Where to Go for Wildlife, Rainforests, and Remote Escapes

If your idea of the perfect trip means leaving behind the crowds and diving into nature, whether that’s in the form of dense rainforests, wide open savannahs or far-flung islands, there are destinations around the world where wilderness takes centre stage. These are the kinds of places that make you feel far from it all, offering rare wildlife encounters, peaceful surroundings, and the natural beauty that you just can’t replicate.

Here are five destinations that deliver when it comes to remote escapes, unforgettable landscapes and immersive wildlife experiences.

Experience the Vastness of Patagonia, Argentina

Patagonia is where you go when you want to feel small, in the best possible way. This enormous region in southern Argentina (and Chile) is a dreamscape of mountains, ice fields and windswept plains, and it’s a haven for hikers, wildlife lovers and anyone who enjoys space to breathe.

You might spend your days spotting guanacos and condors on the steppe, trekking beside glaciers in Los Glaciares National Park, or sailing through fjords surrounded by towering peaks. In more remote areas like the Valdés Peninsula, you can also spot marine wildlife, including whales, penguins and elephant seals, depending on the season.

While Patagonia has become more accessible in recent years, it still feels wonderfully off the grid. Lodges and estancias tend to be far apart, and road trips between them are as much a part of the experience as the destinations themselves.

Explore the Wilds of Costa Rica

Costa Rica is often top of the list for eco-travel, and for good reason. With more than a quarter of its land protected as a national park or reserve, this Central American country is packed with biodiversity and offers endless ways to connect with nature.

Rainforests, volcanoes, cloud forests and beaches all sit within easy reach of one another. You can watch monkeys swing through the canopy in Manuel Antonio, hike past lava flows in Arenal, or spot sloths and toucans in the remote Osa Peninsula. The wildlife viewing here feels effortless, whether you’re trekking with a guide or simply sitting on your lodge balcony.

For travellers who want to experience the coast differently, there are also fantastic cruises to Costa Rica that let you explore the shoreline and nearby islands, combining beach time with off-the-beaten-path adventure. These are a great option for those who want to see more in one trip, from quiet bays to mangrove-lined estuaries.

Go Off-Grid on an Incredible Mozambique Safari

For a remote safari experience that feels both exclusive and untamed, Mozambique offers something special. While neighbouring countries like South Africa and Tanzania get most of the attention, Mozambique is quietly making a name for itself among those in the know, especially when it comes to combining beach and bush.

Places like Gorongosa National Park and Niassa Reserve are where you’ll find that sense of raw, untamed wilderness. Think wide open spaces, few crowds, and the chance to see elephants, lions, antelope and more in a truly wild setting. Conservation work in Mozambique has come a long way in recent years, making it now a great time to experience it.

An incredible Mozambique safari can also be paired with time on the coast, where you’ll find white-sand beaches, Indian Ocean views, and remote island lodges with excellent diving and snorkelling.

Trek Through the Forests of Borneo, Malaysia

Borneo is a paradise for travellers seeking a true jungle adventure. With some of the oldest rainforests on earth, this island (shared by Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei) is one of the best places to see orangutans, pygmy elephants, and sun bears in the wild.

Head to Sabah in Malaysian Borneo to explore places like the Danum Valley Conservation Area or the Kinabatangan River. These areas offer guided treks, river safaris and canopy walks that give you a close-up view of the forest and its inhabitants. It’s also one of the few places where you might catch sight of a wild orangutan swinging through the trees.

Because tourism is still relatively light here, the experiences often feel more personal and immersive. Many eco-lodges are community-led or tied to conservation efforts, and guides are passionate about sharing their knowledge of the landscape.

Unplug on the Islands of Raja Ampat, Indonesia

Raja Ampat is one of those places that feels like a secret. Tucked away in eastern Indonesia, this remote archipelago is made up of hundreds of tiny islands, many uninhabited and surrounded by coral reefs teeming with marine life.

It’s an incredible choice for divers and snorkellers, considered one of the richest areas for underwater biodiversity anywhere in the world. Even if you’re not into diving, the setting is spectacular, with karst islands rising from turquoise water, jungle-lined coves and villages where traditional life continues at a slow pace.

Getting there isn’t a quick trip, but that’s part of the charm. You won’t find mass tourism here, just nature at its most pristine, whether you’re gliding through the water in a kayak or relaxing in a hammock over the sea.

Which Remote Escape Is Calling Your Name?

From the rainforests of Costa Rica to the untamed beauty of Mozambique, these destinations are ideal for travellers who want to go beyond the usual routes and immerse themselves in the natural world. Whether you’re drawn to a safari through Mozambique, tempted by Costa Rica cruises, or just dreaming of wide open spaces and slow days surrounded by nature, these escapes are a reminder of how vast and wild our planet still is.

If you're ready to leave the noise behind and experience something unforgettable, this might be the perfect time to plan your next remote adventure!

Photo by SINAL Multimédia from Pexel