It’s safe to say that most people dream of vacationing in destinations like Hawaii or Paris. However, there are those among us who crave the peculiar and the mysterious.
If you belong to the latter group, then you’ve come to the right place! Regrettably, you can’t physically visit the obscure locations on this list, but we believe you’ll still derive pleasure from learning about them!
North Sentinel Island
Located in the Bay of Bengal is North Sentinel Island, which is inhabited by the indigenous Sentinelese people. They represent one of the last remaining populations on Earth who have not had contact with the modern world and have been known to respond to outsiders with aggression.
Due to these circumstances, it is highly recommended that no one attempts to visit this island.
Lascaux Caves, France
The Lascaux Caves in Montignac, France, house a breathtaking collection of cave paintings that were crafted over generations by early humans. Regrettably, access to the original cave is restricted to researchers only.
However, you can explore Lascaux II, an exact replica situated approximately 600 feet from the original. While it may not offer the same thrill as visiting the authentic site, it provides a very close and remarkable experience.
Doomsday Vault, Norway
The Svalbard Global Seed Vault, also known as the “Doomsday” Vault, serves as a safeguard against a potential global catastrophe. Located in Norway, its primary objective is to preserve millions of seeds, which could be essential for restoring vegetation in case of a crisis that threatens plant diversity.
Positioned high in the mountains above sea level, the vault is designed to withstand earthquakes, explosions, and is expected to endure for approximately 200 years. Due to its critical mission and security measures, access to the vault is strictly limited to authorized personnel.
Surtsey Island, Iceland
Iceland’s Surtsey Island emerged during a volcanic eruption that spanned from 1963 to 1967, rendering it one of the most recently formed islands on Earth.
Presently, it is exclusively reserved for scientific research, serving as an ideal environment for studying the natural development of ecosystems devoid of human intervention.
Poveglia Island, Italy
Italy’s Poveglia Island indeed offers a rich source of eerie tales, but it is off-limits to visitors, leaving you with no choice but to listen to its haunting history from afar.
Over the years, the island has served as a quarantine site for tens of thousands of plague victims and later transformed into a mental hospital. It has been restricted from public access, likely for well-founded reasons.
Uluru Rock, Australia
The distinctive sandstone monolith you’re referring to was previously open for climbing; however, since October 2019, the Anangu tribe has requested that tourists refrain from doing so due to concerns about erosion.
Although climbing Uluru is no longer permitted, you can certainly visit and appreciate its majestic presence from the ground.
Tomb of Qin Shi Huang, China
The tomb of Qin Shi Huang is undoubtedly one of the most significant historical discoveries to date. It was unearthed in 1974 during the excavation of the Terracotta Army (which is open for visitors), but it has not been fully excavated out of respect for Chinese history and culture.
Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of imperial China and the founder of the Qin Dynasty in 221 BC, rests within this monumental tomb.
Big Diomede Island, Russia
The Bering Strait is divided by two islands that act as a natural border between the United States and Russia: Big Diomede and Little Diomede. Little Diomede, situated on the American side, is home to just over 100 residents.
In contrast, Big Diomede is not suitable for permanent habitation and is utilized as a Russian weather station. These islands serve as a unique geographical and geopolitical divide between the two countries.
North Brother Island, New York City
North Brother Island, situated in The Bronx, New York City, has a fascinating history. It served as a refuge for approximately a thousand people after a passenger ship sank nearby. Later, it was repurposed into a hospital for individuals with infectious diseases.
Today, it stands abandoned and has become a bird sanctuary, representing a unique transformation from its earlier roles in providing refuge and healthcare.
Bhangarh Fort, India
Bhangarh Fort, located in India, is open to the public during the daytime; however, visitors are strictly prohibited from entering after sunset and before sunrise.
This restriction stems from local beliefs and legends that suggest mysterious disappearances of those who have ventured into the fort after dark. The fear of the unknown has led to a strong deterrent against nighttime visits to Bhangarh Fort.
Pravcicka Brana, Czech Republic
Pravcicka Brana, Europe’s largest natural sandstone arch and a major attraction in the Czech Republic, has been off-limits to visitors since 1982 due to concerns about excessive erosion caused by constant foot traffic.
Regrettably, everyone will have to admire this stunning landmark from a distance, as access to it remains restricted for preservation purposes.
Niihau Island, Hawaii
The “Forbidden Island” in Hawaii, acquired by Elizabeth Sinclair in 1864, remains under the ownership of her descendants to this day. With a modest population of approximately 170 residents, the island’s limited accessibility adds to its mystique.
This secluded and privately-owned destination has garnered intrigue and fascination due to its restricted status, making it a unique and captivating spot in the Hawaiian archipelago, far from the bustling tourist hubs of the state.
Chapel of the Ark of the Covenant, Ethiopia
Legend has it that the Ark of the Covenant, believed to house the written Ten Commandments, rests within the Ethiopian church known as The Church of Our Lady Mary of Zion. However, access to the chapel is strictly prohibited for laypeople, including historians and researchers.
The responsibility of guarding the ark and verifying the truth behind the legend is reserved exclusively for the designated guardian, shrouding this intriguing story in mystery and secrecy.
Robins Island, New York
Robins Island in Long Island, New York, was initially acquired by Louis Moore Bacon as a private retreat for vacation homes for his family.
However, in addition to its private use, it has been transformed into a nature preserve with the aim of safeguarding endangered species in the region. This dual purpose reflects a commitment to both conservation and personal enjoyment of the island’s natural beauty.
Paris Catacombs, France
Paris’s catacombs, a network of underground tunnels beneath the city, are undeniably eerie and fascinating. While guided tours of certain sections are available, a significant portion of the catacombs remains restricted to the public.
The fear of becoming lost or encountering the potential collapse of tunnels adds to the real and terrifying risks associated with exploring these underground passages, making them a mysterious and restricted area.
Chernobyl Exclusion Zone
In 1986, the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine witnessed the world’s most significant nuclear disaster to date. Residents from nearby towns were evacuated from an approximately 1,000 square mile area surrounding the site due to the high radiation levels.
While there are now guided tours that venture into the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, it remains off-limits for long-term habitation or extended stays due to the continued presence of radiation hazards.
Mariana Trench
The Mariana Trench is essentially forbidden mainly because it represents the deepest oceanic trench on Earth, making it extremely challenging for anyone, including researchers, to access. With a depth of more than 36,000 feet, only four manned expeditions, including one by James Cameron, have successfully reached the trench’s bottom.
Those who have managed to explore its depths have encountered remarkable and often bizarre creatures that inhabit this extreme underwater environment.
Disney’s Discovery Island
Discovery Island, located within Walt Disney World in Florida, was open to the public from 1974 to 1999, providing visitors with the opportunity to observe various animal and bird species.
Today, the island stands abandoned, but it can still be viewed from a boat on Bay Lake, allowing curious onlookers to catch a glimpse of this once vibrant attraction.
Pluto’s Gate, Turkey
Ploutonion at Hierapolis, also known as Pluto’s Gate, understandably had a reputation in ancient times as a perilous place associated with death. This religious site was dedicated to the god Pluto and was considered a ritual passage to the underworld.
The connection is fitting since in 1965, scientists confirmed that the site was constructed above a cave emitting toxic gases, including elevated levels of carbon dioxide. This natural phenomenon likely contributed to the belief that the site was a gateway to the afterlife.
Morgan Island, South Carolina
Morgan Island in South Carolina, often referred to as “Monkey Island,” earned its nickname due to its population of approximately four thousand rhesus monkeys. These monkeys were not originally native to the island but were relocated from Puerto Rico during a herpes virus B outbreak.
Presently, people are strictly prohibited from visiting Morgan Island, primarily to ensure the safety of both visitors and the resident monkeys, who are part of a research colony.
Terra Indigena Xinane Isolados, Brazil
The border region between Bolivia and Brazil encompasses 1,750 square kilometers of designated territory that the Brazilian government has reserved for uncontacted indigenous peoples.
This area is strictly off-limits to the general public, with the aim of protecting the uncontacted tribes and preserving their isolation from outside influences. This policy is intended to safeguard the well-being and cultural heritage of these indigenous communities.
Alnwick Poison Garden, England
Inside the picturesque Alnwick Garden in England, there exists a more ominous attraction – a smaller garden filled with deadly plants. Access to this garden is strictly regulated, and visitors are not allowed in unless accompanied by a highly trained tour guide.
The rules are stringent due to the toxicity of the plants, with instances of seven people fainting in a single summer after inhaling the noxious fumes during tours, highlighting the need for caution and expert guidance.
Ise Grand Shrine, Japan
The Grand Shrine of Ise in Japan holds immense significance in Shintoism. It was originally built around the third century to pay homage to Amaterasu, the goddess of the sun and the universe.
However, according to Shinto tradition, the shrine is completely reconstructed every 20 years to symbolize the concepts of death and rebirth. Access to the inner sanctum is restricted, and only members of the Japanese imperial family are allowed inside, making it a sacred and exclusive place.
Diego Garcia, Indian Ocean
Diego Garcia, a small island in the Indian Ocean, was inhabited by 2,000 residents until the British government evicted them in 1973 to make way for the construction of a US military base during the Cold War.
The island remains restricted to this day, with access limited exclusively to military personnel. Outsiders are not allowed to visit Diego Garcia due to its strategic military importance and the sensitive nature of its operations.
Heard Island, Australia
Heard Island, a remote territory owned by Australia, is situated in a desolate location between Antarctica, Australia, and the southernmost tip of Africa. Due to its extreme isolation and harsh conditions, it is incredibly challenging to access.
The island’s primary inhabitant is an active volcano, which renders it unsuitable for human habitation. Its remote and inhospitable nature makes it an intriguing yet rarely visited part of the world.
Mezhgorye, Russia
Mezhgorye is a secluded town nestled in the Ural Mountains of Russia. It has garnered speculation due to rumors suggesting its use as a nuclear missile site. The town is heavily guarded by battalions to prevent unauthorized access.
However, the exact purpose and activities within Mezhgorye remain shrouded in secrecy, as Russian authorities have not disclosed specific information about the town, fueling speculation and mystery surrounding its true role.
Varosha, Cyprus
Varosha, located in Cyprus, was a bustling beach resort town that attracted celebrities like Brigitte Bardot and Elizabeth Taylor until 1974. However, in that year, Turkish troops invaded the area following escalating tensions with Greece.
Today, Varosha remains entirely abandoned, frozen in time. The town is off-limits to the public, and trespassers risk being met with force, as it is patrolled by the Turkish military.
Point Nepean National Park, Australia
While much of this park can be explored independently through hiking, some areas are restricted to the general public due to their natural and hazardous conditions, including treacherous waters.
Situated at the remote western tip of the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria, this park is home to numerous rare species of animals, making it a valuable and sensitive ecological environment.
Navassa Island, Caribbean
Navassa Island, an uninhabited territory, is a subject of dispute between the United States and Haiti. Access to the island is highly restricted, and individuals seeking to visit must obtain a special permit, which is seldom granted.
The island’s isolation from human visitors has provided a sanctuary for numerous rare wildlife species, allowing them to thrive in this undisturbed environment.
Coca Cola Vault
The “Coca-Cola Vault” is indeed a real place, and its forbidden status is tied to the secrecy surrounding the formula for Coca-Cola. The original, handwritten recipe and formula for Coca-Cola are securely stored in a multimillion-dollar vault within the company’s museum in Atlanta.
While the vault is visible from the outside, access to it is strictly restricted to the general public, emphasizing the company’s commitment to keeping the formula a closely guarded secret.
The Vatican’s Archives
While the Vatican is indeed one of the world’s most famous tourist destinations, there is one area that remains off-limits to nearly everyone: the Vatican Apostolic Archive. Established in 1612 to house the private papers of the popes and the Catholic Church, these archives were initially completely private.
However, since 1881, access to the archives has been permitted only to a carefully selected group of pre-approved scholars, making it a restricted and exclusive research facility.
Plymouth, Montserrat
The town of Plymouth, located on the Caribbean island of Montserrat, was home to residents leading a peaceful life until 1995. However, that year, the Soufrière Hills volcano became active, leading to the complete evacuation of the town.
The subsequent eruption left Plymouth buried in ash and transformed it into a desolate wasteland. Today, approximately half of the island remains designated as an exclusion zone, a testament to the enduring impact of the volcanic activity.
Area 51
Area 51, located in Nevada, has long been the subject of speculation and conspiracy theories within the UFO community. While some suggest it is a secret military installation where the United States stores alien technology, the official military stance is that it is primarily a “flight testing facility.”
The truth remains elusive because civilian access to Area 51 is strictly prohibited, and the facility’s activities are shrouded in secrecy, fueling continued speculation and intrigue.
Room 39
North Korea is rumored to have its own equivalent of Area 51, known as Room 39. Defectors from the North Korean regime have alleged that Room 39 is involved in various activities, including counterfeiting, insurance scams, drug production, and legal enterprises.
These alleged operations are believed to generate substantial revenue for the country, estimated to be between $500 million and $2 billion USD. However, due to the secretive nature of the North Korean government, it is challenging to verify these claims or obtain concrete information about Room 39.
Heart Reef
Heart Reef, a small section of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef that naturally resembles a heart shape, has gained popularity as a picturesque photo destination. However, the influx of tourists began to cause significant damage to the delicate ecosystem.
To protect this unique formation and the surrounding environment, divers and snorkelers have been prohibited from accessing the immediate area, with measures in place to conserve and preserve Heart Reef and its surrounding marine life.
Maya Bay
Maya Bay, situated in Thailand, experienced a surge in tourism after it was prominently featured in the movie “The Beach” starring Leonardo DiCaprio. Over the following 18 years, the island was overwhelmed by visitors, causing severe damage to its environment and ecosystem.
To address this issue, the Thai government made the decision to temporarily close the area, with the aim of allowing the fragile ecosystem to recover. As of now, Maya Bay remains closed, as authorities continue to assess the impact of past tourism and plan for its future.
Bohemian Grove Men’s Club
The Bohemian Grove Men’s Club, located in Monte Rio, California, is a subject of urban legend and speculation. According to these legends, it is a 2,700-acre campground that serves as a playground for influential men.
It is rumored that every July, a gathering of VIP members, including US Presidents, government officials, business leaders, artists, musicians, and celebrities, convenes for a massive party at the Bohemian Grove. The secrecy and exclusivity surrounding the club have contributed to various conspiracy theories and urban myths.
Mount Weather Emergency Operations Center
The Mount Weather Emergency Operations Center, situated in Virginia, is renowned as one of the safest places in the world. Constructed during the Cold War, its purpose is to protect members of the United States government in the event of a nuclear attack or other disasters.
Regrettably, the facility is strictly off-limits to the general public, given its role in national security and emergency response.
Fort Knox
Fort Knox has become synonymous with an impenetrable fortress in American pop culture. This highly fortified military base is responsible for safeguarding the United States’ gold reserves. It is surrounded by extensive security measures, including minefields, barbed wire, electric fences, armed guards, and surveillance cameras.
The vault within Fort Knox, where the gold is stored, has only been opened once, in 1974, for a limited group of individuals, including members of the news media and Congress. Its stringent security measures contribute to its legendary status as a symbol of security.
Utah’s Mormon Vault
The Dulce Base in Dulce, New Mexico, has been a subject of speculation and conspiracy theories in some circles. It is rumored to be a massive underground government facility that allegedly houses a wide range of secrets, from alien technology to experiments involving human-animal hybrids.
Due to the secretive nature of the facility, it is challenging to verify any claims, and the entire area is off-limits to the public, contributing to the mystique and intrigue surrounding the Dulce Base.
Dulce Base
The Dulce Base in Dulce, New Mexico, has been a subject of speculation and conspiracy theories in certain circles. It is rumored to be a massive underground government facility that allegedly houses a wide range of secrets, from alien technology to experiments involving human-animal hybrids.
Due to the secretive nature of the facility, it is challenging to verify any claims, and the entire area is off-limits to the public, adding to the mystique and intrigue surrounding the Dulce Base.
Club 33
Indeed, one of the most exclusive and forbidden places for the vast majority of Americans is located right in the heart of one of the world’s most popular theme parks: Disneyland. In the late 1960s, about a decade after Disneyland’s opening, Walt Disney envisioned a sophisticated lounge where he could entertain corporate sponsors.
This concept evolved into Club 33, a secretive club and lounge accessible only to members. The cost of membership reportedly includes a $25,000 initiation fee and $10,000 in annual dues. Even if someone can afford it, the waiting list for membership can be as long as a decade.
Spy Hubs
The National Security Agency (NSA) indeed operates several highly secure and windowless facilities across the United States. The nature of the activities conducted in these buildings is highly classified, and they are not accessible to the general public.
As intelligence and security agencies, the NSA’s operations are shrouded in secrecy, and their facilities are designed to safeguard sensitive information and protect national security interests. Consequently, the specifics of what transpires within these facilities remain undisclosed to the public.
Marshall Islands Pacific Proving Grounds
Between 1946 and 1962, the United States conducted 67 nuclear detonation tests in various areas of the Marshall Islands. The nuclear tests had a devastating impact on the region, leading to widespread nuclear fallout and contamination.
Some areas in the Marshall Islands were deemed so hazardous that they were declared unfit for human habitation. This has resulted in the displacement of the native population, who have been prohibited from returning to their homeland due to the lingering dangers posed by the nuclear contamination.
Menwith Hill Air Force Base
Menwith Hill Air Force Base, located in the United Kingdom, has been compared to Area 51 in terms of its mysterious nature. The activities within this enigmatic 550-acre base, characterized by numerous domes, have left local residents puzzled and curious.
Some residents have even filed legal complaints against the government in an attempt to uncover the secrets of the base, but thus far, their efforts have not yielded any significant revelations, adding to the mystique surrounding Menwith Hill.
Mercury, Nevada
Mercury, Nevada, was a thriving town in the 1950s, bustling with shops, restaurants, and a significant population of nuclear scientists. However, its transformation into a forbidden area is linked to U.S. nuclear testing.
While there are rumors that several hundred residents still live in the town, access to Mercury is restricted. Only credentialed federal researchers are allowed entry, making it difficult to ascertain the current population and activities within this secretive area.
Cheyenne Mountain
The Cheyenne Mountain Complex in Colorado is a massive U.S. military installation built into a mountain. Over the years, it has housed various organizations, including NORAD, U.S. Space Command, Aerospace Defense Command, and the Space Force.
This complex also serves as a secure refuge for top U.S. officials during a nuclear war. Its strategic importance in national defense is evident, making it a critical and restricted facility.
Grossinger’s Catskills Resort
Grossinger’s was indeed a prominent and luxurious resort in New York’s Catskills region during the 1950s, and it served as a major inspiration for the film “Dirty Dancing.” At its peak, the resort offered a wide range of amenities, including artificial snow for skiing, an airstrip, elegant ballrooms, golf courses, auditoriums, and extensive sports facilities.
However, by the 1980s, Grossinger’s had fallen into disrepair and eventually closed its doors. In the nearly four decades since its closure, the entire complex has become a forbidden and dilapidated relic of a bygone era, evoking nostalgia for a once-thriving resort.
Google Data Center
Google’s Douglas County, Georgia data center stands as one of the most secure facilities in the United States. Access to this complex is strictly limited to only the highest-level employees responsible for its operation and maintenance.
Stringent security measures are in place to ensure that unauthorized individuals are prevented from entering, emphasizing the critical nature of the data center’s security and the protection of sensitive information housed within it.
Snake Island, Brazil
Ilha da Queimada Grande, commonly referred to as “Snake Island,” would indeed be a challenging place for someone like Indiana Jones. This island, located off the coast of Brazil, is teeming with endangered snakes, particularly the critically endangered golden lancehead viper.
To protect both human visitors and the fragile snake population, the island is strictly off-limits to the public, making it a forbidden place where the snakes can thrive undisturbed.
