When it comes to travel, sometimes it’s not a bad idea to follow the crowd if you’re seeking out a new destination you’ve never considered. According to the United Nations’ World Tourism Barometer, several countries experienced double-digit growth in international arrivals in 2025, and they’re not the ones you might necessarily expect. Whether you’re looking for off-the-grid thrills deep in the Amazon rainforest or a quiet spot to find solitude in the Himalayas, the following countries are bound to captivate even the most well-seasoned travelers — and you may want to experience their wonders before everyone else does, too. 

Ethiopia

According to the U.N. data, Ethiopia saw a 15% surge in international visitors last year compared with 2024. This vacation destination promises adventurous travelers the chance to see significant ancient ruins and archaeological sites; visit a cloud forest in the Bale Mountains; spot wildlife such as hippos, Nile crocodiles, and gelada monkeys (found nowhere else in the world); or sample roasts from the birthplace of Arabica coffee — to name just a few experiences. 

Ethiopia’s uptick in popularity is attributed to the younger demographic of visitors who show an interest in outdoor activities and thrill-seeking adventures. The country’s launch of the Visit Ethiopia website in 2025 has enabled visitors to learn firsthand about locally recommended restaurants, hotels, and tour operators. Construction on Africa’s largest airport project, the Bishoftu International Airport, began in January 2026, further positioning the country for tourism growth in the coming decades.

The Seychelles

The Seychelles welcomed 30% more international visitors in 2025 compared with the year prior. The country has championed marine conservation, with 30% of its ocean territory protected, and advocated for inclusivity, stating that there are no private beaches anywhere in the archipelago — the islands are a place for everyone to enjoy.

They’re home to the UNESCO-listed Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve — where you’ll find the rare Coco de Mer palm — along with Morne Seychellois National Park, Sainte Anne Marine National Park, and the colorful capital of Victoria, which is known for its vibrant Creole culture. There’s plenty of wildlife to spot, too, including free-roaming giant tortoises on Curieuse Island, Fregate Island, and the remote Aldabra Atoll. Although couples and honeymooners remain the country’s core demographic for tourism, part of the uptick in the popularity of the Seychelles is thanks to targeted marketing efforts to expand the islands’ appeal to welcome families and solo travelers as well.

Bhutan

Bhutan isn’t exactly a country you can visit on a whim. It requires prebooked tours (no independent travel allowed), payment of a mandatory daily sustainable development fee, and visa approval. But the landlocked Asian country situated high in the Himalayas still received plenty of visitors in 2025, witnessing a 30% increase in tourism from the year prior. 

As one of the last surviving Buddhist kingdoms, Bhutan offers a refreshing escape from the daily grind. First opened to visitors in 1970, the country prioritizes culturally enriching experiences for its guests. Those seeking a mindful retreat can experience centuries-old traditions such as sitting with a monk during a blessing, watching a textile weaver spin intricate designs, or practicing archery. Bhutan also holds a reputation for being one of the happiest countries in the world due to its philosophy of measuring success by Gross National Happiness (GNH) rather than GDP. Plus, it is the only country in the world that is completely carbon-negative, making it an appealing destination for sustainable tourism, too. 

Brazil

In 2025, Brazil welcomed a record-breaking 9.3 million tourists — a 37% increase over 2024. Tourism officials credit the influx in visitors to a program launched by the Brazilian Agency for International Tourism Promotion (Embratur) designed to attract new international flights. The South American country recorded the largest year-over-year increase in the world, according to the U.N. report. 

From golden beaches to sprawling metropolises to the Amazon rainforest, Brazil has plenty of landscapes to explore, but that’s only a small part of the allure. In 2026, visitors can experience a variety of new attractions, including the renovated Copacabana Palace in Rio de Janeiro, with a historic theater, a redesigned pool with new tiling, and expanded suites to mark its 100th anniversary. Also in Rio, check out the reopened National Museum of Fine Arts, or venture outside Brazil’s major cities to experience the new luxury eco-resorts on the “Magic Island” of Florianópolis, known for its 40 diverse beaches, forested hills, and large saltwater lagoons. Brazil has a reputation as a lively destination for celebration, entertainment, culture, and music, too, regularly hosting major events like the upcoming Women’s World Cup in 2027.