When seeking recommendations for traveling to a new destination, almost everyone has the same few names to mention. Avid travelers who are always seeking new adventures and places to explore might not be too excited with those recommendations. For them, it is the thrill of underrated destinations that gets their adrenaline rushing. Plus, visiting new, underrated countries also gives a great opportunity to learn about new cultures and see new landscapes.
Kyrgyzstan
Located in Central Asia, the country of Kyrgyzstan is not as explored as it deserves to be. It is home to the magnificent Tien Shan mountains, which are a treat to the eyes of individuals who admire lofty, snow-capped peaks. Not only that, but one can even trek the mountains, which will give them an opportunity to explore the nomadic yurt villages and horse herds present within the range. One can also relax by the serene, blue waters of the Issyk-Kul lake, which is surrounded by those mountains.
Nicaragua
A country in Central America, Nicaragua is a great tourist destination for those who are enthusiastic about history. To satiate their historical fascination, travelers can explore the cities of Granada and Leon to marvel at the colonial architecture. Besides history buffs, Nicaragua is also a paradise for individuals who love the ocean since it is situated on the Pacific Coast. The country is also home to beautiful, lush green rainforests and Ometepe Island, which is formed by a pair of volcanoes – Concepción and Maderas. Interestingly, Nicaragua also houses an active volcano called Cerro Negro, where one can go volcano boarding on the gravely slopes (because snowboarding is too overrated and not as cool as boarding down an active volcano!)
Chile
Despite being home to a variety of landscapes such as a desert (the Atacama), a coastline (the Pacific), volcanoes, lakes, and glaciers, Chile remains an underrated tourist destination. Along with exploring these landscapes, one can also embark on the W Trek in the Torres del Paine National Park. It is quite an enduring trek that can take around five days to complete, making it a perfect vacation for adventure seekers. Hikers and individuals who love Yosemite should also add Chile’s Cochamó Valley to their itinerary. It is a U-shaped valley in the Andes that houses granite mountains and waterfalls, perfect for a beautiful hiking terrain.
Vietnam
Those who are looking for an underrated exotic location can consider Vietnam for their next vacation instead of the popular choices like Thailand and Barbados. Vietnam is quite a serene and tranquil destination that is home to several water bodies, such as bays and lakes. Among those, the Halong Bay is one of the most admired water bodies, especially for activities such as cruising and kayaking. History buffs will also love the country, as they can get a chance to explore the Imperial City of Hue, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city was built in 1803 by Emperor Gia Long, the founder of the Nguyen Dynasty. Along with this, one can also visit the centuries-old My Son Sanctuary, which houses several ancient temples and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Mongolia
Like Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia is also known for being native to the nomadic yurt dwellers. In fact, those who have been to this East Asian country, especially recommend that visitors spend a couple of days living with a nomadic family. Further, those who are particularly interested in viewing the Milky Way, must consider spending a night in the Gobi Desert to marvel at the beautiful night sky. Along with these, the capital city of Ulaanbaatar and the Gorkhi Terelj National Park are also locations worth visiting in Mongolia.
Zimbabwe
Home to one of the largest waterfalls in the world—the Victoria Falls—Zimbabwe is an underrated tourist attraction that is worth visiting. The country also houses the beautiful Hwange National Park and the hill ranges of Bvumba, Nyanga, and Chimanimani. Besides Victoria Falls, one can also explore Mutarazi Falls to indulge in various adventurous experiences, including zip lining and skywalking. Plus, hikers visiting Zimbabwe must also make a note to visit Mount Nyangani, which is the country’s highest peak.
Uruguay
A country in the South American continent that is quite underrated as a tourist destination but worth exploring is Uruguay. It is an absolute paradise for individuals who love the coast, but is often overshadowed as a tourist destination by its neighbors, Argentina and Brazil. When in Uruguay, one must especially visit the beach resort town of Punta del Este and surf on the waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Uruguay is also home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site—Colonia del Sacramento—making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Along with its colonial architecture, the interesting thing about Colonia del Sacramento is its strategic location, which is at the tip of a peninsula. The place also features cobblestoned streets of the historical Barrio Historico. Even the capital city of Uruguay, Montevideo, features several historical sites and also offers one the chance to explore its thriving market.
Montenegro
Located in Southeastern Europe, Montenegro is a country on the Balkan Peninsula. Among other things, Montenegro is especially worth visiting for its medieval towns and villages situated alongside the Adriatic Sea. Travelers who are enthusiastic about natural landscapes and looking for adventures must visit the Durmitor National Park. It houses several peaks, glacial lakes, rivers, and canyons, among other things. Montenegro also features a UNESCO World Heritage Site called Kotor.