With over-tourism on the mind, Brits are seeking out less crowded and more affordable alternatives to popular tourist hotspots.
Wild Frontiers, a leading adventure tour operator, has unveiled their top trending travel destinations for 2025. The list features 10 lesser-known locations that the travel experts predict will see a surge in popularity in the new year.
These include countries ranging from Kyrgyzstan and Armenia to Bosnia and Herzegovina and Nepal. From stunning mountain vistas to a hidden gem in West Africa, these are the top trending destinations to keep an eye on for 2025.
Off-the-beaten track holiday destinations
Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan, often overlooked due to its more popular neighbours on the Silk Road, is predicted to be Central Asia’s top hidden gem for 2025. It’s an ideal destination for adventurous travellers, with its breathtaking mountain scenery making it perfect for exploration and walking.
Wild Frontiers has seen a 55 percent increase in bookings for Kyrgyzstan compared to this time last year. Additionally, worldwide Google searches for ‘holidays to Kyrgyzstan’ have risen by 21 percent in the last quarter, reports the Express.
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina, a less crowded alternative to Dubrovnik in Croatia, is being hailed as the rising star of The Balkans for 2025. In 2023, the country welcomed 1.7 million tourists with visa-free travel, marking a 17.3 percent increase from the previous year, significantly boosting the local economy.
Wild Frontiers has reported a 70 percent surge in bookings for The Balkans since last year. This region offers a unique blend of cultures, historical significance, and stunning landscapes, including the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Stari Most bridge in Mostar, and the untouched beauty of the Dinaric Alps, catering to all types of travellers.
Armenia
Armenia is emerging as a must-visit destination with a rich cultural tapestry and awe-inspiring landscapes. Neighbouring Georgia has been incredibly popular over the last few years, but now Armenia is on the rise.
In 2025, it’s expected to be one of the fastest-growing spots for cultural tourism, with Wild Frontiers revealing bookings for Armenia are already up by 20 percent. Travellers can fully immerse themselves in its ancient Christian heritage, marvel at sacred monasteries, and trek through dramatic mountain scenery.
Nepal
Nepal is predicted to be a highlight of 2025 for travellers looking to explore both natural beauty and rich cultural history. Wild Frontiers said they have seen a 55 percent increase in bookings compared to last year, making this destination perfect for those seeking sustainable tourism and immersive experiences in local communities.
Ghana
With new direct daily flights to Accra with Virgin launching in May 2025, Ghana is poised to welcome more international visitors.
Ghana, a nation rich in culture, offers unforgettable experiences with plenty of opportunities to interact with locals, learn about the transatlantic slave history at Cape Coast Castle, meet a chief in Elmina or witness the Ashanti monarchy during the Akwasidae Festival in Kumasi. Ghana is ready to shine as a vibrant and welcoming destination, offering tours that deeply connect visitors to the local culture.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has seen a significant surge in interest, with bookings through Wild Frontiers quadrupling compared to 2023. The country’s decision to go visa-free in October 2024 for key markets such as the UK, US, Canada and Australia is expected to further boost visitor numbers in 2025.
Known for its lush tea fields, abundant wildlife, and cultural treasures, Sri Lanka is now a top choice for those seeking a culturally rich and unique destination in 2025. Here are the trending destinations for 2025:.