It’s safe to assume that while many dream of vacationing in places like Hawaii or Paris, there are others who crave the peculiar and unexplored. If you’re among the latter, you’re in the right place!
While visiting the lesser-known destinations on this list isn’t feasible, delving into their mysteries can be just as exhilarating. Discovering places forbidden to the public offers a glimpse into the forbidden allure of secrecy and intrigue, making for a fascinating journey into the unknown.
Snake Island, Brazil
Ilha da Queimada Grande, famously dubbed “Snake Island,” would likely be a nightmare scenario for Indiana Jones. Situated off the coast of Brazil, this island is teeming with endangered snakes, creating an environment where danger lurks with every step.
Its closure to the public serves a dual purpose: safeguarding both human visitors from potentially lethal encounters and preserving the delicate habitat for the unique snake species that call it home. Despite its allure as a forbidden locale, the island’s restricted status ensures that it remains a sanctuary untouched by outside interference, maintaining its ecological balance and mysterious allure from afar.
North Sentinel Island
Located in the Bay of Bengal, North Sentinel Island is home to the Sentinelese, one of the few remaining indigenous groups untouched by modern civilization. Known for their hostility towards outsiders, they fiercely defend their isolation and have rebuffed attempts at contact with violence. Due to the risks involved, visiting the island is strongly discouraged to protect both the inhabitants and potential visitors.
This isolation has preserved their unique cultural heritage and way of life, making North Sentinel Island a poignant example of humanity’s diverse and often isolated communities. Respecting their autonomy ensures their continued existence and safeguards the island’s delicate ecosystem from outside influence.
Lascaux Caves, France
The Lascaux Caves in Montignac, France, house an extraordinary collection of prehistoric cave paintings crafted over generations by early humans. While access to the original caves is restricted to researchers to preserve their delicate ancient artwork, visitors can explore Lascaux II, an exact replica located just 600 feet away.
Though not quite the same as experiencing the genuine site, Lascaux II offers an immersive alternative, faithfully recreating the awe-inspiring artwork and intricate details of the original caves. It provides a rare opportunity to glimpse into the distant past and appreciate the artistic achievements of our ancestors in a controlled and sustainable manner, ensuring the preservation of the invaluable cultural heritage found within the Lascaux Caves.
Doomsday Vault, Norway
The Svalbard Global Seed Vault, also known as the “Doomsday” Vault, stands as a safeguard against potential global catastrophes. Located in Norway, its mission is to preserve millions of seeds to ensure the future restoration of vegetation in case of any worldwide disaster. Situated deep within a mountain above sea level, the vault is designed to withstand earthquakes, explosions, and the ravages of time, engineered with durability to endure for approximately 200 years.
Access is strictly limited to authorized personnel to maintain the integrity and security of its contents, underscoring the critical importance of its role in global biodiversity conservation and food security efforts. The vault serves as a symbol of humanity’s proactive approach to preserving vital resources for future generations, offering reassurance in the face of uncertain environmental and geopolitical challenges.
Surtsey Island, Iceland
Surtsey Island, formed during a volcanic eruption from 1963 to 1967 off Iceland’s coast, is one of Earth’s youngest islands. Reserved exclusively for scientific research, it serves as an untouched environment to study ecosystem development without human interference.
Closed to visitors, Surtsey offers valuable insights into natural colonization processes on volcanic terrain, providing essential data for global ecological research and conservation initiatives. Its isolation and strict access ensure that it remains a pristine laboratory for understanding how life establishes itself in newly formed environments.
Poveglia Island, Italy
Italy’s Poveglia Island is a magnet for aficionados of eerie tales, though access to it remains restricted, leaving its mysteries to be recounted from afar. Over its tumultuous history, the island served as a bleak quarantine site for tens of thousands of plague victims and later housed a psychiatric hospital.
Today, it stands secluded from public visitation, its haunting past echoing through its abandoned buildings and overgrown landscapes. The island’s closure underscores the need to protect its delicate historical and environmental heritage, ensuring that its unsettling yet compelling stories continue to captivate imaginations while preserving its integrity for future generations.
Uluru Rock, Australia
This distinctive sandstone monolith, once open for climbing, saw a significant change in October 2019 when the Anangu people requested tourists refrain from scaling it due to erosion concerns. Uluru’s cultural significance and environmental sensitivity prompted this decision, shifting the focus to respectful admiration rather than physical interaction.
While climbing is no longer permitted, visitors are still welcome to experience the awe-inspiring presence of Uluru firsthand. Its imposing stature and rich Aboriginal heritage continue to draw travelers seeking a profound connection with Australia’s natural and cultural landscapes, emphasizing the importance of responsible tourism in preserving cherished sites like Uluru for future generations.
Tomb of Qin Shi Huang, China
The tomb of Qin Shi Huang stands as an unparalleled archaeological marvel, unearthed alongside the Terracotta Army in 1974. This discovery remains one of history’s most significant, yet the emperor’s actual tomb remains untouched out of reverence for Chinese cultural heritage.
Qin Shi Huang, renowned as the first emperor of unified China and founder of the Qin Dynasty in 221 BC, left behind a legacy immortalized by the vast terracotta warriors and horses guarding his burial site. This site’s preservation underscores its cultural and historical importance, offering a glimpse into ancient China’s imperial grandeur while honoring the legacy of its visionary ruler.
Big Diomede Island, Russia
Along the Bering Strait, separating the United States and Russia, lie two islands: Big Diomede and Little Diomede. Little Diomede, on the American side, is home to just over 100 residents, primarily of Inupiat heritage, who maintain a close-knit community amid the island’s challenging Arctic conditions. In contrast, Big Diomede, under Russian administration, is uninhabited except for a weather station operated by Russia.
This station monitors weather patterns and serves as a reminder of the strategic significance of these remote islands between two nations. Despite their proximity, the islands represent a stark contrast in human habitation and geopolitical dynamics in the northernmost reaches of the Pacific Ocean.
North Brother Island, New York City
North Brother Island, situated in The Bronx, New York City, served as a refuge for over a thousand survivors when a nearby passenger ship sank. Subsequently, it was repurposed as a hospital for patients with contagious diseases, most notably housing “Typhoid Mary” in the early 20th century. Today, the island lies abandoned, reclaimed by nature and designated as a bird sanctuary.
Its eerie, overgrown buildings stand as silent witnesses to its storied past, offering a haunting glimpse into its history as both a place of refuge and isolation. The island’s transformation into a sanctuary underscores its resilience and the ongoing effort to preserve its ecological significance amidst the urban landscape of New York City.
Bhangarh Fort, India
While Bhangarh Fort welcomes visitors during daylight hours, it is strictly off-limits after sunset due to local legends and reported paranormal activities. According to folklore, those who have dared to enter the fort after dark have mysteriously vanished, adding to its reputation as one of India’s most haunted places.
The fort’s eerie atmosphere and abandoned structures contribute to its allure among thrill-seekers and paranormal enthusiasts alike. Despite its prohibition at night, Bhangarh Fort continues to attract curious visitors during daylight, offering a glimpse into its historical significance and the enduring mysteries that shroud its shadowy past.
Pravcicka Brana, Czech Republic
Pravčická brána stands as Europe’s largest natural sandstone arch and a premier attraction in the Czech Republic. Regrettably, access to this magnificent landmark has been restricted since 1982 due to concerns over erosion caused by continuous foot traffic. Visitors are now unable to explore its splendor up close, but the site remains a breathtaking sight from a distance, offering picturesque views of its towering form amidst the lush Bohemian Switzerland National Park.
Despite the limitations on physical exploration, Pravčická brána continues to captivate admirers with its natural beauty and rich geological history, serving as a testament to the delicate balance between tourism and conservation in preserving our natural wonders.
Niihau Island, Hawaii
Dubbed the “Forbidden Island,” this Hawaiian gem was acquired by Elizabeth Sinclair in 1864 and has remained under the ownership of her descendants to this day. Nestled among the pristine waters of the Pacific Ocean, the island boasts a population of approximately 170 residents who cherish its secluded beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Access to the island is strictly regulated, preserving its unspoiled landscapes and ensuring its status as a sanctuary of Hawaiian tradition and natural diversity. While visitors cannot freely explore, the island’s exclusivity adds to its allure, offering a glimpse into a quieter, more authentic Hawaiian experience far removed from the bustling tourist hubs of the mainland.
Chapel of the Ark of the Covenant, Ethiopia
Legend has it that the Ark of the Covenant, said to contain the sacred Ten Commandments, rests within The Church of Our Lady Mary of Zion in Ethiopia. Access to this revered artifact is strictly restricted to a select guardian, shrouding its existence in mystery and speculation. Even historians and researchers are barred from entering the chapel, leaving the truth of its contents elusive to outsiders.
The church, located in Axum, holds deep significance as Ethiopia’s spiritual heart and a center of Orthodox Christian worship. Its role in Ethiopian history and religious tradition underscores the sanctity and reverence surrounding the Ark, preserving its enigmatic presence within the confines of faith and tradition.
Robins Island, New York
Robins Island, nestled in Long Island, New York, was initially acquired by Louis Moore Bacon as a private retreat for his family’s vacation homes. Over time, however, its purpose evolved to encompass conservation efforts as well. Today, the island serves not only as a secluded getaway but also as a dedicated nature preserve aimed at safeguarding the diverse and endangered species native to the region.
This dual role reflects a commitment to balancing private use with environmental stewardship, ensuring that the island’s natural beauty and ecological significance are preserved for future generations to enjoy and study. Robins Island stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of luxury living and responsible conservation in an increasingly developed landscape.
Paris Catacombs, France
Paris’s catacombs, a vast network of underground tunnels beneath the city, are famous for their eerie ambiance. While guided tours offer a glimpse into this macabre labyrinth, most sections are off-limits to the public due to safety concerns.
The risk of getting lost in the maze-like passages or encountering structural collapses is very real, underscoring the importance of respecting these restrictions. Despite the allure of their dark history and mysterious atmosphere, visitors are urged to explore only authorized areas to ensure both their safety and the preservation of this unique underground world.
Chernobyl Exclusion Zone
In 1986, the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine witnessed the world’s largest nuclear disaster, resulting in the evacuation of residents from towns within a roughly 1,000 square mile Exclusion Zone around the site. Today, guided tours offer limited access into the Exclusion Zone, allowing visitors to witness the eerie remnants of abandoned towns and the haunting Chernobyl Reactor 4.
However, living within or spending extended periods in the zone remains strictly prohibited due to lingering radiation hazards. This restriction ensures the safety of both visitors and the environment, while also serving as a somber reminder of the catastrophic consequences of nuclear accidents and the enduring legacy of Chernobyl’s tragic history.
Mariana Trench
The Mariana Trench, the deepest oceanic trench on Earth at over 36,000 feet, remains virtually inaccessible to researchers and explorers alike. Only a few manned expeditions, including James Cameron’s, have descended to its depths.
This extreme depth and the challenges it poses make it a forbidding environment for scientific study. Despite these obstacles, these rare ventures have revealed an astonishing diversity of bizarre and resilient creatures adapted to survive in the trench’s harsh conditions, showcasing the trench’s allure as a window into Earth’s deepest mysteries.
Disney’s Discovery Island
Discovery Island, formerly accessible to the public at Walt Disney World in Florida from 1974 to 1999, served as a unique attraction showcasing various animal and bird species. Since its closure, the island has been left abandoned, adding an eerie mystique to its once lively environment.
Despite its deserted state, Discovery Island remains visible from Bay Lake, offering curious onlookers a glimpse of its overgrown pathways and dilapidated structures. The island’s history as a wildlife sanctuary and its subsequent abandonment contribute to its fascination as a hidden gem within the expansive Disney property, evoking nostalgia and intrigue among visitors who catch a glimpse of its enigmatic past from afar.
Pluto’s Gate, Turkey
Ploutonion at Hierapolis, known as Pluto’s Gate, was feared in ancient times for its association with death. Dedicated to the god Pluto, it served as a ritual passage to the underworld. In 1965, scientists confirmed it was built atop a cave emitting toxic gases, including high levels of carbon dioxide.
This discovery underscored the site’s ominous reputation, aligning with its historical portrayal as a perilous gateway where ancient beliefs in the afterlife converged with natural hazards. Today, Pluto’s Gate remains a compelling archaeological and geological marvel, highlighting the intersection of myth, history, and scientific inquiry.
Morgan Island, South Carolina
Morgan Island, known as “Monkey Island,” houses around four thousand rhesus monkeys relocated from Puerto Rico due to a herpes virus outbreak. Off-limits to visitors, the island serves as a protected sanctuary for these monkeys, ensuring their safety and well-being.
This restriction emphasizes the importance of conservation and wildlife management in preserving unique ecosystems and safeguarding against potential health risks associated with non-native species.
Terra Indigena Xinane Isolados, Brazil
On the border between Bolivia and Brazil lies a 1,750 square kilometer area designated by the Brazilian government for uncontacted indigenous tribes. This territory serves as a protected zone, strictly off-limits to the general public and closely monitored to preserve the tribes’ autonomy and cultural heritage.
The policy of non-contact aims to safeguard these vulnerable communities from external threats while respecting their traditional way of life and ensuring their right to self-determination. This remote region stands as a testament to Brazil’s commitment to indigenous rights and conservation efforts, emphasizing the delicate balance between environmental preservation and cultural sensitivity in the face of modern development pressures.
Alnwick Poison Garden, England
Nestled within England’s picturesque Alnwick Garden is a hidden gem with a darker side – a small garden dedicated to deadly plants. Accessible only with a trained tour guide, entry is strictly regulated due to the inherent dangers posed by its toxic flora.
The garden features a variety of plants known for their lethal properties, making it a unique but perilous attraction. Strict safety rules are enforced; incidents like seven people fainting in a single summer underscore the need for caution. Despite its sinister allure, the garden serves as an educational venue, highlighting the hazardous aspects of the natural world under expert guidance.
Ise Grand Shrine, Japan
The Grand Shrine of Ise in Japan stands as a pivotal site in Shinto belief, dedicated to honoring Amaterasu, the goddess of the sun and universe. Originally built around the third century, the shrine undergoes reconstruction every 20 years, symbolizing the Shinto principles of renewal and continuity.
Access to its sacred precincts is restricted solely to members of the Japanese imperial family, underscoring its significance and reverence in Japanese culture and spiritual practice. The rituals of rebuilding highlight the deep-seated connection between tradition, faith, and the perpetual cycle of death and rebirth within Shinto beliefs.
Diego Garcia, Indian Ocean
Diego Garcia, a small island in the Indian Ocean, was inhabited by 2,000 residents until 1973 when the British government forcibly removed them to accommodate the construction of a US military base during the Cold War. Since then, access to the island has been strictly restricted to military personnel only, barring any civilian presence.
This controversial eviction and subsequent military use underscore Diego Garcia’s role as a strategic outpost, reflecting geopolitical tensions and the lasting impacts of Cold War-era policies on local communities and international relations.
Heard Island, Australia
Heard Island, a remote territory owned by Australia, sits isolated in the vast expanse between Antarctica, Australia, and the southernmost tip of Africa. Accessing this pint-sized island is extremely challenging, exacerbated by its harsh environment dominated by an active volcano.
Human habitation is impractical due to the inhospitable conditions created by the volcano’s ongoing activity. This volcanic presence not only defines the island’s rugged landscape but also underscores its remote and formidable character in the southern Indian Ocean, where natural forces shape its unique and largely untouched ecosystem.
Mezhgorye, Russia
Mezhgorye is a secluded town nestled in the Ural Mountains of Russia, shrouded in secrecy and speculation. Rumors swirl that it serves as a clandestine nuclear missile site, heavily guarded to deter unauthorized entry.
The town’s purpose remains veiled in mystery, with Russian authorities maintaining strict silence on its activities. This secrecy fuels intrigue about Mezhgorye’s true role and underscores its remote and fortified existence within the rugged landscape of the Urals, where whispers of military operations and strategic importance persist amid the surrounding wilderness.
Varosha, Cyprus
Until 1974, Varosha thrived as a bustling beach resort in Cyprus, frequented by celebrities like Brigitte Bardot and Elizabeth Taylor. However, that year, Turkish troops intervened following heightened tensions with Greece. As a result, Varosha was abruptly abandoned and remains deserted to this day.
The town now stands as a ghostly reminder of its former glory, with strict military enforcement preventing access; trespassers face the risk of gunfire from Turkish forces. Varosha’s deserted streets and dilapidated buildings evoke a poignant contrast to its once vibrant past, frozen in time amid geopolitical conflict and international dispute.
Point Nepean National Park, Australia
Located at the remote western tip of the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria, this park offers extensive hiking opportunities for independent exploration. While much of the park is accessible to visitors, specific areas are restricted due to their hazardous nature, including perilous waters.
The park is renowned for its biodiversity, harboring numerous rare animal species. This unique location provides a sanctuary for wildlife amidst rugged terrain and coastal beauty, inviting adventurers to explore its accessible trails while respecting the protected areas crucial for conservation efforts.
Navassa Island, Caribbean
Navassa Island, an uninhabited territory disputed between the United States and Haiti, requires special permits for visitors, which are seldom issued. This remote island hosts diverse species of rare wildlife, thriving undisturbed by human presence.
Its status as a protected area has inadvertently benefited its ecosystem, allowing flora and fauna to flourish in the absence of significant human impact. Navassa Island stands as a testament to conservation efforts, maintaining its natural biodiversity amidst geopolitical disputes and restricted access, preserving its pristine environment for scientific study and ecological preservation.
Coca Cola Vault
Yes, you read that right – it’s the “Coca Cola Vault.” Why is something related to Coca Cola among the world’s most forbidden places? It all revolves around its formula. The genuine, handwritten original recipe for Coca Cola is safeguarded in a multimillion-dollar vault at the company’s museum in Atlanta.
While the vault is visible from the outside, access to the public is strictly prohibited. This iconic location symbolizes the secrecy and significance of Coca Cola’s renowned formula, preserving its mystique and historical legacy behind tightly sealed doors.
The Vatican’s Archives
While the Vatican is renowned as a top tourist destination, there is a notably restricted area. The Vatican Apostolic Archive, established in 1612 to preserve the private papers of popes and the Catholic Church, was initially entirely private. Since 1881, access has been granted solely to a limited number of pre-approved scholars.
This exclusive repository holds centuries of historical documents and manuscripts, safeguarding invaluable insights into the Church’s past. Its restricted access underscores the archive’s role as a custodian of sacred and significant records, offering privileged scholars a rare glimpse into Vatican history and governance.
Plymouth, Montserrat
Until 1995, residents of Plymouth, a town on the Caribbean island of Montserrat, enjoyed a peaceful existence. However, that year, the Soufrière Hills volcano erupted, forcing the complete evacuation of the town. The catastrophic eruption transformed Plymouth into a desolate landscape buried under ash, prompting the designation of half the island as an exclusion zone that remains in effect today.
This tragic event forever altered the island’s geography and displaced its inhabitants, serving as a stark reminder of nature’s unpredictability and the enduring impact of volcanic activity on human settlements.
Area 51
According to many in the UFO community, Area 51 is a clandestine military base in Nevada where the United States allegedly stores alien technology. The military officially describes it as a “flight testing facility.”
The truth remains elusive because civilians are strictly prohibited from approaching Area 51, making it impossible to verify claims or access information about its activities. This secrecy has fueled speculation and conspiracy theories surrounding the base, highlighting its enigmatic status and the enduring fascination with what might be concealed within its restricted confines.
Room 39
According to reports, North Korea has its own equivalent of Area 51 known as Room 39. Defectors allege that Room 39 is involved in various activities, including counterfeiting, insurance fraud, drug manufacturing, and some legitimate enterprises, allegedly generating the regime between $500 million and $2 billion USD annually.
Due to the secretive nature of the North Korean government, these claims cannot be independently verified. Room 39 remains shrouded in mystery, fueling speculation about its operations and the extent of its economic impact within the isolated nation.
Heart Reef
Heart Reef, a picturesque section of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef shaped like a heart, has gained fame as a sought-after photo spot. However, its popularity led to significant environmental damage caused by large numbers of tourists.
In response, restrictions have been imposed barring divers and snorkelers from the immediate vicinity. This protective measure aims to preserve the delicate marine ecosystem surrounding Heart Reef, highlighting the balance between tourism and conservation efforts in safeguarding natural wonders like this iconic formation within the world-renowned reef system.
Maya Bay
Maya Bay, situated in Thailand, skyrocketed in popularity as a tourist hotspot following its appearance in the Leonardo DiCaprio film, The Beach. Over 18 years, the island faced severe environmental degradation due to overwhelming visitor numbers. In response, the Thai government implemented a temporary closure to facilitate ecosystem recovery.
To date, Maya Bay remains closed as authorities continue efforts to restore its natural balance and safeguard its fragile marine environment. This closure underscores the ongoing challenges of balancing tourism with environmental preservation in sensitive ecological areas.
Bohemian Grove Men’s Club
According to urban legend, Bohemian Grove is a sprawling 2,700-acre campground in Monte Rio, California, reputedly serving as an expansive playground for elite men. Allegedly, every July, a gathering of VIP members, including US Presidents, government officials, business magnates, artists, musicians, and celebrities, convenes for a grand annual event.
This secretive gathering has fueled speculation and urban myths about the activities and influential networking that allegedly occur within the secluded confines of Bohemian Grove, highlighting its mysterious allure and the intrigue surrounding its exclusive gatherings.
Mount Weather Emergency Operations Center
Situated in Virginia, the Mount Weather Emergency Operations Center stands as one of the most secure facilities globally. Constructed during the Cold War, this massive bunker was designed to protect high-ranking members of the US government from nuclear attacks and other catastrophic events.
Regrettably, access to Mount Weather is strictly restricted to civilians, highlighting its role as a secretive and fortified location pivotal for national security and emergency preparedness. Its existence underscores the enduring precautions taken to ensure continuity of government and response capabilities in times of crisis.
Fort Knox
Fort Knox has become synonymous with an impenetrable fortress in American pop culture. This heavily fortified military base safeguards the nation’s gold reserves with layers of security, including minefields, barbed wire, electric fences, armed guards, and surveillance cameras.
Since its establishment, the vault at Fort Knox has been opened only once, in 1974, for a select group of members from the news media and Congress. This rare access underscores the strict protocols and secrecy surrounding Fort Knox, highlighting its critical role in protecting the country’s financial assets and symbolizing utmost security in national defense.
