Despite the challenges posed by isolation, there are communities that have not only survived but thrived in these distant places. From the icy expanses of the Arctic to secluded islands in the middle of vast oceans, these locations offer a fascinating glimpse into human resilience and adaptability. Each of these 12 remote places tells a unique story of perseverance and connection to nature. Join us as we explore these extraordinary communities and the stunning, isolated landscapes they call home.
Ittoqqortoormiit, Greenland
Located on the eastern coast of Greenland, Ittoqqortoormiit is one of the most isolated settlements in the world. With a population of around 450 people, this community is surrounded by stunning Arctic landscapes and is only accessible by boat or helicopter for much of the year.
Tristan da Cunha, South Atlantic Ocean
Tristan da Cunha is a remote group of volcanic islands in the South Atlantic Ocean, inhabited by a small population of approximately 250 people. The nearest inhabited land is over 1,500 miles away, making it one of the most isolated human settlements on the planet.
Supai, Arizona, USA
Supai is a village located at the bottom of the Grand Canyon in Arizona, and it is the only place in the United States where mail is still delivered by mule. With no roads leading to the village, the stunning natural beauty of the Grand Canyon surrounds the community, making it a truly unique and isolated place to call home.
Easter Island, Chile
Famous for its mysterious stone statues called Moai, Easter Island is one of the most remote inhabited islands in the world. Situated in the southeastern Pacific Ocean, the island is home to around 7,750 people who have preserved a rich cultural heritage despite their isolation.
Alert, Nunavut, Canada
As the northernmost permanently inhabited place in the world, Alert is a small village in the Canadian Arctic. With a population of around 62 people, this isolated community experiences extreme cold and 24-hour darkness during the winter months.
Oymyakon, Russia
Known as one of the coldest inhabited places on Earth, Oymyakon is a small rural locality in Russia. With temperatures plummeting well below freezing for much of the year, the approximately 500 residents of Oym
Pitcairn Island, South Pacific
Pitcairn Island is a remote British overseas territory in the South Pacific, known for being one of the least populated jurisdictions in the world. With a population of around 50 people, this isolated community has a rich maritime history and is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
McMurdo Station, Antarctica
As the largest community in Antarctica, McMurdo Station is a scientific research station operated by the United States. Despite its extreme isolation and harsh climate, the station is home to over 1,000 researchers and support staff during the summer months, making it a hub of scientific activity in the southernmost continent.
Barrow, Alaska, USA
Formerly known as Utqiaġvik, Barrow is the northernmost city in the United States and is located above the Arctic Circle. With a population of around 4,000 people, the community experiences extreme cold and polar night during the winter, making it one of the most isolated cities in the country.
Foula, Scotland
Foula is a remote island in the Shetland archipelago of Scotland, known for its dramatic cliffs and rich birdlife. With a population of around 30 people, the island has a strong sense of community and is a haven for nature lovers seeking isolation and tranquility.
Palmerston Island, Cook Islands
Palmerston Island is a coral atoll in the Cook Islands, inhabited by a small population of around 50 people. With no airstrip and limited access by boat, the island’s isolation has preserved a unique Polynesian culture and way of life.
Tórshavn, Faroe Islands
Tórshavn is the capital and largest city of the Faroe Islands, an archipelago located between Iceland and Norway. Despite being the economic and cultural center of the Faroe Islands, Tórshavn’s remote location in the North Atlantic Ocean makes it one of the most isolated capital cities in the world.
Ellen has been obsessed with logic puzzles, jigsaws, and cryptograms since she was a kid. After learning she was taught how to play chess wrong by a family friend (so they could win), she joined her school chess club and the rest is history.
