37 Most Underrated Travel Destinations In The World !
Looking for the most underrated travel destinations in the world?
Nowadays, you don’t quite need to travel to a place to ‘discover’ it, do you?
All you have to do is open up a social media app and be bombarded with travel photos and videos of your friends and their cats and pet chickens.
Can you really be mesmerized by the Eiffel Tower or the beaches of Bali quite the same way if you’ve already seen countless pictures of your friends there?
You feel like you’ve already been there and done that and it spoils the allure.
Or maybe you’re a seasoned traveler and you have actually been there and done that!
Now your heart longs for an adventure in a new, exotic place away from the tourist crowds. I know mine does!
Well, the search is over! I’ve compiled this neat little list for you of 37 secluded travel destinations that, despite their beauty, have remained mostly pristine.
For all of you new readers, welcome! I’m Aisha Preece! I traveled solo extensively before I met my husband and settled in Ireland. I love using my experience to help other solo female adventurers travel safer and cheaper.
My husband and I now travel together. So I’ve got some great tips for couples too!
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Some of the links on here are affiliate links and I may earn if you click on them, AT NO EXTRA cost to you. Hope you find the information here useful! Thanks!
Alright! Here are the 37 most underrated travel destinations in the world:
Image courtesy: @yulius_mochilero.gt and antiguaguate
1. Guatemala
Guatemala is a hidden treasure in Central America.
Mountains, volcanoes, beaches, lakes, lush rainforests, historical Mayan ruins, and colonial architecture: Guatemala offers something for everyone!
Cool things to do:
- From Antigua: Adventure, 2-Day Hiking to Acatenango Volcano
- From Flores: Tikal Ruins Guided Day Trip
- Antigua Villages ATV Tour
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @hotelmoment
2. Belize
Did you know Belize has the second-largest barrier reef in the world?
If you want the chill Caribbean vibes, explore unspoiled jungles, and scuba dive amongst stingrays, sea turtles, and manatees, Belize is the answer!
Cool things to do:
- Caye Caulker: 7-Stop Snorkeling in the Belize Barrier Reef
- San Ignacio: Caracol Maya Ruins & Waterfall Tour with Lunch
- Belize City: Guided Cave Kayaking Tour with Pickup
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @charlotte.amadea
3. Anguilla
This is another treasured secret of the Caribbean! Anguilla’s turquoise waters and white sandy beaches are bound to steal your heart!
If you get tired of exploring Anguilla’s 33 beaches and island hopping the 6 cays around Anguilla, start trying the delicious food.
From fresh crayfish to French-inspired restaurants: the options are endless. Excuse me, I think I can hear my stomach grumbling!
Cool things to do:
- Night Kayaking with Liquid Glow 2024 – Anguilla
- St. Maarten 4 Hour Sightseeing Tour
- Traditional Sailing Adventure to Anguilla’s Prickly Pear Cays
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @kevinandamanda
4. Costa Rica
Apart from Costa Rica’s mind-blowing natural beauty, it is famous for its abundant biodiversity. It’s home to over 20,000 spider species (sorry arachnophobes!)
Imagine walking through the lush jungles with cascading waterfalls, and spotting a toucan or macaw fly over your head!
Cool things to do:
- Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour
- Guachipelin Adventure Volcano Zipline Horseback River Tubing Combo
- Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall, Hot Springs Full Day Tour
Cool places to stay:
- Fiesta Resort All Inclusive Central Pacific – Costa Rica
- Garden House
- Eco Boutique Hotel Vista Las Islas Reserva Natural
Image courtesy: @blonde.travel
5. Dominican Republic
Why visit the Dominican Republic you ask? Well, because it would be crazy not to!
Go whale watching, explore the coral reefs of Saona Island, watch turtles lay eggs in Jaragua National Park, and enjoy the Taino-Spanish-African-inspired flavorful cuisine!
Do I need to keep going?
Cool things to do:
- Half-Day Buggy Tour to Water Cave and Macao Beach 2024 – Punta Cana
- Punta Cana Adult Only Coral Nursery Snorkeling with Seafood Lunch
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @instasivar
6. El Salvador
With its pristine beaches, volcanoes, Mayan history, and rich culture, it blows my mind that El Salvador is still a hidden gem!
Hurry up and get your cute butts over there!
Cool things to do:
- Best Day Tour: Santa Ana Volcano Hiking + Panoramic View Lake Coatepeque
- Café Albania + Ataco Town + Hot Springs with Lunch included
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @cy_takeoff
7. Nicaragua
Nicaragua is rich in natural treasures as well as history and culture. It is home to 4 World Heritage Sites.
Whether you are interested in the colonial towns’ architecture, or in turtle watching at La Flor Nature Reserve, Nicaragua will not disappoint!
Cool things to do:
- Private -Full day tour: Granada City + Boat ride+Handicraft Market+Lava Tour
- SANDBOARDING Cerro Negro Volcano, León NIcaragua.
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @uruguaypostales
8. Uruguay
Uruguay’s capital, Montevideo, is one of the chillest capitals. You can get Miami vibes here but without the crowds.
Cool things to do:
- Full day Punta del Este tour 2024 – Montevideo
- Best custom Montevideo Private Tour in Electric SUV! (BMW Option)
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @itscamiauz
9. Colombia
In Colombia, you can enjoy lush green rainforests and snow-peaked mountains at the same time! This country is also rich in culture with its stunning street art.
Colombia also makes some of the best coffee in the world!
Cool things to do:
- Bora Bora Cartagena Beach Club Full Day Experience
- Full-Day Rosario Islands Including Barú, Cholon and Playa Blanca
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @onesitebolivia
10. Bolivia
Bolivia is most famous for Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat. In addition to that, it is rich in wildlife, history, and culture.
It holds the Oruro Carnival, the biggest festival in South America. It’s 10 days of festivities with dances and elaborate costumes. And it’s a very good reason to visit!
However, I should warn you that Bolivia has been named in the list of countries most unfriendly to tourists.
Cool things to do:
- Bolivia’s Death Road Mountain Bike Tour with Lunch 2024 – La Paz
- 3-Days Tour to the Uyuni Salt Flat and Colored Lagoons +Sunset+Mirror Effect
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @hikingbangers
11. Peru
So, you’re thinking, Aisha Peru is home to Macchu Picchu, one of the seven wonders! Surely Peru can’t be one of the most underrated travel destinations in the world?
But, while Macchu Picchu attracts millions of visitors every year, Peru has many hidden gems waiting for you to discover:
Arequipa’s beautiful colonial architecture; the famous Nazca Lines made between AD 450 and 600; the desert city, Ica; the coastal town of Paracas; and so much more!
Cool things to do:
- Huacachina Oasis & Mini-Galapagos!
- 2-Day Tour: Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu by Train
- Rainbow Mountain One Day from Cusco
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @mitadmundo
12. Ecuador – Underrated Travel Destinations In The World
Ecuador’s small size (it’s the 4th smallest country in South America) allows you to travel from one dramatic landscape to the next in just a short drive.
Ecuador’s beaches, volcanoes, mountains, and forests are all pristinely beautiful. But what’s truly special about Ecuador to me is its insanely rich wildlife.
It is home to 2% of the Amazon rainforest and the Galapagos Islands, famous for inspiring Charles Darwin to develop The Theory Of Evolution!
Cool things to do:
- Mindo Cloud Forest Private Day Tour – Quito
- Cotopaxi and Quilotoa Tour All in One – 1 Day
- Galapagos Enchanting 3 Islands (5 Days) 2024 – Santa Cruz
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @timisoara_de_poveste
13. Romania
Romania has stunning natural beauty whether you want to visit the forests of the Carpathian mountains, the Danube delta, or one of the Black Sea beaches.
In fact, it is one of the most diverse regions in the European Union.
But Romania is also rich in history and culture with its architecture taking you back in time. And you have to visit Bran Castle, the castle that is allegedly described in Dracula!
Cool things to do:
- Bucharest to Dracula Castle, Peles Castle and Brasov Guided Tour
- Bohemian Bucharest Markets and Mahallas Traditional Food Tour
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @nature_of_estonia
14. Estonia
If you truly want to seclude yourself in nature, away from people, then Estonia is the way to go!
There are over 2000 islands! 23% of Estonia is wildlife preserves. It has the second cleanest air in Europe, and it has one of the lowest population densities in the continent!
Cool things to do:
- Tallinn Highlights Shore Excursion With Port Return Transfer
- Small-Group Half-Day Tour of Rummu and Coastal Cliffs 2024 – Tallinn
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @lara.goes.exploring
15. Albania
Albania is a land of rugged terrain with 70% land covered in grand mountains. But Albania’s coastal scenery will not disappoint you either!
Cool things to do:
- Rafting in Osumi Canyons Albania Adventure Berat
- Private Tour of Riviera from Tirana – Ksamil Saranda and Blue Eye
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @punkuferhr
16. Slovenia
For all of you cave lovers, Slovenia has over 10, 000 caves! The Krisna Jama Cave, especially, is considered an underground European marvel.
Slovenia’s capital was also voted Europe’s Greenest Capital!
Cool things to do:
- Highlights of Slovenia – Postojna & Bled (Tickets included)
- Whitewater Rafting on Soca River, Slovenia 2024 – Bovec
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @georgia_official_
17. Georgia
It is believed the first Europeans were in Georgia. In fact, 1.8 million-year-old skulls have been found in Georgia.
Georgia is steeped in history and rich in Gothic architecture. It is also unbelievably beautiful!
Cool things to do:
- Day Trip to Kakheti Wine Region Including Seven Wine Tastings
- Kazbegi & Gudauri Full-day PRIVATE tour from Tbilisi
Cool places to stay:
- Paragraph Resort & Spa Shekvetili, Autograph Collection
- Panorama Sea View Central City Batumi & ApartHOTEL
Image courtesy: @montenegro_nature__
18. Montenegro
Montenegro is a secret Adriatic treasure. You can never tire of the stunningly beautiful sceneries you will find in Kotor, Durmitor National Park, or Mogren Beach.
Pretty soon, you’ll be scratching your head like me thinking why this place is still hidden.
Cool things to do:
- Lady of the Rocks and Blue Cave – Kotor Boat Tour
- Private Walking tour with Wine and Food – Rick Steves Recommended
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @hikingtheglobe
19. Bulgaria
Bulgaria is a mix of many Eastern and Western cultures. You will find this in Bulgaria’s religious culture, stunning architecture, and delicious food!
And of course, there are beautiful mountains and beaches to enjoy in wonderful weather!
Cool things to do:
- Rila Monastery and Boyana Church Shuttle Day Tour
- Small group tour to Plovdiv, Asen’s Fortress and Bachkovo Monastery
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @explore.bosnia.and.herzegovina
20. Bosnia & Herzegovina
Bosnia is a country of rivers, lakes, and waterfalls, the largest one being 300 feet tall!
One place you can be slapped in the face with Bosnia and Herzegovina’s natural beauty is Sutjeska National Park.
What’s more, Bosnia’s capital, Sarajevo, is a melting pot of different cultures where each is celebrated in its architecture, customs, and food.
Cool things to do:
- Discover Herzegovina Day Tour from Mostar: Kravice Waterfalls, Blagaj, Počitelj
- Sarajevo Grand Tour: Hotel Pickup And All Fees Included
- Mostar & Herzegovina 4 Cities Day-tour from Sarajevo
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @greg_bognar
21. Latvia – Underrated Travel Destinations In The World
Calling out to all potato lovers like myself! Latvia is famous for its many, MANY potato dishes, so much so that potato is called its ‘second bread’.
Latvia also has the widest waterfall in Europe, breathtaking coastal landscapes, and stunning architecture.
Cool things to do:
- Riga Sightseeing Tour by Canal Boat
- 2 countries! Hill of Crosses, Rundale Palace, and Bauska Castle 2024 – Riga
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @bluelagoonis
22. Iceland
Volcanoes, geysers, glaciers, hot springs, beaches, lava fields, waterfalls, mountains – Iceland has it all! It’s also called ‘The Land of Fire & Ice’ for its volcanoes and glaciers.
With just 3 people/ km, looking over vast, endless miles of untouched nature spread out in front of you is an experience like no other.
Cool things to do:
- Reykjavik Food Walk – Local Foodie Adventure in Iceland
- Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon with Ticket and Kerid Volcanic Crater
- Lake Myvatn, Hot-Springs & Godafoss Waterfall Tour from Akureyri
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @northmacedonia_
23. North Macedonia
North Macedonia is another beautiful Balkan secret with unspoiled beaches, lakes, and mountains. You can see both Ottoman and European influences in their architecture.
Imagine looking at majestic churches solemnly overlooking beautiful blue lakes or paragliding over the stunning Mavrovo National Park. Yes!
Cool things to do:
- Half-Day Tour: Matka Canyon and Vodno Mountain from Skopje
- ATV Quad Bike Tour in National Park Galicica from Ohrid
- Kosovo Day Trip: Pristina and Prizren Tour from Skopje
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @portugal.explores and lisbon.travel
24. Azores, Portugal
When visiting Portugal, people get so busy with Lisbon and Porto, that they miss out on this hidden gem.
In the Azores, you can sip on some tea by the Atlantic coast at the oldest and only tea plantation in Europe, go dolphin and whale watching, or learn an artisanal craft:
Cheesemaking, mosaic tiling, ceramics, or embroidery can be a part of your Azores experience!
Cool things to do:
- Half-Day Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour in Ponta Delgada
- Amazing Furnas, Volcano, lakes and tea plantation 2024 – Ponta Delgada
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @my_madagascar
25. Madagascar
Madagascar is heaven for all of you nature and wildlife enthusiasts! It has over 3000 miles of coastline, some of the largest coral reefs, and incredible biodiversity.
Madagascar is also home to the famous lemurs, found nowhere else on earth * cue me dancing to ‘I like to move it move it!’
Cool things to do:
- Madagascar Wildlife Tour for 02 days – Antananarivo
- Full-Day Exclusive Private Tour to Nosy Tanikely Marine Reserve
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @ihambaresidence
26. Uganda
Uganda is home to the Rwenzori mountains, ranked the best hike in the world by National Geographic, the world’s largest volcanic caldera, and Africa’s largest lake!
Oh, and half of the world’s mountain gorillas live here. I love me some gorillas!
Cool things to do:
- 3-Day Tour of Uganda – Gorilla Trekking Bwindi Forest 2024 – Kampala
- Murchison Falls National Park 3-Day Safari 2024 – Kampala
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @petekphilippe
27. São Tomé and Príncipe
With only 15,000-30,000 visitors a year, this natural wonderland is one of the most underrated travel destinations in the world.
If you want to experience beautiful deserted beaches, or uncrowded, lush rainforests, São Tomé and Príncipe is just the place for you!
Cool things to do:
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @tuiflybelgium
28. Senegal
Senegal is known as Africa’s model democracy as it has been enjoying a stable government for a long time, unlike some of its neighboring countries.
The country has seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Other than its natural beauty, Senegal is also a must-visit for its culture: delicious food, vibrant nightlife, and markets.
Cool things to do:
- Full-Day DAKAR city / GOREE Island Tour
- Senegal Pink Lake and Bandia Reserve Private Tour 2024 – Dakar
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @traveltrack
29. Ethiopia
Ethiopia’s beautiful landscapes are filled with mountains, lakes, and mountains. But what really makes me love Ethiopia is its food, coffee, and music!
Cool things to do:
- Taste of Ethiopia 2024 – Addis Ababa
- Omo Vally Tours; Ethiopia’s tribes and cultures 11 Days 2024 – Addis Ababa
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @traveltrack
30. Taiwan
While Taiwan is famous for its mountains and cuisine, it also has its fair share of incredibly beautiful beaches!
And for all you Studio Ghibli fans, you have to visit the beautiful town of Jiufen that allegedly inspired Miyazaki’s Spirited Away!
Cool things to do:
- Full-Day Private Custom Taipei City Tour
- The Award-Winning PRIVATE Food Tour of Taipei: The 10 Tastings
- Private Tour to Jiufen, Yehliu Geopark, and Pingxi
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @equusjourneys
31. Mongolia – Underrated Travel Destinations In The World
Mongolia is a unique experience indeed: home to the vast Gobi desert, the world’s last nomads, and eagle hunters.
It is also called ‘Land Of The Eternal Blue Sky’ because Mongolians enjoy over 250 sunny days a year!
Cool things to do:
- Genghis Khan Statue One Day Tour +Bonus Terelj National Park And Aryabal Temple
- Day Tour of Hustai National Park 2024 – Ulaanbaatar
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @nicointhebus
32. Kyrgyzstan
90% of Kyrgyzstan is covered in mountains including the Tien Shan, Pamir, and Alai Mountains.
The mountains offer not just mind-blowing views but tons of activities like trekking, mountain biking, or skiing.
Cool things to do:
- 3 Days tour Issyk Kul Lake: Eagle show and Nomadic living
- Horseback riding on the mountains of Chon Kemin National Park
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @dontaikaory
33. Oman
Oman is home to Jebel Shams, the Grand Canyon of Arabia. Oman’s sand dunes, beaches, and looming mountains are sure to take your breath away!
Cool things to do:
- Wadi Shab and Bimmah Sinkhole Group Full Day Tour 2024 – Muscat
- Daymaniyat Islands Snorkeling Sharing Trip 2024 – Muscat
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @fizuliyat
34. Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan is called the Land of Fire because of the spontaneous ignitions of its gas reserves, its many volcanoes, a historic fire temple, and an eternally burning mountain!
Azerbaijan’s rich culture, monuments, and architecture are great reasons to visit. This country’s fire obsession led to the Flame Towers, a trio of flame-shaped skyscrapers.
I won’t lie. They look pretty darn cool!
Cool things to do:
- Full Day Sightseeing Tour of the main Attractions around Baku
- Gobustan & Absheron Tour All Entrance Fees included (Group or Private) 2024 – Baku
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @katyagatt
35. Pakistan
Pakistan has some of the world’s most beautiful mountains. But you should also visit for Pakistan’s mouth-watering cuisine and rich, cultural heritage:
From the ruins of Mohenjo-Daro to Lahore Valley, from the Buddhist Ruins of Takht-i-Bahi to the Mughal Shalamar Gardens, it’s a paradise for history enthusiasts!
Cool things to do:
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @sontungst
36. Ladakh, India
Sparkling lakes surrounded by snow-covered peaks and beautiful monasteries- Ladakh’s beauty can be described as nothing short of magical.
Ladakh also offers rich culture, amazing food, and endless adventurous activities!
Cool things to do:
Cool places to stay:
Image courtesy: @visit.southkorea
37. South Korea
South Korea is a marvelous blend of man and nature.
You can explore the endless miles of coastline and beaches or admire the beautiful, modern cities of Seoul and Busan.
South Korea’s culture is also fascinating. With its beautiful temples, amazing street art, monuments, and ancient walls and statues, you will never run out of things to explore!
And of course, I will never say no to some Korean food!
Cool things to do:
- Best DMZ Tour Korea from Seoul (Red Suspension Bridge Optional)
- Busan Private Tour with licensed tour guide + private vehicle
Cool places to stay:
FAQs On Most Underrated Travel Destinations In The World
What Is The Best Offbeat Country To Visit?
The best offbeat country to visit? Papua New Guinea. 800+ languages, unique cultures, and undisturbed biodiversity make it the most offbeat place on earth.
What Is The Number 1 Least Visited Country?
Which is the least visited country in the world? It’s Tuvalu. Less than 4000 tourists visit this small archipelago in the west-central Pacific each year.
What Are The Top 3 Tourist Destinations In The World?
Are you wondering what the top 3 tourist destinations in the world are? Mexico City, London, and Paris are at the top with millions of tourists visiting each year.
Rich in history, culture, cuisine, and nightlife, these cities attract many people.
Now that you know the most underrated travel destinations in the world, hurry up and get going before the rest of the world discovers these hidden gems!
Which of these would you visit first? Let me know in the comments!
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