Marco Crisciotti Let's discover the 10 least visited countries in the world, including remote paradises and hidden treasures.
Table of contents
Dreaming of a getaway from mass tourism, where you are not obliged to fight for a quiet spot? If you are not interested in beaches full of people and long lines everywhere, then you probably would want to explore the ten least-visited countries in the world. This ranking, provided by World Population Review-an online platform offering demographic and social data-highlights the most overlooked destinations, which turn out to be the actual rarities, ideal for those who yearn for tranquility and a bit more originality. The data refers to 2022.
In an era when global tourism often reaches even the most remote corners, these destinations offer a truly valuable alternative. But what keeps tourists away? The reasons range from accessibility challenges and high travel costs to a lack of tourism infrastructure.
Here’s a look at the ten destinations that take you off the beaten path.
Angola
Angola ranks tenth with around 130,000 visits. This is a former Portuguese colony and the seventh-biggest country in Africa. Angola has renowned beaches, national parks, and the largest waterfalls on the continent, after Victoria Falls-the 344-foot-tall (105-meter) Kalandula Falls. Poor infrastructure and instability over the years have put the country off-limits from most tourists. For those who take risks and get here, though, it’s poetry itself in terms of nature.
Burkina Faso
At number nine is another African country, Burkina Faso, with about 116,000 tourists. This is a former French colony, and it has some UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Ruins of Loropéni and the W-Arly-Pendjari Complex.
Cook Islands
In eighth place are the Cook Islands, a South Pacific archipelago that welcomes just 114,000 visitors. Spanning 91 square miles (236 square kilometers), its 15 islands offer a level of privacy that even the Maldives struggle to match. Who wouldn’t love an island all to themselves?
Liechtenstein
Seventh on the list is the only European country to make the ranking—the Principality of Liechtenstein, with around 101,000 visitors. This tiny state is between Switzerland and Austria, is only 15 miles (25 kilometers) long, and home to fewer than 40,000 people. Primarily a tax haven, this state lacks an airport and covers only 62 square miles (160 square kilometers), so it’s an ideal destination for people who would love to have an experience in the Alps far from crowded slopes.
Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea ranks sixth, with 69,000 visitors. This land of contrasts features traditional villages, dense rainforests, and a deeply rooted ancient culture. However, concerns about crime and inadequate healthcare infrastructure deter many travelers.
Vanuatu
In fifth position comes another Pacific country, Vanuatu, which receives 65,000 visitors every year. Being spread over more than 80 islands, this island country is literally out of this world. Crystal-clear waters and virginal tropical forests make it almost a virgin paradise. For the avid snorkeler, it’s nothing less than a dream destination.
samoa
Fourth place goes to Samoa, another Oceanian destination, with about 51,000 visitors. A trip to Samoa means finding oneself in real Polynesia, far from resort luxury, where traditional huts and close-knit communities still maintain a form of life seemingly at a complete standstill. It’s a destination for those who want to experience the essence of Oceanic culture.
Tonga
Tonga is the third, which attracts only 22,000 tourists. Its waters are host to a spectacular natural phenomenon during the months of July to October: the passing of humpback whales. It is an unforgettable sight to see these beautiful animals leap out of the water.
Bhutan
In second place is Bhutan, a South Asian nation with around 21,000 visits. Bhutan isn’t for everyone, and the country knows it. A daily tourist tax of around $100 (€90) helps keep mass tourism at bay, preserving its culture and environment. For those who can afford it, Bhutan is a life-changing journey.
Kiribati
At the top of the list as the least-visited country in the world is Kiribati, an island nation in the Pacific officially known as the Republic of Kiribati, with only 2,000 visitors per year. This remote and little-known archipelago boasts stunning coral reefs—a true paradise for ocean lovers—and an incredibly diverse marine ecosystem.
