Even the most avid tourist would have difficulty seeing all the globe has to offer, at least in person. We are fortunate to live at a time when a thousand-mile trip may begin with a single click. Where do you want to travel? What is Arches National Park? Tokyo? Kenya? With Oculus Quest, you can go almost anywhere without leaving your house. Simply grab your headphones and go someplace fresh. We’re unlocking the best VR apps for travel in this post.
Without the need for an airline ticket, a hotel reservation, or a pet sitter, we’ve compiled our favorite methods to go on your own VR journey. Bon (virtual) journey! If you’re new to the Metaverse or virtual reality, read our Explainer Guide so you can get started!
Our picks for the best VR apps for travel
Wander
If you want diversity, your search is over. Wander employs 360° photographs from across the globe to instantly transfer you to almost any location. Visit the Louvre and Smithsonian on the same afternoon. Discover the damaged cities of Chernobyl and Pripyat. Explore Indian trains or Hong Kong stairwells. You can also visit your childhood home briefly. Wander offers countless possibilities. It has multiplayer support, customized tours, personal Favorites lists, and the option to “travel through time” with old picture data. This makes it one of the most extensive VR travel options out there.
BRINK Traveler
BRINK Traveler is designed for outdoor enthusiasts. Embark on a journey to Earth’s most breathtaking locations, captured in full 3D through advanced photogrammetry. BRINK Traveler transports you to 12 unique destinations, including Death Valley, Arches National Park, Mount Whitney, Iceland’s Háifoss waterfall, and many others—with more to be added. Immerse yourself in your surroundings, take snapshots, and allow the virtual guide to enlighten you about the forces shaping the natural world. Explore more.
When the COVID-19 epidemic struck in 2020, the majority of people remained at home. However, a few of courageous documentarians braved the deserted streets with cameras to record the experience. When We Stayed Home is (hopefully) a once-in-a-lifetime glimpse of Paris, Venice, Jerusalem, and Tokyo, devoid of the typical swarms of visitors and in complete silence. Coupled with commentary from locals, such as a bookstore along the Seine, the episodes reflect the dread of the early epidemic, as well as the aspirations and anxieties for the future, coupled with incredibly breathtaking images of these renowned cities. The complete series is available on Oculus TV.
Rebuilding Notre Dame, an additional moment-in-time documentary, was produced after the 2019 fire that devastated the roof and spire of the renowned cathedral.
Surprisingly, the TARGO filmmakers had recorded footage of Notre Dame before the fire. This lets them show Notre Dame in all its beauty and contrast it with snippets after the disaster. It’s the best chance to see Notre Dame before the fire and maybe the only opportunity to witness the cathedral’s interior post-fire. Rebuilding Notre Dame also highlights past repair efforts, emphasizing the overall message that Notre Dame will rise again. Watch it on Oculus TV. Discover more.
VZfit
VZfit allows users to travel the globe using Google Street View pictures. What is the twist?
You can do this either by using a bicycle or engaging in full-body exercise if you don’t have a stationary bike. Either way, you’ll get a good workout. VZfit utilizes your sense of adventure to make your workouts engaging, turning the curiosity about “What’s around the next corner?” into a motivation to come back. Ride your bicycle (or “exerboard”) over the Alps, following the Tour de France route, or take a long and winding journey from Maine to California across the United States—whatever keeps you interested. You can try VZfit for free for seven days, and after that, a monthly membership will cost $9.99 USD.
If you have ever desired to take photographs for National Geographic, now is your opportunity. With camera in hand, you will go to Machu Picchu and Antarctica in National Geographic Explore VR in pursuit of the ultimate magazine spread. Learn about the Inca Empire and the people who inhabited this ancient city as you explore the ruins of Machu Picchu’s mountaintop houses and places of worship. In Antarctica, you will use a kayak to locate and photograph an emperor penguin colony. Plus points if you wear your thickest winter coat in advance.
Tokyo Origami, the third and last Oculus television series on this list. It Comprises eight episodes, each of which focuses on a distinct facet of contemporary Tokyo living. In forty minutes, you will explore the video game stores in Akihabara. The fish markets with a sushi chef, and learn about tattoos, taboos, and more. It’s an astonishing collection recorded in 360° and intended to promote Japan in conjunction with the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. Even after the Olympics are finished, Tokyo Origami remains a must-see.
Blueplanet VR Explore
This is the Grand Canyon. The Yosemite Falls Moon Residence Carlsbad Caverns. Blueplanet VR Explore contains a vast collection of photogrammetry, most of which is from the United States and a few other nations. It is possible to hang-glide over particular sites. Besides, You can explore a limited region (such as a canyon or a cave), or just appreciate the view from a single location. There are quite a few places to visit on your journey, with more than 40 locales (and more on the way).
To visit the locations in Puzzling Places, some effort will be required. Each of the namesake locations—whether it be a beach resort, a derelict railway car, a quaint Japanese restaurant, a grandiose Swedish palace, or anything else—begins as anywhere from 25 to 400 pieces. Besides,iIt is your responsibility to reconstruct them, paying close attention to minute details such as the pattern on the floor, how the light strikes various portions of the roof, etc. Details so minute and unimportant that they are frequently overlooked. Once the last piece is in place, you are left with a small replica of the actual site. It combines elements of jigsaw puzzles and model-building and is quite relaxing.
From 1942 through 1944, eight individuals lived in a tiny Amsterdam attic. You can now visit it in VR, or at least a digital facsimile of it. However, step through the concealed entrance and into the “Secret Annex,” where Anne Frank and her family and companions hid during World War II. The Anne Frank House VR tour is led by extracts from Anne Frank’s diary, providing background on each room, the people who lived there, and the remarkable circumstances they endured.
Egypt VR 360
If you’re planning a trip to Egypt and want to explore the country’s most iconic landmarks before you arrive, Egypt VR 360 is the perfect travel app for you. With this app, you can take a virtual tour of over a hundred locations. It includes the Sphinx, Philae Temple, Sultan Hassan Mosque, and modern luxury hotels. Egypt VR 360 is simple to use and well-designed, with a row of locations and a brief description. To get a closer look, tap on a destination and the VR icon.
Using this app, you can pinpoint exactly where you want to go next time you visit Egypt in person. So, if you’re looking for a convenient and informative way to explore the country’s famous landmarks, be sure to download Egypt VR 360.
Alcove
Alcove, not your typical travel app, provides several free virtual tour experiences. Users can download various in-app features based on their interests. The app offers a variety of tours, including aerial, undersea, and ground tours, narrated by some of the most knowledgeable VR guides.
The app’s limitation is that each experience is completely predetermined. It lacks interactive features that would make it more immersive. Given that it is free and has such incredible visual quality, that sacrifice might be worth it.
Nature Treks VR
Nature Treks VR prioritizes creating a relaxing experience rather than focusing on realism. It offers virtual paths where users can enjoy the presence of exotic animals and control the weather. Users have the ability to interact with trees to summon animals and adjust sound levels. Although the attention to detail and spontaneity contribute to an engaging experience, users should be aware that it may not be entirely realistic.
Tour It Virtual app
Tour It Virtually is a mobile app and website that offers a virtual tour of India’s famous locations. The app provides users with helpful details on each destination’s history, layout, and tourism advice. Whether you want to learn about India’s rich cultural heritage or explore its breathtaking landscapes, this app covers you.
To use the VR feature, navigate through the application to a destination you want to see. Tap the image at the top of its informative profile, and your smartphone will quickly switch to VR mode.
Although the app may have some minor glitches, the VR experience is smooth and immersive enough to make it a worthwhile investment. With Tour It Virtually, you can explore India’s winning locations up close and learn about its unique culture. So, download the app today and start your virtual tour of India.
Oversight
Embark on your first virtual getaway with OtherSight, where you have the freedom to choose from a selection of four captivating locations. From the breathtaking tranquility of a tropical island to the bustling streets of a vibrant metropolis, each destination is carefully crafted to provide a unique and authentic experience.
What sets OtherSight apart is the abundance of activities and possibilities within each location. Feel the sand between your virtual toes as you engage in a thrilling game of beach volleyball on the tropical island. Stroll through the bustling marketplace of the vibrant metropolis, interacting with the local vendors and sampling delicious street food. Climb to the top of a majestic mountain peak and marvel at the breathtaking panoramic view that stretches out before you.
Relax River VR
Relax River VR is a virtual reality app that lets you explore detailed environments from the comfort of your own home. Unlike other apps, it’s solely dedicated to VR technology, so you’ll need the appropriate gear to access it. Once you’ve launched the app, you’ll be transported to a serene and immersive world full of waterfalls, ruins, and stunning landscapes. Although there are occasional ads, it’s a simple, easy-to-use app that offers a relaxing experience. The graphics are realistic and colorful, with clear inspiration from real-life destinations.
Sites in VR
You’ll find a wide range of destinations on this handy app, from waterfalls to ancient tombs. To begin with, Sites in VR offers fascinating and high-quality images in 3D and 360 degrees too.
However, if your interest is specifically virtual reality, just go onto the image you want and tap the VR icon. When you put on the headset with your phone mounted, you’ll get to feel like you’re there in person.
The app’s settings are fully adjustable too. Tailor your experience by changing the VR brightness, screen rotation, tool visibility, and more. Pairing it with extra handy travel planning apps can help you prepare for the perfect trip.
Ocean Rift
When it comes to envisioning travel plans, the vast and enigmatic Ocean may not be the first destination that springs to mind. Yet, beneath its shimmering surface lies a world of unparalleled beauty and untapped treasures waiting to be discovered. Enter Ocean Rift, an extraordinary app that offers users a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of the deep blue like never before.
Dive into a realm where the Ocean becomes your playground, where the mysteries of the deep are unveiled, and breathtaking marine life thrives in abundance. Ocean Rift transcends the limitations of traditional land-based exploration, revealing a realm far more captivating and diverse than what meets the eye.
Nepal VR
Nepal VR is a travel app that showcases a popular vacation spot. The app contains a collection of images that can be viewed in both normal and virtual reality mode.
To switch to virtual reality mode, simply tap the VR icon located at the bottom of the app’s display. Although the navigation may be a bit awkward, the scenes are worth the effort. You can immerse yourself in temples, museums, and festivals, and access info bubbles for convenient descriptions and historical or cultural facts.
Although there is room for improvement, Nepal VR is an easy way to explore the country. Relax and discover important locations while learning about its society. As a virtual traveler, you can expand your knowledge of the world.
Google Earth VR
Are you ready to embark on an extraordinary journey across the globe with 3d travel apps? Look no further than Google Earth VR, the remarkable application designed specifically for Oculus Rift and HTC Vive. Prepare to be awe-struck as you soar through space, only to land in any corner of our beautiful planet, all from the comfort of your virtual reality headset.
With Google Earth VR, the world becomes your playground. Imagine having the power to explore iconic landmarks, bustling cities, and natural wonders with just a few simple gestures. Utilizing the intuitive controls of your VR device, you can effortlessly zoom in and out, providing a captivating bird’s eye perspective of any location that piques your curiosity.
Within VR
Within VR is a fantastic app that provides an immersive virtual reality experience on mobile devices. It has a wide range of videos available, featuring both real and animated worlds, complete with audio. Real-life options include North Korea, Hong Kong, Rwanda, and the Olympic National Park.
To begin, simply select a video that catches your eye, and a profile will appear, offering a description and buttons to share, download, and stream the production. If you choose the stream option, you can decide to watch it in VR or normal mode.
Whether you enjoy documentaries, spacewalks, or horror stories, Within VR has something to captivate you, for durations ranging from four minutes to two hours. As more productions are added regularly, it’s a must-have VR app to keep on your device.
Everest VR
Dream of conquering peaks like Everest? Professionals train for years before attempting this feat. But now, Everest VR allows you to experience the climb realistically.
This immersive app puts you in the shoes of those few dedicated climbers. Feel the monumental efforts required to reach the planet’s highest point. “Immerse in the Everest Virtual Reality Experience, an award-winning 8K 3D journey. Relive expeditions vividly through Dome projection or VR headsets. Enjoy globally in Museums, Classrooms, Corporates, and on Vive Infinity.
theBlu
From Everest’s summit to ocean depths, theBlu takes you on a different adventure. Uncover the mysteries of the vast ocean, where 95% of life remains undiscovered.
Exploring habitats and encountering ocean life emphasizes the need for a clean environment to protect these creatures from extinction. Immerse in theBlu VR series, exploring ocean wonders and encountering awe-inspiring species. The game will give you more than your expectation.
You will be able to witness undersea migration near a coral reef. Explore the deep ocean’s iridescent realm. Additionally, you will be able to dive into the Caribbean’s sunlit waters, encountering its supreme creature.
National Geographic VR
Discover the world’s wonders through National Geographic’s VR app. Witness endangered species in their natural habitat, explore ocean depths, and unravel South Americas’ ancient civilizations.
To overcome recent errors, explore National Geographic Explore VR. Walk in the shoes of an explorer, visiting Antarctica and Machu Picchu.
Embark on an epic National Geographic adventure! Explore Antarctica’s icy wonders, kayak around icebergs, conquer an immense ice shelf, and brave a snowstorm to find a lost penguin colony. Then, journey to Machu Picchu, Peru, where you’ll witness digital reconstructions of the ancient Inca citadel, engage in mummy worship, savor sacred chicha, and encounter alpacas. Follow in Hiram Bingham’s footsteps with captivating interactive experiences, all while capturing photos for National Geographic magazine. An immersive family journey to explore the world from the comfort of home. Try the game and see it yourself.
Qantas VR: Journey through Australia
Our world exploration VR list concludes with Qantas VR, spotlighting Australia. This app showcases key landmarks like the sacred Uluru, offering a unique Down Under experience. Discover Great Barrier Reef, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Kakadu, and Australian outback. You will be fly the Qantas A380, join pilots in the cockpit, witness take-offs and landings. Travel virtually to Hamilton Island and LA’s International First Lounge with Qantas VR. You will have a never had before experience.
How You Can Use Apple Vision Pro to travel?
Apple Vision Pro, the latest assistive technology from Apple, can be a valuable companion for travelers, particularly those with visual impairments. While not specifically designed for travel, its features offer unique benefits that can enrich your journey.
1. Stabilized Content with Travel Mode: Airplane environments can be challenging for AR devices due to constant movement. To address this, Apple Vision Pro features a “Travel Mode” that stabilizes the displayed content. This allows you to enjoy movies, games, or even continue working on documents without disruptions caused by airplane movements.
2. Object and Text Recognition: Apple Vision Pro’s object and text recognition capabilities can be helpful for navigating unfamiliar airports or transportation hubs. By pointing your device, you can hear descriptions of objects and surroundings, including signage, shops, and even wayfinding information. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with low vision or complete blindness.
3. Assistance with Daily Tasks: Apple Vision Pro can simplify everyday tasks while traveling. It can identify and describe food items on your plate, helping you navigate restaurant menus. Additionally, it can read text labels on medication bottles or travel documents, ensuring you have the correct information readily available.
Important Safety Note: Remember, Apple Vision Pro is not a substitute for traditional assistive devices like guide dogs or canes. While it can provide valuable assistance, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and remain aware of your surroundings while traveling.
Apple Vision Pro offers a range of features that can enhance the travel experience for individuals with visual impairments. From stabilized content to object and text recognition, it can provide greater independence and support during your journeys.
Why People Will Love To Travel Using The Best VR apps For Travel?
3d travel apps offer a unique and immersive experience for users. With the advancement in technology, VR travel apps are becoming increasingly popular among travelers who want to explore new destinations and experiences. There are several reasons why people will love to use VR travel apps, including:
Experience destinations before visiting
One of the most significant advantages of VR travel apps is that they allow users to explore a destination before visiting in person. This can be particularly useful for travelers who are trying to decide where to go on their next trip. By using VR travel apps, users can get a feel for the local culture, geography, and attractions, making it easier to plan their itinerary and decide whether the destination is right for them.
Cost-effective
Traveling can be expensive, and not everyone has the financial means to go on frequent trips. VR travel apps offer a cost-effective alternative, allowing users to experience different destinations from the comfort of their own home. This can be especially appealing for those who are on a tight budget or who are unable to travel due to physical limitations. With VR travel apps, users can explore different parts of the world, learn about new cultures and traditions, and even try local cuisine, all from the comfort of their homes. This provides a low-cost, accessible way to experience the excitement of travel and explore new destinations. Looking for the best VR to buy? Check out Quest 2 Vs PSVR 2: which one is better?
3d travel apps have a broad appeal and can be enjoyed by anyone who wants to experience the thrill of travel from the comfort of their homes. They offer a unique way to explore new destinations, learn about different cultures, and experience the beauty of the world without having to leave one’s home. Whether you’re physically unable to travel, have a fear of flying, or just want to explore new destinations, VR travel apps offer a fun and exciting way to experience the world around us.
Immersive experience
VR travel apps provide an immersive experience, allowing users to feel as if they are actually in the destination. With 360-degree views, users can explore their surroundings, interact with virtual objects and people, and even participate in activities, such as hiking or skydiving.
Convenient
VR travel apps are incredibly convenient, as users can explore destinations at any time and from anywhere. This makes them ideal for people who are unable to travel frequently or who have limited time.
Educational
VR travel apps can also be educational, providing users with a wealth of information about different destinations and their history. This can be particularly useful for students and educators, who can use VR travel apps to learn about different cultures and historical events.
Who will get the most benefits from VR travel apps?
VR travel apps have gained popularity in recent years, as more and more people seek to experience the thrill of travel without leaving the comfort of their homes. These apps provide users with an immersive virtual reality experience that transports them to different parts of the world, allowing them to explore new destinations, landmarks, and cultures.
VR Travel Apps will open new doors for disabled people
One group that will especially enjoy VR travel apps is people who have limited mobility or physical disabilities. For people who are unable to travel due to medical or other reasons, VR travel apps offer an opportunity to experience the thrill of travel without leaving their homes. With these apps, they can visit destinations that they might not be able to explore in real life, such as inaccessible natural wonders or remote historical sites. You can try VR from different companies. What about trying an Apple VR device.
Another group that may enjoy VR travel apps is people who have a fear of flying or other forms of transportation. With a VR headset, users can virtually travel to different destinations without having to experience the anxiety that often accompanies air travel or other transportation methods. This provides a great way to get a taste of what it’s like to travel to far-off destinations without the stress and discomfort of actual travel.
Enhance travel planning
VR travel apps can enhance travel planning by allowing users to visualize different destinations and attractions before visiting. This can help users to better plan their itinerary and make the most of their time while traveling.
Final Words
In conclusion, VR travel apps offer a unique and immersive experience for users, making them an excellent option for travelers who want to explore new destinations and experiences. With its many advantages, including cost-effectiveness, increased accessibility, and educational benefits, it’s easy to see why VR travel apps are becoming increasingly popular among travelers. Whether you’re planning a trip or simply want to escape the everyday routine, VR travel apps are a great way to explore the world and discover new adventures.
FAQs
Can you use VR to travel?
Yes, virtual reality (VR) technology allows users to virtually travel to various destinations. With the use of a VR headset or other specialized equipment, individuals can immerse themselves in a 360-degree travel experience without
physically leaving their location.
How can VR help tourism?
VR can be a valuable tool for the tourism industry. It enables tourism providers to showcase their products and services by creating virtual tours, previews, or reviews of destinations, accommodations, and activities. This technology allows potential travelers to get a more immersive and realistic preview of what a particular destination or travel experience has to offer.
Will virtual reality replace tourism?
While VR can offer a temporary fix for travelers, particularly during times of travel restrictions like the COVID-19 pandemic, it is unlikely to replace traditional tourism entirely. Travel and tourism offer tangible experiences that engage multiple senses, such as taste and smell, which VR cannot fully replicate. VR may serve as a complementary tool in the travel industry, but it cannot fully replace the sensory richness of real-world travel.
Why is VR good for business?
VR offers numerous advantages for businesses. It can improve marketing, collaboration, and education by creating engaging work environments, increasing employee productivity, and providing safe and controlled settings for training and experimentation. VR technology has the potential to transform the way businesses operate, communicate, and train their employees.
Can we use VR without a phone?
Yes, you can use standalone VR headsets that do not require a PC or smartphone. These wireless headsets, like the Meta Quest, can be worn on the head, allowing users to start VR experiences without the need for a phone or computer. This makes standalone VR headsets a convenient option for on-the-go virtual reality experiences.
What VR headset is best for virtual travel?
The Meta Quest 3 is considered one of the best VR headsets for virtual travel in 2023. The Quest 2 is also a budget-friendly option that is still available for purchase. These VR headsets provide users with immersive experiences in virtual worlds, making them suitable for various applications, including virtual travel. However, VR technology is still evolving, and the choice of the best headset may depend on individual preferences and requirements.
Sources
Dingman, H. (2021, October 1). Virtual Vacation: 11 VR Apps and Films That Let You Travel the World From Home. Virtual Vacation: 11 VR Apps and Films That Let You Travel the World From Home. https://www.oculus.com/blog/virtual-vacation-11-vr-apps-and-films-that-let-you-travel-the-world-from-home/
