15 Best Sci-Fi Filming Locations to Visit in 2026

For those who find themselves enchanted by the fantastical worlds of science fiction, there’s nothing quite like stepping into the real-life settings that inspired these cinematic universes. From otherworldly landscapes to futuristic cityscapes, these locations offer a slice of the extraordinary. Each site carries the weight of its own story, blending the magic of film with the beauty of the natural and built environment. Here’s a look at fifteen stunning sci-fi filming locations to add to your travel plans in 2026.

1. Wadi Rum, Jordan

Known as the Valley of the Moon, Wadi Rum’s vast, red desert starred as the alien landscapes in films like The Martian and Dune. Its striking sandstone and granite rock formations make it a favorite for filmmakers depicting Mars or otherworldly terrains. Visitors can explore the area on a guided tour, offering the chance to see the locations up close and maybe even camp under the stars as Matt Damon’s character might have done.

2. Skellig Michael, Ireland

Sitting majestically off the coast of Ireland, Skellig Michael served as the remote island retreat of Luke Skywalker in the Star Wars sequel trilogy. The ancient monastic site, with its rugged cliffs and stone beehive huts, is only accessible by boat and offers an adventurous pilgrimage for fans of the Force. The UNESCO World Heritage site combines natural beauty with an air of mystery, much like the Jedi Order itself.

3. Vancouver, Canada

Frequently dubbed “Hollywood North,” Vancouver has long been a go-to location for sci-fi TV series like The X-Files and Stargate SG-1. The city’s diverse landscapes and futuristic architecture provide the perfect backdrop for alien invasions and high-tech investigations. A walk through Stanley Park or a visit to the Vancouver Art Gallery might just bring back scenes from your favorite episodes.

4. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

Resembling an endless white desert, Salar de Uyuni’s salt flats have been used to represent post-apocalyptic and alien worlds, most notably in Star Wars: The Last Jedi. This surreal landscape offers a unique travel experience, especially when the flats become reflective after rainfall, simulating a giant mirror that defies the boundaries between earth and sky.

5. Monument Valley, USA

This iconic red rock valley located on the Arizona-Utah border has been a staple in both Westerns and sci-fi films. Its dramatic, towering formations have featured in movies such as 2001: A Space Odyssey and Westworld. Guided tours led by Navajo guides provide insight into the cultural significance of this mystical land, making it a must-visit for fans of both film and natural beauty.

6. Canary Islands, Spain

The volcanic landscapes of the Canary Islands have doubled for alien environments in films like Clash of the Titans and Exodus: Gods and Kings. The islands’ diverse terrain—from lush forests to stark deserts—offers a taste of different worlds without leaving Earth’s atmosphere. Consider trekking across the Timanfaya National Park for a truly volcanic experience.

7. Dubrovnik, Croatia

While most recognize Dubrovnik as King’s Landing from Game of Thrones, its medieval architecture also lent itself to the fantastical backdrops of Star Wars: The Last Jedi. Walking through its winding streets and towering walls feels like stepping into a galaxy far, far away.

8. The Atacama Desert, Chile

This stunning desert is one of the driest places on Earth, making it a fitting setting for films like Quantum of Solace and Prometheus. Its barren landscape, dotted with salt flats and ancient volcanoes, is often used to depict alien planets and dystopian futures. Stargazing here is a must, with its clear skies offering a celestial show reminiscent of sci-fi starfields.

9. Iceland’s Vatnajökull National Park

Iceland’s glaciers and volcanic regions have become prime locations for sci-fi and fantasy films. Vatnajökull, the largest glacier in Europe, was a key location for Interstellar, where its icy landscape served as a distant planet. The park offers guided glacier tours and ice cave explorations that feel as adventurous as any space mission.

10. New Zealand’s Hobbiton

While primarily associated with fantasy, the lush, rolling hills of Hobbiton were also used for the filming of Avatar, blending futuristic elements with New Zealand’s natural beauty. You can tour the picturesque set, which remains an iconic symbol of the seamless blend between film and reality.

11. Los Angeles, USA

Known for its cutting-edge architecture and sprawling urban landscape, Los Angeles has been the backdrop for many sci-fi classics like Blade Runner and Inception. A visit to iconic locations like the Bradbury Building or Griffith Observatory offers a peek into the cinematic future envisioned by these films.

12. Sydney, Australia

Sydney’s modern skyline and harbor were central to the filming of The Matrix. Its mix of futuristic buildings and natural beauty set the stage for an alternate reality. Fans can explore the city’s streets and buildings, picturing Neo’s iconic jumps between skyscrapers.

13. Aït Benhaddou, Morocco

This ancient fortified city provided the backdrop for sci-fi epics like Star Wars and Gladiator. The earthen clay architecture of Aït Benhaddou stands as a testament to human ingenuity, serving as a bridge between past and future narratives. Visiting the site evokes a sense of stepping into a living movie set.

14. Pinewood Studios, UK

While not a location you can wander freely, Pinewood Studios is where the magic happens for many blockbuster sci-fi films, including Star Wars and Guardians of the Galaxy. Tours are occasionally offered, providing a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of film production.

15. Tokyo, Japan

The neon glow and technological advancements of Tokyo have inspired countless sci-fi narratives, from Akira to Ghost in the Shell. The city itself feels like a step into a cyberpunk future, with its bustling streets and towering skyscrapers offering a perfect blend of tradition and innovation.

For those who dream of stepping into the worlds of their favorite sci-fi films, these locations offer a unique opportunity to walk where their heroes have tread. So pack your bags, prepare your camera, and embark on the ultimate geek travel adventure. Who knows, you might even stumble upon your very own sci-fi story along the way.