The World’s Least-visited Countries: Unknown and Rare Destinations

We’re exploring the world’s least visited countries and why you should travel to them in 2020. We’re taking a look at the features and wonders of the world’s most obscure travel destinations assessed by the United Nations World Tourism Organization. This list which focuses on the South Pacific and Oceania excludes some countries deemed a safety risk due to political troubles.

The Federated States Of Micronesia

The Federated States of Micronesia made up of 607 tiny islands. It adds up to a tiny collective landmass of around 271 square miles. If you desire you’re pretty much guaranteed your own private getaway amazingly. This remote archipelago with 30,000 annual visitors in 2016 has been home to humans for many centuries. The city-state of Nan Madol just off the shore of Pohnpei Island is a UNESCO world heritage site. With stone buildings now in ruins built between 1200 and 1500 AD.

Sao Tome And Principe

Your best opportunity may well be on the islands of Sao Tome and príncipe. This biodiversity hotspot is brimming with life with new flowers and creatures regularly discovered by scientists. Created by a massive volcanic eruption some 31 million years ago. The islands have UNESCO protection status as a key site for coral reefs, sea turtles and medicinal plants. During your visit why not try a glass of delicious catch Amba a local rum made from sugarcane perfect for the sweet tooth.

Comoros

Comoros nicknamed the perfume isles under French colonial rule. This island nation is renowned for its aromatic breezes. Thanks to the huge variety of incredible flowers and plants that bloom on its shores from jasmine to vanilla to lemongrass. The unique geography and climate of the three islands ensure that your senses will be stimulated from dawn to dusk only on Comoros. An active volcano in the morning before bathing in a nourishing salt lake by night boasting crystal-clear water and pure white beaches. This is a potential honeymoon destination with a scent of the unknown.

The Solomon Islands

Locals boast that there’s nothing quite like the Solomon smile. This hospitable island nation is a true fusion of cultures and influences. And has historically functioned as a meeting place for both positive and negative reasons. As the site of some of the most devastating naval battles of world war ii. The waters around the Solomon Islands are now populated by shipwrecks covered in coral. Perfect for historically curious scuba divers on land. There are dedicated museums offering the chance to learn more about these devastating battles. It’s a back-to-basics lifestyle on the Solomons. You can expect to travel around by dugout canoes allowing you to explore the calm blue waters for that perfect photo.

Niue

Niue is an island that is a natural haven for marine life and whale lovers in the summer months. Adventurous visitors can swim with humpback whales accompanied by trained guides if that all sounds a bit too intimate. You can always watch from land basking in the sea breeze with regular festivals and art shows throughout the year. Niue locals are keen to share Polynesian culture with the wider world. Openly embracing visitors to participate in traditional events.

The Marshall Islands

Slip-on your bathing suit and jump into the spectacular waters of the Marshall Islands. This is the place that gave its name to the bikini taking the term from its bikini at all. A US nuclear testing facility, yes some of the islands may still be radioactive. It’s one of the safest places on earth to visit with a very low crime rate. Visitors can scuba dive among shipwrecks and crack a coconut with a local. Mixing with locals is an absolute must on the islands with flights available only around once a week. You’ll have plenty of time to get to know your hosts.

Kiribati

Thinking about somewhere special for the new year. Why not celebrate the start of 2020 before anyone else on the planet by taking a trip to Kiribati. Leading the way on both international timelines and also natural beauty. Peaks above the water surrounding its islands. This low-lying Republic is another nation blessed with fabulous coral reefs as well as shipwrecked vestiges from world war ii. There’s a welcoming culture on the islands encapsulated by their national motto tomorrow is another day.

Tuvalu

There are more billionaires around the planet in 2019 than the expected number of annual visitors to Tuvalu which is around 2000. Travelers may be one of those financial heavyweights that can lend a hand to this nation. As the country is under severe threat from rising sea levels. There is plenty worth preserving in the tropical paradise. From the incredible biodiversity on both land and sea to the rich cultural heritage of the locals famous. Across the Pacific for their intricate craftwork and weaving.