What makes a remote drive worthwhile
A scenic drive is one with views. A remote drive is one with few other vehicles. Combining both produces a particular kind of road trip that I keep coming back to.
Remote scenic drives reward time. Plan less ground per day. Stop more. Notice more.
Drives I keep recommending
The Carretera Austral in Chilean Patagonia from Puerto Montt to Villa O'Higgins covers more than 1,200 kilometres of mountain, forest, fjord, and glacier landscape, much of it on gravel.
The Dempster Highway in northern Canada from Dawson City to Inuvik now extends to Tuktoyaktuk on the Arctic Ocean. Gravel for most of its length, with caribou crossings as routine events.
The road across Mongolia's Khövsgöl to Mörön and beyond is mostly track rather than road, but the scenery and the absence of traffic justify the difficulty.
The road from Skagway to Whitehorse follows a historic route through dramatic mountain country.
Vehicle and preparation
Four-wheel-drive for any unpaved remote route. Two spares ideally. Recovery gear. Communication.
Fuel planning. Some remote roads have hundreds of kilometres between fuel stops. Carry extra where the vehicle allows.
Food and water for an unexpected overnight, just in case.
Driving rhythm
Start early, finish before dusk. Many remote roads become more dangerous in low light.
Take breaks every two hours. Long empty roads produce a particular kind of fatigue.
Stop for the views. They are the entire point.
Travel tips
- → Carry extra fuel and water for unexpected delays
- → Start driving at dawn for best light and conditions
- → Use a satellite messenger as backup to mobile signal
- → Take breaks every two hours
Best season
Late spring through early autumn for most remote roads, dry season for tropical and desert ones.
How to get there
Fly to the regional capital, rent a capable vehicle, and confirm route conditions with locals.
What to expect
Long empty drives, dramatic views, occasional wildlife on the road, and the satisfaction of a route that asks for commitment.
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive these solo?
Yes, with normal precautions. Tell someone your route and check in at the end.
What if I break down?
Carry a satellite messenger. Have a clear plan. Most remote-road operators have recovery contacts.
Are they safe?
Most are. The main risk is vehicle failure or weather, both managed by preparation.
