Strolling along the beaches of Miami or enjoying the awesome view of the Alps in Switzerland, popular tourist spots always attract a large crowd. If your idea of a vacation is to chill in a secluded place with peaceful surroundings, then that becomes a bit challenging in those crowd-favorite popular countries. And that's why you should visit the world's least visited countries.
Visiting a popular country is fun, but scarcely visited countries have their charm. The transportation may not be smooth in these places, but more often than not they offer some unique experiences you cannot find elsewhere. Far from the eyes of the general public, these countries offer a sense of serenity and calm that's hard to come by. If you are a travel enthusiast, then you must have gone to a lot of known tourist attractions. This time choose something a bit different. Try visiting a lesser-known country with minimal foreigners' footfall. Who can tell? You may end up discovering a hidden gem.
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Tuvalu: The planet's fourth smallest nation, Tuvalu, comprises 9 islands and only has a population of 12000. An independent Island country in South Pacific, Tuvalu is one of the least visited nations in the world. Every year, only around 1600 tourists set foot here. But the sparsely populated atolls, reef islands with scenic beaches, and historically significant WWII sites offer a lot to explore and enjoy in this tiny region.
Fongafale is the main island where you can stay and rent a bike to ride around the beautiful island freely. And keep a day in your itinerary to explore all the small islets that comprise Tuvalu with a boat. The calm water is perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts. If you are lucky, you can also see sea turtles, tropical fish, and sheltering seabirds around the Funafuti Conservation Area.
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Sao Tome and Principe: It is an Island nation in Africa close to the equator and a part of an ancient volcano chain. Floating in the Gulf of Guinea, these two Islands offer a glimpse of magnificent natural wonders. Enjoy the stunning view of Praia Banana Beach from the cliff-top mirador and enjoy the golden sand along the coast which shapes the form of a banana. Also, the Cao Grande is a must see in Sao Tome. It's hardened rock formed by magma, which is the remains of an ancient volcanic eruption. And you also don't want to miss the spectacular view of the Bay of Spires from the water. These two islands are especially suitable for tourists who love jungle exploration as you can find many rainforests here.
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Kiribati: One of the island countries of the Central Pacific region, Kiribati is also one of the least visited countries in the world. Kiribati offers a lot of opportunities for adventure for people who are fond of thrills. The biggest attraction of this place is its world-class fishing, mostly centered around Kiritimati Island. Experience the rich culture of this country by exploring the various islands on ferri and interacting with the ever-friendly locals. Also, behold the battle scars this place holds in the form of various relics. The Gilbert group of islands hosts a lot of such places which were affected by World War II. Tarawa, Butaritari, and Abemama are all such places. And last but not the least, don't forget to visit the Phoenix Islands Protected Area which is the world's largest marine protected area to observe wild sea birds and a variety of fishes underwater.
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Nauru: Lying between Australia and Hawaii, Nauru is the smallest island nation in the world and also one of the nations least traveled by tourists. But this tiny island country also has a lot to offer. Explore the serene Anibare Bay full of white sandy beaches, cool ocean breeze, beautiful palm grooves, and crystal clear water perfect for swimming. Also, make time to check out the Buada Lagoon which is a very picturesque spot in Buada District. Also, you would love to visit Command Ridge, the topmost spot on the Island. Here you can see an old, rusty Japanese outpost from the time of WWII.
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Liechtenstein: Tucked away between Austria and Switzerland, Liechtenstein is a small German-speaking country. The awe-inspiring mountain ranges, Mediterranean castles, and winding country roads are the main attraction of this small nation. If you are fond of hiking and skiing, this place will be like heaven for you. There are many trails for you to explore. Also, visit the official residence of the Prince of Liechtenstein, Schloss Vaduz which is a castle out of a fairytale. Or visit the cute and tiny Postmuseum to collect stamps for your collection to take as souvenirs.
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Marshall Islands: Explore the fascinating wreckage of ships underwater in the Marshall Islands, a small island country between Hawaii and the Philippines. A cluster of islands stemming from an active volcano chain, this place has been famous as a ship graveyard since the times of WWII. Dive into the depths of the blue ocean to experience this wreckage site personally and check out black corals and coral reefs. Learn about the island's history in the Alele Museum, discover quiet and beautiful lagoons, and appreciate the culture of local people in the capital Majuro. Also, check out the Maloelap and Mili atolls to enjoy local food and traditional dancing.
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Turkmenistan: Largely covered by the Karakum Desert, Turkmenistan is a country in Central Asia. This is famous for its historical significance. There's so much to do here. Uncover the ancient silk road and the famous spots dotting the entire way. Take a hot spring bath in the underground lake of Bakharden or discover the beauty of Chuli Valley. The Valley is also ideal for climbing and hiking. Visit Anau's famous mosque to marvel at the gorgeous architecture and take a dip in the crystal clear water of the Caspian Sea for a lovely experience.
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Mali: Another from the list of the least visited countries in this landlocked country of Africa, is Mali. This place offers a lot of culturally rich tourist spots for you to explore. The elegant Grand Mosque of Djenne is a world-famous and signature monument here. Also here is the Sankore Mosque which is an important center of learning. Then discover the liveliness of Mali at the forever busy Mopti Port. It's also a very interesting activity to observe the boat building or take a boat ride in the surroundings.
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American Samoa: American Samoa, the sole US territory in the Southern Hemisphere, is a series of South Pacific islands that descend steeply to the crystal-clear ocean to the northeast of Fiji.
There are countless ways to experience the sea here, whether you're paddling a canoe around Pago Pago Harbor or fishing for tuna. Go to the American Samoa National Park and take a hike through fruit bat territory to discover the treasures buried in the thick forest canopy.
The mammals can be seen dangling from trees. The Samoan fruit bat has a wingspan of up to three feet.
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Solomon Islands: In 1942, huge combat took place against a backdrop of a paradise island in this South Pacific archipelago.
Years after the final battle, rusty tanks, amphibious vehicles, and fox holes remain in the lush jungle as a menacing reminder of that time. The history doesn't end at the water's edge, either. On their corroded metal covering, submerged seaplanes, oil tankers, and submarines are covered in coral growth. Exploring the Solomon Islands offers scuba divers and snorkelers the chance to observe marine life settling on the wreckage of a bloody conflict.