landscapes is unforgettable for wildlife enthusiasts and adventurers.
9. Alicudi, Italy
Population: ~100
Alicudi is the most remote and least developed of Italy’s Aeolian Islands, with a population of around 100. With no cars and only steep footpaths crisscrossing its volcanic slopes, Alicudi is an untouched paradise for travelers seeking peace and simplicity. The island’s rugged, terraced hillsides and stunning coastal views make it a perfect destination for hikers and those looking to escape the busy world. Life here moves at a slow pace, with locals fishing, farming, and living in harmony with the natural environment. Alicudi’s rustic charm and isolation make it a tranquil retreat for those looking for an authentic Mediterranean experience.
How to Get There:
Ferries from Sicily’s Palermo or Milazzo take several hours.
Where to Stay:
There are a few simple guesthouses and rental homes available.
Main Attraction:
The island’s tranquility, stunning coastal views, and hiking along ancient terraced paths.
Worth the Journey?
Yes, especially for those looking to escape the modern world. Alicudi offers a serene, rustic experience in the Mediterranean.
Rakeedhoo Island, Vaavu Atoll, Maldives
Population: ~90
Rakeedhoo is a tiny island located in the Vaavu Atoll, Maldives, with a population of fewer than 100 people. Known for its serene, untouched beauty and crystal-clear waters, Rakeedhoo is a hidden paradise in the Indian Ocean. The island is small and intimate, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling resorts of the larger Maldivian islands. Life on Rakeedhoo is slow-paced and centered around the simple, traditional ways of the local community. The island’s pristine beaches and proximity to stunning coral reefs make it a perfect getaway for those looking to experience the Maldives in its most authentic and untouched form.
How to Get There:
Rakeedhoo can be reached by speedboat or local ferry from Malé, the capital of the Maldives. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
Where to Stay:
Accommodation options on Rakeedhoo are limited to guesthouses that provide an authentic local experience. These small, family-run guesthouses offer visitors a chance to immerse themselves in Maldivian culture while enjoying the tranquility of the island.
Main Attraction:
The main attraction of Rakeedhoo is its incredible natural beauty. Its white sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters, and nearby coral reefs offer excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. The surrounding waters are home to a diverse array of marine life, including manta rays, turtles, and colorful reef fish. The island itself is also great for a peaceful beach day, taking leisurely walks, or observing local life in a traditional Maldivian fishing community.
Worth the Journey?
Yes! Rakeedhoo is a perfect destination for travelers seeking an authentic and tranquil Maldivian experience, away from the busy tourist hubs. Its natural beauty and serene atmosphere make it a hidden gem that’s well worth the visit, especially for those who want to explore pristine coral reefs and enjoy the simple island life.
These islands, scattered across the globe, offer a rare opportunity to disconnect from the modern world and immerse yourself in natural beauty.
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