Where to go to avoid tourists

Published on 17 déc. 2024

Where to go to avoid tourists

The world is vast, but we always wonder where to go to avoid tourists. Where to go to discover wild places, spared from mass tourism? Destinations far from the crowds are becoming increasingly rare, but they attract travelers in search of tranquility and originality. Why do these destinations not welcome many visitors? Access conditions can sometimes be complicated and expensive in certain parts of the world, the political regimes in place can also influence tourist flows, and some underdeveloped countries struggle to get tourism off the ground. Despite these factors, it is not impossible to visit unusual countries. Don’t hesitate to wander far from the crowds, we offer you a list of ideal destinations to avoid tourists.

Madagascar

Even though tourism is one of the country’s most important economic activities, the great island of Madagascar remains a privileged destination to isolate yourself from the crowds who tend to head to Mauritius or Réunion, in search of white sandy beaches.

During your tailor-made trip to Madagascar, you will discover an incredibly rich fauna and flora and a geographical location in the southeast of Africa, ideal for the climate. Set off to discover vast spaces, lemurs, waterfalls in the wild, superb paradise beaches bordered by the Indian Ocean, and the famous avenue of baobabs, gigantic trees dating back several centuries. The rather low tourist flows have also contributed to the proliferation of lush vegetation.

Lemur from Madagascar

(c) Joenomias – pixabay

Mongolia

Located between China and Russia, the homeland of Genghis Khan still attracts few travelers. Very characteristic of nomadic peoples, Mongolia is full of treasures, has a unique cultural identity, and breathtaking landscapes. Far from all-inclusive mass tourism packages, a change of scenery is guaranteed! One of the best destinations to explore new tourist practices, such as sleeping in a yurt in the heart of the steppe and venturing off the beaten path in total immersion with the locals.

A yurt in Mongolia

(c) jackmac34 – pixabay

Belize

One of the least visited countries in Central America, with tourists preferring Mexico, Guatemala, or Costa Rica. Bordered by the Caribbean Sea, scuba diving enthusiasts will undoubtedly find happiness here. The famous Belize Barrier Reef enjoys unique biodiversity and the famous Great Blue Hole looks like a postcard. In the west of the country, the jungle hides little-visited remains of Mayan temples, a true archaeological treasure.

The Great Blue Hole in Belize

(c) Globe Guide Media Inc – shutterstock.com

Bhutan

A destination prized by trekking enthusiasts, in the heart of the mountains, ideal if you are seeking peace and inspiration. The government is increasingly committed to preserving the country’s natural riches by limiting tourist flows. Entry visas are quite expensive, but the visit is worth it. Monasteries and Buddhist temples on the mountainside, a trip to Bhutan transports you into spirituality and communion with nature.

The Takshang Monastery in Bhutan

(c) jboots – pixabay

Benin

Benefiting from a warm and pleasant climate, Benin brings together many magnificent facets of Africa. The national parks are one of the country’s main attractions, the seaside resorts of Cotonou or Grand Popo are bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, and the voodoo culture brings an authentic character to the site. The infrastructure is gradually developing to offer quality tourism in the Gulf of Guinea.

A local woman with her baby in Benin

(c) 12019 – pixabay

Bolivia

Who hasn’t dreamed of discovering Lake Titicaca, the Andes, or the Uyuni salt desert one day? Located between Peru and Chile, Bolivia is full of wonders that are a must-see. There, colors and festivities await, and an unusual stay is guaranteed… The capital, La Paz, peaks at 3500 m! A tailor-made trip to Bolivia promises you a discovery, in complete freedom, of the treasures of South American culture.

The salt desert in Bolivia

(c) jerzykwpodrozy – pixabay

Moldova

Located between Romania and Ukraine, Moldova is one of the few European countries spared from tourism. You will enjoy the tranquility and the gentle way of life of these picturesque villages and wine lovers will find happiness there. The country, which has developed around wine tourism, has many vineyards and the cellars are quite renowned. A treasure of Eastern Europe.

Sunset in Moldova

(c) FrimuFilms – shutterstock.com

French Polynesia

A true haven of peace with postcard looks, the isolated location of the archipelago in the heart of the Pacific Ocean makes access rather limited and not suitable for all budgets. Authenticity is guaranteed in Polynesia: flower necklaces, outrigger canoes, raw fish, weaving, lagoons, unmissable sunsets… High-end hotels are increasingly developing on some islands to welcome honeymoon travelers. One of the most beautiful destinations for lovers, tranquility guaranteed!

Bora Bora Island in French Polynesia

(c) Julius_Silver – pixabay

Ethiopia

Here we are in the cradle of humanity, heart of the former territory of the kingdoms of Abyssinia, lands of the Queen of Sheba, place of religious pilgrimages. Ethiopia is especially characterized by its ancestral culture with its many sites listed as UNESCO World Heritage. An African country never colonized, its culture and past immerse you in pure Africa, presenting breathtaking fauna and flora… A beautiful escape!

A young local in Ethiopia

(c) fabiomondelli – pixabay

The world is vast and some destinations are still preserved from mass tourism. For lovers of tranquility, let yourself be guided by unexplored wonders, but know that you will need a certain ability to adapt to local populations, sometimes not very used to foreign tourists. Above all, don’t forget to treat the locals and natural spaces with respect, be responsible!

Now you know where to go to avoid tourists!