Hey Lucky Bastards! Are you tired of the same old tourist traps, crowded landmarks, and over-Instagrammed spots? Thirsty for some real adventure that’ll make your friends green with envy? Buckle up, because we’re diving deep into the world’s least visited countries. These hidden gems are where true wanderlust meets the road less traveled. You won’t find these spots in your average travel brochure – they’re for the bold, the brave, and the downright daring. From the remote islands of the Pacific to the unexplored corners of Africa, we’re about to embark on a journey to the world’s most under-the-radar destinations. Let’s explore these offbeat lands, learn what makes them tick, and why they’re the last bastions of unspoiled travel. Ready to be a part of the elite club of globetrotters who’ve been there, done that? Let’s roll!

Tuvalu

Tuvalu, a Polynesian island country in the Pacific Ocean, is one of the smallest and most remote nations in the world. With around 3,700 visitors in 2019*, still more than a quarter of the local population (circa 12,000 people), its obscurity can be attributed to its isolation and limited flight options. Tuvalu is a cluster of nine islands, offering pristine and palm-tree-lined beaches, and a glimpse into a laid-back, traditional lifestyle. Its capital, Funafuti, is a tiny coral atoll, with a lagoon ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Despite its beauty, Tuvalu faces the existential threat of rising sea levels.

• Must-Visit: Fongafale islet, Funafuti Conservation Area, and traditional Polynesian dances.
• Know Before You Go: Limited medical facilities; prepare for basic accommodations. Fiji Airways is the only company to fly in and out with service being pretty inconsistent, and delays being frequent.
• Risks: Rising sea levels pose environmental threats. Actually, Tuvalu is very vulnerable to climate change and local children are taught in school that they may be the last generation to grow up on the island before it is submerged by the ocean.

Marshall Islands

The volcanic Marshall Islands, another Pacific Ocean country, received about 6,100 visitors in 2019*. Comprising over 1,000 islands, this nation is known for its rich marine life, WWII relics (they served as a Japanese base and then became a site of much nuclear testing by the U.S. military), and striking atolls. Its low visitor numbers are due to its remote location and limited accessibility. The islands have a complex cultural history, influenced by Spanish, German, Japanese, and American presences over centuries.

• Must-Visit: Bikini Atoll for diving enthusiasts, Majuro Atoll, and Alele Museum.
• Know Before You Go: Limited tourist infrastructure; be self-sufficient.
• Risks: Remote location; health care is basic. Exposed to climate change and risk of being engulfed by ocean waters.

Niue

Niue, an island country in the South Pacific Ocean, welcomed 10,200 visitors in 2019*. Known as “The Rock of Polynesia” and one of the world’s smallest nations, Niue is one of the world’s largest raised coral atolls. The island is a haven for adventurers, offering limestone caves, clear waters, and a unique blend of Polynesian culture and New Zealand influence. Its remoteness and limited accommodation options contribute to its low tourist numbers.

• Must-Visit: Huvalu Forest Conservation Area, Avaiki Cave, and snorkeling in Limu Pools.
• Know Before You Go: Cash-based economy; limited flights (one per week, in-and-out).
• Risks: Cyclone season from November to April.

Kiribati

In 2019, Kiribati, located in the central Pacific Ocean, attracted about 12,000 visitors*. It comprises 33 atolls and reef islands, boasting rich marine biodiversity. Kiribati is known for its significant WWII sites, like the Battle of Tarawa, and for being the only country in the world to touch all four hemispheres. In Kiribati is the Phoenix Island Marine Protected Area, which is the world’s largest marine protected area, ideal for snorkeling and diving activities. Surfing, fishing or just exploring are the other main attractions. The challenges of traveling here, including infrequent flights and limited tourist infrastructure, make it less visited. Kiribati offers a real escape for those seeking unspoilt natural beauty and a slower pace of life, away from the crowds of more commercial islands. The threat of climate change and rising sea levels in Kiribati adds a poignant dimension to a visit to this unique nation, potentially attracting travelers interested in witnessing its beauty before it changes radically.

• Must-Visit: Phoenix Island Marine Protected Area, WWII relics on Betio, Tabuaeran for its beauty, and traditional Kiribati dance performances.
• Know Before You Go: Prepare for very basic amenities.
• Risks: Vulnerable to climate change and rising sea levels.

Micronesia

Micronesia, with 18,000 visitors in 2019*, is a subregion of Oceania, comprising thousands of small islands in the western Pacific Ocean. It’s renowned for its palm-shaded beaches, wreck-filled dives, and ancient ruins. Despite its natural beauty, the lack of direct flights and minimal international awareness keep tourist numbers low. The nightlife in the more urban areas of Micronesia is supposed to be one of the most vibrant of the Pacific islands.

• Must-Visit: Nan Madol ruins, Chuuk for wreck diving, and Kosrae’s lush landscapes.
• Know Before You Go: Transport between islands can be challenging.
• Risks: Limited medical facilities; natural hazards like typhoons.

Montserrat

Montserrat, a mountainous Caribbean island, had 19,300 visitors in 2019*. Known as the “Emerald Isle of the Caribbean” for its resemblance to coastal Ireland and for its Irish ancestry of many of its inhabitants, Montserrat offers lush greenery, volcanic springs, and a unique blend of African, Irish, and British culture. The devastating volcanic eruptions in the 1990s deeply impacted its tourism, with a large portion of the island being devastated and 2/3 of the local population emigrating to other countries.

• Must-Visit: Soufrière Hills Volcano, Montserrat Volcano Observatory, and Rendezvous Bay.
• Know Before You Go: Part of the island is an exclusion zone due to volcanic activity.
• Risks: Volcanic activity; only accessible by air or sea.

Solomon Islands

The Solomon Islands, an archipelago in the South Pacific, received 29,000 visitors in 2019*. Known for its WWII history, vibrant Melanesian culture, and superb diving spots, the islands remain off the beaten path due to limited direct flights and marketing.

• Must-Visit: Guadalcanal’s WWII sites, diving in Munda, and the Marovo Lagoon.
• Know Before You Go: Basic tourist infrastructure; respect local customs.
• Risks: Malaria is prevalent; political instability.

Sao Tome and Principe

Sao Tome and Principe, an African island nation close to the equator, saw 34,900 visitors in 2019*. Famous for its cocoa production, the country offers lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and Portuguese colonial architecture. Its obscurity is partly due to its remote location and the absence of mass tourism.

• Must-Visit: Obo National Park, Sao Tome’s colonial architecture, and Principe’s beaches.
• Know Before You Go: Portuguese is the main language; limited healthcare facilities.
• Risks: Travel between islands can be irregular.

Comoros

The Comoros, an archipelago off the eastern coast of Africa, had 45,000 visitors in 2019*. Known for its volcanic scenery, rainforests, and fragrant plantations of cloves and vanilla, Comoros struggles with political instability and lack of promotion, influencing its tourism.

• Must-Visit: Mount Karthala volcano, Mohéli Marine Park, and Moroni’s old medina.
• Know Before You Go: French and Comorian Arabic are widely spoken.
• Risks: Political instability; risk of volcanic eruptions.

Guinea-Bissau

Guinea-Bissau in West Africa, with 52,000 visitors in 2019*, is known for its diverse culture and wildlife. The Bijagós archipelago, with its sacred forests and traditional villages, is a highlight. However, the lack of infrastructure and political unrest are deterrents for tourists.

• Must-Visit: Bijagós Archipelago, Bissau’s Porto Pidjiguiti, and Dulombi-Boé National Park.
• Know Before You Go: Portuguese language; limited tourist infrastructure.
• Risks: Political instability; health care is very basic.

Yemen

Yemen, on the southern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, is known for its ancient history, stunning landscapes, and rich culture. The country’s historical sites, like the Old City of Sana’a and the island of Socotra, are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. However, ongoing conflict and political instability have severely impacted tourism.

• Must-Visit: Socotra Island, Old City of Sana’a, and Shibam’s mud-brick skyscrapers.
• Know Before You Go: Travel is currently not recommended due to conflict.
• Risks: Significant security concerns; active conflict zones.

Somalia

Somalia, located in the Horn of Africa, has a coastline along the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean. Known for its rich history and cultural heritage, including ancient rock art, Somalia has been beleaguered by political instability and security concerns, which have hampered tourism.

• Must-Visit: Laas Geel cave paintings, Berbera beaches, and Mogadishu’s markets.
• Know Before You Go: Travel is generally not recommended due to security issues.
• Risks: High risk of terrorism, piracy, and kidnapping.

Equatorial Guinea

Equatorial Guinea, located on the west coast of Central Africa, consists of a mainland and five inhabited islands. It’s known for its diverse culture and biodiversity. Despite its oil wealth, tourism is minimal due to restrictive visa policies and underdeveloped tourism infrastructure.

• Must-Visit: Malabo’s Spanish colonial architecture, Moca Valley, and Monte Alen National Park.
• Know Before You Go: Spanish is official; oil-rich but with limited tourism development.
• Risks: Strict visa requirements; occasional political tensions.

Nauru

Nauru, the world’s third smallest country, located in Micronesia in the South Pacific, is known for its phosphate mining history. It lacks tourist facilities and is hard to reach, contributing to its low visitor numbers. Its attractions include pristine beaches and its intriguing history. Nauru is considered by some as the least visited country in the world, with barely more than 100 visitors per year, although no official figures exist.

• Must-Visit: Anibare Bay, Command Ridge, and Buada Lagoon.
• Know Before You Go: Very limited accommodation; one flight connection.
• Risks: Economic dependence on phosphate mining; environmental issues.

South Sudan

South Sudan, the world’s newest country, has vast and diverse landscapes, but is afflicted by instability and lacks tourism infrastructure. The country’s natural beauty and wildlife have potential, but ongoing political and social challenges deter visitors.

• Must-Visit: Boma National Park, Nimule National Park, and the White Nile.
• Know Before You Go: Travel is generally not recommended due to instability.
• Risks: Ongoing civil unrest; underdeveloped infrastructure.

Libya

Libya, with its Mediterranean coastline and rich history, houses ancient Greek and Roman ruins, like Leptis Magna. However, political instability and safety concerns following the 2011 revolution have drastically reduced tourism.

• Must-Visit: Leptis Magna, Cyrene, and the Sahara Desert.
• Know Before You Go: Current travel advisories warn against visiting due to conflict.
• Risks: Political instability; threat of terrorism and kidnapping.

Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan in Central Asia is known for its unique culture, the Karakum Desert, and historical sites along the Silk Road. However, strict visa requirements and government regulations make it one of the least visited countries.

• Must-Visit: Darvaza Gas Crater, Ancient Merv, and Ashgabat’s white marble buildings.
• Know Before You Go: Visa process can be challenging; guided tour often required.
• Risks: Authoritarian government; restricted freedom of movement for tourists.

Each of these countries, despite their beauty and unique cultural offerings, remain less traveled due to a combination of geopolitical issues, remote locations, and limited tourism infrastructure. They represent uncharted territories for the most adventurous travelers, offering authentic and untouched experiences.

Alright, you adventurous souls, that’s a wrap on our epic journey through the world’s least visited countries. These spots aren’t just destinations; they’re badges of honor for any true Lucky Bastard. They offer more than just a passport stamp – they promise unique stories, unmatched experiences, and the kind of travel street cred that can’t be bought. Sure, they come with their challenges, but hey, that’s part of the thrill, right? Whether it’s exploring the untouched beauty of Tuvalu, navigating the complexities of Yemen, or experiencing the raw culture of Guinea-Bissau, each of these countries has its own tale to tell. Remember, it’s not just about the destination; it’s about the journey, the adventure, and the bragging rights. So, pack your bags, embrace the unknown, and get ready to tell some epic stories. Keep wandering, keep exploring, and most importantly, keep being the Lucky Bastards that you are!

Have you visited some of those countries/territories yet? If so, any wild or interesting experience you want to share? Don’t wait any longer and share your story with the community!*Statistics were reported by the United Nations World Tourism Organization and are based on the number of visitors in 2019, which was considered more representative of a typical year compared to 2020 due to the global COVID-19 shutdown