Small-group travel operator Intrepid Travel has released its “Off-the-Beaten-Path” list for 2027, highlighting 10 lesser-visited destinations worldwide—ranging from Kenya’s Samburu National Reserve to Sweden’s Dalsland—to encourage travelers to avoid over-tourism while supporting local communities and conservation efforts. The company states that the list aims not only to uncover hidden gems but also to transform the way people travel, ensuring that visits make a tangible contribution to local communities and economies.
According to USA Today, Intrepid Travel selected these 10 noteworthy destinations by leveraging its global network of local guides and experts, evaluating factors such as visitor numbers, tourism readiness, and new highlights for 2027. Erica Kritikides, General Manager of Product, said, “If we want tourism to continue playing a positive role, we need to constantly rethink how and where we travel.”
- Kenya – Samburu National Reserve
Located in northern Kenya, Samburu National Reserve offers sightings of wildlife such as lions, elephants, and antelopes, yet receives only about one-tenth the number of visitors compared to the Maasai Mara National Reserve. Travelers can enjoy a wildlife safari experience away from the crowds, with their tourism spending directly supporting the local Samburu community and wildlife conservation initiatives.
- Georgia – Mestia
Situated in the Svaneti mountains, Mestia is renowned for its medieval tower-house villages and dramatic mountain scenery, making it an ideal spot for hiking. In winter, the surrounding peaks offer skiing opportunities; the opening of the Tetnuldi ski resort in 2026 is helping the area emerge as a winter tourism destination, attracting travelers who love mountains and snow sports.
- Jordan – Northern Highlands
Beyond the famous ancient city of Petra, Jordan’s Northern Highlands offer forest reserves, bird-watching sites, and historical ruins spanning various eras, including sites from the Roman, Islamic, and Ottoman periods. Travelers can explore natural landscapes and historical culture, and stay in locally run guesthouses to experience life in Jordan.
- Whitehorse, Canada
Whitehorse, the capital of the Yukon Territory, features glacial lakes, spruce forests, and hundreds of miles of trails, yet sees relatively few tourists. Visitors can enjoy activities such as mountain biking, relaxing in hot springs, and canoeing on the Yukon River; the area is also home to the Kwanlin Dün First Nation and the Ta’an Kwäch’än Council.
- Alonissos, Greece
While other popular Greek islands grapple with tourist crowds, Alonissos retains a relatively tranquil atmosphere. The surrounding waters host a protected marine park where travelers can dive to explore Greece’s only underwater museum and visit a shipwreck dating back to the 5th century BC. The island also promotes sustainability initiatives such as recycling, renewable energy, and organic waste management.
- Dili, Timor-Leste
Dili, the capital of Timor-Leste, boasts beautiful beaches perfect for seaside relaxation. (Reuters)
With its beaches, clear waters, and surrounding mountain scenery, Dili—the capital of Timor-Leste—is ideal for seaside leisure and hiking. The local tourism industry is still in its infancy, so visitor numbers remain relatively low. New flight routes connecting the city to Darwin, Australia, and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, have recently provided travelers with more options for visiting this Southeast Asian nation.
- The Pekoe Trail, Sri Lanka
Spanning approximately 186 miles, the Pekoe Trail winds through remote villages, waterfalls, wilderness areas, and Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka. This community-led, non-profit-managed tourism initiative encourages travelers to stay in locally run guesthouses and homestays, supporting local communities and the environment through walking tourism. 8. Liepāja, Latvia
Boasting historical and cultural attractions, white sandy beaches, and a rich classical music tradition, Liepāja is set to become a European Capital of Culture in 2027. The city frequently hosts concerts and opera performances, offering a travel experience that blends seaside leisure with cultural activities—all while remaining less crowded than some of Europe’s more popular coastal cities.
- Carretera Austral, Chile
Also known as Route 7, the Carretera Austral winds through the Aysén region of southern Chile. Travelers can admire Patagonian landscapes and the Chaitén Volcano while enjoying activities such as fly-fishing, hiking, and rafting. The Chilean government launched a road improvement project this year to enhance accessibility, making it easier for visitors to explore the region’s natural scenery.
- Dalsland, Sweden
Located near the Norwegian border, Dalsland features over 2,000 lakes, granite gorges, and forests, making it an ideal destination for canoeing, camping, and cycling. With relatively few tourists, it offers a chance to experience the Nordic natural environment and outdoor lifestyle. A direct railway line between Malmö and Oslo launched this past June, making it even more convenient for travelers to reach this Swedish lake district.