Island Seclusion: Undiscovered Escapes for a Secret Retreat

9. Floreana Island, Ecuador – The Mysterious Galápagos Hideaway

Most travelers to the Galápagos Islands flock to Santa Cruz and Isabela, but Floreana Island remains one of the most mysterious and remote islands in the archipelago. With a population of only 150 people, it’s a place where pirate legends, unsolved disappearances, and eerie landscapes make for an unforgettable escape. Unlike other Galápagos islands with established tourism infrastructure, Floreana has no large hotels, no Wi-Fi, and barely any cars. Instead, visitors can walk through black lava fields, kayak with sea lions, or snorkel alongside giant Pacific green turtles in crystal-clear waters. The island’s isolation makes it one of the best spots for seeing rare wildlife without the crowds, including pink flamingos, blue-footed boobies, and marine iguanas basking on volcanic rocks. For history buffs, the island’s infamous human drama—known as the "Galápagos Affair"—adds an extra layer of intrigue. In the 1930s, a German doctor, a mysterious baroness, and several settlers mysteriously disappeared under bizarre circumstances, leaving behind only unanswered questions. Best for: Wildlife encounters, mystery lovers, and off-the-grid nature immersion. How to get there: Fly to Baltra, Ecuador, then take a ferry from Santa Cruz to Floreana.