Do you feel like you've seen it all? Traveled the world, visited many a dream destination and remote paradise location with few tourists? Well, here are the world's least visited countries and whether they are worth checking out.
The Least Visited Countries
Travel has become an integral part of modern life, not to mention a large source of income for a lot of countries in the world. The most visited locations include France, Spain, and Thailand, but there are plenty of less popular destinations that have a lot to offer.
Of course, a few of them will be considered too dangerous due to political instability (because of civil war or the fact that they just gained independence) or too poor infrastructure.
This list, however, will show you other least visited countries that you should consider when planning your next adventure off the beaten track.
1. Nauru
Nauru is a travel buried treasure. This tiny island nation is the smallest island country in the world and received a little over 100 overnight visitors a year! You can get there by flying four hours from Brisbane, Australia.
Don't miss the highest point of the island (it has a Japanese outpost from WW2) or the beautiful beaches with white sand and not a tourist in sight.
2. Turkmenistan
Turkmenistan is in Central Asia and is part of the ancient silk route that traded spices from east to west.
This nation receives just 7,000 visitors a year, so you'll have the gold-lacquered domes of the capital city Ashgabat all for yourself. Don't miss, also, the mosques, palaces, and bazaars.
3. Marshall Islands
Let's look at another small island nation, the Marshall Islands. Located between Hawaii and the Philippines in the Pacific Ocean, this chain of volcanic islands is now a world class scuba diving destination, attracting people who want to see the WW2 ship graveyard and the beautiful coral reefs (there are over 160 species of them!) and rich marine life. And, of course, the beautiful Bikini Atoll.
4. Sao Tomé and Principe
Sao Tomé and Principe is another set of beautiful islands, this time off the coast of west Africa. They are part of a volcano chain with dramatic rock formations and sandy beaches teeming with exotic wildlife and colorful birds. The paradise island is also renowned for its culinary creations and colonial-era buildings.
5. Liechtenstein
Liechtenstein is a German-speaking country with medieval castles, lush valleys, and alpine villages.
Despite its beauty (and the fact that it has an excellent international airport), Liechtenstein only receives around 80,000 tourists a year, making it one of the European countries with the fewest visitors.
Still, it's the perfect location for nature lovers and contemporary art enthusiasts.
6. The Solomon Islands
The Solomon Islands is an independent island country consisting of over 900 islets (island hopping, anyone?). It's in Oceania, east of Papua New Guinea.
Many people visit this location because of the WW2-era sites and the War Memorial in Guadalcanal. The Islands also have bustling markets offering exquisite food and beautiful traditional handicrafts.
7. Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone has some of the most beautiful undisturbed places, full of friendly people, and rarely visited by tourists. Plus, lush rainforests!
You have to exercise a degree of caution due to crime levels, but this nation in the west coast of Africa is worth the small risk.
Don's miss Tokeh beach, a tranquil white-sand beach filled with palm trees and stunning mountain views.
8. Montserrat
Montserrat is the least visited Caribbean island, with just a little over 1,500 people visiting in 2021.
Still, this place has ever-green mountains, lots of hiking trails, and dark sand beaches that mix modern accommodations with traditional Caribbean charm.
Make sure you check out Goat Water, Montserrat's national dish.
9. Equatorial Guinea
Equatorial Guinea is a small island nation on the west coast of Africa. This former Spanish colony is considered one of the most corrupt countries in the world, but it's also one of the most beautiful places to see.
There are breathtaking waterfalls and many gorgeous islands. You can visit visa-free is you're from the US. Otherwise, and with a visa, you can fly there from Lagos, Paris, or London.
10. South Sudan
South Sudan is the newest country in the world (it became one in 2011) and perhaps the most dangerous place on this list.
Juba, the capital, has some incredible national parks - although you might want to try other African nations if you're looking for a safe safari.
After exploring the world's hidden gems and least visited countries, it's time to dive into a new adventure list! We've curated a collection of articles on the best destinations to visit around the world that will leave you wanting more. Check it out!
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