Finding exciting and up-coming destinations is one of our favourite things to do here at Back Track Adventures. There are plenty of unique places to explore opening up as we all become more interconnected. These are some of the up-and-coming destinations, according to United National World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO). Might be worth taking a trip in 2020 to explore them before the rest of the world discovers them too!
TAJIKISTAN
Tajikistan is a landlocked country tucked away among the other Five Stans in Central Asia. Since the introduction of E-Visas in recent years, tourism to Tajikistan and the other Stans has become easier, encouraging more visitors from around the world. Over 90% of the country is mountainous, creating breath-taking peaks and valleys, brightly hued lakes and rivers and lush green countryside. Its emerging tourist market means you won’t find many creature comforts. For those willing to brave the potholed roads and cold showers, you’ll be rewarded with excellent views and some of the loveliest locals in the world.
SLOVENIA
Slovenia is often overlooked for its newly popular neighbour, Croatia when planning a trip to Europe. However, Slovenia has a lot to offer on its own – not just Lake Bled! If you’re looking for authentic European towns and quirky riverside villages that aren’t overrun by tourists, Slovenia is the place for you. There are plenty of caves, mountains and lakes to keep nature-lovers occupied, and the towns are full of interesting architecture and museums for a cultural fix. Slovenia also has a growing foodie and wine scene, offering your tastebuds a gastronomic adventure they’ll never forget.
UGANDA
We’ve been a fan of Uganda for quite a while, and according to UNWTO, it appears the rest of the world are catching up! As one of two places in the world where you can see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, we certainly recommend a trip to Uganda for any wildlife lover. For those with an adventurous streak, Uganda is home to the source of the Nile and Africa’s tallest mountain range. This makes it perfect for adventure activities such as white-water rafting on the Nile. For those who want the full Africa experience, you can see the Big Five here as well.
GUYANA
If you’re looking for that Caribbean feel, but with a little more authenticity, Guyana is worth adding to your list. Georgetown, the capital, has plenty to see, do, drink and taste among crumbling colonial architecture. This country is a paradise for nature lovers. See sea-turtles nesting in the north of the country, spot jaguars and monkeys in the rainforests and follow giant anteaters in the southern savannas. As a country with a burgeoning tourism scene, it certainly won’t have the glitz and glamour of other Caribbean nations. However, if you’re happy to rough it a little bit, you can uncover this South American gem.
COMOROS ISLANDS
Once an important trading port for Arab, Persian, African and European traders from the 15th century, the Comoros Islands have been somewhat forgotten in recent decades. This gives you the chance to rediscover this tropical island paradise, with the white sandy beaches and crystal-clear blue water of the Seychelles and Mauritius, without the tourist crowds. Moroni, the capital, is probably the most tourist-friendly city, the air fragrant with frangipanis and bougainvillaeas. For trekkers, you can climb the Kathala volcano (2360m) that dominates the southern part of Grande Comore. This active volcano with its peak in the clouds is a popular 2-day trek for adventurous souls.
