Where was Avatar filmed?
2009
City Locations
Zhangjiajie (China), Wellington (New Zealand)
Location Types
Nature, Film Studio
Location Styles
Beachfront, Exotic/Tropical, Helicopter
About Avatar
Avatar is a 2009 science-fiction epic. Directed, written, and co-produced by James Cameron, the movie stars Zoe Saldana, Sam Worthington, Michelle Rodriguez, Stephen Lang and Sigourney Weaver.
The film is set in the mid-22nd century, when humanity has ventured to Pandora—a spectacularly verdant and livable moon of a gas giant in Alpha Centauri's star system—with aspirations to acquire its valuable mineral, unobtanium. However, their expansion poses a threat to the indigenous Na'vi population. The title of the film comes from an artificially-engineered Na'vi body controlled by a remotely located human brain that is used to interact with the inhabitants of Pandora.
When tragedy strikes his family and his brother is slain in a robbery, Jake Sully (Sam Worthington), a paraplegic Marine, makes the courageous decision to take up his place on an expedition to Pandora. While there, he uncovers the selfish plans of corporate executive Parker Selfridge (Giovanni Ribisi) to force out the indigenous humanoid Na'vi in order to exploit their verdant forests for a rare and valuable material. In exchange for the spinal surgery that will restore mobility to his legs, Jake trades knowledge of the indigenous race and their culture with a military unit helmed by gung-ho Colonel Quaritch (Stephen Lang). At the same time, he uses an "avatar" identity in order to infiltrate and gain access among Na'vi people.
Jake forges a connection to the native tribe, finds love with the exotic Neytiri, and his admiration of Pandora grows, but the colonel remains determined to enslave its citizens. This compels Jake into an epic battle where he must choose between succumbing or waging war against Quaritch in order to protect Pandora's future.
After the success of Avatar, Cameron signed a deal with 20th Century Fox to produce four sequels. The initial sequel, Avatar: The Way of Water, was released on December 16, 2022, and garnered similar praise as the original as well as setting numerous box office records.
Avatar Locations
Avatar began principal photography in April 2007, both in Los Angeles and Wellington. Cameron described the film as a hybrid of live-action and computer-generated characters and environments. To ensure that viewers couldn't tell the difference between what was real and what wasn't, he had already spent four months working on nonprincipal scenes by this point. The digital 3D Fusion Camera System (modified by Cameron and Vince Pace) was used to shoot the live action while the film is composed of 60% computer-generated elements, 40% live action, and traditional miniatures. Despite Cameron's opinion that a higher frame rate is needed for 3D films, Fox announced that Avatar would be filmed at 24 frames per second.
Filming for Avatar took place over 31 days at the Hughes Aircraft stage in Playa Vista (Los Angeles) and Stone Street Studios (Wellington). Over a thousand people worked on the production and the cast underwent specific character training to help them best depict their roles. This included archery, horseback riding, firearm use, hand-to-hand combat and language/dialect training in the Na'vi language custom-created for the movie. Prior to shooting, Cameron also sent his cast to explore Hawaiian tropical rainforests, giving them an authentic taste of what they'd be recreating on set.
The stunning scenery from Avatar can be found in a host of filming locations around the globe. These include China’s Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and the spectacular coastline of Hawaii's Big Island.
Hallelujah Mountains scene in Avatar
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, 8C8M+4WC, Wulingyuan District, Zhangjiajie, Hunan, China, 427403
The iconic Hallelujah Mountains scene from Avatar is truly a sight to behold. Viewers are taken to the top of the spectacular Hallelujah Mountain Range, with its majestic peaks and valleys stretching out for miles in every direction. Its sheer size and grandeur will take your breath away, as if you're witnessing something from another world. To further emphasize its beauty, small glowing orbs of Pandoran wildlife hover around the mountains, creating an awe-inspiring atmosphere. This moment captures the unique wonders of Pandora and demonstrates why it's often referred to as an otherworldly paradise.
The stunning Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in China's Hunan Province is a breathtaking representation of the fictional planet Pandora. With its unique pillar-like mountains and ever-present mist, it's no wonder why this park was chosen by UNESCO as a World Heritage site. Whether you're visiting to marvel at its beauty or step into the world of Avatar, Zhangjiajie is open to explore.
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is the perfect place to visit if you are seeking adventure and natural beauty. Getting there may seem daunting, but it is not as difficult as it looks. Flights usually connect to Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport, which is only a short drive away from the park. It’s also accessible from the nearby cities of Changde and Jishou.
Sully and Neytiri battle with humans scene in Avatar
Huangshan Mountain, Huangshan District, Huangshan City, China, 245801
This scene from Avatar is an iconic, memorable moment that showcases the strength and determination of Na'vi tribe members. It features Jake Sully and Neytiri (Zoe Saldana) as they demonstrate their remarkable axe-throwing skills in a battle against the invading human forces. The scene is set on a large rock formation, surrounded by lush foliage and with several small waterfalls cascading down the mountainside. The intensity of the fight between humans and Na'vi provides a thrilling viewing experience for audiences.
Huangshan Mountain in China is a mesmerizing landscape of unique rock formations, vibrant foliage, and otherworldly views. Huangshan is perhaps even more impressive than Zhangjajije and provides an opportunity to capture the true beauty of Pandora.
Heading to Huangshan Mountain? You can find it about 75 miles north of Huangshan City.
Tree of Souls scene in Avatar
Hāmākua Coast, Laupahoehoe, HI 96764, USA
The Tree of Souls scene from Avatar is an emotionally impactful moment that highlights the importance of spirituality and unity among the Na'vi people. It features the amazing Tree of Souls, a sacred tree that serves as a connection between the Na'vi and their deity, Eywa. The scene is set within a lush jungle environment, with stunning mountain peaks in the background and surrounded by shimmering pools of water. The powerful exchange between Jake Sully and Mo'at (CCH Pounder) reveals the deep spiritual bond between them, which reaffirms the notion that we are all connected to something greater than ourselves.
The scene was shot at the Hāmākua Coast located on the Big Island of Hawaii. This scene, showcasing its natural beauty, was especially memorable for its breathtaking visuals and stunning coastline.
The Hāmākua Coast of Hawaii is a wondrous sight to behold, with lush tropical rainforests, deep green valleys and dramatic cascading waterfalls. Akaka Falls stands 442 feet high and Kahuna Falls is an impressive 100 feet tall. It's no wonder why James Cameron had his production crew travel here for the Avatar movie—it looks like it could be Pandora!
The magical Hāmākua Coast on the Big Island of Hawaii is a sight every traveler should experience! You can find it by heading north along the coast from Hilo, and many picturesque stops along the way will make this road trip something you will never forget! From cliffs with breathtaking views of crashing waves, to an old train station with amazing history, you'll definitely be glad you made this journey.
Sully and Neytiri exploring Pandora caves scene in Avatar
P4Q3+PC Waitomo Caves, New Zealand
The Pandora caves scene from Avatar showcases the magical beauty of Pandora's environment. It features a spectacular underground cave system, illuminated by glowing blue crystals that create an otherworldly atmosphere. The magnificent cave walls pulse with energy, providing a surreal and mysterious backdrop for this scene. As Sully and Neytiri explore their surroundings, viewers are reminded of the wonders that lie hidden beneath the surface, just waiting to be discovered.
The scene was shot at the Waitomo Glowworm Caves located in New Zealand. This scene, with its mysterious beauty, featured the glowworms and their bioluminescent lights that gave the cave a unique and surreal atmosphere.
The Glowworm Caves in New Zealand's Waitomo region are another wonder of bioluminescence to behold. Turquoise lights reflect off the still waters, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere likened to the forests of Pandora at night. Though James Cameron has never confirmed it was his source for such a vision, one can only assume. It's open every day from 9 am to 5 pm, and tours are available if you want an even closer appreciation of these captivating caves.
Ready to explore the beauty of Waitomo Glowworm Caves? Making your way to this stunning destination is easy! Located in the Waikato region of New Zealand, Waitomo Caves are just a one-hour drive from Hamilton. The charming route alone is worth the drive; expect tumbling waterfalls and pastoral farmland.
Neytiri teaching Jake to tame banshee scene in Avatar
Angel Falls, 8011, Bolívar, Venezuela
The scene where Neytiriteaches Jake Sully how to tame the banshee, also known as ikran, from Avatar is a powerful demonstration of respect and trust. It starts with Neytiri channeling her energy into a tamed banshee before giving it to Jake. He then begins to show his skill in flying the creature, despite his initial fear and hesitation. With her guidance and patience, he eventually takes control of the beast and soars through the air with grace and confidence. This scene highlights the importance of trust and respect in forming strong relationships—a lesson that will stay with viewers well after they have left Pandora.
The majestic Angel Falls is the world's largest uninterrupted waterfall, cascading over the edge of Auyán-tepui mountain in Venezuela's Canaima National Park. It derives its name Kerepakupai Merú from a local language meaning 'Waterfall of the deepest place'—which is fitting, as it stands an impressive 979 meters tall. This breathtaking wonder has inspired filmmakers for decades and remains one of the most iconic natural phenomena in existence.
Visiting the world's highest waterfall, Angel Falls, is an adventure worth taking! Located in Canaima National Park, Venezuela, it is only accessible by air or river. Make a booking with a trusted local tour operator to check out this spectacular Avatar filming location.
Conclusion
Avatar is one of those movies it’s easy to watch time and time again. Even if you already know the plot and dialog off by heart, the beautiful scenery of Pandora makes it a pleasure to sit down and watch multiple times.
Even better, some of the spectacular locations that feature in Avatar can be explored in real life. You might rack up a fair few frequent flyer miles to see them, with locations found in such diverse settings as Hawaii and Venezuela. The good news is that the effort to reach these locations will be well worth it when you’re presented with some truly stunning natural scenery.