There’s something incredibly alluring about places that are hard to reach. The journey itself builds anticipation and a sense of adventure. And when it comes to remote, off-the-beaten-path destinations, there’s no better way to get there than by private jet. Flying private allows you to access corners of the world that are virtually impossible to visit any other way.
If you’re an intrepid traveler with a serious case of wanderlust, here are some bucket list destinations that are best experienced by private jet.
Pitcairn Islands, South Pacific
This remote group of four volcanic islands is quite literally one of the most isolated places on Earth. The Pitcairn Islands lie halfway between Peru and New Zealand, requiring a multi-day boat journey from the nearest airports. However, you can hire a private plane online and have it take you directly to the tiny landing strip on Pitcairn, the only inhabited island.
These islands are home to fewer than 50 residents, all descendants of the HMS Bounty mutineers and their Tahitian companions; visiting is like stepping back in time. The islands have no streets, cars, or stores. You’ll be warmly welcomed by the close-knit community and can experience their simple way of life, hiking through the lush hills and snorkeling in comfortably temperate waters.
Timbuktu, Mali
The name alone conjures up images of a remote, exotic locale — and for good reason. This ancient city in the heart of the Sahara Desert was once an important trading hub and center of Islamic learning. Today, getting to Timbuktu isn’t easy, requiring travel across vast expanses of the harsh desert landscape.
But hiring a private plane makes this extraordinary destination accessible. You can fly directly into Timbuktu’s small airport and immerse yourself in the city’s unique mix of cultures.
Exploring Timbuktu’s historic mosques, ancient manuscripts, and vibrant markets is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the breathtaking sunsets over the sand dunes — it’s a truly magical sight.
Tristan da Cunha, South Atlantic
You can’t get much more remote than the most isolated inhabited archipelago on the planet. Tristan da Cunha is a small territory located a staggering 1,750 miles from the nearest neighboring landmass of St. Helena. With fewer than 300 residents, Tristan da Cunha offers the ultimate in peaceful seclusion.
This is a place to disconnect and explore a simple, self-sufficient way of life. It’s home to dramatic landscapes of mountains, beaches, and marine wildlife like whales, albatrosses, and penguins. The island also boasts a strong sense of community with warm, welcoming locals who can trace their ancestry back to the original 15 settlers who founded the colony in 1816.
Ittoqqortoormiit, Greenland
Tucked away in the northeast corner of Greenland lies the most remote town in the Western Hemisphere. The only permanent settlement in the region is the Inuit village of Ittoqqortoormiit. With no roads connecting it to the outside world, it’s only reachable by boat in the summer and by dogsled, helicopter, or plane in the winter.
This is an opportunity to immerse yourself in traditional Inuit culture and experience a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. During the winter months, you can witness the spectacular Northern Lights dancing across the night sky and see polar bears, whales, and other unique Arctic wildlife up close.
Socotra, Yemen
Just off the coast of Yemen in the Arabian Sea lies the enchanting island of Socotra, a place often referred to as “the most alien-looking place on Earth.” The crumbling remains of ancient cities sit alongside lunar-like landscapes covered in strange, bulbous flora found nowhere else in the world.
While the island technically belongs to Yemen, it’s been isolated enough to take on a culture and environment entirely of its own. Getting to Socotra involves chartering either a boat or private plane from mainland Yemen. Due to political instability, tourism on Socotra has been off-limits for stretches of time, but adventurers willing to take the leap are rewarded with deserted beaches, crystal-clear waters, and scenery like nowhere else on the planet.
Easter Island, Chile
One of the most remote inhabited islands on Earth, Rapa Nui (or anglicized to Easter Island), is a tiny speck in the vast Pacific Ocean, located over 2,000 miles from the nearest populated area. This Chilean territory is famous for its monumental moai statues, carved centuries ago by the Rapa Nui people.
Once there, you’ll get to explore one of the world’s most fascinating archaeological sites and immerse yourself in the island’s unique Polynesian culture. The island also offers stunning landscapes including quarried volcanic craters and pristine beaches teeming with marine life.
Unlocking the World’s Hidden Gems
If an adventurous spirit and curiosity about the unknown call to you, these destinations only accessible by private jet should move straight to the top of your travel bucket list. While they require some extra logistical effort and expense to arrange, that’s all part of the allure.
