Discover Pandora on Earth: Avatar Filming Locations
Step into the mesmerizing world of Avatar and explore the breathtaking landscapes that served as the inspiration for James Cameron’s iconic sci-fi film. While the lush jungles and floating mountains of Pandora may seem far removed from our planet, many of the film’s stunning locations were filmed right here on Earth. From the towering cliffs of New Zealand’s South Island to the vibrant Rainforest of Hawaii, these real-world places will make you feel like you’re walking among the Na'vi in their stunning world.
1. Fiordland National Park, New Zealand – Pandora’s Floating Mountains
The awe-inspiring Fiordland National Park on New Zealand’s South Island played a pivotal role in creating the mystical floating mountains of Pandora. This park’s dramatic cliffs and lush forests provided the perfect backdrop for the otherworldly landscapes seen in the film.
What to See:
The stunning Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, and Dusky Sound are some of the most spectacular areas of the park, with towering peaks, waterfalls, and dense greenery. The lush vegetation and dramatic scenery are reminiscent of the lush Pandora jungle, especially the floating mountains that hover above the land. Take a scenic boat cruise to get a full view of these striking landscapes.
Travel Tip:
Milford Sound is accessible via a scenic drive, but it can also be explored by boat or kayak for an up-close experience. If you're up for an adventure, consider taking a multi-day trek through Fiordland’s famous hiking trails like the Routeburn Track.
2. Tongariro National Park, New Zealand – The Heart of Pandora
Another New Zealand location that helped bring Pandora to life is Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning volcanic landscapes and rugged terrain. This area provided the perfect inspiration for scenes depicting Pandora’s wilderness, especially the areas near the floating mountains.
What to See:
Visit the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, one of the world’s most famous day hikes, which takes you through a landscape of active volcanoes, craters, and vivid blue lakes that resemble the fantastical vistas of Pandora. The Mount Ngauruhoe volcano, which served as the visual inspiration for Mount Satah in Pandora, is particularly striking.
Travel Tip:
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a challenging hike, so be prepared for varying weather conditions and bring plenty of water. During the summer months, the weather is usually mild, making it ideal for a visit.
3. Kaua'i, Hawaii – Pandora’s Lush Rainforests
The island of Kaua'i, Hawaii, also known as the Garden Isle, served as the setting for the lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls of Pandora. Its dense jungles, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant tropical foliage made it the perfect location for many of the movie's jungle sequences.
What to See:
The Na Pali Coast with its towering cliffs and waterfalls is a must-see location. The dramatic, steep terrain and the rich green jungle can easily transport you to the vibrant world of Pandora. The Allerton Garden and McBryde Garden are other locations in Kaua’i that offer a chance to explore the island’s natural beauty up close.
Travel Tip:
You can explore the Na Pali Coast by boat, helicopter, or hike along the Kalalau Trail. If you’re short on time, consider taking a helicopter tour to get a bird's eye view of the lush rainforests, dramatic cliffs, and pristine beaches.
4. The Glass House Mountains, Queensland, Australia – Pandora’s Sacred Peaks
Located in Queensland, Australia, the Glass House Mountains are striking volcanic peaks that served as inspiration for the sacred mountains and floating islands of Pandora. These unique, rugged formations are part of a protected national park and have been a source of fascination for centuries.
What to See:
The Glass House Mountains are best viewed from Mount Beerwah or Mount Ngungun, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The stunning cliffs and natural beauty evoke the otherworldly, towering peaks seen in Avatar.
Travel Tip:
Hiking to the summit of Mount Beerwah is a challenging but rewarding experience, offering sweeping views of the entire region. There are also shorter walking trails that lead you through the Glass House Mountains National Park.
5. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, China – Floating Mountains of Pandora
Perhaps the most famous real-world location that inspired Pandora’s floating mountains is Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in China. The park’s dramatic pillar-like sandstone formations, which rise hundreds of meters above the ground, were the inspiration for the movie’s floating Hallelujah Mountains.
What to See:
Zhangjiajie features thousands of vertical peaks that create a surreal, otherworldly landscape. You can take a glass bridge that spans across one of the most breathtaking valleys, offering jaw-dropping views of the natural stone pillars. You can also explore the park via cable car or take a hike up to the Tianzi Mountain for panoramic views of the iconic pillars.
Travel Tip:
The Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge, which holds the world record for the longest and highest glass bridge, is a must-see experience for anyone visiting the park. It offers stunning views of the surrounding natural beauty, especially the towering stone pillars.
6. The Amazon Rainforest, Brazil – Pandora’s Biodiverse Ecosystem
The Amazon Rainforest in Brazil is the world’s largest and most biodiverse rainforest, making it an excellent match for Pandora’s lush, vibrant ecosystem. The dense vegetation and colorful plant life reflect the diverse, thriving nature of Pandora.
What to See:
Explore the Amazon River, where you can witness the incredible diversity of life that thrives in the rainforest. From exotic animals to unique plants, the Amazon provides an unforgettable look at the kinds of ecosystems that influenced the design of Pandora’s jungle.
Travel Tip:
A river cruise or guided jungle trek is the best way to experience the Amazon. Be sure to travel with an experienced guide, as the region’s terrain can be challenging, and you’ll want to learn about the fascinating plant and animal life that call the forest home.
7. Iguazu Falls, Argentina/Brazil – Pandora’s Majestic Waterfalls
The breathtaking Iguazu Falls on the border between Argentina and Brazil provided the inspiration for the cascading waterfalls seen in Pandora. The powerful, multi-tiered waterfalls surrounded by lush greenery create a stunning visual that mirrors the natural beauty of Avatar’s world.
What to See:
Visit both the Argentinian and Brazilian sides of the falls for different perspectives of the stunning waterfalls. Walk along the trails that take you up close to the falls and enjoy the view from various platforms. The surrounding rainforest is also home to diverse wildlife, adding to the immersive experience.
Travel Tip:
The best time to visit Iguazu Falls is during the rainy season (November to March), when the falls are at their fullest and most spectacular.
Step Into Pandora’s World
The breathtaking beauty of Pandora may be fictional, but the real-world locations that inspired it are very much real. From the towering cliffs of Zhangjiajie to the lush jungles of Kaua’i, these filming locations offer a chance to explore some of the most stunning landscapes on Earth.
Ready to experience Pandora for yourself? Use our flight search tool to book your tickets to these incredible filming destinations and step into the world of Avatar like never before!