15 Underrated Countries That Americans Are Missing Out On
According to data from the International Trade Administration, more than 80 million Americans traveled internationally in 2022. Yet many visit the same well-known destinations—Paris, Tokyo, or Cancun. While these are undeniably wonderful places, the world offers so much more.
Hidden gems are waiting to be explored, places brimming with culture, history, and natural beauty without the overwhelming crowds. Here are 15 underrated countries that deserve a spot on your travel bucket list.
Mongolia
Mongolia’s untouched beauty becomes visible through its boundless grassland region, which extends across a vast horizon. Those interested in complete solitude will appreciate viewing the steppe regions and desert plains that Mongolia offers as their ideal remote exploration location. Mongolia’s traditional nomadic lifestyle maintains its ancient heritage to create an exclusive attraction for visitors.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the Genghis Khan Museum or attend the Naadam Festival, a cultural celebration featuring archery, wrestling, and horse racing. Mongolia is among the least densely populated countries in the world, with only two residents per square kilometer, allowing visitors to flee into natural landscapes and historical sites.
Paraguay
Paraguay, a hidden gem in South America, blends colonial charm with vibrant culture and lush, diverse landscapes like the Gran Chaco. The country stands out for its mix of colonial history and indigenous Guarani culture, offering a rich cultural tapestry. It is also one of the few nations where Guarani is spoken alongside Spanish.
Despite being under the radar as a travel destination, Paraguay offers incredible affordability. Residing in Paraguay costs 40% less than in New York City. The three aspects of history, culture, and natural beauty create a fascinating and affordable travel experience in Paraguay.
Bhutan
In the Himalayas, Bhutan prioritizes culture and environmental preservation over mass tourism. Its “high-value, low-impact” tourism model keeps it relatively untouched, ensuring visitors experience its rugged mountains, ancient monasteries, and spiritual communities in their purest form.
Bhutan is famously known as the “Happiest Country in the world. ” It measures success through Gross National Happiness instead of GDP. To preserve its pristine environment and culture, Bhutan limits the number of visitors allowed yearly, making it a genuinely exclusive and rewarding destination.
Georgia
Georgia occupies a vital position between Europe and Asia. Its captivating scenery includes mountains, vineyards, and historic monasteries. Historians generally regard Georgia as the origin of winemaking because its wine traditions date back more than 8,000 years.
Its snow-capped Caucasus Mountains and warm hospitality make it a top pick for travelers. Lonely Planet named Georgia one of the top travel destinations in 2023, cementing its place as a must-visit country for adventure seekers and history lovers alike.
Nicaragua
Nicaragua combines volcanic landscapes with colorful colonial cities, creating a destination rich in adventure and culture. Known for its unique volcanic terrain and well-preserved Spanish architecture, it stands out as one of Central America’s most fascinating destinations.
Nicaragua has become a prime destination for surfers because its attractive beaches attract worldwide wave enthusiasts. The country offers budget-friendly expenses, listed at $20 per day for each person, which makes it ideal for economical travelers who crave excitement and charm.
Madagascar
Madagascar feels like stepping into an entirely different world. Known for its incredible biodiversity, around 90% of the species here exist nowhere else on Earth. The island’s rich ecosystems and pristine national parks make it a haven for wildlife lovers.
Visitors will encounter lemurs and iconic baobab trees, two of Madagascar’s most famous natural wonders. Its unique species diversity earns Madagascar a place among the most biodiverse locations in the world, offering an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts.
Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan is the world’s biggest country without a coastline because it combines arid steppe plains, contemporary cities, and alpine mountain ranges. The country showcases magnificent natural scenery contrasting with its hi-tech urban city, Astana.
Kazakhstan’s history combines nomadic traditions and remnants of Soviet influence, making it a cultural melting pot. Despite its size—nearly four times that of Texas—Kazakhstan has a relatively small population of less than 20 million, offering plenty of space to explore its natural and cultural wonders.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is an island nation that draws sightseers toward its traditional ruins, abundant tea plantations, and lovely seashores. This destination grants its visitors the best cultural landmarks and beach relaxation in an environment that showcases natural attractiveness and historical sites.
The country is particularly famous for its world-class teas, especially Ceylon tea, which draws tea enthusiasts from around the globe. In 2024, Sri Lanka welcomed 2,053,465 international visitors, marking a 38% increase compared to the 1,487,303 arrivals in 2023. Many of them were surfers or eco-tourists who came to enjoy its serene landscapes and vibrant wildlife.
Albania
Albania has stunning turquoise beaches that rival the beauty of southern Italy, but with fewer crowds and more affordable prices. Its pristine coastline, charming villages, and archaeological wonders make it a hidden gem in Europe.
Albanian hospitality is legendary, rooted in the “Besa” culture of honor and generosity. According to the World Bank, tourism in Albania has grown by over 70% since 2007.
São Tomé and Príncipe
For those seeking remote tranquility, São Tomé and Príncipe is a tropical paradise and one of Africa’s best-kept secrets. Its lush rainforests and untouched beaches are perfect for nature lovers.
Known as the chocolate capital of Africa due to its rich cacao production, the islands attract fewer than 30,000 visitors annually, keeping them uncrowded and pristine, according to the UNWTO.
Poland
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The country offers visitors various attractions, including Gothic buildings, medieval settlements, and cultural events. As a nation, it holds international recognition for its cultural heritage, affordable tourist attractions, and artistic traditions.
Pierogi is a traditional Polish dumpling dish that remains popular throughout the nation. CNN has even named Krakow one of Europe’s best cultural city destinations.
Colombia
Colombia is a vibrant tapestry of colorful cities like Bogotá and Medellín, lush rainforests, and inviting beaches. Its landscapes and culture bring magical realism to life. Colombia has become a favorite destination for travelers, known for producing most of the world’s emeralds and some of the finest coffee.
According to BBVA Research, Colombia experienced a surge in international tourism in 2023, welcoming a record-breaking 5.86 million non-resident visitors—a remarkable 24.3% increase compared to 2022.
Greenland
Greenland misleads visitors because it represents a frozen wonderland featuring massive tidewater glaciers and stellar viewing of the Northern Lights and distinctive Arctic creatures. Fewer than 60,000 individuals reside in this scarcely inhabited part of Earth, which makes it among the planet’s least touched territories.
Greenland’s Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see for its unparalleled natural beauty.
India’s Kumaon Region
Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, India’s Kumaon region offers a serene escape for those seeking spiritual or nature-focused retreats. With picturesque villages and breathtaking mountain vistas, Kumaon is a peaceful alternative to India’s more crowded destinations like Rajasthan or Kerala.
Its ancient temples and rich local folklore add depth to the experience.
Philippines
With its 7,641 islands, the Philippines is a dream destination for beach lovers and adventurers alike. People appreciate the Philippines’ picturesque views of islands and exceptional underwater biodiversity.
The Philippines is also home to the world’s largest pearl, the Pearl of Lao Tzu. Tourism plays a significant role in the country’s economy, contributing over 12% to its GDP annually, as reported by the Philippine Statistics Authority.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
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