13 Most Isolated Countries on Earth

In a world where connectivity is king, some places still keep their distance. Isolation can come from geography, politics, or choice, shaping unique cultures and lifestyles. This blog looks at 13 countries that stand apart from the global crowd, each with its own story of seclusion.

North Korea

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North Korea is one of the most closed-off countries in the world. Its strict government controls what comes in and goes out. Few tourists are allowed to visit, and those who do face many rules. The country’s isolation has led to a unique culture and way of life that’s very different from its neighbors.

Bhutan

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Bhutan is a small country surrounded by mountains and high in the Himalayas. It limits tourism to protect its culture and nature. Bhutan is known for measuring its success by Gross National Happiness instead of money. Its isolation has helped keep its traditions and beautiful forests safe.

Tuvalu

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Tuvalu is a tiny island nation in the Pacific Ocean. It’s one of the least visited countries on Earth. The country is so small and far away that it doesn’t have an airport for big planes. Tuvalu faces threats from rising sea levels, which could one day force its people to leave.

Turkmenistan

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Turkmenistan is a desert country in Central Asia. It’s known for being very hard to visit. The government tightly controls information and travel. Turkmenistan has huge gas reserves but most of its people live simple lives. Its isolation makes it one of the least-known countries in the world.

Nauru

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Nauru is the world’s smallest independent republic. It’s a tiny island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Once rich from mining, Nauru now struggles economically. Its remote location and small size make it hard to reach and develop new industries.

Kiribati

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Kiribati is spread across 33 coral atolls in the Pacific. It’s one of the most remote and least visited countries on Earth. The country faces big challenges from climate change and rising seas. Its isolation makes it hard to get help and resources.

Somalia

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Years of conflict and instability have isolated Somalia, making it hard for the country to develop and connect with the outside world. Despite this, Somali culture remains strong and unique. Many parts of the country are dangerous to visit.

Yemen

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Yemen’s ongoing civil war has cut it off from much of the world. Once a hub of ancient trade routes, Yemen is now hard to access. The conflict has isolated Yemen’s people and damaged its rich cultural heritage. Yemen’s situation shows how war can quickly isolate a country.

Eritrea

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Eritrea is often called the “North Korea of Africa” because of its strict government. Few people are allowed to enter or leave the country. Eritrea’s isolation has slowed its development and limited its people’s opportunities. The country’s unique culture has been shaped by years of seclusion.

Pitcairn Islands

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The Pitcairn Islands are Britain’s last territory in the Pacific. With only about 50 people, it’s one of the least populated places on Earth. The islands are so remote that they can only be reached by a long boat ride. Life on Pitcairn is simple and deeply connected to the sea.

Papua New Guinea

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Papua New Guinea is known for its tribal cultures and dense forests. Many areas are still very hard to reach. This isolation has helped preserve hundreds of unique languages and traditions. Papua New Guinea’s rugged landscape adds to its seclusion from the modern world.

Gabon

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Gabon in Central Africa is mostly covered by thick rainforests. Its small population and undeveloped interior make large parts of the country very isolated. Gabon’s isolation has helped protect its amazing wildlife, including gorillas and forest elephants. The country faces challenges in balancing development with preserving its natural treasures.

Mongolia

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Mongolia is the world’s least densely populated country. Its vast steppes and deserts create natural barriers. Many Mongolians still live as nomads, far from cities and modern life. Mongolia’s isolation has helped keep its traditional culture and connection to nature strong.

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Victoria Omololu

Victoria Omololu is a fashionista exploring the world on a budget. She co-founded Only Earthlings in 2023 to show her travels in North America, Europe, Africa, and everywhere else. Victoria loves writing about travel tips, itineraries, packing guides, and taking photography from all over the world.

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