As tourism continues to break records worldwide in 2023, with popular destinations like Italy, Spain, and France swamped by visitors, have you ever wondered which countries attract the fewest tourists? While the allure of well-known destinations is clear, some countries remain largely untouched by the typical tourist crowds. A globe-trotter who traveled extensively between 2007 and 2017 has shared a fascinating list of the least visited countries in the world, revealing hidden corners of the globe that are far from the usual travel itineraries.
The Top Least Visited Countries: Surprising and Isolated
According to this adventurer’s unique experience, the world’s least-visited destinations can be grouped into four distinct categories: isolated Pacific islands, war zones, small African nations with limited access, and heavily controlled states like North Korea and Turkmenistan. The following are some of the most surprising names on this list, based on actual statistics and firsthand experiences from a seasoned traveler.
1. Somalia: The World’s Most Dangerous Country
Often labeled as the most dangerous country in the world, Somalia sees very few visitors—sometimes fewer than 100 per year. The traveler highlights a key distinction that many overlook: the northern region, Somaliland, is a self-declared state with its own government and currency. Despite its proximity to Somalia, Somaliland remains relatively peaceful, and it’s where many travelers go without realizing they aren’t technically entering Somalia. Somalia itself, however, remains a dangerous destination, with the real risk of violence deterring tourists.
2. Yemen: Fewer Than 500 Visitors Annually
The ongoing civil war in Yemen has left the country in ruins, making it nearly inaccessible. Once a tourist hotspot due to its rich history and ancient architecture, Yemen is now on the brink of collapse. The traveler recounts how reaching Yemen requires complicated routes, often via Cairo or Abu Dhabi, and securing a visa is nearly impossible. Yet, the traveler does recommend a visit to Socotra Island, a safer, relatively untouched paradise.
3. Equatorial Guinea: Less Than 1,000 Visitors Per Year
Despite its paradisiacal beauty, Equatorial Guinea is one of the least-visited nations on the planet. With spectacular waterfalls and lush landscapes, it’s a hidden gem for those who can manage to get a visa—no easy feat. This island nation on the west coast of Africa is often overlooked by tourists, but those who make the effort find it offers a unique and rewarding experience.
4. Tuvalu: Only 2,000 Visitors Annually
Tuvalu is the world’s fourth smallest country, with a total area of just 26 square kilometers and a population of around 11,000 people. The island offers little in terms of tourist activities—mainly walking, sunbathing, and sipping cocktails by the beach. Reaching Tuvalu isn’t easy, as it requires flying through Fiji before taking another flight to the island. Despite its small size, the serene beauty of Tuvalu makes it a perfect escape for those looking for solitude.
5. Kiribati: Around 4,000 Visitors Per Year
Similar to Tuvalu, Kiribati boasts breathtaking scenery, yet suffers from significant poverty. For most visitors, the island’s appeal lies in its isolation and natural beauty. However, getting there is expensive, requiring flights through Fiji or Australia, and limited transport options on the island make it a challenging destination. Despite these challenges, Kiribati remains a peaceful retreat for those seeking an authentic escape.
6. South Sudan: Roughly 5,500 Visitors Annually
The world’s newest nation, South Sudan, continues to face political instability and daily challenges. The traveler notes that the country remains one of the most dangerous places to visit, with regular riots and curfews. In addition, taking photographs is illegal, making it nearly impossible to document the experience. For the brave few who venture there, South Sudan offers a unique, though risky, experience.
7. Marshall Islands: About 6,000 Visitors Per Year
Tucked away in the vastness of the Pacific Ocean, the Marshall Islands sees fewer than 6,000 tourists each year. While the islands offer a laid-back beach vacation, the traveler admits that the lack of infrastructure means getting around can be difficult. Visitors to the Marshall Islands are often adventurers seeking to visit every country in the world, making this destination more about personal achievement than sightseeing.
8. Libya: Around 6,000 Visitors Annually
Libya’s volatile political landscape makes it one of the most challenging destinations for travelers. Despite its historical significance as part of the Roman Empire and its wealth of ancient ruins, securing a visa to visit Libya is nearly impossible. Those who manage to enter often have to come through Tunisia, Turkey, or Egypt, and their experience is marked by uncertainty and the constant presence of conflict.
9. São Tomé and Príncipe: Approximately 8,000 Visitors Per Year
This tropical archipelago off the coast of Central Africa remains under the radar for most travelers. Despite its beauty, which includes lush forests and quiet beaches, São Tomé and Príncipe struggle to attract visitors due to its relative inaccessibility and limited travel infrastructure. However, for those who make the journey, the country is a true paradise, offering an off-the-beaten-path experience that is both peaceful and rewarding.
10. Turkmenistan: Fewer Than 9,000 Visitors Annually
Located between Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Afghanistan, Turkmenistan is a vast, sparsely populated country rich in cultural heritage. Yet, it is known for its restrictive policies and the difficulty of obtaining a visa. The traveler recounts having to face two visa rejections before finally managing to gain entry, highlighting the country’s challenging bureaucracy. Despite the hurdles, those who do visit can expect a truly unique adventure in a country few have experienced.
These lesser-known countries show that while tourism may be thriving in major destinations, many parts of the world remain surprisingly untouched by the masses. Whether due to political instability, remote locations, or lack of infrastructure, these destinations offer a different kind of travel experience—one that requires determination, patience, and a sense of adventure. For those looking to explore the road less traveled, these nations provide a glimpse into a world that remains largely hidden from the conventional tourist trail.
