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Visiting the least visited countries in the world can offer a unique and off-the-beaten-path travel experience for those seeking adventure and cultural immersion. These Off the Beaten Path Destinations often have pristine natural landscapes, undiscovered historical sites, and traditional cultures that remain untouched by mass tourism. In contrast to the most visited countries in the World, this page lists the countries that tourists usually don’t visit.
Why You Should Explore the Unexplored
Here are five highlights of traveling to the world’s least visited countries:
- Unique Experiences: Discover hidden gems and experience local culture and customs in a unique, authentic way.
- Undiscovered Beauty: Explore unspoiled natural landscapes, with less development and more pristine beauty.
- Cultural Immersion: Gain a deeper understanding of the local culture through meaningful and authentic interactions with locals.
- Affordable Travel: Lower costs of living make travel more affordable and accessible for budget travelers.
- Off-the-Beaten-Path: Get off the well-trodden tourist path and discover new destinations that are often hidden from typical travelers.
Discovering Hidden Gems (click to read more)
In a world where social media floods us with glimpses of popular tourist destinations, there is something excitingly rebellious and genuinely fulfilling about seeking the unexplored. To truly embrace the spirit of adventure, you must consider journeying to the world’s least visited countries. These hidden gems, often overlooked, harbor unique experiences and opportunities to create memories that are not just your own, but also untouched by the regular traveler.
Unearth the Unique: Each visit to these rarely explored countries reveals a treasure chest of unique experiences. Stroll through small villages where traditions and customs have remained unchanged for centuries, allowing you to witness a different way of life. Partake in local festivities, sample exotic cuisine, or learn a few phrases of a new language; each experience offering a story waiting to be told.
- Central African Republic
- Afghanistan
- Burundi
- Eritrea
- Guinea
Discover Untouched Beauty: Away from the concrete jungles and crowded beaches, these countries offer unspoiled landscapes that promise awe-inspiring views. From lush green forests to tranquil beaches and towering mountains, you can witness nature in its most pristine form, making these destinations an ideal retreat for the nature lover in you.
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Mozambique
- Sierra Leone
- Malawi
- Benin
Immerse Yourself in Culture: Visiting the world’s least traveled countries offers opportunities for profound cultural immersion. You’ll have the chance to interact with locals, understanding their way of life, history, and traditions firsthand. This cultural exchange fosters a sense of global connection, transforming your travel journey into a voyage of human understanding.
- Somalia
- Liberia
- Yemen
- Togo
- Mali
Affordable Adventures: Given the lower costs of living and absence of mass tourism, travel in these countries can be surprisingly affordable. Modest accommodations, local eateries, and public transport are often less expensive than in popular tourist destinations, making your travel experience not only more authentic but also kinder to your wallet.
- South Sudan
- Rwanda
- Chad
- Burkina Faso
- Syria
Off the Beaten Path: Stepping off the well-trodden path, you’ll find yourself exploring places that many do not even know exist. This sense of discovery and adventure is intoxicating. It is the thrill of uncovering secrets that the world has kept hidden, making your journey an exciting narrative of exploration.
- Syria
- Yemen
- Guinea
- Mali
- Benin
So, why follow the crowd when you can pioneer a path of your own? Embrace the joy of discovery, the thrill of the unfamiliar, and the wealth of experiences that the least visited countries in the world offer. After all, the world is too vast and too beautiful to just visit the places everyone else does.
20 Least visited countries in the world historically
It’s difficult to determine the exact 20 least traveled countries in the world, as the number of annual tourists can fluctuate from year to year. However, based on available data, some countries that have historically received fewer tourists include:
| Country | Population (Approx) | Capital City |
|---|---|---|
| Central African Republic | 4.7 million | Bangui |
| Afghanistan | 38 million | Kabul |
| Somalia | 15 million | Mogadishu |
| Democratic Republic of the Congo | 87 million | Kinshasa |
| South Sudan | 11 million | Juba |
| Burundi | 12 million | Bujumbura |
| Eritrea | 3.2 million | Asmara |
| Liberia | 5 million | Monrovia |
| Syria | 17 million | Damascus |
| Yemen | 29 million | Sana’a |
| Mozambique | 31 million | Maputo |
| Sierra Leone | 7.9 million | Freetown |
| Chad | 16 million | N’Djamena |
| Guinea | 13 million | Conakry |
| Rwanda | 13 million | Kigali |
| Togo | 8.6 million | Lomé |
| Burkina Faso | 20 million | Ouagadougou |
| Malawi | 20 million | Lilongwe |
| Mali | 20 million | Bamako |
| Benin | 12 million | Porto-Novo |
Map of least visited countries
Least Traveled Countries in the World
Note: It’s important to note that these countries may have limited infrastructure and safety concerns, which can make travel challenging or even dangerous. It’s always a good idea to research the specific conditions and risks of a destination before planning a trip.
Top 10 world’s least visited countries by number of visitors
In terms of actual visitor numbers, the following list represents the nations that receive relatively few tourists, with Nauru claiming the title of the least visited country in the world.
List of the United Nations World Tourism Organization.
- Nauru – 200 annual visitors
- Tuvalu – 3,700 annual visitors
- Marshall Islands – 6,100 annual visitors
- Niue – 10,200 annual visitors
- Kiribati – 12,000 annual visitors
- Micronesia – 18,000 annual visitors
- Montserrat – 19,300 annual visitors
- Solomon Islands – 29,000 annual visitors
- Sao Tome and Principe – 34,900 annual visitors
- Comoros – 45,000 annual visitors
Nauru – 200 annual visitors
Why you should visit Nauru: Embark on a journey to the remote island of Nauru, where pristine beaches meet fascinating cultural heritage. Explore its untouched landscapes and dive into the crystal-clear waters to uncover a world of vibrant marine life.
Capital City: Yaren
Best Season to Travel: April to October (Dry season)
How to Get There: Nauru Airlines operates flights from Brisbane, Australia, or Suva, Fiji, among other surrounding islands.
Remote Charm: Nauru’s secluded location in the Pacific Ocean offers an escape from the bustling world, allowing you to experience untouched nature and the warm hospitality of its small population.
Tuvalu – 3,700 annual visitors
Why you should visit Tuvalu: Journey to the paradisiacal islands of Tuvalu, where time seems to slow down amidst breathtaking turquoise lagoons and palm-fringed beaches. Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture and discover the traditional art of canoe building.
Capital City: Funafuti
Best Season to Travel: April to October (Dry season)
How to Get There: Fiji Airways operates one flight per week from Fiji, providing access to Tuvalu.
Remote Charm: Tuvalu’s remote location in the South Pacific Ocean offers an escape to a tranquil and untouched paradise. Its small population and limited tourism infrastructure allow for an authentic experience off the beaten path.
Marshall Islands – 6,100 annual visitors
Why you should visit Marshall Islands: Embark on a journey to the Marshall Islands, a captivating archipelago that beckons with its pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and intriguing World War II history. Dive into the cerulean waters and explore sunken shipwrecks beneath the waves.
Capital City: Majuro
Best Season to Travel: November to April (Dry season)
How to Get There: United Airlines and Air Marshall Islands operate flights connecting Majuro with Honolulu, Guam, and other Pacific destinations.
Remote Charm: The Marshall Islands’ remote location in the Pacific Ocean offers a chance to disconnect from the modern world and immerse yourself in a tranquil and unspoiled environment.
Niue – 10,200 annual visitors
Why you should visit Niue: Embark on an adventure to Niue, a hidden gem in the South Pacific. Dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful marine life, explore enchanting caves, and witness the dramatic coastal cliffs that make this island truly unique.
Capital City: Alofi
Best Season to Travel: May to October (Dry season)
How to Get There: Air New Zealand operates flights to Niue from Auckland, New Zealand, twice a week.
Remote Charm: Niue’s remote location and small population create an atmosphere of tranquility and seclusion. Embrace the island’s untouched natural beauty and the warmth of its friendly locals.
Kiribati – 12,000 annual visitors
Why you should visit Kiribati: Discover the remote islands of Kiribati, where time seems to stand still. Explore the mesmerizing coral atolls, immerse yourself in the Polynesian culture, and witness the mesmerizing sight of the equatorial sun casting its rays over endless turquoise waters.
Capital City: Tarawa
Best Season to Travel: November to March (Wet season) for diving and April to October (Dry season) for cultural festivals.
How to Get There: Fiji Airways operates regular flights connecting Kiribati with Nadi, Fiji, and other Pacific destinations.
Remote Charm: Kiribati’s isolation in the central Pacific Ocean offers a true escape from the modern world. Experience the untouched beauty of its pristine beaches and the warmth of its local communities.
Micronesia – 18,000 annual visitors
Why you should visit Micronesia: Embark on an adventure to Micronesia, a paradise of tropical islands scattered across the vast Pacific Ocean. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the local communities, explore vibrant coral reefs, and encounter diverse marine life during thrilling diving expeditions.
Capital City: Palikir
Best Season to Travel: December to April (Dry season)
How to Get There: United Airlines operates flights to Micronesia, with connections from major cities such as Honolulu and Guam.
Remote Charm: Micronesia’s remote location offers an escape to pristine nature and an opportunity to discover hidden island gems that remain relatively untouched by mass tourism.
Montserrat – 19,300 annual visitors
Why you should visit Montserrat: Visit Montserrat, a Caribbean island known as the “Emerald Isle of the Caribbean” for its lush green landscapes and vibrant culture. Explore the remnants of the Soufrière Hills volcano, enjoy the rhythmic beats of local music, and relax on secluded black sand beaches.
Capital City: Plymouth (abandoned due to volcanic activity), Brades (interim capital)
Best Season to Travel: December to April (Dry season)
How to Get There: Fly to Antigua and then take a ferry or small plane to Montserrat.
Remote Charm: Montserrat’s remote location in the Caribbean Sea offers an off-the-beaten-path experience. Its volcanic landscapes and the resilience of its local community create a unique atmosphere that sets it apart from other Caribbean destinations.
Solomon Islands – 29,000 annual visitors
Why you should visit Solomon Islands: Venture to the Solomon Islands, an archipelago brimming with natural wonders and cultural heritage. Dive into pristine coral reefs, explore WWII relics submerged beneath crystal-clear waters, and connect with welcoming locals through traditional village visits.
Capital City: Honiara
Best Season to Travel: April to October (Dry season)
How to Get There: Solomon Airlines operates international flights from Brisbane, Australia, and other regional airlines connect Honiara with neighboring countries.
Remote Charm: The Solomon Islands’ remote location in the South Pacific Ocean allows you to experience untouched nature, vibrant traditions, and warm hospitality. Discover a world where time slows down, and the rhythm of island life takes center stage.
São Tomé and Príncipe – 34,900 annual visitors
Why you should visit São Tomé and Príncipe: Explore the enchanting islands of São Tomé and Príncipe, a hidden paradise off the western coast of Central Africa. Immerse yourself in lush rainforests, unwind on secluded beaches, and savor the rich flavors of locally grown cocoa and coffee.
Capital City: São Tomé
Best Season to Travel: June to September (Dry season)
How to Get There: TAP Air Portugal operates flights to São Tomé and Príncipe with layovers in Lisbon and Accra.
Remote Charm: São Tomé and Príncipe’s remote location and limited accessibility contribute to its unspoiled beauty and authentic cultural experiences. Discover a world where nature reigns supreme, and the pace of life encourages relaxation and exploration.
Comoros – 45,000 annual visitors
Why you should visit Comoros: Embark on an off-the-beaten-path adventure to the Comoros, an archipelago nestled in the Indian Ocean. Explore volcanic landscapes, unwind on pristine beaches, and delve into the vibrant culture shaped by African, Arab, and French influences.
Capital City: Moroni
Best Season to Travel: May to November (Dry season)
How to Get There: Flights to Comoros are available from major African cities, including Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, and Antananarivo.
Remote Charm: The Comoros’ remote location and limited tourism infrastructure offer a glimpse into a hidden corner of the world. Embrace the tranquility, authentic encounters, and natural wonders that make this destination a true gem.
This data shows the top 10 least-visited countries in the world according to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in 2019. The countries are ranked based on the number of visitors they received in that year. The country with the lowest number of visitors was Nauru with 200 visitors. Tuvalu is in second place with only 3,700 visitors, while the country with the highest number of visitors in the top 10 least-visited countries was Guinea-Bissau with 52,000 visitors.
This information suggests that these countries have limited resources or attractions to draw in large numbers of tourists. However, it’s also worth considering factors such as location, transportation infrastructure, and political stability, which can also impact a country’s tourism industry.
Least Traveled Countries in the World
20 Adventure-Seeker’s Paradise: The Least Traveled Countries in the World for an Unforgettable Experience:
Central African Republic
Visit the Central African Republic, a landlocked country in Central Africa, for a unique adventure and off-the-beaten-path experience. Explore lush rainforests, witness abundant wildlife, and visit cultural heritage sites amidst its tumultuous recent history. The Central African Republic is the world’s least visited country.
Afghanistan
Visit Afghanistan, known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and hospitable people. Discover the historic cities of Herat and Kabul and the stunning mountains of the Hindu Kush for unique and authentic experiences. Afghanistan is the world’s second least visited country.
Somalia
Visit Somalia, often associated with instability, for a chance to experience its rich cultural heritage and stunning coastline. From the ancient city of Mogadishu to the scenic beaches of Puntland, Somalia offers a different side of Africa. Somalia is the world’s third least visited country.
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Visit the Democratic Republic of the Congo, a vast country with incredible natural beauty, for an adventure of a lifetime. Explore gorillas in Virunga National Park and the stunning waterfalls of the Congo River. The Democratic Republic of the Congo is the world’s fourth least visited country.
South Sudan
Visit South Sudan, the youngest country in the world, for an authentic cultural experience and adventure. Discover the Nile River and the savannas of Boma National Park for a different perspective of Africa.
Burundi
Visit Burundi, a small country in the Great Lakes region, for a unique cultural experience. Immerse yourself in a different culture from the rolling hills to the bustling markets of Bujumbura.
Eritrea
Visit Eritrea, known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, for off-the-beaten-path experiences. Explore the historic city of Asmara and the stunning Red Sea coastline.
Liberia
Visit Liberia, with its rich history and diverse culture, for unique and authentic experiences. Discover the beaches of Robertsport and the lush rainforests of the interior.
Syria
Visit Syria, rich in cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, for unique experiences. Explore the ancient city of Damascus and the stunning desert landscapes of Palmyra.
Tours in Syria
Yemen
Visit Yemen, with its rich history and unique culture, for a unique and authentic experience. Explore the historic city of Tarim, the scenic valley of Wadi Dawan, and the ancient city of Shibam.
Tours in Yemen
Mozambique
Visit Mozambique, known for its stunning coastline and diverse culture, for beach and adventure opportunities. Explore the tropical beaches of the Bazaruto Archipelago and the lush rainforests of the interior.
Sierra Leone
Visit Sierra Leone, rich in cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, for unique experiences. Discover the bustling markets of Freetown and the stunning beaches of the Freetown Peninsula.
Chad
Visit Chad, located in North-Central Africa, for stunning landscapes and diverse cultures. Venture off the beaten path to explore vast deserts, rolling savannas, and abundant wildlife.
Guinea
Visit Guinea, located in West Africa, for rich cultural heritage and abundant natural beauty. Explore vibrant cities and pristine beaches for an authentic West African experience.
Rwanda
Visit Rwanda, located in East Africa, for a unique adventure and nature experience. Discover lush rainforests and abundant wildlife amidst its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Togo
Visit Togo, located in West Africa, for a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Enjoy its vibrant cities, pristine beaches, rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and friendly people.
Burkina Faso
Visit Burkina Faso, located in West Africa, for a unique travel experience rich in culture and natural beauty. Explore vibrant markets and stunning landscapes with warm hospitality and diverse cultures.
Malawi
Visit Malawi, known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, for a unique adventure and cultural experience. Explore the pristine beaches of Lake Malawi and the rolling hills of Zomba Plateau for a truly authentic African experience.
Mali
Visit Mali, located in West Africa, for a unique blend of cultural and natural beauty. Discover the vibrant cities of Bamako and Timbuktu, and the stunning landscapes of Dogon Country for a rich and diverse cultural experience.
Benin
Visit Benin, located in West Africa, for a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Immerse yourself in the vibrant cities, rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and friendly people for a truly unique and authentic West African experience.
Travel to the least visited countries
At RJ Travel, we believe in the power of adventure and exploring the unknown. For those seeking to broaden their horizons and experience new cultures, we have a range of tours available to some of the least traveled countries in the world.
From the rugged beauty of Afghanistan to the vibrant communities of Rwanda and Sierra Leone, our tours offer an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in these diverse and fascinating countries.
Whether you’re seeking to uncover ancient ruins in Yemen, explore the natural wonders of Somalia, or witness the resilience of the Syrian people, RJ Travel has the experience and knowledge to make your journey unforgettable. So pack your bags and join us on a journey to the heart of these truly remarkable destinations.
Also read:
Tours to Least Traveled Countries with RJ Travel
- Tours in Afghanistan
- Tours in Iraq
- Tours in Iran
- Tours in Somalia
- Tours in Rwanda
- Tours in Sierra Leone
- Tours in Syria
- Tours in Yemen
Least Traveled Continents in the World
When it comes to continents, the most visited and least visited destinations offer vastly different experiences for travelers. The most visited continent, Europe, sees an annual influx of 720 million visitors, drawn to its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and diverse landscapes. Europe is home to iconic landmarks such as The Colosseum, The Louvre, and The Vatican, making it a must-visit destination for history and culture buffs.
Read more: Least Traveled Continents in the World
Predicting Tourist Trends
It’s difficult to determine the exact 20 least traveled countries in the world due to the lack of comprehensive data, fluctuations in tourism numbers, different definitions of “tourist”, undeveloped tourism infrastructure, and incomplete data reporting.
Not all countries have accurate or complete data on the number of tourists they receive, and the number can fluctuate due to factors such as natural disasters, economic recessions, geopolitical instability, and travel restrictions.
There is no standard definition of a “tourist”, and different countries may define and count them differently. Some countries may have limited tourism infrastructure, making it difficult to accurately track and count the number of visitors.
Additionally, some countries may not report all of their tourism data, leading to undercounts and making it difficult to determine the exact 20 least traveled countries in the world.
Here are 5 reasons why it’s difficult to determine the exact 20 least traveled countries in the world:
- Lack of Data: Inaccurate information from some countries make comparison and ranking difficult.
- Fluctuating Numbers: Tourism numbers fluctuate due to various factors like natural disasters, economic factors, geopolitical instability, and travel restrictions.
- Defining Tourists: No standard definition, leading to discrepancies in data.
- Limited Infrastructure: Some countries have limited infrastructure for tracking tourists. Underreported Data: Some countries may not report all tourist data, leading to undercounts.
