LANDED’s Favorite Islands

The three most vivid years of my childhood were spent on a tropical island in the Pacific Ocean. The natural limits of the territory prompted us to dig deep into our surroundings. We enjoyed the sparkling beaches and tide pools, trekked dense jungle, and savored local culture. These are years I’ll never forget, and that I often revisit in dreams.

It’s no secret that islands have a special allure – a magnetism, found perhaps in their convergence of land, sea, and sky. Near the shore, wave song and ocean breezes add to the tranquility. Sunrises and sunsets are especially magical.

Beyond the natural beauty, islands often support strong community bonds and overall happiness. At its best, island life’s shared culture and sense of separation can cultivate supportive, welcoming attitudes.

Empirically, we know we feel better after some island time. Studies on the benefits of spending time in “blue” spaces (the sea, rivers, and lakes) suggest they can lower our stress and improve overall health.

Through LANDED, we’ve been able to explore some unforgettable islands. These are a few of our favorites:

Islas Secas

Islas Secas has everything we want in a private-island experience. This compact chain of fourteen small islands lies just off Panama’s Pacific Coast. It’s a quick flight from Panama City to gorgeous views, sumptuous accommodations, and flawless service. This is a perfect place to disconnect and decompress, but they also offer an unmatched range of ocean activities.
Islas Secas
E – Galapagos

The Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands are a portal to a another age—a time of geologic creation and natural innocence. The wildlife interaction here is playful, genuine, and inspiring. These islands renew our sense of wonder and hope. They are a testimony to the beauty of creation, and to what’s possible when conscientious communities preserve and defend their natural heritage.

Fernando de Noronha

Fernando de Noronha is a 21-island archipelago—arguably the most beautiful island chain in all of South America. Accessible by air from Brazil’s Atlantic coast, these protected islands protected as a national marine park and as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. No more than 420 visitors are allowed on the Fernando de Noronha archipelago at any given time. Those lucky few discover spinner dolphins, sea turtles, and surf. Abandoned forts and shipwrecks make this even more a Neverland. We’re sure there is mermaid lagoon somewhere.
Fernando de Noronha Brazil | Landed Travel
LANDED-Travel-Chile-Easter-Island-1293

Rapa Nui, Easter Island

Rapa Nui, Easter Island to English-speakers, lies 2,200 miles west of Chile’s Pacific Coast—a rough midpoint between South America and Tahiti. Rapa Nui’s heritage is unmistakably Polynesian. Nearly all of the island is protected as national park, protection for the 20,000+ archeological sites that dot the island. These include the iconic moai—massive volcanic stone statues—ceremonial sites, quarries, and caves. But the greatest treasure we’ve found is the connection with locals—guides, fishermen, surfers, and artists—who will welcome you like family.

The South Shetland Islands

The South Shetland Islands are the gateway to the Antarctic. They protect the Antarctic Peninsula from the turmoil of the Drake Passage, and serve as vital habitat for animated colonies of penguins, flying seabirds, and seals. It’s here that we made our first steps into the Antarctic, experiencing the power and rugged beauty of this region. It’s here that we first kayaked with humpback whales and encountered massive elephant seal bulls. Like no place else, the South Shetlands awaken our spirit of awe.
Antarctica Travel

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LANDED delivers the finest in private, tailor-made travel to Central America, South America, and the Antarctic. Speak with one of our expert travel designers today at 801.582.2100. Let us deliver the vacation of your dreams.