The world is vast and full of wonders, yet it often feels like we’re all flocking to the same few hotspots. Overtourism has reached a critical point, leading to overcrowded destinations, a strain on local communities, and an experience that sometimes feels less authentic and more like a hurried checklist. But what if there was another way to explore, one that promises genuine discovery and meaningful connections?
This year, forget the usual suspects and prepare to ignite your wanderlust with a list of truly exceptional, yet often overlooked, destinations. Inspired by insights from Intrepid Travel’s annual ‘Not Hot’ list, expert travel writers, and intrepid explorers, we’ve curated a collection of places that defy their ‘underrated’ status. These are the destinations where authentic experiences thrive, where local communities genuinely benefit from your visit, and where every moment promises a unique discovery far beyond the typical tourist traps.
Get ready to redefine your travel aspirations for 2024! By venturing off the beaten path, you’ll not only avoid the crowds but also uncover stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and historical treasures that will leave an indelible mark on your soul. Let’s delve into the first half of our magnificent dozen, each promising a journey that’s anything but ordinary.
1. **Disko Island, Greenland**: While Iceland drew over 2 million visitors last year, its majestic neighbor Greenland welcomed under 150,000. This disparity highlights a missed opportunity for many travelers to experience a truly untouched northern wonder. Disko Island, located off the west coast, stands as a testament to Greenland’s breathtaking, raw beauty, ready to captivate those who seek something genuinely different from the usual Nordic itinerary.
This volcanic island, the youngest in Greenland, boasts magnificent mountains and a landscape that is simply breathtaking. Imagine a world “surrounded by icebergs and whales,” where the air is crisp, and the silence is profound. With new tours and an international airport coming in 2025, Greenland is becoming more accessible, making Disko Island an unmissable destination for discerning adventurers.
Visitors to Disko Island can spend their days hiking glaciers, feeling the ancient ice beneath their feet, or embarking on unforgettable whale-watching excursions. The sheer scale of the icebergs, silently floating in the pristine waters, is a humbling sight. These activities offer a deep immersion into the island’s unique ecosystem, promising encounters with nature that are both thrilling and serene.
As evening falls, the magic continues. You can unwind in a local lodge, perched strategically to overlook the stunning Disko Bay, where the sunsets paint the sky in hues you’ve only dreamed of. This unique blend of rugged exploration and tranquil relaxation makes Disko Island a destination that not only inspires awe but also offers a profound sense of peace and connection with the natural world.
2. **Accra, Ghana**: Despite its rich culture and stunning scenery, Ghana remains surprisingly overlooked by many international travelers. With less than one million people visiting annually, a figure less than half of South Africa’s, this vibrant West African nation holds immense potential for those seeking an authentic and deeply enriching travel experience. Accra, the capital, serves as a dynamic gateway to this incredible country.
Venturing beyond the bustling capital, Ghana’s Eastern Region, in particular, offers a rich blend of dramatic landscapes, historical relics, and traditional cultures that are waiting to be explored. This region is a tapestry of natural beauty and human history, providing a stark contrast to the often-generalized narrative of African travel. It’s a place where every corner turned reveals a new story, a new tradition, and a new reason to fall in love with Ghana.
Visitors can experience local culture first-hand, engaging with communities and witnessing traditions that have been preserved for centuries. Whether it’s the vibrant markets, the rhythmic sounds of local music, or the warmth of its people, Ghana offers an unparalleled opportunity for cultural immersion. It’s a place where you don’t just observe; you participate, you learn, and you connect on a deeply personal level.
Choosing Accra and Ghana means embracing a journey filled with profound cultural insights and stunning natural beauty. It’s a destination that encourages responsible travel practices, allowing visitors to contribute positively to communities that can truly benefit from their presence. For an adventure that goes beyond sightseeing and truly touches the soul, Ghana is calling.
3. **Sainshand, Mongolia**: When travelers envision Mongolia, their itineraries often lead them directly to the Southern and Middle Gobi provinces, focusing solely on the more touristy highlights. However, a hidden gem lies in the Eastern Gobi: Sainshand. This region offers a unique and invaluable insight into true Mongolian Buddhism, providing a stark contrast to the typical tourist circuit and inviting a deeper, more reflective travel experience.
In Sainshand, you’ll find opportunities to delve into local culture by staying in locally-owned accommodations, fostering direct engagement with the community. This provides an authentic glimpse into the daily lives of Mongolians, far removed from curated tourist experiences. Visitors can also sample regional specialties, such as the hearty “buuz (steamed dumplings)” and the traditional “Zagsgal tea,” savoring the flavors that define this unique corner of the world.
For those with time on their hands and a desire for natural exploration, locals enthusiastically recommend the two-to-three-hour hike out to Khar Uul (Black Mountains), south-west of town. This trek not only offers breathtaking landscapes but also a sense of tranquility and solitude rarely found in more frequented destinations. It’s an ideal way to connect with Mongolia’s vast and wild natural beauty.
Sainshand stands as a testament to the fact that the most memorable travel experiences often lie beyond the well-trodden path. It’s a destination for travelers eager for new experiences and more meaningful adventures, offering a profound cultural journey and a chance to support communities that truly benefit from having more visitors. If you seek the authentic spirit of Mongolia, look no further than Sainshand.
4. **Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan**: While its neighbor Nepal attracts around two million trekkers each year, Pakistan remains a vastly underrated destination for adventure tourism, welcoming fewer than 20,000 people for such pursuits. This is a staggering statistic, especially considering Pakistan is home to three of the world’s greatest mountain ranges – the Himalayas, Karakoram, and Hindu Kush. Gilgit-Baltistan, in particular, is a mountaineer’s paradise, offering unparalleled opportunities for exploration.
Often called ‘Little Tibet’, the Baltistan region beckons with its majestic peaks, deep valleys, and pristine wilderness. This is a landscape designed for awe-inspiring journeys, where the sheer scale of nature humbles and inspires in equal measure. For serious trekkers and aspiring mountaineers, it represents a frontier of adventure, untouched and waiting to be discovered.
Trekkers in Gilgit-Baltistan follow well-marked trails that wind through spectacular scenery, crossing glacial streams and verdant pastures. The experience is enhanced by the full support received from dedicated local porters, knowledgeable guides, and talented camp cooks, ensuring a safe and enriching journey. This level of local engagement not only facilitates a smoother trek but also provides invaluable cultural interaction.
Choosing Gilgit-Baltistan means embarking on an epic adventure that transcends typical tourism. It offers a chance to challenge yourself amidst some of the world’s most dramatic landscapes, forging meaningful connections with the environment and the resilient local communities. For an authentic and unforgettable mountain experience, Pakistan’s hidden jewel truly shines.
5. **The Adirondacks, USA**: Forget the crowded national parks; The Adirondacks in New York state stands as a vast, six-million-acre gem that truly embodies America’s natural splendor. While not officially a national park, this expansive region boasts charming towns and breathtaking mountains that are set to become particularly magical during peak fall foliage. It offers a unique combination of wild landscapes and inviting communities, making it an ideal escape.
Looking ahead to 2025, the region will unveil a new rail trail connecting Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, and Tupper Lake. This development is perfect for cross-country skiing in winter, transforming the snowy landscape into a serene playground, and ideal for biking in summer, offering scenic routes through lush forests and alongside sparkling lakes. The Adirondacks truly embraces all seasons, providing diverse recreational opportunities year-round.
Dotted across this picturesque landscape are charming small towns, each possessing its own unique character and a delightful array of attractions. From engaging craft studios where local artisans showcase their talents to thrilling caving adventures that delve into the earth’s mysteries, and from insightful museums preserving local history to innovative farm-to-table restaurants celebrating regional produce, there’s an experience for every visitor.
Whether you’re seeking rugged wilderness, quaint village charm, or invigorating outdoor activities, The Adirondacks delivers. It’s a destination that promises both peaceful solitude and vibrant community life, ensuring a memorable escape that feels both grand and intimately personal. This often-overlooked region is a testament to the beauty and diversity of American landscapes.
6. **Anti-Atlas, Morocco**: Morocco has long captivated travelers, with over seven million tourists flocking to its vibrant cities and coastal regions during the first half of 2024 alone. However, amidst this popularity, the Anti-Atlas region remains one of the least-visited parts of the country, presenting a serene alternative for those yearning for an escape from the bustling crowds. It is here that Morocco reveals a different, more rugged, and equally enchanting side.
This unique landscape is a feast for the senses, featuring picturesque villages nestled amongst lush oasis valleys that burst with life against the arid backdrop. The scenery is further defined by striking “granite boulders, red-lava flows and stunning palm groves,” creating a visual tapestry unlike any other. It’s a place where nature’s artistry is on full display, offering dramatic vistas and tranquil havens in equal measure.
The Anti-Atlas is truly a hidden treasure worth exploring, inviting adventurers to discover a Morocco far removed from the bustling souks and tourist-filled squares. Here, the pace of life slows, allowing for deeper reflection and connection with the pristine environment. The quietude of the region provides a profound sense of escape and rejuvenation that is increasingly rare in popular travel destinations.
For those eager to go beyond the typical tourist experience, the Anti-Atlas offers a chance to forge meaningful connections with the land and its people. It’s a destination where you can experience the authentic spirit of Morocco in an unhurried and profound way, discovering its untouched beauty and contributing to communities that can genuinely benefit from your visit. This is where true discovery begins.
7. **Svaneti, Georgia**: Nestled deep within the majestic Caucasus Mountains, Svaneti, Georgia, emerges as a remote region brimming with ancient history and unparalleled natural beauty. It’s a destination that feels suspended in time, offering a profound sense of discovery for those who venture into its dramatic landscapes. Far from the well-trodden paths of Western Europe, Svaneti promises an authentic encounter with a unique cultural heritage.
At the heart of Svaneti’s charm are its iconic medieval Svan Towers, standing stoically against the backdrop of towering peaks. These formidable stone structures, some dating back to the 9th century, are not just architectural marvels but also UNESCO World Heritage Sites, symbolizing centuries of resilience and tradition. Exploring these ancient defensive towers offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s storied past, inviting you to imagine the lives of those who once inhabited this rugged land.
Beyond its historical fortifications, Svaneti is a hiker’s paradise, boasting pristine trails that weave through breathtaking scenery. Imagine embarking on an unforgettable trek from Mestia to Ushguli, a journey that reveals dramatic vistas and leads to Europe’s highest continuously inhabited village. These trails offer a deep immersion into nature, where every turn presents a new, awe-inspiring panorama of verdant valleys and snow-capped peaks. The region’s local culture is equally rich, defined by the unique Svan language, soul-stirring traditional polyphonic music, and hearty, wholesome cuisine that warms you from the inside out.
To truly experience Svaneti in its full glory, plan your visit between June and September for unparalleled hiking opportunities, when the trails are most accessible and the weather is ideal. Alternatively, for those who dream of winter wonderlands, December to February transforms the region into a snowy haven, perfect for skiing. Svaneti is more than just a destination; it’s an invitation to step into a living legend, where history, culture, and nature converge in a truly spectacular fashion.
8. **Matera, Italy**: Matera, located in Italy’s southern Basilicata region, stands as a testament to human resilience and ingenuity, offering a travel experience unlike any other. This ancient city holds the remarkable distinction of being one of the oldest continuously inhabited places on Earth, with its famous cave dwellings, known as the ‘Sassi,’ dating back to the Paleolithic period. It’s a place where history isn’t just observed; it’s felt in every stone, every winding alleyway.
Wandering through the Sassi di Matera is like stepping into a living museum. These extraordinary cave dwellings, once home to generations, have been meticulously preserved and thoughtfully transformed. Today, many serve as charming museums, boutique hotels, and authentic restaurants, allowing visitors to not only witness but also experience life within these ancient structures. The intricate labyrinth of caves and pathways tells a story of adaptation and community that spans millennia.
The historical enchantment of Matera extends to its hidden rock churches, carved directly into the soft tufa stone. These sacred spaces conceal ancient frescoes, often remarkably preserved, offering a spiritual and artistic journey through the city’s past. Each church is a unique repository of history, reflecting the deep faith and artistic expression of bygone eras. It’s a truly humbling experience to discover these artistic treasures in such an unexpected setting.
What truly sets Matera apart is its authentic Italian charm, providing a refreshing contrast to the more bustling and tourist-heavy cities further north. Here, you can savor the slower pace of life, immerse yourself in genuine local culture, and enjoy the true essence of southern Italy without the crowds. The best time to visit this mesmerizing city is between April and October, when the weather is pleasant for exploring its outdoor wonders. Matera beckons to those seeking a profound historical journey and an unforgettable, off-the-beaten-path Italian adventure.
9. **Kotor, Montenegro**: Nestled in a secluded part of the dramatic Bay of Kotor, the picturesque town of Kotor, Montenegro, offers a captivating blend of breathtaking natural scenery and rich historical architecture. Surrounded by towering mountains that plunge directly into the deep, fjord-like waters, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a jewel of the Adriatic, promising an enchanting escape for every traveler. It’s a destination where history whispers from every stone and nature’s grandeur takes center stage.
The heart of Kotor is its remarkably well-preserved medieval Old Town, a labyrinth of narrow, cobblestone streets, charming squares, and historic buildings that transport visitors back in time. As you wander through this ancient maze, you’ll discover centuries of stories etched into its walls, from Venetian palazzi to Orthodox churches. Every corner reveals a new architectural detail or a quaint cafe perfect for savoring local flavors, making exploration a continuous delight.
For those seeking panoramic views that will quite literally take your breath away, a hike up to the Kotor Fortress is an absolute must. The ascent, though steep, rewards you with unparalleled vistas of the entire Bay of Kotor, with its shimmering waters and the dramatic karst mountains. It’s a truly iconic experience, offering a profound sense of perspective over this stunning natural harbor. Throughout the year, Kotor also plays host to vibrant local festivals, such as the lively Boka Night and the colorful Kotor Carnival, providing a fantastic opportunity to experience the town’s convivial spirit and rich cultural traditions firsthand.
The ideal time to visit Kotor and immerse yourself in its magic is between April and October, when the weather is most agreeable for both exploring the Old Town and hiking to the fortress. This period allows you to fully appreciate the town’s unique blend of historical charm and natural splendor. Kotor isn’t just a stop on a journey; it’s a destination that captures the heart, inspiring awe and inviting you to delve deeper into its captivating allure.
10. **Haarlem, Netherlands**: As visitors increasingly find Amsterdam’s bustling streets and crowded canals overwhelming, a serene and equally charming alternative emerges just a short train ride away: Haarlem, Netherlands. This delightful city, located only 20-30 minutes from the capital, is rapidly gaining recognition as a calming oasis that offers all the quintessential Dutch charm without the pervasive tourist throngs. It’s a hidden gem poised to become a firm favorite for those seeking a more authentic experience.
Haarlem truly embodies everything you’d hope for from a Dutch city. Picture picturesque windmills gently turning in the breeze, tranquil canals reflecting historic gabled houses, and charming ‘lego-like’ buildings that define its unique architectural character. What’s more, Haarlem boasts its very own beach, providing a delightful surprise and a perfect spot for relaxation or a leisurely lunch by the sea. Imagine soaking up the sun and enjoying the coastal breeze, a truly unexpected urban amenity.
One of the greatest joys of exploring Haarlem is simply allowing your legs to lead the way. Like much of the Netherlands, the city is best discovered by wandering its enchanting streets, stumbling upon cozy cafes, independent boutiques, and charming hofjes (courtyards). For a vibrant local experience, be sure to visit the outdoor market on a Saturday, where you can sample fresh produce and local delights. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor authentic Indonesian food at De Lachende Javaan Restaurant or enjoy a delightful lunch at Hofje Zonder Zorgen, both local favorites that offer a true taste of Haarlem.
Haarlem is more than just a convenient alternative; it’s a destination that promises a more relaxed pace, genuine local interactions, and a deep dive into Dutch culture, unmarred by overtourism. As more travelers discover its understated beauty and welcoming atmosphere, its underrated status may soon change. So, seize the moment to experience Haarlem’s unique blend of history, charm, and coastal appeal before the secret gets out completely.
11. **Viñales, Cuba**: When contemplating a trip to Cuba, many travelers instinctively picture sun-drenched beaches and vibrant coastal cities. However, a truly remarkable and underrated gem lies nestled in eastern Cuba: Viñales. This captivating region presents a dramatically different facet of the island, characterized by its lush mountains, strikingly colorful architecture, and an unparalleled landscape perfect for trekking and deep cultural immersion. It’s a destination that challenges perceptions and richly rewards the adventurous spirit.
Viñales is an undisputed haven for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Its unique karst landscape, dotted with “mogotes” (rounded limestone hills), creates a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities. Visitors can embark on exhilarating hikes to explore mysterious caves, offering glimpses into ancient geological formations and a sense of raw, untamed nature. Beyond the trekking, Viñales is renowned as the prime location to discover and savor the famous Cuban cigars, with opportunities to visit tobacco farms and learn about the intricate rolling process directly from local farmers.
The culinary scene in Viñales is just as captivating as its landscapes. We had the pleasure of experiencing some of the best food of the year at Finca Agroecológica El Paraíso, where farm-to-table dining takes on an entirely new meaning, with fresh, organic produce bursting with flavor. For an iconic photographic moment, seek out the incredible panoramic view from the lookout next to Hotel los Jazmines, offering a breathtaking sweep of the valley’s distinctive terrain. This vista perfectly encapsulates the unique beauty that makes Viñales so special.
For American travelers, it’s important to note that visiting Cuba is indeed legal, and exploring Viñales offers an incredibly rich and accessible experience. Companies like Cuban Adventures can skillfully organize all the logistics, allowing ample free time for independent exploration. Utilizing a code like SAM01 can even offer a discount, making this extraordinary journey even more appealing. Viñales stands as a powerful testament to Cuba’s diverse beauty, urging travelers to look beyond the typical and discover its profound, mountainous charm.
As we’ve journeyed through these twelve incredible destinations, it becomes clear that the world is brimming with hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. From the ancient cave dwellings of Matera to the majestic mountains of Svaneti, and the vibrant, artistic corners of Haarlem to the tranquil, cultural depths of Viñales, each spot offers a unique invitation. These aren’t just places to visit; they are experiences to be cherished, providing authentic connections with local cultures, breathtaking natural wonders, and a renewed sense of adventure. By choosing to explore these underrated gems, you’re not only escaping the crowds but also contributing to communities that genuinely benefit from your presence, forging memories that will resonate long after you’ve returned home. So, pack your bags, open your mind, and prepare to redefine your travel aspirations for 2024 with these truly unforgettable journeys. The world is waiting, and its most remarkable stories are found just off the beaten path.
