Some destinations around the world are so remote or unique that they can only be accessed by air. These sky-high adventures offer unparalleled experiences for intrepid travelers who are willing to take to the skies to explore places that most people can only dream of. From islands surrounded by vast oceans to mountaintop resorts, here are some of the top destinations you can only reach by airplane.
1. The Maldives: Paradise in the Indian Ocean
The Maldives is a tropical paradise that seems to be made for postcard pictures—crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and luxurious overwater bungalows. While you can reach the Maldives’ main airport, Velana International Airport, by international flights, the real adventure begins when you board a seaplane or a domestic flight to reach some of the more remote islands and luxury resorts.
These flights offer a spectacular aerial view of the turquoise atolls, with colorful coral reefs visible beneath the water’s surface. The experience of arriving by seaplane or small propeller plane only adds to the magic of the destination, as you glide over a stretch of untouched paradise.
2. Easter Island, Chile: The Mysterious Moai Statues
Easter Island, or Rapa Nui, is one of the most remote inhabited places on Earth. Located nearly 2,200 miles off the coast of Chile in the Pacific Ocean, this UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the iconic moai statues, which have baffled archaeologists and travelers for centuries. The island is so isolated that the only way to reach it is by flying into Mataveri International Airport.
Once there, visitors can explore the ancient Polynesian culture, hike around volcanic craters, and marvel at the enigmatic stone statues that dot the island. The flight to Easter Island is an adventure in itself, as you cross the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean to reach this mystical, wind-swept island.
3. St. Helena Island, South Atlantic Ocean
St. Helena is one of the most remote islands in the world, located about 1,200 miles off the coast of Africa in the South Atlantic Ocean. While this British overseas territory was once only accessible by a lengthy boat journey, a new air service has opened up this hidden gem to adventurous travelers. St. Helena Airport is now served by flights from South Africa, making it the only way to reach the island.
This rugged and beautiful island is rich in history, as it was the place of Napoleon Bonaparte’s exile and eventual death. Visitors can explore its dramatic landscapes, wildlife, and charming colonial architecture. Arriving by plane to St. Helena offers a sense of stepping into a time capsule, where the modern world feels far away.
4. Mount Everest, Nepal: Aerial Views of the World’s Tallest Peak
While you can hike to the base camp of Mount Everest, there’s a more thrilling way to see the world’s tallest peak—by taking a scenic flight from Kathmandu. These flights offer unparalleled aerial views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest, and provide a unique perspective on the towering peaks that dominate the landscape.
Several companies in Nepal offer these scenic flights, which are typically short but offer jaw-dropping views of not just Everest, but also surrounding peaks like Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. For many travelers, this is the closest they’ll ever get to Everest, making it a must-do adventure for those visiting Nepal.
5. Islands of the Galápagos, Ecuador
The Galápagos Islands, located off the coast of Ecuador, are famed for their unique wildlife and pristine ecosystems. These volcanic islands are home to species like giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth. To reach the Galápagos, travelers must first fly to Baltra Island or San Cristóbal Island from mainland Ecuador, typically via a flight from Guayaquil or Quito.
Once there, visitors can explore the archipelago’s diverse landscapes, from lush highlands to barren lava fields, all while observing animals in their natural habitats. A scenic flight over the islands provides a bird’s-eye view of the incredible terrain, giving travelers a sense of how isolated and beautiful this UNESCO World Heritage site truly is.
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