Discover the World’s Least-Visited Countries
If you’re looking for a holiday free from tourist crowds and bustling streets, then you might be interested in visiting some of the world’s least-visited countries. These destinations offer unique experiences, often untouched by mass tourism, and are perfect for those seeking tranquility and adventure.
The United Nations World Population Review has ranked these countries based on the number of visitors they receive each year. Some of them have only a few thousand visitors annually, while others have seen a decline due to natural disasters or other factors. Here are five of the least-visited countries globally:
1. Kiribati: A Remote Island Nation
Kiribati is a country made up of 32 atolls and one raised coral island, located between Australia and Hawaii. It is the only country in the world that touches all four hemispheres. According to the latest data, Kiribati receives a maximum of 9,500 visitors each year.
This remote island nation is known for being the first place to celebrate the New Year due to its location. To reach Kiribati, travelers can fly from Fiji to Tarawa with Fiji Airways or from Nauru with Nauru Airlines. The journey from London to Tarawa can take up to 35 hours or longer, with return flights starting from £4,400.
2. Marshall Islands: A Tropical Paradise
With around 6,000 visitors arriving each year, the Marshall Islands consist of 29 coral atolls and five single coral islands. Known for its white sand beaches, crystal clear water, and diverse marine life, it’s an ideal destination for those seeking an under-the-radar beach vacation.
The islands also hold historical significance as a former Japanese base and a site of nuclear testing. However, getting there from the UK can be challenging, with flights costing up to £21,000 and involving nearly 60 hours of travel with layovers in places like Honolulu.
3. Niue: A Hidden Gem
Niue, located in the South Pacific, is one of the smallest nations in the world, with approximately 9,000 visitors per year. The island has a population of just 1,900 people, and the local tourism board describes it as a place where strangers wave at each other and nature remains untouched.
Niue has no traffic lights and only one petrol station, offering a peaceful and relaxed environment. Flights from Auckland to Niue operate twice a week, with the main town, Alofi, just a five-minute drive from the airport. Travelers from the UK can fly to Auckland for around £366 one way, then take a flight to Niue for £160, making the total cost around £526.
4. Micronesia: A Diverse Archipelago
Micronesia, scattered across the North Pacific Ocean, welcomes about 18,000 visitors per year according to pre-pandemic data. This region is known for its unparalleled cultural and biological diversity, including the world’s greatest coral reefs and best pelagic fisheries.
One of the highlights of Micronesia is Nan Madol, the UNESCO-listed ancient city built on a coral reef. Visitors can find flights from London to Chuuk starting at £6,170, although journeys may involve multiple stops and take up to 50 hours.
5. Montserrat: A Mountainous Caribbean Island
Montserrat, part of the Lesser Antilles chain and a British Overseas Territory, used to be a popular tourist destination. However, a volcanic eruption in 1995 devastated the island, including its capital city, Plymouth, leading to a significant population decline.
There are no direct flights to Montserrat, so travelers usually fly to Antigua and then take a ferry or flight to the island. Return trips can start from around £1,000. Interestingly, Montserrat is the only country outside of Ireland to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day as a national holiday.
