Discovering Tristan da Cunha: The World's Most Isolated Island

Craving a little peace and quiet? Want to escape the urban hustle and bustle and human crowds? If that desire is strong, Tristan da Cunha might be the place for you. Excluding uninhabited areas, Tristan is probably the quietest spot you can find. There are no restaurants or hotels, the beaches are dangerous and therefore tourist-free, the one grocery store doesn’t accept credit cards, and the island has a single road.

To reach the island, which is about eight miles wide, you need to embark on a seven-day boat journey from the port of Cape Town in South Africa. Cape Town, which is 1,740 miles from Tristan, is the closest point of civilization to the island.

(Photo: NASA)

Tristan, a British territory, is home to 269 residents living in a single village along the northern shore. All the inhabitants engage in farming—growing their own food and raising cows for milk. Electricity comes from generators. The internet connection is satellite-based and notoriously slow.

Life here is tranquil and laid-back—at least as long as the island's volcano remains dormant. The last eruption was in 1961, prompting the entire population to flee to England. However, after two years, when experts confirmed the volcanic activity had ceased, most islanders insisted on returning. They had grown weary of England's bustling streets and harsh winters.

Besides agriculture, residents make a living by selling souvenirs, handicrafts, and local stamps online. Purchasing essential items requires long-term planning as ships infrequently deliver goods to the island. There is a well-equipped hospital, complete with an operating room, but for specialized medical care, patients must be airlifted to South Africa or the UK.

(Photo: Brian Gratwicke / Creative Commons)

(Photo: Brian Gratwicke / Creative Commons)