I’ve Been to Over 50 Countries. Here’s 10 Must Visit Lesser Known Places

As an avid explorer, I always seek out the less-traveled road. While the heavy-hitting hotspots have their place, some of my most memorable adventures have been in captivating yet under-the-radar locales. Based on my offbeat explorations, here are ten fascinating destinations I highly recommend visiting in 2024 that promise to inspire the intrepid traveler.

Belize

With turquoise waters lapping at white sandy beaches framed by lush jungles, this small Central American country’s beauty takes your breath away. I was spellbound snorkeling along the intricate coral reefs of the Belize Barrier Reef, the second largest in the world. Seeing endangered sea turtles and technicolor tropical fish in shimmering schools made this a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

What Else is There to Do In Belize?

On shore, I was awestruck wandering the ancient ruins at sites like Caracol, surrounded by calling birds and monkeys. The ATM Cave also allows you to delve into fascinating Mayan history while navigating an intricate underground natural cave system. Adventure awaits in Belize!

Cape Verde

As a remote volcanic archipelago off the coast of West Africa, Cape Verde remains mysteriously absent from most travelers’ bucket lists. But with stunning beaches, rugged volcanic peaks, and infectious music, this island nation has quickly become one of my favorite destinations.

On Sal Island, I walked miles of pristine sands without encountering another soul, then feasted on the day’s catch at an oceanside restaurant where locals danced the evening away to live music.

Plus It Has Hiking

On Santo Antão, I hiked through the verdant valleys and pastel villages in the island’s interior, overwhelmed by dramatic vistas at every turn. The Cape Verdean people’s warmth and relaxed vivacity give this place its soul.

Estonia

Wandering the cobblestone lanes of Tallinn’s storybook Old Town makes you feel like you’ve stepped into medieval Europe. This is the first time I’ve encountered such a well-preserved historic capital. Dropping into candlelit cellar taverns and sampling hearty Estonian fare gave everything an otherworldly feel.

Leave the Crowds of Europe Behind

Beyond the capital, places like the mystical bogs and dense forests of Lahemaa National Park seem straight out of a fairytale. Thriving Nordic cities, Soviet relics, and off-the-grid rural villages mean Estonia offers much beyond just its exquisite capital.

Georgia, The Country

Dramatic mountain vistas meet rich history and bold flavors in this tiny Caucasus country that feels anything but small. I could have spent days in the chaotic chic streets of Tbilisi, with its eclectic architecture, cozy cafés, and vibrant nightlife. Exploring hilltop citadels like Narikala Fortress overlooking the city gave insight into Georgia’s storied past.

Take Time to Explore

A side trip to Kazbegi took me deeper into the soaring Caucasus peaks, where views stretch forever. And with culinary treasures like khachapuri cheese bread and dark amber wines made in clay vessels, Georgia tantalized all my senses.

Malawi

Often overlooked compared to its popular neighbors, Malawi gave me glimpses into untouched Africa. I was endlessly awed by the scale and beauty of Lake Malawi, where I snorkeled with colorful cichlids and watched the sun sink into the vast waters.

Lush mountains, thundering waterfalls, and boulder-strewn landscapes at spots like Mulanje Massif and Nyika National Park exemplified the country’s untamed natural splendor.

A Safari is a Must

Spotting elephants, zebras, and antelope on safari in reserves like Liwonde showed Malawi’s wildlife wonders. And the welcoming people, known as the “warm heart of Africa,” truly made me feel at home.

Oman

This Middle Eastern nation remains mysterious to many travelers but offers dramatic desert-scapes mixed with historic allure. Wandering amid the soaring dunes of Wahiba Sands, I felt miniscule surrounded by waves of burnt orange sand. Nights spent bedouin-style under a canopy of stars in the silent desert are unforgettable. Coasting down massive dunes while sandboarding and riding camels added exhilaration.

See All Its Beauty

The labyrinthine souks and towering fortress in Nizwa provide a glimpse into Oman’s storied past at the crossroads of trade routes, with verdant wadis, picturesque fishing villages, and luxury resorts as well, Oman dazzles.

Rwanda

Though this small Central African country still conjures memories of its troubled past, it has emerged as a beacon of hope, resilience, and natural beauty. Trekking through a dense jungle and coming face-to-face with a mountain gorilla family was incredibly humbling. Their human-like expressions and familial interactions left a profound impact.

Don’t Miss Their National Parks

Equally moving was exploring the hopeful energy of Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. The residents’ spirit and optimism after the country’s darkest days are inspiring. For exammple, Akagera National Park and idyllic inland lakes complete the picture of a destination defined by so much more than its history.

Senegal

From the bustling capital Dakar to remote tropical islands, this West African gem remains off most travelers and travel advisors‘ maps but has quickly become one of my favorite destinations. Strolling Dakar’s lively beaches and markets, I was struck by the creative arts scene and welcoming spirit.

Taking a ferry to Gorée Island and touring its sobering slave trade sites allowed reflection on Senegal’s role in the global African diaspora. Lazy days spent island hopping to spots like Île de N’Gor, with its wild beaches and hip fishing villages, showed Senegal’s laidback side. At the same time, national parks like Niokolo-Koba offered a look at exotic wildlife.

Sri Lanka

Few places pack such diversity into a compact country. I was entranced by Sri Lanka’s intoxicating blend of breathtaking beaches, ancient cities, and jungle wilds. Climbing the towering rock citadel of Sigiriya and surveying lush green plains below made me feel on top of the world.

Observing elephants and leopards in their natural habitat in parks like Yala renewed my appreciation for these endangered species. And experiences like learning the intricacies of tea production in the lush highland plantations connected me with the country’s rich traditions. Sri Lanka’s magic stems from its variety.

Uzbekistan

This Central Asian nation still feels undiscovered, given its wealth of history, architecture, and culture. Exploring the intricate blue-tiled palaces and mosques in storied Silk Road cities like Samarkand and Bukhara transported me to another time. I could have spent days getting lost in the maze-like bazaars.

Equally memorable was encountering Uzbek hospitality while sampling mouthwatering plov lamb pilaf and fragrant green teas in family-run cafés or while staying in local guesthouses. With desert fortresses, Soviet monuments, and expansive landscapes as well, Uzbekistan offers adventure beyond expectation.

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