Many travelers have certain phobias they experience while traveling.
While some struggle with a fear of heights – others have a fear of being trapped in an enclosed space – and even admit they are claustrophobic.
So if you aren’t a fan of tight and narrow spaces, you might want to avoid taking a trip to these places that are deemed the most claustrophobic in the world – then again, you might decide to conquer your fear once and for all by taking the challenge.
Spooky Gulch Slot Canyon, Utah
Most Americans have this item on their bucket list – but warning – this hike isn’t for the faint of heart…
… or the claustrophobic.
The American Southwest describes Spooky Gulch as “a dark and mysterious place, containing about half a mile of serpentine, narrow passages where it is often only possible to see a few feet ahead, as the canyon twists and turns through many 180 degree bends.”
And when they say narrow… they mean NARROW – as certain areas of this slot canyon are only 10 inches wide!
Does the thought of hiking through a 10-inch opening make you nervous?
Pod Hotels, Japan
We’ve posted before about these tiny pod sleeping areas in other areas of the world that can give you privacy to catch some shut-eye.
And while many weary travelers love the price and convenience of a quick night’s rest – these tiny pods should be avoided at all costs if you are claustrophobic.
The typical capsule is enough for you to have a bed – and that’s about it.
Some compare these hole-in-the-wall beds to a “morgue” – but you’ve got to admit, it’s a creative solution to get a large number of people (who aren’t claustrophobic) into their own somewhat private space to sleep.
Would you ever sleep in a “morgue-style” pod hotel?
Derinkuyu Underground City in Nevşehir, Turkey
This multi-level underground city was said to have housed almost 20,000 people and reaches a depth of nearly 300 ft.
It was rediscovered by a man who found a passageway in his home leading to the underground city.
Visitors can now pay and take a tour to see the incredible ingenuity of this city.
Some spaces are so small – you need to crawl through them – but if you’re a history buff, it’s definitely worth it.
One traveler describes their journey. The BBC reports:
“As I descended into the musty, narrow tunnels, the walls blackened with soot from centuries of torch lighting, the unfamiliar sensation of claustrophobia began to set in.
However, the ingenuity of the various empires that expanded upon Derinkuyu soon became apparent.
Intentionally narrow, short hallways forced visitors to navigate the labyrinth of corridors and dwellings while stooped over and single file – obviously an inopportune position for intruders.
Dimly lit by lamplight, half-ton circular boulders blocked doors between each of the 18 levels and were only moveable from the inside.”
Would you visit this underground city?
Rio Secreto Underground River Tour, Mexico
If you want to see these beautiful caverns laced with stalagmites on the river floor and ceiling – you can – but you first must venture into a dark and tiny water-filled passageway to get there.
And what sounds like an incredible adventure to some is a horrifying thought to the claustrophobic – but is it worth it?
Travelers say yes – as this is truly one of the most beautiful hidden gems in the world.
One visitor wrote on Trip Advisor:
“I got a little nervous about going to this place because I can get claustrophobic in tight places. Have no fear. It is fantastic. You walk through caverns into large open spaces that are beautifully and tastefully lit for your group. The silence and darkness is unlike anything I’ve heard or seen before.”
Take The Challenge
Before you say “no way” to these spots – consider conquering your fear of claustrophobia once and for all by giving it a go.
Afterall – if you can survive squeezing through a 10-inch opening of a slot canyon in Utah or crawling through an underground cave in Turkey – being crammed in an elevator with multiple people will seem like a breeze.
Do you have a fear of small spaces or claustrophobia?
If so, would you be willing to visit one of these places anyway?
You can post your response and stay current on the latest Proud American Traveler stories on Facebook!
And if you think your friends or family would be interested in receiving our newsletter directly to their inbox, please forward this email and encourage them to subscribe to our newsletter here.
