While we frequently discuss excessive noise, whether from occupational sources or environmental factors, we seldom highlight the beauty of quiet places.
From remote locations around the globe to advanced soundproof technologies, we have compiled a list of the top 10 quietest places to visit.
1. Orfield Laboratories, Minnesota, US
Topping our list is the anechoic chamber at Orfield Laboratories in Minneapolis, which reclaimed the Guinness record for the quietest place in November 2021.
Did you know? Tours are available, but visitors cannot stay in the chamber alone for extended periods. Most journalists who have spent time there reported lasting less than 20 minutes due to the extreme silence.
2. Building 87, Washington, US
This Microsoft lab in Redmond, Washington, was recognized as the quietest place on Earth until November 2021.
Did you know? Its anechoic chamber is designed to absorb sound reflections, creating an environment devoid of echoes, ideal for audio testing.
3. Olympic National Park, Washington, US
Home to the “One Square Inch of Silence,” Olympic National Park is known for its diverse natural soundscapes combined with significant periods of quiet. The park is constantly monitored for noise pollution.
Did you know? Spanning over 900,000 acres, the park features more than 3,000 miles of rivers and streams, 60 named glaciers, and is one of the most ecologically diverse areas in the US.
4. Kelso Dunes, Mojave Desert, US
The Mojave Desert, known for its rugged terrain and extreme climate, boasts the Kelso Dunes. Its harsh environment discourages visitors, allowing those who venture there to experience profound silence.
Did you know? The unique dune system rises over 600 feet and is composed of golden rose quartz particles.
5. Kielder Mires, England
Kielder Mires in Northumberland is the quietest place in Britain, based on its remote location away from roads and flight paths.
Did you know? This area is part of Kielder Water and Forest Park, the largest planted forest in England, which spans 250 square miles and is home to 150 million trees.
6. Landmannalaugar, Iceland
Famed for its tranquil open roads, Landmannalaugar allows travelers to roam for miles without encountering anyone. The area is dotted with serene volcanic landscapes.
Did you know? The valley is home to natural hot springs that are accessible all year, enhancing the appeal of this spectacular location.
7. Zurich, Switzerland
As one of the least noise-polluted cities globally, according to the World Hearing Index, Zurich offers urban quietude that is unparalleled.
8. Makgadikgadi Pans, Botswana
Covering 3,900 square kilometers, the Makgadikgadi Pan is one of the largest salt flats globally, situated in a dry desert in northeastern Botswana. It remains mostly silent during the dry season, but that changes with the arrival of rain.
Did you know? Studies indicate that modern Homo sapiens first evolved in this region 200,000 years ago when it was a fertile landscape of lakes and rivers.
9. Antarctica
This frozen continent is uninhabited by humans, with no towns or villages, and is primarily marked by scattered research stations.
Did you know? Antarctica houses between 60-90% of the world’s fresh water, locked within its vast ice sheet covering 14 million square kilometers.
10. Tak Be Ha Cenote, Mexico
Nestled in the Yucatan Peninsula, the Tak Be Ha Cenote features cathedral-like underwater caves that remain among the world’s last unspoiled havens. With only the distant sound of dripping water, it is considered one of the quietest spots out of nearly 7,000 caves in the region.
Did you know? Cenotes are freshwater sinkholes found in jungles, existing in various forms such as open and cave cenotes. The oldest cenotes are completely open.