How to Get to Diego Garcia — The Secret Island in the Indian Ocean (And What to Do There)
How to Get to Diego Garcia
Diego Garcia, a remote and secretive island in the Indian Ocean, has long fascinated adventurers with its stunning tropical beauty and unique geopolitical history. Part of the British Indian Ocean Territory, this tiny atoll is situated roughly halfway between Africa and Southeast Asia, but it’s not your average travel destination. Known for its restricted military access, visiting Diego Garcia is no easy feat—but that only adds to its allure. A visit might not be easy, but its unique status makes it one of the world’s most fascinating destinations.
How to Get to Diego Garcia — The Secret Island in the Indian Ocean
While Diego Garcia may not be on your immediate travel bucket list, its allure lies in its untouchable beauty and intriguing history. Here’s everything you need to know about Diego Garcia, why it’s a dream for the adventurous, and whether you can make it there.
1. How to Get There: Exclusivity at Its Peak
Diego Garcia isn’t accessible like other tropical islands. There are no commercial flights, resorts, or tourism infrastructure, as the island is a joint U.S.-U.K. military base. The only people allowed on the island are military personnel, contractors, and government workers. Civilians must be officially invited or stationed there, making a visit almost impossible for the average traveler. If you’re among the few with ties to military or government operations, you may be lucky enough to access this exclusive island.
2. Why You’d Want to Visit: Untouched Paradise
Though most travelers won’t ever set foot on Diego Garcia, the island’s stunning natural environment is worth knowing about. Its unspoiled beaches, crystal-clear waters, and coral reefs create a pristine tropical paradise. The island is a haven for marine life, including sea turtles, dolphins, and diverse fish species, making it an ideal destination for snorkeling and diving—if you’re allowed to visit, that is. Its remote location also means it’s one of the least-developed tropical islands in the world, providing a glimpse of what untouched paradise truly looks like.
3. An Island with a Storied Past
Diego Garcia’s history is as fascinating as its natural beauty. The island’s native Chagossian people were forcibly removed in the late 1960s and early 1970s to make way for the construction of the military base. Today, the island remains a vital strategic point for both the U.S. and U.K., playing a key role in global military operations. While its past has been marked by controversy, Diego Garcia continues to hold a significant place in international military history.
How to Get to Diego Garcia — The Secret Island in the Indian Ocean
4. Is There Any Hope for Future Travel?
For those who dream of visiting Diego Garcia, the prospects of a commercial opening are slim. However, its protected status means the island’s natural beauty is preserved, free from the effects of mass tourism. If you’re a true travel lover with military connections, Diego Garcia might be one of the most exclusive destinations you’ll ever experience.
