For those who crave both luxury and remoteness, the world offers destinations that combine exclusivity, adventure, and extraordinary experiences. These places are not just off the beaten path—they’re miles (and dollars) away from the ordinary. Whether it’s a private island, a secluded safari, or an icy expedition, these destinations are designed for travelers who value privacy, luxury, and the thrill of the unique. Here’s a closer look at some of the most expensive remote travel destinations and what makes them so enticing—and costly.
Necker Island, British Virgin Islands
Necker Island, owned by billionaire Richard Branson, is the epitome of exclusivity. Nestled in the turquoise waters of the British Virgin Islands, this private paradise offers a level of luxury that few can match. With only 17 rooms and suites, the island accommodates up to 40 guests, making it perfect for travelers looking for privacy or an ultra-exclusive group getaway.
- Staying on Necker Island comes with top-tier perks like personal chefs, water sports instructors, and dedicated staff who cater to your every whim.
- Guests enjoy everything from private beaches to luxury infinity pools—all set against a backdrop of lush tropical beauty.
- Organized activities include snorkeling among coral reefs, paddleboarding, and sunset sailing adventures.
- Renting the island reportedly costs around $100,000 per night, making it one of the most extravagant travel experiences in the world.
Beyond the luxury, Necker Island’s appeal lies in its exclusivity. It’s a timeless getaway for celebrities, royalty, and high-profile businesspeople who want complete privacy in an idyllic setting.
Antarctica Cruises
Few places on Earth feel as remote as Antarctica, a frozen wilderness where towering glaciers and vast icy landscapes dominate the scenery. While this destination is usually associated with rugged exploration, luxury cruises to Antarctica have redefined the experience for affluent travelers.
Getting to the southernmost continent often involves charter flights and private yachts, but luxury expedition cruises like those offered by Silversea or Abercrombie & Kent take exclusivity to another level. These ships are equipped with lavish accommodations, Michelin-star-quality dining, and private guides. They also feature amenities like spas and enrichment lectures from polar scientists, ensuring you’re pampered while you learn about one of the Earth’s most extreme environments.
At around $20,000 to $50,000 per person for a two-week cruise, Antarctica combines raw, natural beauty with luxury. Highlights include watching penguins and seals in their natural habitats, spotting blue whales, and even stepping onto the pristine icy expanse for guided land excursions. The combination of adventure and indulgence makes Antarctica a coveted destination for those who can afford the price tag.
Luxury Safaris in Botswana
Botswana’s Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park are celebrated for their untamed beauty and vibrant wildlife. While safaris in general are considered a luxury, Botswana raises the bar with ultra-exclusive lodges and camps that redefine what it means to connect with nature in style.
Take the Mombo Camp, often referred to as the "Place of Plenty." Set on Chief’s Island in the Okavango Delta, it provides panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness.
- Each suite is a masterpiece of design, featuring private plunge pools, outdoor showers, and decks that allow you to watch elephants, lions, and leopards roam nearby.
- Gourmet meals, wine cellars, and guided game drives make the experience unforgettable.
Another standout is the Zarafa Camp in Selinda Reserve, an intimate lodge with just four lavish tents. It’s designed for exclusive use by small groups or families, ensuring that every aspect of your experience—down to meals and wildlife-spotting adventures—is personalized.
Botswana’s luxury safaris can cost anywhere between $2,000 to $10,000 per night, but the blend of breathtaking wildlife, unspoiled landscapes, and unparalleled service keeps affluent travelers coming back.
Fogo Island Inn, Canada
On a remote little island off Newfoundland’s coast lies the Fogo Island Inn, a haven for wealthy travelers seeking solitude and natural beauty. Designed to blend seamlessly with its surroundings, this architectural marvel offers floor-to-ceiling windows that look out onto the North Atlantic—an impressive view in any season.
The isolation of Fogo Island is part of its allure. Accessible only by ferry or private charter flight, the island offers a rare opportunity to disconnect from the world. Guests can explore the rugged landscape with activities like hiking, iceberg spotting, and cod fishing. Meanwhile, the inn itself pampers visitors with gourmet meals made from local ingredients and personalized service.
The Fogo Island Inn is also known for its commitment to supporting the local community, with sourcing and activities centered around island residents. A stay here starts at approximately $2,500 per night, a price that reflects not only the luxury but also the philosophy of sustainability.
Laucala Island, Fiji
Located in the South Pacific, Laucala Island is another private island paradise designed for ultra-exclusive getaways. Owned by Red Bull co-founder Dietrich Mateschitz, this Fijian island offers just 25 villas, each surrounded by lush vegetation and overlooking pristine beaches.
- Each villa comes with a private infinity pool, a dedicated butler, and access to outdoor activities like horseback riding, scuba-diving, and golf on the island’s championship course.
- The culinary offerings are just as luxurious, featuring locally sourced ingredients prepared to perfection by world-class chefs.
Renting the entire island costs an estimated $150,000 per night, accommodating up to 72 guests. For those lucky enough to stay, Laucala provides an unparalleled level of privacy, paired with one of the most stunning tropical settings on Earth.
The Allure of Remote Luxury
What ties these destinations together isn’t just their hefty price tags—it’s their ability to offer something few other places can. These remote locations combine exclusivity, unspoiled natural beauty, and five-star service, creating experiences that feel like they were crafted solely for those who seek the best of the best.
For travelers who can afford them, these destinations offer more than privacy—they provide a chance to disconnect from the chaos of daily life and connect with awe-inspiring surroundings. From the icy landscapes of Antarctica to the azure waters of Fiji, these luxurious escapes remind us that sometimes, the most extraordinary journeys are the ones that bring us closest to nature while sparing no luxury along the way.