7 Under-the-Radar Places You Should Travel to Now (Before They Get Popular)

Tired of the same travel lists?
Skip the crowds and discover destinations that are flying under the radar for now. These emerging travel gems offer unique experiences, untouched beauty, and authentic local culture. But hurry these won’t stay secret for long.

Here are 7 under-the-radar places to visit now before they become the next big thing in travel.

1. Albania

Why go now:
Dubbed the “next Riviera,” Albania boasts crystal-clear beaches, charming villages, and mountain towns—without the heavy tourist crowds.

What makes it special:
    •    Stunning coastline on the Albanian Riviera
    •    A fraction of the cost of Greece or Italy
    •    Welcoming locals and a rich cultural history
    •    Authentic Mediterranean vibes—without the price tag

Travel experts predict Albania will blow up in the next 5-10 years. Go before it becomes mainstream.

2. Chachapoyas, Peru

Why go now:
Home to Kuelap, a mountaintop fortress older than Machu Picchu—but with almost no crowds.

What makes it special:
    •    Newly installed gondola makes the site accessible
    •    Surrounded by cloud forests and waterfalls
    •    Ancient culture with minimal tourism
    •    Off-the-beaten-path experience in northern Peru

This is Peru like you’ve never seen it before.

3. Greenland

Why go now:
Direct flights are opening Greenland to travelers looking for remote, icy beauty without the crowds.

What makes it special:
    •    Rugged landscapes similar to Iceland but with fewer tourists
    •    Incredible glacier hikes and iceberg views
    •    Strong Inuit culture and traditions
    •    A peaceful, untouched environment

Greenland is the perfect “Iceland alternative” for travelers who want to go deeper.

4. Laos

Why go now:
A brand-new high-speed train is opening Laos up to deeper, longer travel experiences.

What makes it special:
    •    Peaceful Buddhist culture and quiet temples
    •    Rich natural beauty and ecotourism
    •    Affordable, relaxed, and slow-paced
    •    Now easier to access than ever before

Move past the 2-night stopover and explore Laos for a full week or more.

5. Wales

Why go now:
Wales offers all the charm of the UK with fewer crowds and better value.

What makes it special:
    •    Dramatic coastlines and medieval castles
    •    Culinary gems like whiskey distilleries and cheese farms
    •    Quirky experiences like sheepdog demos
    •    About 60% the cost of Scotland or Ireland

It’s the UK’s best-kept secret.

6. The Pantanal, Brazil

Why go now:
The world’s largest tropical wetland is a paradise for wildlife lovers and still relatively undiscovered.

What makes it special:
    •    The best place in the world to spot jaguars
    •    Incredible biodiversity and birdwatching
    •    Unique jungle lodges and eco-experiences
    •    A UNESCO conservation area with fewer tourists than the Amazon

Skip the Amazon crowds and head straight to the real wildlife star.

7. A Coruña, Spain

Why go now:
This coastal city in Galicia is authentic, scenic, and refreshingly untouristy.

What makes it special:
    •    UNESCO-listed Tower of Hercules
    •    Six urban beaches and dramatic Atlantic views
    •    Mild weather and relaxed seaside life
    •    Fresh seafood and a buzzing local food scene

If you love Spain but hate the crowds, this is your dream destination.

Whether you’re chasing wildlife in Brazil or sipping wine by the Albanian coast, these 7 destinations offer the magic of discovery—before everyone else gets there.

Tip: Go now while they’re still affordable, unspoiled, and authentically local.