Sure, Disney has its appeal and is probably more convenient for many travelers from the U.S.A. But why go there when you can immerse yourself in the settings of the actual filming locations from the films by visiting real world Star Wars travel destinations?
Star Wars was released in 1977 and was a surprise hit to many and the initial 3 episodes are still revered by audiences born well after the release of Return of the Jedi in 1983. Much of the longstanding appeal of these films is due to the practical effects. George Lucas chose to minimize any CGI in an effort to maintain a level of authenticity the films.
A good portion of that authenticity comes from shooting on location in various areas around the world. In this list we’ll be looking at eight Star Wars travel destinations that look like they’re from a galaxy far, far away, but are here on earth.
1. Tatooine-Tunisia
Many know by now that the scenes set on the planet of Tatooine were actually filmed in Tunisia. but what many may not know is that the filming was done on the island of Djerba and the name Tatooine was inspired by the Tunisian city of Tataouine.
On the island you’ll find the filming location of the famous Los Eisley Cantina. However, on the mainland you can find Luke’s home at the Hotel Sidi Idriss. The hotel is a traditional Berber subterranean house were the filming took place. This is a destination that should be on any Star Wars travel list.
2. The Forest Moon of Endor-Redwood National & State Parks, California
The Forest Moon of Endor made its appearance in The Return of the Jedi. However, the scenes were located much closer to home for the actors and crew because filming took place in California’s redwood forests. Filming locations included Humboldt, Jedediah Smith, Prairie Creek, and Grizzly Creek. You won’t find any Ewoks here, but you will find the incredible redwoods.
3. Hoth-Hardangerjøkulen Glacier, Norway
The planet of Hoth is where the Rebel Alliance’s Echo Base was located in The Empire Strikes Back. The real Hoth is near the isolated village of Finse, Norway at the Hardangerjøkulen Glacier. You can visit the glacier, but only through a guided tour.
4. Yavin 4-Tikal National park, Guatemala
The Tikal National Park in Guatemala makes its appearance in a A New Hope as the Millennium Falcon flies above the surface of Yavin 4. Visitors to the park can experience the same cinematic view from the rebel base from atop Temple IV of the Mayan ruins scattered through the park.
5. Crait-Salar De Uyuni, Bolivia
Salar de Uyuni í the world’s largest salt flat measuring a whopping 10,000 square kilometers. The salt flats serves as the location of a Resistance outpost in The Last Jedi. When visiting Salar de Uyuni, you’re not just visiting a Star Wars location, but also what’s left of lakes that existed 40,000 years ago.
6. Naboo-Lake Como, Italy
Several scenes set on the planet of Naboo were shot at Lake Como in Italy. In Attack of the Clones, Anakin and paddle were secretly wed at the real world’s Villa del Balbianello. Fortunately, the villa is open fto visitors, ad even to weddings for those hardcore fans who want to recreate the film
7. Takodana-Puzzlewood, Gloucestershire, UK
The lush and mystical woodlands of Takodana from The Force Awakens were filmed in the ancient forest of Puzzlewood. The forest is located near Coleford in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire.
8. Temple ISland-Skellig Michael, Ireland
Luke isolated himself on Temple Island on the planet of Ahch-To after failing to handle Ben Solo. In the film the island is where the Jedi order was founded and the location of the first Jedi Temple. The location of the scenes set here were shot at a 6th century monastery settlement that sits about 16km off the coast of Ireland.
The settlement can be visited, but is only reachable by boat.
Is Your Star Wars Travel Itinerary Ready?
Now you know where to go and it’s time to use your Jedi skills and determine how to reach these Star Wars travel destinations. Disney might have the shiny bells and whistles, but these locations offer the chain for you to walk in the footsteps of your favorite Star Wars characters.
