Underrated Travel Destinations For 2026—Where To Avoid Overtourism

If you're looking to avoid the crowds in 2026, here are the places not suffering from overtourism and definitely in need of some travel love.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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The article highlights several underrated travel destinations that are hoping for more visitors in 2026 to avoid the crowds and overtourism that some popular destinations are experiencing. The destinations mentioned include The Gambia, Jordan, Tajikistan, Paraguay, Moldova, the Brazilian Amazon, Comporta in Portugal, North Macedonia, the Jurassic Coast in the UK, and Malta.

Why it matters

Visiting less-known regions can help divert people and resources away from places that are dangerously overburdened by tourism, while also helping to boost the economies of more socio-economically deprived countries. The article suggests that choosing where to travel in 2026 should be about balance, preserving cultural traditions, and offering richer, more personal experiences far from the crowds.

The details

The article highlights several destinations that are considered underrated travel spots for 2026 according to industry insiders. In The Gambia, visitors are encouraged to explore the Ninki Nanka trail through the mangroves rather than just the beaches. In Jordan, travelers can walk the 675 km Jordan Trail through pine forests and stay with Bedouin families. Tajikistan offers sustainable adventures through Pamir communities, while Paraguay is home to the Chaco region with its diverse wildlife. Moldova's culture and history are noted as interesting draws, though travel to the Transnistria region is not advised due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Other underrated spots include the Brazilian Amazon, the Comporta region of Portugal, North Macedonia, the Jurassic Coast in the UK, and the islands of Malta, Comino, and Gozo.

  • In January, Time Out published the five countries that really need more travelers in 2026.
  • In the same year that Uzbekistan opens its borders to Americans without a visa, its neighbor, Tajikistan, is hoping for your visit.
  • In 2025, the number of tourists welcomed to Moldova increased by 6.5% compared to 2024.

The players

Time Out

A media outlet that published a list of five countries that really need more travelers in 2026.

Afar

A media outlet that asked travel agents and tour operators worldwide which places they perceive as currently under the radar and that they think will be hugely popular over the next five years.

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The takeaway

Choosing where to travel in 2026 isn't just about ticking off bucket lists—it's about balance. Visiting places that need tourism helps communities rebuild, preserves cultural traditions, and offers richer, more personal experiences far from the crowds in underrated travel destinations.