Off the Beaten Path: 5 Underrated Destinations Worth Exploring in 2023
Off the Beaten Path: 5 Underrated Destinations Worth Exploring in 2023 - Nepal's Mustang Valley - Trek this mystical region before the roads come
Nestled between the Himalayas and the Tibetan Plateau lies Nepal's mysterious Mustang Valley. This remote region feels worlds away from the bustle of Kathmandu, with its red cliffs, golden Buddhist monasteries, and timeworn villages dotting the arid landscape. For years, Mustang was off-limits to foreigners, adding an air of allure to this mythical valley. While the area opened to tourism in the 1990s, its remote location has kept visitor numbers low. However, new road construction threatens to make Mustang more accessible – and potentially less authentic.
Adventurous travelers yearning to explore Mustang before the roads come should join a multi-day trek. Not only does hiking allow you to fully immerse yourself in the scenery, but it also takes you beyond the main tourist hotspots into truly remote villages. The classic Mustang trek follows an ancient trail that once connected Tibet and Nepal. Along the way, you'll spend nights in simple teahouses and encounter everything from red-walled monasteries clinging to cliffs to crumbling hillside caves used by meditating monks. Donkeys loaded with supplies are a common sight, as are local women dressed in vibrant clothing woven from homegrown wool.
One highlight of trekking through Mustang is exploring long-abandoned villages like Tsarang. Ramble through Tsarang's narrow alleys to see traditional whitewashed houses before climbing to its 15th-century Buddhist monastery. Or stop for a cup of tea in Ghami, where the teahouse balconies offer epic Himalayan views. Many trekkers also enjoy detouring up Tange valley, home to ancient Buddhist cave paintings reminiscent of those found in Ajanta, India.
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- Off the Beaten Path: 5 Underrated Destinations Worth Exploring in 2023 - Nepal's Mustang Valley - Trek this mystical region before the roads come
- Off the Beaten Path: 5 Underrated Destinations Worth Exploring in 2023 - Uganda's Kidepo Valley - Africa's most underrated safari experience
- Off the Beaten Path: 5 Underrated Destinations Worth Exploring in 2023 - Taiwan's East Coast - Swim hidden beaches and eat night market delights
- Off the Beaten Path: 5 Underrated Destinations Worth Exploring in 2023 - Slovenia's Julian Alps - Alpine beauty without the crowds
- Off the Beaten Path: 5 Underrated Destinations Worth Exploring in 2023 - Azores Islands, Portugal - Volcanic Atlantic outposts beckoning adventure
- Off the Beaten Path: 5 Underrated Destinations Worth Exploring in 2023 - Myanmar's Mergui Archipelago - Asia's last unspoiled paradise
- Off the Beaten Path: 5 Underrated Destinations Worth Exploring in 2023 - Colombia's Lost City Trek - Jungle trek to ancient ruins without Machu Picchu prices
- Off the Beaten Path: 5 Underrated Destinations Worth Exploring in 2023 - Bangladesh's Sundarbans - Cruise the mangroves home to tigers and crocs
Off the Beaten Path: 5 Underrated Destinations Worth Exploring in 2023 - Uganda's Kidepo Valley - Africa's most underrated safari experience
Far from the crowded savannas of Kenya and Tanzania lies one of Africa’s best kept safari secrets – Uganda’s remote Kidepo Valley. Located in the country’s rugged northeast corner bordering South Sudan and Kenya, the Kidepo Valley is home to remarkable biodiversity amid stunning scenery. Rugged mountains cloaked in green rise from the valley floor, while the rolling savanna stretches as far as the eye can see.
Yet despite its incredible wildlife and landscapes, Kidepo remains off the radar for most safari-goers. In all my years journeying across Africa, I’ve never encountered another vehicle on a Kidepo game drive. The few lodges dotting the valley feel wonderfully intimate, with just a handful of cottages or tents. Wildlife sightings feel thrillingly exclusive.
During my last visit, our guide Moses excitedly stopped the jeep to point out two lionesses napping under an acacia tree – the first lions spotted in the valley for weeks. We were also fortunate to encounter the park’s famous cheetah coalition, five brothers who hunt together. Tracking these sleek felines across the golden grasses as the sun set was a memory I’ll forever cherish.
Kidepo shines for more than just its cats. Huge herds of zebra, buffalo and antelope gather near the Narus River, while Rothschild’s giraffes munch on acacia trees. Keep an eye out for the elusive, striped hyena as well as elephants and hippos. Birds are also abundant, from ostriches to vultures to colorful bee-eaters.
For the best wildlife viewing, stay at the intimate Apoka Safari Lodge. While pricey, the quality and hospitality justify the rates. Guests stay in spacious thatched cottages overlooking the savanna and enjoy delicious multi-course meals. Expert guides lead game drives and nature walks tailored to guests’ interests. At the end of an exhilarating day, I adored unwinding by the fire pit before drifting off to sleep to the sounds of whooping hyenas.
Off the Beaten Path: 5 Underrated Destinations Worth Exploring in 2023 - Taiwan's East Coast - Swim hidden beaches and eat night market delights
Far from Taipei's bustling streets lies Taiwan's rugged and laidback east coast, a stretch of pristine beaches, seaside villages, and soaring coastal mountains that feels worlds away from the capital city's frenetic energy. While west coast destinations like Sun Moon Lake get most of the hype, Taiwan's east coast hides boundless opportunities for off-the-radar adventure, from swimming hidden coves to island hopping offshore islands to feasting at sizzling night markets.
One delight of roadtripping down Taiwan's east coast is stumbling upon secluded beaches and swimming holes nestled between rocky headlands. In the old fishing village of Shitiping, clamber over a headland strewn with driftwood to access a sandy cove sheltered by rocky cliffs. Or for a beach backed by lush jungle, check out Antong Hot Springs near Guanshan, where a short hike through the forest leads to a perfect crescent of sand. Near the black sand beach of Wai'ao, thrilling rope-assisted access points let you cliff jump into the sea below.
An offshore jaunt to Green Island or Orchid Island offers opportunities to snorkel among tropical fish and relax on white sand beaches, while hikers can ascend coastal trails threading through thick jungle dotted with tropical birds. On the mainland, Kenting National Park's windswept capes and undulating coastal forests satisfy nature lovers.
Just as appealing as the beaches are the festive, chaotic night markets sizzling along the east coast's small towns. Don't miss the buzzing Donghe Night Market near Taitung, where vendors sling bubble tea, skewers of squid and stinky tofu, and addictive fried mochi. Near Hualien, head to Minsheng Night Market for oyster omelets, curried fish balls, and trendy Taiwan craft beer and coffee. Going from stall to stall sampling different snacks encapsulates the quintessential Taiwan night market experience.
Off the Beaten Path: 5 Underrated Destinations Worth Exploring in 2023 - Slovenia's Julian Alps - Alpine beauty without the crowds
With rugged snowcapped peaks, icy blue lakes, and quaint villages dotted with chalets, Slovenia’s Julian Alps deliver all the Alpine splendor of Switzerland and Austria—without the crowds or prices. Tucked into Slovenia’s northwest corner bordering Italy and Austria, the Julian Alps remain surprisingly under-the-radar. During my visit in July, even at Lake Bled’s famous island church, I only shared the scene with a handful of fellow travelers. Solitude reigned supreme on hikes through remote, glacier-carved valleys.
For stunning high-altitude scenery reminiscent of the Swiss Alps, the Triglav National Park delivers. Slovenia’s sole national park shields the country’s highest peak, the 9,396-foot Mt. Triglav. While climbing Triglav itself requires proper gear and experience, marveling at its sheer cliffs and snowy summit from below costs nothing. At crystal-clear Lake Bohinj, an easy lakeshore path treats hikers to reflections of the saw-toothed Triglav massif. Or for breathtaking views of Triglav and the surrounding high peaks, ride the cable car up to the Vogel ski area.
Hiking options abound for all abilities. Family-friendly walks near Lake Bled lead through meadows dotted with wildflowers and traditional farmsteads with hayracks. More strenuous treks climb into the clouds in the heart of Triglav National Park. One favorite is the hike to the Savica waterfall, Slovenia’s tallest cascade. The trail switchbacks through pine forest before reaching an idyllic mountain hut, where you can reward yourself with strudel.
Off the Beaten Path: 5 Underrated Destinations Worth Exploring in 2023 - Azores Islands, Portugal - Volcanic Atlantic outposts beckoning adventure
With rugged volcanic peaks, hot springs, and picturesque villages, the Azores Islands off the coast of Portugal remain a delightfully untouristy Atlantic outpost awaiting exploration. Part of Portugal but closer to North America, these nine lava-formed islands sit marooned in the middle of the Atlantic, hundreds of miles from the mainland. Their remoteness has kept the Azores pristine and crowd-free, offering active travelers the chance to hike volcanoes, soak in natural thermal baths, spot whales and dolphins, or simply unwind in charming villages serving fresh seafood and local wine.
When visiting the Azores, prepare to be awestruck by the spectacular volcanic scenery reminiscent of Hawaii. On São Miguel, lace up your hiking boots to traverse the rim of Sete Cidades, an eight-mile volcanic crater containing twin cobalt blue lakes. The panoramic views of this natural amphitheater perched between lush peaks will live on in your memories forever. Nearby, treat your tired muscles to a soak in the island’s steamy natural hot springs tucked into the hillsides. On Terceira, follow a network of trails snaking through old lava flows while keeping an eye out for Azorean bullfinches and perhaps even the elusive Azores bat. Nothing beats inhaling the crisp ocean air while hiking these wild and pristine islands.
Yet there is more to the Azores than just volcanic peaks. Whale and dolphin watching tours allow you to spot sperm whales and Atlantic spotted dolphins in their natural habitat, while swimming, snorkeling, and diving among colorful reef fish or even shipwrecks gets you closer to the sea. Slow the pace down in the fishing villages dotting the coast, where you can dig into freshly caught seafood, from barnacle-encrusted limpets to octopus rice to the Azores’ famed fish stew. Don’t miss authentic Portuguese custard tarts – a legacy of the Azores' history as a stopover for ships sailing between Portugal and Brazil. With their rich egg custard in a crisp pastry shell, these tarts encapsulate the islands' unique fusion of European and Atlantic influences.
Off the Beaten Path: 5 Underrated Destinations Worth Exploring in 2023 - Myanmar's Mergui Archipelago - Asia's last unspoiled paradise
With over 800 mostly uninhabited islands scattered across the Andaman Sea, Myanmar's remote Mergui Archipelago remains one of Asia's last unspoiled paradises. Long off-limits to foreign visitors due to the country's isolationist policies, the lifting of restrictions in 1997 opened the door for travelers to explore this pristine island chain. Yet even today, the challenging logistics of reaching the Mergui Archipelago limit visitors to just a trickle. For intrepid travelers seeking deserted beaches, world-class diving, and encounters with the rare Moken "Sea Gypsy" people, the efforts to reach the Mergui Archipelago prove well worthwhile.
One major draw is the archipelago's spectacular beaches, rivaling those of the Maldives or Seychelles but without the crowds or development. On islands like Lampi, 7 miles of powdery white sand fringed by coconut palms and backed by jungle remain blissfully deserted. Meanwhile, the pace of life on 800-person Bo Cho Island hasn't changed for centuries. Wander the quiet streets before claiming your own swath of private beach. Both offer a beachcomber's paradise.
Under the turquoise waters, some of the world's most pristine coral reefs teem with marine life. Schools of barracuda, manta rays, whale sharks, and sea turtles thrive in the archipelago thanks to limited fishing. Advanced divers can explore submerged pinnacles swirling with reef sharks or mysterious underwater caves. Wrecks like the steel-hulled WW2 merchant vessel Myanmar provide incredible wreck diving. Above water, sea kayaking through the labyrinth of mangrove-cloaked channels on 115-island Lampi remains an adventure.
Intriguing cultural encounters await with the Moken, a nomadic seafaring people of Malay descent who've inhabited the islands for centuries. Learn about their unique swim-based lifestyle during village visits on Bo Cho Island, where Moken families live in stilted wooden homes above the tide line. Fascinating museums on Bo Cho showcase Moken history and culture through photographs, tools, and even full-sized traditional sailboats. For some travelers, connecting with the Moken represents the highlight of their Mergui Archipelago visit.
Off the Beaten Path: 5 Underrated Destinations Worth Exploring in 2023 - Colombia's Lost City Trek - Jungle trek to ancient ruins without Machu Picchu prices
Far from the more famous Inca ruins of Machu Picchu lies an equally fascinating ancient site hidden in Colombia’s Sierra Nevada mountains—Ciudad Perdida, or the Lost City. While once shrouded in mystery due to its remoteness, improved safety has recently opened the Lost City to tourism. Intrepid hikers can now follow steep jungle trails to this magnificent ancient city, discovering ruins and experiencing local cultures along the way.
The highlight remains the awe-inspiring Lost City itself. Founded around 800 CE by the Tayrona people, this ancient city’s remains sprawl across a misty green mountain slope, where stone terraces, stairs, and circular platforms emerge from the encroaching jungle. Lush green wilderness now swallows plazas, roads, and house foundations—a testament to Mother Nature’s power to reclaim. Yet trekking the site still evokes a sense of wonder, especially while gazing over its terraces towards the snow-capped Sierra Nevada peaks.
Reaching these atmospheric ruins requires commitment, with the classic four-day Lost City Trek covering 25 demanding miles. Camping in mosquito nets each night enhances the adventurous spirit. But challenges like river crossings, thigh-burning ascents, and slick muddy trails simply amplify the satisfaction of finally beholding the Lost City’s grandeur.
The Lost City exemplifies off-the-beaten-path travel at its best. Unlike the expensive, crowded Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, just a handful of trekkers arrive each day. Encounters with indigenous Wiwa communities along the route provide a rich cultural immersion. Passing their thatch-roofed huts and observing daily life—from women hand-washing clothing in the river to chatty children trailing behind—delivers memorable interactions. Experiencing the Lost City amid such untouched scenery and cultures makes this jungle trek deeply special.
Off the Beaten Path: 5 Underrated Destinations Worth Exploring in 2023 - Bangladesh's Sundarbans - Cruise the mangroves home to tigers and crocs
The Sundarbans, a vast mangrove forest in southern Bangladesh, remains one of the world's last strongholds for Royal Bengal tigers and saltwater crocodiles. Yet navigating this remote region's narrow, tangled channels by traditional boat provides a wildlife experience like no other.
Gliding silently through the Sundarbans' primordial swamp forests aboard small wooden boats allows up-close encounters with creatures found nowhere else on Earth. As our boat slid past dense, intertwined mangrove roots one morning, I was transfixed by a crocodile basking just feet away on the muddy bank. My guide Danesh had spotted the six-foot reptile's unblinking eyes peering just above the water's surface before steering our boat nearer for a better look. But it was the nearby flash of orange and black stripes that really quickened my pulse - a male Royal Bengal tiger had emerged from the undergrowth to drink at the river's edge, paying us no mind.
According to Danesh, only around 200 of these critically endangered tigers remain in the Sundarbans, making sightings rare and fleeting. That made this close-up viewing all the more thrilling. The surrounding cacophony of whistling warblers and trilling cicadas only enhanced the experience's raw, immersive nature. As a life-long tiger lover, it was a dream come true to observe this magnificent predator undisturbed in its natural habitat.
Beyond the iconic Royal Bengal tiger, cruising the Sundarbans' Chital deer-filled inlet islands and wild honey bee-filled mangroves offers opportunities to spot Ganges River dolphins, jungle cats, macaques, wild boar, and over 200 bird species. The area teems with wildlife, offering nature lovers boundless opportunities for discovery. Expert local guides like Danesh not only ensure safe passage through this labyrinthine ecosystem, but also provide invaluable insights into the local flora, fauna, and customs.