Ready to go beyond just a holiday? Opodo, your go-to online travel agent, has uncovered some seriously out-of-this-world destinations that feel like they belong on another planet. Forget space travel—these spots will allow you to experience Mars, Venus and even Saturn right here on Earth.
Opodo asked 1,500 Brits about their dream getaways, and the results are clear: nearly a third (32%) are so adventurous they’d jump at the chance to travel to space or another planet. While that dream’s still a few light years away, Earth’s got plenty of places to scratch that sci-fi itch. Nearly 4 in 10 (38%) of UK travellers are now opting for unique, unusual destinations, so Opodo has taken it a step further.
Through analysing destinations here on Earth that mimic the landscapes of our solar system, internal experts have curated a list of ‘out of this world’ destinations that not only mirror planets from our solar system but also served as iconic filming locations for some of the greatest sci-fi films ever made.
Vatnajökull Glacier, Iceland – Interstellar (2014)
Vatnajökull in Iceland offers an unforgettable Uranus-like adventure, with its icy glaciers and shimmering blue caves that feel straight out of another world. It’s no wonder this surreal spot doubled as Mann’s frozen planet inInterstellar (2014). Fans of the film can step into the same alien-like landscape, hiking, climbing, or snowmobiling through its dramatic terrain. Adding to the intrigue, Vatnajökull is also a European UFO hotspot, with 14 sightings of mysterious “disk-shaped” objects reported.
Wadi Rum, Jordan – Dune (2021)
Wadi Rum in Jordan perfectly mirrors our solar system’s hottest planet Mercury with its towering sandstone mountains and endless, barren expanses. Its reddish-brown hues and rugged terrain make it feel like you’ve landed on another planet. This iconic desert also starred as Arrakis in Dune (2021), bringing the harsh, alien landscapes of the film to life. Visitors can dive into the adventure with jeep tours, camel rides, and stargazing under some of the clearest, most mesmerising night skies on Earth.
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, China – Avatar (2009)
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in China brings the mystique of Saturn’s moons to life with its towering, mist-shrouded rock pillars and eerie views. This surreal landscape inspired the floating mountains in Avatar (2009), making it a dream for sci-fi fans. Visitors can explore scenic trails, ride a glass-bottomed elevator up the cliffs, and dare to cross the world’s longest and highest glass bridge—all for an impressively affordable £50 a day.
Haleakalā Crater, Hawaii, USA – Space Odyssey: Voyage to the Planets (2004)
Haleakalā Crater in Hawaii evokes the barren, volcanic beauty of Venus, with its stark landscapes and dramatic sunrise views. This otherworldly vibe was captured in Space Odyssey: Voyage to the Planets (2004), where the crater stood in for the harsh, alien terrain of Venus. Its striking, almost lifeless scenery made it the perfect backdrop for the film’s depiction of the planet. Beyond its cinematic role, Haleakalā is also known for its 12 reported UFO sightings, many of which involve mysterious shining lights, adding an extra layer of sci-fi intrigue to this already surreal destination. With its accessibility and stunning views, it’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience a piece of the cosmos.
Norwegian Fjords, Norway – Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens (2015)
The Norwegian Fjords are a perfect stand-in for Jupiter, with their deep, mist-covered waters and towering cliffs resembling the gas giant’s vast, swirling cloud bands. These breathtaking fjords also served as the backdrop for Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens (2015), where they portrayed the mysterious planet Takodana. Visitors can cruise through these stunning waterways, marvelling at the sheer cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and the otherworldly atmosphere that makes this landscape feel truly cosmic. Whether you’re exploring by boat or hiking the dramatic terrain, the fjords offer an adventure that feels straight out of a sci-fi epic.
Pico del Teide, Tenerife, Spain – Clash of the Titans(2010)
Pico del Teide in Tenerife, Spain, offers a Mars-like experience with its barren volcanic landscapes, craggy formations, and dramatic terrain. This otherworldly setting also featured in Clash of the Titans (2010), where the mythological world was brought to life with a sense of fantasy and the fantastical. Visitors can take a cable car to the summit for stunning views, stargaze in Teide National Park, and hike through surreal lava flows and craters. Adding to its mystique, Pico del Teide is also known for 10 reported UFO sightings, making it a spot for those looking for both adventure and cosmic experiences.
Milford Sound, New Zealand – Alien: Covenant (2017)
Milford Sound in New Zealand mirrors Neptune’s rugged, alien-like terrain with its deep fjords, towering cliffs, and misty waters. It also featured inAlien: Covenant (2017) as the landing site of the Covenant on a remote planet. Visitors can explore the fjords by boat, take in the dramatic waterfalls, and hike through the striking, otherworldly landscape, all while experiencing a spot that feels straight out of a sci-fi movie.
