Eager to get a little off the beaten path? In a world where once-unknown destinations can quickly become inundated with tourists, it sometimes feels as if few places have yet to be discovered.
Luckily, this isn't entirely true just yet, and some corners of the planet have remained untouched despite their extraordinary beauty and charm. If you've been dreaming of escaping to a serene island paradise or embarking on an adventure through rugged mountains, we have some incredible spots that we think will be to your liking.
Throughout this article, we'll detail some of the spectacular places that have somehow evaded even the most seasoned travelers.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are Indian territories located in the Bay of Bengal. Consisting of two groups of islands, Andaman in the north and Nicobar in the south, this collection of over 800 islands boasts palm tree-lined beaches and lush rainforests that could rival any tropical paradise.
Many of the top things to do in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands revolve around the postcard-ready coastline. Beaches like Radhanagar, Elephant, and Bharatpur are stunning spots for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. For your history fix, head to the capital, Port Blair, and check out the compelling Cellular Jail and Naval Marine Museum.
Socotra
Yemen doesn't typically spring to mind when you picture isolated beaches and rich biodiversity. Yet, this Middle Eastern nation is home to one of the most unique islands on the planet, which has both in abundance.
While you're here, you'll have the chance to marvel at some out-of-this-world vistas. From gazing at the dragon blood trees that the island is synonymous with to swimming in the glass-like waters of the mesmerizing Qalansiyah Beach, a visit here is an experience like no other. If you're a keen diver, hop on a diving excursion and catch a glimpse of turtles, sting rays, and dolphins.
Kyrgyzstan
Explore one of the world's most underrated outdoorsy destinations with a trip to the Central Asian nation of Kyrgyzstan. Though this enigmatic region doesn't tend to receive many tourists, the jaw-dropping mountains of this landlocked country have gained some traction in recent years.
Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan's capital city, has some interesting sites, such as Ala-Too Square and the State History Museum, but you'll have to venture out of the cities to uncover the country's real beauty. Trekking through Ala Archa National Park, admiring the rock formations of Jety-Oguz Canyon, and staying in a traditional yurt at Issyk Kul Lake are musts.
Svalbard
Can you imagine visiting somewhere that has more polar bears than humans? In Svalbard, a Norwegian archipelago in the Arctic Sea, you'll have the opportunity to do just that! A true winter wonderland, Svalbard lies midway between mainland Norway and the North Pole.
Arrive in the winter, and you'll likely spot the Northern Lights, while a summer trip will allow you to bask in the midnight sun as Svalbard experiences round-the-clock sunshine during the summer months. Conversely, this means the area remains in darkness from October to February. Depending on when you choose to visit, you can look forward to polar bear-spotting, whale-watching, and dog sledding.
Greenland
Despite its status as the world's largest island and its countless natural wonders, Greenland is a destination few travelers ever make it to. Greenland is an autonomous region of Denmark, but the island has managed to retain its language, customs, and traditions.
The scenery in Greenland is nothing short of magnificent. From expansive tundras to its colossal glaciers and ice fjords, Greenland's landscapes will leave you speechless. Such extreme conditions bring with them some fascinating wildlife. Polar bears, arctic foxes, reindeer, and narwhals all frequent the island and are reason enough to visit.
The Faroe Islands
Another Danish territory, but one with a slightly less hostile climate, is the Faroe Islands. Sitting between Norway and Iceland, this archipelago is made up of 18 islands that showcase some extraordinary volcanic landscapes.
With such awe-inspiring surroundings at your fingertips, most of your visit to The Faroe Islands will likely be spent outdoors. Some non-negotiable spots to check include the cliffside Lake Sorvagsvatn, the powerful Mulafossur Waterfall, and the grass-covered homes in Saksun village. There are a plethora of easy and strenuous hikes throughout the islands, plus some thrilling boat tours to enjoy when your legs need a well-deserved rest.
Mongolia
The most sparsely populated country on earth, it's safe to say that much of Mongolia is entirely unblemished. Not only that, but it's said that there are almost as many horses in the country as there are people, and a great deal of the population today is nomadic.
Mongolia shares the Gobi Desert with its southern neighbor, China, and it's among the places you simply cannot miss here. Another part of the country that should go right to the top of your list is Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, where you can go horseback riding through mountain pastures. Alternatively, head far west to Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, a remote region with snow-capped mountains and dazzling glaciers.
The Comoros
Some several hundred miles from the coast of Mozambique sits the Comoros, an East African country comprised of three islands. Dreamy beaches and majestic volcanoes are some of the nation's most impressive sights and are much less visited than you might expect.
Discover the rich history and Arab heritage by exploring the mosques and museums of Moroni before immersing yourself in nature at the likes of Mount Karthala, an active volcano, and the serene Bouni Beach. With a vibrant, dense rainforest as a backdrop, the powdery white sands and shimmering turquoise waters are even more captivating.
Are You Ready to Take the Road Less Traveled?
Although it'll take quite some time for these hidden gems to gain the recognition they're so deserving of, they'll likely never be as unspoiled and under-the-radar as they are right now.
With that in mind, there's no time like the present to venture off into the unknown, as it's only a matter of time before the secret about these less-traveled destinations is out.
