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8 Countries You Probably Never Knew Existed

By Wendy Davis · Last updated on January 15, 2025

As more people take to traveling, it’s becoming increasingly hard to find destinations that are off the beaten track.

Are you seeking true adventure and an opportunity to discover something new? These remote countries are the place to start!

From brochure-worthy tropical islands in the most remote corners of the Pacific to tiny African countries with heaps of wildlife. These countries few have traveled to show that there’s always more to discover.

Skip the crowds on your next adventure and discover truly remote destinations. The long flights will be worth it once you get into the wild landscapes these undiscovered countries offer.

8. Nauru

Nauru

This tiny island is in fact its own country! Found in Micronesia, it sits off the northeast coast of Australia. A tropical haven, it boasts gold-sand beaches lined with palm trees and rugged tropical coastlines.

Further inland, the island comes alive with dense vegetation surrounding the Buada Lagoon. For a spot of history, visit the Command Ridge, an old WWII Japanese outpost. It sits on a rocky outcrop at the island’s highest point.

Take a tour of the Moqua Caves with a local guide. Deep in the caves lies the underground freshwater lake Moqua Well.

The island’s official language is the Pacific Island language Nauruan. That said, they use the Australian dollar and English is widely spoken.

7. Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan has been overlooked as a travel destination, but it’s starting to get a name on the map.

Nestled between Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and China it was a former USSR member. Governed by the Soviet Union between 1936 and 1990, the country has a fascinating history.

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Whilst it’s spectacular all year round, it’s an extra magical winter destination. With thick woodlands and alpine peaks, it’s the perfect place to go on a ski holiday.

If you do decide to go in summer, enjoy the landscape on long hikes through the Ala-Kol peaks. Alternatively, go on horseback expeditions.

Another unique thing about Kyrguzstan is that it has lots of traditional festivals. Whilst many countries around the world have lost their old customs, Kyrgyzstan has kept its culture alive.

Visit for the Salburuun eagle hunting or marvel at the Manaschi storytellers. These unique individuals are in charge of keeping the tradition of telling the Manas epic alive.

Book a yurt stay while you’re there to experience the country’s traditional way of living.

6. Comoros

Comoros

Visit this remarkable archipelago nestled in the Indian Ocean between Madagascar and Mozambique.

It’s a hotspot for wildlife. Keep a look out for the Livingstone fruit bats that swoop overhead.

One of Comoros greatest appeals is the world-class diving spots. Swim amongst sea turtles in the crystal clear waters.

Ready to leave the coast? Then visit the Karthala Crater, evidence of the active volcanos that once erupted to form Comoros.

Comoros has a unique culture, a sort of melting pot of African, Arab, and French influences. Because of this, it has a few official languages. These are French, Arabic, and Comorian.

The local currency is the Comorian Franc, which you’ve likely never heard of before!

5. Tuvalu

Tuvalu

A cluster of nine coral islands, Tuvalu sits off the coast of Australia in the Pacific. It’s the second least populous country in the world.

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Additionally, it’s the fourth smallest country in terms of size, taking up just 26 square kilometers.

Take a trip with a local guide to the mystical Kawiti glow worm cave. Bright blue bursts of light erupt on the top of the cave, like a mini-galaxy.

To delve into the local history and culture of Tuvalu, take a sailboat tour to the ancient Maori rock carvings.

If you’re looking for mountains or gorges, Tuvalu isn’t it. It’s a very flat country that has beautiful stretches of tropical coastline.

Come and soak up the southern sun and relax into the slow lifestyle of this little island.

4. Kiribati

Kiribati

Made up of 33 atolls, most of which are uninhabited, Kiribati is a hidden gem in the Pacific. Parts of the island are just 2m above sea level. There’s real concern that it will soon disappear.

The main island, and capital, is Tarawa. There isn’t a whole lot to do in Kiribati apart from relaxing on the gold-sand beaches and get involved with the local culture.

Surprisingly, Kiribati has a vibrant nightlife! The locals love socialising and there’s always something going on.

You have to try their local drink, kaokioki. It’s made from coconut and tastes pretty bad – but it’s an integral part of island life.

Kiribati is definitely a one-in-a-lifetime destination you should tick off the list – and quickly.

3. Guinea-Bissau

Guinea-Bissau

Nestle between Senegal and Guinea, this country in West Africa has a lot to offer. The country has stunning wildlife and a complex history.

In the capital itself, Bissau, you can see old colonial buildings from the time when Portugal colonized Guinea-Bissau. The Old Bissau neighborhood has the best and most colorful examples.

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Next, check out the Che Guevara Square which was made in recognition of Cuba sending military forces as the country struggled for independence not long ago.

The most alluring part of Guinea-Bissau? The stunning Archipelago of Bijagos. The labyrinth of tropical islands off the shores of Guine-Bissau boasts the most spectacular white-sand beaches.

Another unmissable part about Guinea-Bissau is the wildlife. Visit Cacheu River Mangroves National Park to see hippos, monkeys, chimps, and crocodiles all in one place. The birdwatching here is also spectacular.

2. Djibouti

Djibouti

Possibly the most unknown country in Africa, Djibouti is definitely off most travelers’ itinerary. Right next to Ethiopia, it goes unnoticed by most.

Offering a stark variety of landscapes. Check out Lac Assal, a blue salt lake that few will ever see. Walk along the salty shores of the lake and admire the backdrop of rugged mountains.

Next, head to the breathtaking Lac Abbe where apocalyptic-looking limestone chimneys erupt out of the surrounding hot springs. There are even flocks of flamingos!

Spend some time in the super multicultural capital, Djibouti City. A blend of Arabic, Asian, African, and European influences coexist in this vibrant place.

Wander around Les Caisses Market for a real taste of local culture.

1. Eswatini

Eswatini

This curious little country was formerly known as Swaziland. It’s definitely a country for those who like to get outdoors. Located in Southern Africa, the country is bordered by Mozambique and South Africa.

Book a few days at the Mkhaya Game Reserve. It’s famous for the black and white rhinos that call the park home.

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If you want to encounter all of Africa’s largest and scariest animals, head to Hlane Royal National Park. There are elephants and lions lurking in the bushes!

Next, visit the tranquil Mantenga Cultural Village and Nature Reserve. Catch a glimpse of how the tribes in Eswatini used to live in traditional huts.

You can’t talk about Eswati and not mention Sibebe Rock. This stunning granite dome towers over the surrounding landscape and is the world’s second-biggest monolith.

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