Star Wars Filming Locations: Iconic Real-World Sites to Explore
Whether you've seen every Star Wars film and binged The Mandalorian, or you can't distinguish a lightsaber from a blaster, these real-life filming locations offer an immersive journey into that galaxy far, far away.
Wadi Rum Desert, Jordan
One revealed filming location for the ninth Star Wars installment is Jordan's stunning Wadi Rum—a rust-colored sandy oasis previously used in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. Its rocky terrain and arid conditions create the perfect alien planet backdrop.
Mývatn, Iceland
The filmmakers behind Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens tapped Iceland's surreal landscapes, with reports pointing to the northeast Mývatn region. This area features a stunning lake, Krafla volcano, bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and extraordinary lava formations.
Puzzlewood, UK
While Ewoks first frolicked in California’s Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, insiders link Puzzlewood in England's Forest of Dean as their new haunt amid ancient trunks. This magical site has inspired J.R.R. Tolkien and J.K. Rowling. Wander, cycle, or paddle through the oldest oak forest and watch for furry ears.
Skellig Michael, Ireland
Skellig Michael was a key filming site for Star Wars: The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi. This wind-scoured rock, hosting a UNESCO World Heritage monastery, is an ideal Jedi refuge. The choppy boat trip from May to September is well worth it.
Abu Dhabi, UAE
Tunisia supplied earlier deserts, but Jakku scenes in Star Wars: The Force Awakens were shot near Abu Dhabi amid the Rub' al-Khali (Empty Quarter) dunes—one of the world's largest and emptiest deserts.
Finse, Norway
North of remote Finse lies the Hoth glacier from Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back (Hardangerjøkulen icecap). Reachable only by train, bike, or foot, it delivers Arctic wilderness—expect reindeer, not wampas.
Guilin, China
Chewbacca's Kashyyyk from Episode III – Revenge of the Sith mirrors Guilin's lush karst mountains. A top Chinese draw, Guilin gateways the intriguing Guangxi region.
Death Valley, USA
Death Valley stood in for Tatooine, with Dante’s Peak views in Episode IV – A New Hope. This extreme park offers sculpted canyons, sand-surfing boulders, and shaded oases.
Tikal, Guatemala
George Lucas picked Tikal's Mayan ruins as the rebel base in Episode IV – A New Hope. This UNESCO site brims with temples and artifacts—a Central America highlight.
Mt Etna, Italy
Mount Etna doubled as Mustafar in Episode III – Revenge of the Sith. Eruption footage backed the Obi-Wan vs. Anakin duel on this 10,922-ft (3,329m) Sicilian volcano.
Grindelwald, Switzerland
Grindelwald portrayed Alderaan in Episode IV – A New Hope and Episode III – Revenge of the Sith. In the Bernese Alps, it's prime for skiing, hiking, and Eiger climbs.
