The world is brimming with extraordinary places that challenge our perceptions and push the boundaries of conventional travel. From subterranean cities to otherworldly landscapes, these unusual destinations offer a glimpse into the remarkable diversity of our planet. They beckon adventurers, history enthusiasts, and curious souls alike to explore beyond the beaten path and discover the extraordinary hidden in plain sight.
These unconventional locales not only captivate with their unique features but also provide profound insights into human adaptability and nature’s astonishing creativity. By venturing into these remarkable places, you can expand your horizons and gain a deeper appreciation for the world’s hidden wonders.
Subterranean marvels: exploring underground cities and cave dwellings
Beneath the Earth’s surface lie extraordinary realms that have served as sanctuaries, homes, and even entire cities for millennia. These subterranean marvels showcase human ingenuity and the ability to adapt to challenging environments. From ancient underground complexes to modern cave dwellings, these hidden worlds offer a fascinating glimpse into alternative ways of living.
Derinkuyu: turkey’s ancient Multi-Level underground city
Nestled in the Cappadocia region of Turkey, Derinkuyu stands as a testament to human resourcefulness and engineering prowess. This ancient underground city, dating back to the 7th or 8th century BCE, extends to depths of up to 85 meters and could accommodate an estimated 20,000 people. The complex network of tunnels, rooms, and passageways spans several levels, each serving specific purposes such as living quarters, storage areas, and communal spaces.
Derinkuyu’s intricate ventilation system and strategically placed wells ensured a sustainable living environment for its inhabitants. The city also featured sophisticated security measures, including massive stone doors that could be sealed from the inside to protect against invaders. Exploring Derinkuyu offers you a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the ingenuity of ancient civilizations firsthand.
Coober pedy: australia’s opal mining town beneath the surface
In the heart of the Australian Outback lies Coober Pedy, a town that has embraced underground living to escape the harsh desert climate. Known as the “opal capital of the world,” this unique settlement is home to approximately 3,500 people, many of whom reside in subterranean dwellings called “dugouts.” These cave-like homes provide natural insulation, maintaining a comfortable temperature year-round despite the extreme surface conditions.
Visiting Coober Pedy is like stepping into another world. The town boasts underground hotels, churches, and even a golf course. You can explore opal mines, learn about the town’s fascinating history, and experience the distinctive lifestyle of its residents. This unusual destination offers a striking example of how communities can adapt to challenging environments through innovative solutions.
Lalibela’s Rock-Hewn churches: ethiopia’s subterranean sanctuaries
In the northern highlands of Ethiopia, the town of Lalibela is home to a remarkable complex of 11 rock-hewn churches, carved entirely out of solid volcanic rock in the 12th and 13th centuries. These monolithic structures, connected by a network of tunnels and trenches, are considered a marvel of religious architecture and engineering.
The churches of Lalibela were built from the top down, with craftsmen carefully chiseling away the surrounding rock to reveal the intricate structures within. Each church is unique in design and ornamentation, featuring elaborate carvings, arched windows, and symbolic religious imagery. As you explore these subterranean sanctuaries, you’ll be struck by the profound spiritual atmosphere and the incredible skill required to create such masterpieces.
The rock-hewn churches of Lalibela stand as a testament to human devotion and artistic vision, offering visitors a truly awe-inspiring experience.
Otherworldly landscapes: destinations that defy earthly expectations
Our planet is home to landscapes so surreal and otherworldly that they seem to belong to alien worlds. These extraordinary destinations challenge our perceptions of what Earth’s surface can look like, offering visitors the chance to experience environments that are truly out of this world.
Salar de uyuni: bolivia’s surreal salt flats and mirror effect
Spanning over 10,000 square kilometers, Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia is the world’s largest salt flat. This vast expanse of blindingly white salt creates a landscape that seems to extend infinitely in all directions. During the rainy season, a thin layer of water transforms the salt flat into the world’s largest natural mirror, reflecting the sky and creating a mesmerizing, ethereal effect.
Visiting Salar de Uyuni is like stepping onto another planet. The endless white expanse plays tricks on your perception of depth and distance, allowing for creative and surreal photography opportunities. You can explore the salt flat by 4×4, visit small islands of cacti that dot the landscape, and even stay in hotels built entirely of salt blocks. This otherworldly destination offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
Dallol: ethiopia’s technicolour volcanic landscape
Located in the Danakil Depression of Ethiopia, Dallol is a volcanic crater that boasts some of the most alien-like landscapes on Earth. This geothermal wonderland is a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors, ranging from acid yellows and deep oranges to rich greens and turquoise blues. The otherworldly hues are the result of various mineral deposits and geothermal activity.
Exploring Dallol feels like walking on the surface of another planet. The area is dotted with hot springs, mineral formations, and acidic pools that create a surreal, almost psychedelic environment. It’s important to note that Dallol is also one of the hottest places on Earth, with average annual temperatures exceeding 30°C (86°F). Despite the challenging conditions, this extraordinary landscape offers a glimpse into the raw power and beauty of our planet’s geological processes.
Zhangjiajie national forest park: china’s avatar mountains
The towering sandstone pillars of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in China’s Hunan Province served as inspiration for the floating mountains in James Cameron’s film “Avatar.” These remarkable geological formations, known as the “Avatar Mountains,” rise dramatically from the lush forest floor, creating a landscape that seems straight out of a fantasy world.
As you explore Zhangjiajie, you’ll be surrounded by thousands of these towering pillars, some reaching heights of over 1,000 meters. The park offers numerous hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and even a glass bridge suspended between two cliffs, providing breathtaking views of this surreal landscape. The mist that often shrouds the peaks adds an extra layer of mystique, making Zhangjiajie a truly otherworldly destination.
Socotra island: yemen’s Alien-Like dragon blood trees
Off the coast of Yemen lies Socotra Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique and bizarre flora. The island’s most iconic feature is the Dragon Blood Tree ( Dracaena cinnabari ), an umbrella-shaped tree that looks like something out of a science fiction novel. These ancient trees, which can live for hundreds of years, are found nowhere else on Earth.
Socotra’s isolation has led to the evolution of a distinct ecosystem, with over 30% of its plant species being endemic to the island. In addition to the Dragon Blood Trees, you’ll encounter other unusual plants like the bottle-shaped Desert Rose and the cucumber tree. The island’s otherworldly landscape, combined with its unique biodiversity, makes Socotra a paradise for nature enthusiasts and those seeking truly off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Extreme climates: thriving communities in inhospitable environments
Human adaptability knows no bounds, as evidenced by communities that have established themselves in some of the most extreme environments on Earth. These settlements challenge our notions of habitability and showcase the remarkable resilience of the human spirit.
Oymyakon: life in siberia’s pole of cold
Nestled in the heart of Siberia, Oymyakon holds the title of the coldest permanently inhabited place on Earth. This remote village experiences winter temperatures that can plummet to -60°C (-76°F), earning it the nickname “Pole of Cold.” Despite these extreme conditions, a community of around 500 people calls Oymyakon home.
Life in Oymyakon requires remarkable adaptations. Cars must be kept running constantly to prevent engines from freezing, and residents rely on traditional foods like frozen fish and reindeer meat for sustenance. Visiting this extreme destination offers a unique insight into human resilience and the innovative ways communities adapt to harsh environments.
Dallol depression: ethiopia’s hottest place on earth
At the other end of the temperature spectrum lies the Dallol Depression in Ethiopia, which holds the record for the highest average annual temperature on Earth at 34.4°C (94°F). This hostile environment, characterized by its otherworldly volcanic landscape and toxic hot springs, presents extreme challenges for human habitation.
Despite the harsh conditions, the Afar people have lived in and around the Dallol region for centuries, adapting their lifestyle to the unforgiving climate. Visiting the Dallol Depression not only allows you to witness its surreal, alien-like terrain but also provides an opportunity to learn about the remarkable adaptations of the Afar community.
La rinconada: peru’s highest human settlement
Perched at an elevation of 5,100 meters (16,700 feet) in the Peruvian Andes, La Rinconada holds the title of the highest permanent human settlement in the world. This remote mining town is home to approximately 50,000 people who brave extreme altitude, bitter cold, and harsh living conditions in search of gold.
Life in La Rinconada is challenging, with residents facing constant oxygen deprivation and limited access to basic services. The town’s unique cachorreo system, where miners work for 30 days without pay in exchange for a single day to mine for themselves, adds to its distinctive character. Visiting La Rinconada offers a sobering glimpse into the lengths humans will go to in pursuit of opportunity, even in the most inhospitable environments.
The resilience of communities in extreme climates serves as a powerful reminder of human adaptability and the diversity of lived experiences across our planet.
Isolated paradises: remote islands and hidden oases
In an increasingly connected world, truly isolated destinations have become rare and precious. These remote paradises offer a glimpse into unspoiled natural beauty and unique cultures that have developed in relative isolation from the rest of the world.
Pitcairn island: the pacific’s most isolated british territory
Located in the vast expanse of the South Pacific, Pitcairn Island is one of the most remote inhabited islands on Earth. With a population of just 50 people, all descendants of the HMS Bounty mutineers and their Tahitian companions, Pitcairn offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Reaching Pitcairn is an adventure in itself, requiring a long journey by sea. Once there, you can explore lush forests, pristine beaches, and ancient Polynesian petroglyphs. The island’s small community welcomes visitors with warm hospitality, offering insights into their unique way of life and the challenges of maintaining a sustainable existence in such isolation.
Tristan da cunha: the world’s most remote inhabited archipelago
Situated in the South Atlantic Ocean, Tristan da Cunha holds the title of the most remote inhabited archipelago in the world. The main island, home to around 250 people, is located 2,800 kilometers (1,740 miles) from the nearest mainland in South Africa. This extreme isolation has fostered a close-knit community with a unique culture and way of life.
Visiting Tristan da Cunha requires careful planning and a sense of adventure. The island is accessible only by boat, with limited transportation options. Once there, you can explore the island’s rugged volcanic landscape, observe diverse wildlife including endemic bird species, and experience the warmth and hospitality of the Tristanian community.
Supai village: arizona’s hidden canyon community
Nestled deep within the Grand Canyon, Supai Village is the most remote community in the contiguous United States. Home to the Havasupai Tribe, this hidden oasis is accessible only by helicopter, on foot, or by mule. The village’s isolation has helped preserve the tribe’s traditional way of life and protect the stunning natural beauty of their ancestral lands.
Visiting Supai offers a unique opportunity to experience the breathtaking beauty of Havasu Falls and the surrounding turquoise pools, as well as learn about Havasupai culture. The challenging 8-mile hike to reach the village adds to the sense of adventure and isolation, making Supai a truly off-the-beaten-path destination.
Palmerston island: cook islands’ secluded coral atoll
Palmerston Island, part of the Cook Islands in the South Pacific, is a tiny coral atoll with a population of just 60 people, all descendants of one English sailor who settled there in the 19th century. This remote paradise is so isolated that it receives supply ships only a few times a year.
Reaching Palmerston Island is a challenge, but those who make the journey are rewarded with pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, and the warm hospitality of the island’s close-knit community. Visitors can participate in traditional activities, learn about the island’s unique history, and experience a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for generations.
Architectural anomalies: unconventional urban landscapes
Around the world, there are urban environments that defy conventional architecture and city planning, creating unique and sometimes surreal landscapes. These architectural anomalies offer fascinating insights into alternative ways of living and the power of human creativity in shaping our surroundings.
Kowloon walled city: hong kong’s former lawless enclave
Although no longer standing, the legacy of Kowloon Walled City continues to captivate urban explorers and architects alike. Once the most densely populated place on Earth, this former enclave in Hong Kong was a maze of interconnected buildings, narrow alleys, and makeshift structures that grew organically without formal planning or government control.
At its peak, Kowloon Walled City housed an estimated 33,000 people within its 2.6-hectare area. The city was demolished in 1994, but its memory lives on through photographs, documentaries, and a detailed model in the Kowloon Walled City Park. Exploring the history and architecture of this unique urban phenomenon offers valuable insights into issues of overcrowding, self-governance, and adaptive architecture.
Slab city: california’s Off-Grid desert community
In the Sonoran Desert of California lies Slab City, an unincorporated community of squatters, artists, and off-grid enthusiasts. Built on the abandoned concrete slabs of a former military base, this “last free place in America” has no formal electricity, running water, or sewage systems.
Visiting Slab City offers a glimpse into an alternative way of living, free from many societal norms and government regulations. The community is home to various art installations, including the famous Salvation Mountain, and hosts a diverse population of permanent residents and seasonal “snowbirds.” Exploring Slab City challenges conventional notions of urban living and showcases human adaptability in harsh desert conditions.
Whittier: alaska’s city under one roof
Whittier, Alaska, is a small city where nearly all of its 200 residents live in a single 14-story building called Begich Towers. This unique arrangement was born out of necessity, as the harsh Alaskan climate and the city’s isolated location made traditional urban sprawl impractical.
The Begich Towers complex houses not only residential apartments but also the city’s administrative offices, a school, a grocery store, and other essential services. Visiting Whittier offers a fascinating look at an extreme form of urban consolidation and how communities can adapt to challenging environmental conditions. The city’s unusual living arrangement and stunning natural
surroundings offers a unique backdrop for this architectural anomaly.
Isolated paradises: remote islands and hidden oases
In an increasingly connected world, truly isolated destinations have become rare and precious. These remote paradises offer a glimpse into unspoiled natural beauty and unique cultures that have developed in relative isolation from the rest of the world.
Pitcairn island: the pacific’s most isolated british territory
Located in the vast expanse of the South Pacific, Pitcairn Island is one of the most remote inhabited islands on Earth. With a population of just 50 people, all descendants of the HMS Bounty mutineers and their Tahitian companions, Pitcairn offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Reaching Pitcairn is an adventure in itself, requiring a long journey by sea. Once there, you can explore lush forests, pristine beaches, and ancient Polynesian petroglyphs. The island’s small community welcomes visitors with warm hospitality, offering insights into their unique way of life and the challenges of maintaining a sustainable existence in such isolation.
Tristan da cunha: the world’s most remote inhabited archipelago
Situated in the South Atlantic Ocean, Tristan da Cunha holds the title of the most remote inhabited archipelago in the world. The main island, home to around 250 people, is located 2,800 kilometers (1,740 miles) from the nearest mainland in South Africa. This extreme isolation has fostered a close-knit community with a unique culture and way of life.
Visiting Tristan da Cunha requires careful planning and a sense of adventure. The island is accessible only by boat, with limited transportation options. Once there, you can explore the island’s rugged volcanic landscape, observe diverse wildlife including endemic bird species, and experience the warmth and hospitality of the Tristanian community.
Supai village: arizona’s hidden canyon community
Nestled deep within the Grand Canyon, Supai Village is the most remote community in the contiguous United States. Home to the Havasupai Tribe, this hidden oasis is accessible only by helicopter, on foot, or by mule. The village’s isolation has helped preserve the tribe’s traditional way of life and protect the stunning natural beauty of their ancestral lands.
Visiting Supai offers a unique opportunity to experience the breathtaking beauty of Havasu Falls and the surrounding turquoise pools, as well as learn about Havasupai culture. The challenging 8-mile hike to reach the village adds to the sense of adventure and isolation, making Supai a truly off-the-beaten-path destination.
Palmerston island: cook islands’ secluded coral atoll
Palmerston Island, part of the Cook Islands in the South Pacific, is a tiny coral atoll with a population of just 60 people, all descendants of one English sailor who settled there in the 19th century. This remote paradise is so isolated that it receives supply ships only a few times a year.
Reaching Palmerston Island is a challenge, but those who make the journey are rewarded with pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, and the warm hospitality of the island’s close-knit community. Visitors can participate in traditional activities, learn about the island’s unique history, and experience a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for generations.
These isolated paradises offer a rare opportunity to disconnect from the modern world and immerse yourself in untouched natural beauty and unique cultures that have evolved in splendid isolation.
Architectural anomalies: unconventional urban landscapes
Around the world, there are urban environments that defy conventional architecture and city planning, creating unique and sometimes surreal landscapes. These architectural anomalies offer fascinating insights into alternative ways of living and the power of human creativity in shaping our surroundings.
Kowloon walled city: hong kong’s former lawless enclave
Although no longer standing, the legacy of Kowloon Walled City continues to captivate urban explorers and architects alike. Once the most densely populated place on Earth, this former enclave in Hong Kong was a maze of interconnected buildings, narrow alleys, and makeshift structures that grew organically without formal planning or government control.
At its peak, Kowloon Walled City housed an estimated 33,000 people within its 2.6-hectare area. The city was demolished in 1994, but its memory lives on through photographs, documentaries, and a detailed model in the Kowloon Walled City Park. Exploring the history and architecture of this unique urban phenomenon offers valuable insights into issues of overcrowding, self-governance, and adaptive architecture.
Slab city: california’s Off-Grid desert community
In the Sonoran Desert of California lies Slab City, an unincorporated community of squatters, artists, and off-grid enthusiasts. Built on the abandoned concrete slabs of a former military base, this “last free place in America” has no formal electricity, running water, or sewage systems.
Visiting Slab City offers a glimpse into an alternative way of living, free from many societal norms and government regulations. The community is home to various art installations, including the famous Salvation Mountain, and hosts a diverse population of permanent residents and seasonal “snowbirds.” Exploring Slab City challenges conventional notions of urban living and showcases human adaptability in harsh desert conditions.
Whittier: alaska’s city under one roof
Whittier, Alaska, is a small city where nearly all of its 200 residents live in a single 14-story building called Begich Towers. This unique arrangement was born out of necessity, as the harsh Alaskan climate and the city’s isolated location made traditional urban sprawl impractical.
The Begich Towers complex houses not only residential apartments but also the city’s administrative offices, a school, a grocery store, and other essential services. Visiting Whittier offers a fascinating look at an extreme form of urban consolidation and how communities can adapt to challenging environmental conditions. The city’s unusual living arrangement and stunning natural surroundings provide a unique backdrop for this architectural anomaly.
These architectural anomalies challenge our preconceptions of urban living and demonstrate the incredible adaptability of human communities in the face of environmental, social, and economic constraints.