A guide to the world’s most remote road trip destinations
Do you dream of escaping the daily grind and hitting the open road, far away from the crowded tourist destinations? If so, you’re not alone. The thrill of exploring remote and off-the-beaten-path destinations on a road trip is a dream come true for many adventurous travelers. From rugged mountains to vast deserts and deserted beaches, the world is full of incredible remote road trip destinations waiting to be discovered. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey to some of the world’s most remote road trip destinations, giving you all the information you need for the ultimate off-the-grid adventure.
Patagonia, Argentina
Located at the southern tip of South America, Patagonia is a vast and untamed region encompassing parts of both Argentina and Chile. It’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with a network of remote roads that will take you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the planet. The famous Ruta 40, also known as the “Road of Adventure,” stretches over 5,000 kilometers and is one of the world’s longest highways. Along the way, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of snow-capped mountains, turquoise lakes, and massive glaciers.
Off-the-Grid Adventure: The Carretera Austral
If you’re looking for a road less traveled, head to the Carretera Austral, also known as the Southern Highway. This remote 1,240-kilometer route winds its way through the rugged terrain of Aysén, a sparsely populated region in southern Chile. The road is mostly unpaved and runs through dense forests, along glacial rivers, and past remote villages. The scenery is breathtaking, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to camp, hike, and fish along the way.
Northern Territory, Australia
If you’re up for a real outback adventure, it doesn’t get more remote than the Northern Territory in Australia. The region is home to some of the world’s most iconic road trip routes, including the Red Center Way, the Savannah Way, and the Gibb River Road. These routes will take you through vast deserts, ancient rock formations, and picturesque gorges.
Must-See Destinations: Uluru and Kakadu National Park
No trip to the Northern Territory is complete without a visit to Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock. This massive sandstone monolith is considered one of Australia’s most sacred sites and is a must-see on any outback adventure. Another must-visit destination is Kakadu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its spectacular landscapes, wildlife, and aboriginal rock art. The park is home to a network of remote roads, perfect for a rugged 4×4 road trip.
Highway 1, Iceland
Iceland’s Ring Road, also known as Highway 1, is the country’s only major highway that runs around the entire island. The route is perfect for a remote road trip, as it takes you through some of the country’s most isolated and breathtaking landscapes. From cascading waterfalls to geothermal hot springs and dramatic lava fields, Iceland’s Ring Road is a road trip dream come true.
Driving Tips: Don’t Miss the Snaefellsnes Peninsula
The Snaefellsnes Peninsula, located on the western side of Iceland, is often referred to as “Iceland in Miniature” due to its diverse and stunning landscapes. The peninsula is not directly on the ring road, but it’s worth the detour. The journey will take you through picturesque fishing villages, rugged coastlines, and past the iconic Snaefellsjökull volcano. It’s a road trip you won’t soon forget.
The Dempster Highway, Canada
The Dempster Highway, also known as the Northern Frontier Loop, is a remote gravel road that stretches over 500 kilometers through the breathtaking wilderness of the Yukon and Northwest Territories in Canada. The road takes you through stunning mountain landscapes, past pristine lakes, and even crosses into the Arctic Circle.
Bucket List Experience: Driving to the Arctic Ocean
The Dempster Highway is the only road in Canada that will take you all the way to the Arctic Ocean. The journey to the small Inuvialuit community of Tuktoyaktuk is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will reward you with stunning views of the Arctic tundra and wildlife, including caribou, muskox, and polar bears.
Ready to hit the road and explore the world’s most remote destinations? Remember to plan ahead, pack essentials like a GPS, spare tires, and plenty of water, and embrace the unexpected. With these tips and destinations in mind, you’ll be well on your way to the ultimate off-the-grid road trip adventure.
