Star Wars Day | Our usual pitch meeting at work goes like this: a group of loud writers, a photographer and an editor with a coffee mug taller than a newborn baby. Ideas are thrown around, some are met with a nod of approval and some gets chewed and spat out. When I suggested a story on "Star Wars" (because why not), my editor shot back with "'Rogue One' was depressing. Next idea." I won't lie, my heart broke just a little and I almost embraced the 'Dark Side,' but quickly channelled my inner semi-Jedi and coaxed the editor to the brighter side of the epic space opera franchise: its gorgeous locations.
That Monday afternoon, the Force was with me for I got approval to do a piece on the franchise. After all, I devote half my time watching and re-watching these movies. I may have random screenshots, a few too many, of the Dark Lord Darth Vader (and Spock from "Star Trek") on my phone at all times. I'm an addict and I am not ashamed.
My journey with "Star Wars" started with the 1977-1983's trilogy, then came the prequel to play around with a fan's feelings. The prequel, additional two movies in the middle and then the sequel...no respect was paid to the timeline. So for years, I bounced from one "Star Wars" movie to the other and finally in 2019, after they came up with "The Rise of Skywalker", I took a breather and watched the entire thing one more time.
This time it was chronological—"Episode I A Phantom Menace" (1999), "Episode II Attack of the Clones" (2002), "Episode III Revenge of the Sith" (2005), "Solo A Star Wars Story" (2018), "Rogue One A Star Wars Story" (2016), "Episode IV A New Hope" (1977), "Episode V The Empire Strikes Back" (1980), "Episode VI The Return of the Jedi" (1983), "Episode VII The Force Awakens" (2015), "Episode VIII The Last Jedi" (2017), and finally "Episode IX The Rise of Skywalker" (2019). My love for all things "Star Wars" has reached a point where I even love the awkward Jar Jar Binks.
A quick search on the web will tell you a captivating tale from a galaxy far far away, of master Jedis, dark Sith Lords, The Force and adorable non-human characters. But we are here not because of the characters but because of the gorgeous destinations where these movies were filmed. From the vast Saharan wilderness in Tunisia to salt plains of Bolivia to remote island in Ireland, the "Star Wars" film franchise has reached far and wide. These destinations are proof.
This ksar, or a fortified village, is where "The Phantom Menace" was filmed. The movie speaks of Tatooine, a fictional desert planet, and its Mos Espa slave quarters. This place is inhabited by humans and alien beings and is home to Luke Skywalker, the greatest Jedi Master.
Best Time to Visit: The optimal time to explore Ksar Hadada is during the cooler months, specifically from October to April. This timeframe offers more comfortable temperatures for wandering through the ancient structures and the surrounding desert landscapes.
Places to Visit: The primary attraction at this location is Ksar Hadada itself, a remarkable example of a traditional Berber ksar, or fortified granary village. Visitors can explore the interconnected ghorfas (storage vaults) and imagine life in this historical settlement.
Nearby Places to See: Within a reasonable driving distance, you can visit Chenini, a striking Berber village clinging to the mountainside with its distinctive troglodyte dwellings. Ksar Ouled Soltane presents another impressive example of a well-preserved ksar with panoramic views. The historical ruins and expansive vistas of Douiret also offer an intriguing day trip. Finally, the town of Tataouine, the regional center, provides a glimpse into the local Tunisian way of life and offers access to local markets.
In the movie, the Palace of Caserta is portrayed as Naboo Royal Palace, home to Padmé Amidala (Luke Skywalker's mother), Jar Jar Binks, and Senator Palpatine, the evil Emperor of the Galactic Empire. The beautiful and mammoth Royal Palace of Caserta is a former residence of the Spanish royal family in Southern Italy. It is, by all means, one of the largest palaces in Europe.
Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit the Palace of Caserta are during the spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October). During these months, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, ideal for exploring both the extensive palace interiors and the vast gardens.
Places to Visit: The Palace of Caserta itself is the main attraction, a monumental complex that was once the largest palace in the world. Inside, you can explore the opulent Royal Apartments, adorned with lavish decorations, frescoes, and period furnishings. Don't miss the magnificent Grand Staircase, the Palatine Chapel, and the Palatine Library. The Court Theater, one of the few 18th-century theaters to remain intact, is also a highlight, though it has limited visiting hours. The expansive Royal Park and Gardens, stretching for kilometers behind the palace, are a must-see, featuring fountains, cascades, sculptures, and the English Garden with its exotic plants and artificial ruins.
Nearby Places to See: Casertavecchia, a charming medieval village located in the hills a few kilometers from Caserta, offers historical architecture and panoramic views. The Aqueduct of Vanvitelli (Carolino Aqueduct), an impressive 18th-century aqueduct, is a remarkable feat of engineering and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Belvedere of San Leucio, another UNESCO site, offers insights into industrial history and boasts beautiful views. The vibrant and historic city of Naples is located approximately 30 km south of Caserta and is easily accessible by train.
The volcano erupted during the filming of the movie, and it made the fantastic background for the duel scene between the Jedi master Obi-Wan-Kenobi and the apprentice Anakin Skywalker who later goes on to become the dark lord Darth Vader. Chills! The beautifully aggressive, active stratovolcano Mount Etna is located on the east coast of Sicily.
Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit Mount Etna are generally during the late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October). During these periods, the weather is mild and pleasant for hiking and exploring the volcanic landscapes.
Places to Visit: Explore the Silvestri Craters, easily accessible by road and offering a glimpse into past eruptions. Visit the Valle del Bove, a vast volcanic depression. Discover the Alcantara Gorges, formed by lava flows meeting a cold river. Hike along various trails at different altitudes, offering diverse landscapes from forests to lava fields. Consider a guided tour to learn about the volcano's geology and history. In winter, the Piano Provenzana and Nicolosi Nord areas offer skiing and snowboarding.
Nearby Places to See: The picturesque hilltop town of Taormina, renowned for its breathtaking vistas of both Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea, also boasts an ancient Greek Theatre that is well worth a visit. The vibrant city of Catania, situated at the very base of the volcano, offers a rich tapestry of Baroque architecture and a lively urban atmosphere. For those interested in ancient history, Syracuse, with its significant archaeological sites including the Neapolis Archaeological Park and the charming island of Ortigia, is a compelling excursion. The volcanic Aeolian Islands, an archipelago just off Sicily's northern coast and accessible by ferry, present dramatic landscapes and crystal-clear waters.
In the movie, the national park's Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, are shown as Tatooine desert where R2D2 and C3PO go separate ways post crashing their escape pod. Fleeing the Empire would do that to you, you know. But Mesquite Flat is also known for sandboarding. And why not, when there are dunes that go up to a height of 100 ft?
Best Time to Visit: The most favourable times to visit Death Valley National Park are during the shoulder seasons: mid-October through late November, and late February through April. During these periods, the temperatures are more moderate and comfortable for exploring the park's diverse landscapes.
Places to Visit: Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, presents vast salt flats. Zabriskie Point offers iconic panoramic views of the sculpted badlands. Dante's View, perched high in the Black Mountains, provides sweeping vistas of the entire valley. Explore the shifting sands of the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. Drive along the scenic Artist's Drive to witness the colourful volcanic hills.
Nearby Places to See: The quirky Rhyolite Ghost Town in Nevada offers a glimpse into a short-lived mining boomtown. The Alabama Hills, near Lone Pine, California, are known for their unique rock formations and have been the backdrop for numerous films. Manzanar National Historic Site, also near Lone Pine, commemorates the Japanese-American internment during World War II. The Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest in the White Mountains showcases some of the oldest living trees on Earth.
This one is a personal favourite! The scene at the glacier is that of a fight scene between the Imperial forces and the Rebel Alliance. The glacier is located near the village of Finse, and during winter, it can only be accessed using a ski. The harsh sub-zero condition of the glacier definitely added extra drama to the already dramatic war scene.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the Hardangerjøkulen Glacier area for hiking and experiencing its surroundings is generally during the summer months, from June to September. During this period, the snow has largely melted at lower altitudes, making trails accessible, and the weather is typically milder.
Places to Visit: The area around Finse, a mountain village accessible by train (on the Oslo-Bergen railway), provides the most direct access and views of the glacier's northernmost arm. You can hike in the valleys surrounding the glacier, offering different perspectives. The Rallarvegen, a scenic cycling route that follows the construction road of the Bergen railway, passes through Finse and offers fantastic views of Hardangerjøkulen. Lake Finsevatnet, at Finse, also provides beautiful reflections of the glacier on clear days.
Nearby Places to See: The Flåm Railway, a stunning railway journey from Myrdal to Flåm through steep valleys and waterfalls, is accessible from the Oslo-Bergen line. The Hardangerfjord region, known for its fruit orchards and picturesque villages, is located to the south. The Vøringfossen waterfall, one of Norway's most famous, is also within reach. The Hallingskarvet National Park, adjacent to Hardangerjøkulen, offers further opportunities for hiking and experiencing the high mountain environment.
The canyon is portrayed as the road to Jabba the Hutt's palace. This is where Luke Skywalker tinkers with his new lightsaber in a cave that overlooks the mighty spaceship Millennium Falcon. Anyone remember R2D2 and C3PO's journey to Jabba the Hutt's palace? If you are into off-roading and hiking on some rough one-way trails, this is the place.
Best Time to Visit: The most favourable times to visit Twenty Mule Team Canyon are during the shoulder seasons: mid-October through late November, and late February through April. During these periods, the temperatures are more moderate and comfortable for exploring the short, unpaved scenic drive and the surrounding terrain.
Places to Visit: The canyon offers striking geological formations and a glimpse into the area's mining history, as it was once traversed by twenty-mule teams hauling borax. There are several pull-offs along the four km drive where you can stop to take photographs and explore the immediate surroundings on foot. The vibrant hues of the hills, ranging from yellows and browns to pinks and greens, are particularly captivating.
Nearby Places to See: Zabriskie Point, offering iconic panoramic views of similar badland formations, is a short drive away. The Harmony Borax Works, a historic site related to the borax mining era, is also nearby. Dante's View, providing sweeping vistas of the entire Death Valley, is accessible by a relatively short drive. The main visitor center at Furnace Creek, with information about the park's geology, history, and hiking trails, is also within easy reach.
The location is used in both VII and VIII as Achc-To, Luke's refuge. And how dramatic! Towards the end of the movie, Rey, a scavenger who happens to have the power of the Force with her, finally finds Luke Skywalker who was residing there incognito. The misty and rain-kissed island with really steep hills is a popular destination in Ireland. Remember the scene where Rey climbs those God-knows-how-many steps to reach Luke's casa? You can do that hike here. The view from the top is spectacular.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Skellig Michael is during the official landing season, which typically runs from mid-May to the end of September. During these months, the weather is generally more favourable for boat trips, which are the only way to access the island. However, even in this season, trips are heavily dependent on sea conditions, and cancellations can occur.
Places to Visit: The primary reason to visit Skellig Michael is to experience its remarkably preserved early Christian monastic settlement, dating back to the 6th to 8th centuries. Visitors can explore the stone beehive huts (clocháns), oratories, and the church, perched dramatically on the island's steep slopes. Climbing the ancient stone stairways offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Small Skellig.
Nearby Places to See: The Ring of Kerry, a famous scenic driving route, passes through this region, showcasing stunning landscapes, charming villages, and historical sites. Valentia Island, connected to the mainland by a bridge, offers dramatic cliffs, a lighthouse, and historical significance as the eastern terminus of the first transatlantic telegraph cable.
Dramatic scene of the Battle of Crait...I did think for the longest time about the red soil beneath the white. Not a favourite "Star Wars" movie, this one, but I do fancy the location. Salar de Uyuni in the Andes is the world's largest salt flat. Approximately 11,000 sq km in size, the desert-like salt flat is spectacularly white and gives great photo ops. Come here for great photos and pink flamingos.
Best Time to Visit: For the iconic "mirror effect," when a thin layer of rainwater transforms the salt flats into a giant reflection of the sky, the rainy season from December to April is ideal, with January and February typically offering the most pronounced effect. However, be aware that heavy rains can sometimes restrict access to certain areas. For clear, sunny days and the opportunity to see the hexagonal salt patterns, the dry season from May to November is recommended, though nights can be cold. Late April offers a potential sweet spot with chances of both the mirror effect and drier conditions with fewer crowds.
Places to Visit: Within the salt flats, Incahuasi Island, a rocky outcrop covered in giant cacti, provides a unique vantage point. Nearby attractions often included in tours are the Train Cemetery (Cementerio de Trenes), a collection of rusting locomotives; the salt mines and salt hotels in Colchani; and further afield, the stunning coloured lagoons (Laguna Colorada and Laguna Verde) and the geysers at Sol de Mañana.
Nearby Places to See: The surrounding Altiplano region of Bolivia offers dramatic landscapes and unique attractions. Tours often include visits to the surreal rock formations of the Siloli Desert, the vibrant red waters of Laguna Colorada teeming with flamingos, and the steaming geysers and bubbling mud pools of Sol de Mañana. The otherworldly landscapes that inspired Salvador Dalí are also a common stop.
Wadi Rum, Jordan, known for its russet sandy terrain, made a significant appearance in "Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker," portraying the stunning backdrop for pivotal scenes. Referred to as The Valley of the Moon, this captivating landscape in the country's southern region had previously stood in for the moon of Jedha in "Rogue One." It transformed into the fictional planet Pasaana in the final instalment of the series. This epic desert locale played a crucial role as the starting point for the movie's storyline, showcasing its awe-inspiring beauty in a new light.
Best Time to Visit: The most pleasant times to visit Wadi Rum are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is generally mild and comfortable for exploring the desert landscapes without the intense heat of summer or the cold of winter nights.
Places to Visit: Key sites include the Seven Pillars of Wisdom, a distinctive rock formation; Lawrence's Spring, associated with T.E. Lawrence; Khazali Canyon, with ancient Nabataean inscriptions; the towering Jebel Rum, Jordan's highest peak; and various natural rock bridges like Um Frouth Rock Bridge and Burdah Rock Bridge.
Nearby Places to See: The ancient city of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, is approximately an hour's drive north and is an unmissable destination. The coastal city of Aqaba, on the Red Sea, is about 45 minutes to the south, offering opportunities for diving, snorkelling, and enjoying the sea. The Dead Sea, known for its mineral-rich waters and unique buoyancy, is a few hours' drive to the northwest.
This story was first published on February 1, 2019; and it has since been updated.
