Outwit. Outplay. Outlast. Islands Featured On Reality Show Survivor
As you watch players fight for their lives on TV, suffering from heat, high-intensity challenges, hunger, and the underlying threat of social isolation, do you ever think ‘Huh, that island looks so beautiful. I wonder if I could go there.’
It’s not a weird thought, we promise. Despite the hardships contestants are facing, the show does use its beautiful backdrop to its advantage. In its nearly 50 seasons, Survivor has taken players to some of the most remote locations in the world: Thailand, Vanuatu, Guatemala, Panama, and Fiji are just a few countries that have popped up over the years.
We’re happy to tell you that yes, you can walk in Jeff Probst's footsteps if you so choose. Many islands featured on this popular television show are fantastic tourist spots, and we’d like to tell you about just a few of them here.
Mamanuca Islands, Fiji
This archipelago has become the favorite filming spot for Survivor, appearing in seasons 33 to 49. Jeff Probst loves Fiji so much, even saying he hopes that the show will remain here permanently, back in 2017.
The Mamanuca (mama-nutha) islands are home to several mid-range and upscale resorts. Popular stays include the Six Senses on Malolo Island, a spa and wellness centre on Castaway Island, and the Lomani Island Resort & Spa on the island of Malolo Lailai.
Prices for resorts here can range from $30-$1316 USD per night, so you’ll definitely be able to find something in your budget. If you want to get close to the action of Survivor, we’d recommend staying on Mana Island and booking a day tour to see the filming locations.
Caramoan Islands, Philippines
The Caramoan Island Archipelago was featured in seasons 25-28 of the show. Fans of Survivor may remember season 27 in particular, Blood vs. Water, where returning contestants were pitted against their loved ones.
While a few resorts are available to interested guests, the islands also have a very successful Vrbo and B&B scene. Popular stays include the Mamina B&B, Emmalyn’s Paradise Resort, and Tugawe Cove Resort.
Here, you can expect to pay less than $30 to over $150 per night, making this area a very budget-friendly place to explore.
Upolu, Samoa
Upolu Island appeared in seasons 19, 20, 23, and 24 of Survivor and is the most populous island in Samoa. The island has its own international airport and a bustling town called Apia, which you can explore when you’re not lying by the beach.
Samoa is also home to a brightly colored transportation system, known as “piki buses,” which are a cost-effective and frankly gorgeous way to get around the island.
A night in Upolu can run you $45 to over $700 USD, with many resorts falling in the $100-$200 range.
Aitutaki, Cook Islands
Aitutaki appeared only once in Survivor’s long history, season 13, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth a visit.
This gorgeous island is home to fewer than 2000 people and features 15 islets across the island’s lagoon. This area has become a popular spot for honeymooners or for those looking to spend some time at the edge of the world.
A night in Aitutaki is more on the expensive side, costing upwards of $800 a night; however, there are some more budget-friendly options in the $100-$300 range.
Pearl Islands, Panama
Panama’s Pearl Islands were featured in seasons 7, 8, and 12 of Survivor, including the show’s first all-stars season as well as Exile Island.
There are over 200 islands for you to choose from when planning your trip. Contadora Island is a popular spot due to its luxury resorts and frequent access to Panama City, but Isla del Rey and San José are also great spots.
You can expect to pay anywhere from $70-$400 for accommodation, with most spots costing less than $200 per night.
