Three Must-See Star Wars Filming Locations
Ker & Downey looks back more than 40 years when the world of lightsabers and legends first captured the imaginations of film fanatics everywhere. These Star Wars filming locations from the original trilogy of movies are must-sees for any fan. Bonus: they each pair perfectly with exclusive Ker & Downey experiences.
Guatemala Star Wars Filming Locations
Tikal
The thousand-year-old Mayan ruins of Tikal also doubled as the backdrop of the Rebel Alliance’s base on Yavin in Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope. Tikal represents Guatemala’s most famous cultural and natural preserve. Moreover, it boasts some of the most fascinating archaeological remains of the ancient Maya civilization.
With Ker & Downey, you can investigate the layout, architecture, history, and theories of the temples with a private guide. Finally, complete your exploration with a barbecue lunch in the middle of the jungle. Then set out on a thrilling helicopter ride above the ruins.
Norway Star Wars Filming Locations
Hardangerjokulen
Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back used this stunning glacier, the sixth-largest in Norway, to portray the main battlefield scenes on the ice planet Hoth. You can experience Hardangerjokulen on skis, and don’t worry: no Imperial AT-AT walkers or hungry wampas will join you. Opt for a thrilling helicopter ride from Kinsarvik to experience the vast white-out terrain of the region. Fly from the Hardangervidda mountain plateau to the fantastic Måbødalen canyon to the Vøringsfossen waterfall. Indeed, this is the highest waterfall in Norway with a 460-foot vertical free fall.
United States Star Wars Filming Locations
Redwood National Park
California’s Redwood forests are the stuff of otherworldly legend. Indeed, they made a perfect location for the forest moon of Endor seen in Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi. Scenes from the Battle of Endor and Luke and Leia’s speeder chase were filmed here. Specifically, you will find the star wars filming location amidst the “Avenue of the Giants” in Humboldt Redwoods State Park. You won’t find any Ewoks, but black bears, bobcats, river otters, and the northern spotted owl can all be found in the park.
See more of the National Parks in California with a private guided hike through the Giant Sequoia forests and Yosemite National Park. Hear the story of Yosemite Valley as told through the eyes of naturalist John Muir. Then round out your Star Wars excursions with a detour to Lucasfilm headquarters in San Francisco to pose next to the statue of Yoda.
More Star Wars Filming Locations
Explore Naboo and Mustafar on our prequels locations blog. Also, see some of the newer filming locations from Rogue One and Episodes VII and VIII.
Customize your own journey to the famous Star Wars filming locations across the world with Ker & Downey. So contact your luxury travel consultant to get started. For further inspiration, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
All Star Wars images appear courtesy of Disney.