Mass tourism has dominated most destinations, but there are still uncharted places that are wild, unspoiled, and undiscovered. Such mysterious pearls mean unblemished nature, untouched waters, and a respite from the madness of daily life. If you desire to unite with pristine landscapes and become part of something unique, these are some of the most breathtaking untouched paradises you must travel to at least once in your lifetime.
The Faroe Islands in Denmark
Shrouded in the Sea of North Atlantic, the Faroe Islands provide nature at its dramatic best. Composed of 18 volcanic islands, these include dramatic cliffs, green emerald valleys, and waterfalls plunging right into the ocean. The distance from the mainland has preserved their raw nature in all its virginity, hence a paradise preserved amidst Europe. Hike to Lake Sorvagsvatn, an optical illusion lake which appears to be floating high over the ocean, travel to the tiny village of Gasadalur for the breathtaking Mulafossur Waterfall or hike the island of Mykines, home to thousands of puffins and rugged sea cliffs. These islands are paradise found for those who seek adventure.
Boa Vista in Cape Verde
Boa Vista, located in Cape Verde, an archipelago off West Africa’s coast, is famed for its extraordinary desert-like scenery, clean beaches, and laid-back island attitude.
The soft sand, rolling dunes, and warm Atlantic breeze create a tranquil setting for those seeking peaceful solitude. Visit Praia de Chaves in Boa Vista, which is the very definition of an untouched paradise. Walk down the endless beach and enjoy the privacy of owning the beach all by yourself, ride on the virgin seas with a snorkelling tour within the coral islands, or go on a sunset horseback ride through the sand dunes, crating unforgettable experiences.
Raja Ampat in Indonesia
One of the world’s remaining marine paradises, Raja Ampat is an Indonesian archipelago of more than 1,500 islands. It features the most marine bio-diverse place on earth, with coral reefs full of colorful fish, manta rays, and even whale sharks. The islands are carpeted in dense rainforest, with remote lagoons and limestone cliffs rising dramatically out of the sea. Snorkel or dive in the Coral Triangle, one of the richest marine ecosystems on earth. Climb to the summit of Piaynemo and enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the islands. Explore traditional Papuan villages and see the native way of life.
Svalbard in Norway
For dreamers of pristine icy wilds, Svalbard is amongst the most remote and unvisited places on Earth. Located in between Norway and the North Pole, this polar archipelago is a universe of glaciers, frozen fjords, and wandering polar bears roaming freely in nature. Enduring some of the harshest conditions on earth, it offers some of the most breathtaking pieces of natural wonders. Here, you can go on a boat tour to see massive glaciers and floating icebergs or on a wildlife safari tour to see polar bears, reindeer, and Arctic foxes, and of course see the midnight sun in the summer or the magical northern lights in the winter.
All of these places offer the chance to disconnect from the usual busy world and engage with nature as it was first meant. If you are looking for an adventure that breaks off the grid, at least one of these destinations should for sure be on your bucket list.