For those drawn to the edge of the map and the height of luxury, there exists a rare breed of destinations—places so remote, so breathtakingly pristine, they’re accessible only by bush plane. These journeys, made aboard nimble aircraft threading through wilderness and over vast expanses of untamed terrain, are not just about where you go—they’re about how you get there. From the sunburnt heart of Australia to the icy majesty of Alaska, here are four unforgettable escapes best reached by air.
Sheldon Chalet | Alaska
Deep within the Don Sheldon Amphitheater of Denali National Park, the Sheldon Chalet feels like the last outpost of civilization—because it nearly is. Only reachable by helicopter, this architectural marvel offers views of soaring peaks and the ethereal aurora borealis from its private observation deck. For those seeking a blend of extreme isolation and comfort, this hexagonal lodge is unmatched. A contrast lies nearby in Halibut Cove, where Ridgewood Wilderness Lodge offers more traditional Alaskan adventures like salmon fishing and kayaking—accessible only by floatplane.
Southern Ocean Lodge & Longitude 131 | Australia
Australia’s scale and diversity are tailor-made for exploration by bush plane. Hop aboard Air Adventure’s Pilatus PC-12 and soar from the iconic 12 Apostles to the reborn Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island—where windswept cliffs and native wildlife await. Inland, touch down at Longitude 131, a remote retreat offering commanding views of the sacred Uluru monolith, visible right from your luxury tent. Complete the outback immersion with a gourmet stop in the desert village of Parachilna—population two—where the historic Prairie Hotel offers fine cuisine amid rugged isolation.
Minaret Station | South Island, New Zealand
New Zealand’s South Island is a cinematic expanse of mountains, fjords, and ancient forests. Reaching its most exclusive corners often means traveling by small aircraft or helicopter—especially when journeying to alpine hideaways like Minaret Station. Accessed only by air, this luxury lodge places guests in the heart of glacial valleys, offering heli-hiking, fly fishing, and cuisine as elevated as the surroundings. Nearby lodges such as Blanket Bay and Fiordland Lodge complete an unforgettable aerial circuit for wine lovers, hikers, and romantics alike.
Singita Sasakwa Lodge | Northern Tanzania
On the edge of the Serengeti, Singita Sasakwa Lodge crowns a hilltop in the vast Grumeti Reserve. This Edwardian-inspired manor, with its panoramic views and antique elegance, is reached by bush plane via Safari Air Link—ushering you directly into the world of The Lion King. For a wilder take, Mwiba Lodge lies perched above a rocky gorge along the Arugusinyai River, where elephants and rhinos gather at the spring below. Both lodges pair soul-stirring game drives with refined spa rituals and a deep connection to the natural world.
Where the Journey Is Just as Extraordinary as the Destination
These retreats aren’t merely luxurious—they’re transformative. Reached only by air, each offers a gateway to landscapes few will ever witness and experiences even fewer can access. In a world growing ever more connected, these are the sanctuaries that still require wings.
