Travel can be transformative, and lead to genuine connections with people you would never have otherwise met. You could, of course, have life-changing experiences when you travel to popular destinations, but it’s even more special when you skip the crowds and take the road less travelled.
Our experts have a wealth of insider knowledge and can create a custom itinerary for you to some of these less-frequented places. So step off the tourist trail as we explore five off the beaten path destinations, from the salt flats of Bolivia to the the misty mountains of Rwanda.
Bhutan
Bhutan, nestled in the eastern Himalayas, is home to the world’s happiest people. It’s not surprising, given the country’s serene atmosphere and its rich culture influenced by Mahayana Buddhism.
From the laidback capital city of Thimpu to the precariously perched Tiger’s Nest on the hills of Paro, the country is as diverse as it is fascinating. With its towering peaks of the Himalayas, pine forests, meandering rivers, and lush glacial valleys, Bhutan presents plenty of opportunities to bask in natural beauty. Hiking in Bhutan is a rewarding experience, and you will be treated to stunning views along the way. Whether you want to visit the many monasteries tucked away in scenic locations or feast on hearty Bhutanese food, the country has a lot to offer, and stays with you long after your holiday!
You could combine a trip to Bhutan with a quick stop in India with our multicentre itinerary.
Laos
With its French architecture, rolling mountains, Buddhist temples, incredible food, and iconic wildlife, Laos is an unmissable travel destination.
Luang Prabang is an off the beaten path destination that draws you in with its architecture and layered history. Just outside the UNESCO-listed city lies Elephant Village, a sanctuary that rescues and rehabilitates elephants. The sanctuary gives visitors an opportunity to interact with elephants and spend some time with them.
Food in Laos is heavily influenced by the flavours of neighbouring Vietnam and Thailand, Some traditional dishes include a spicy noodle soup known as khao poon, sticky rice, and green papaya salad. The coffee here is considered among the finest in South East Asia!
If you’re looking for an extended holiday, you could combine your Laos tour with a trip to Vietnam and Cambodia.
Bolivia
Bolivia is a hidden gem in South America, offering breathtaking scenery, fascinating history, and numerous UNESCO sites that are far off the tourist trail.
Western Bolivia is home to the Tiwanaku ruins, one of South America’s largest pre-Columbian archaeological sites. Comprising more than 4,000 hectares of monumental structures, decorated ceramics, and megalithic blocks, the ruins include the pyramid of Akapana, the Temple of Kalasasaya, and the Gateway of the Sun.
One of Bolivia’s finest natural wonders is the otherworldly landscape of Salar de Uyuni. This vast salt flat stretches over 6,000 square kilometres, and its crackly white surface creates a mesmerising mirror effect, especially right after the rains.
Bolivia’s capital, Sucre, a UNESCO-listed Historic City, is rife with Spanish and local traditional architectural styles. Sucre is also the gateway to the Yamparáez Province, home to the Aymara and Tarabuco people, who showcase their fascinating history through intricate textiles.
Lesotho
Lesotho is a small country surrounded entirely by South Africa. This gem draws you in with its mountainous terrain and natural beauty. A paradise for those looking to get off the beaten track, this country offers excellent hiking trails and ample opportunities for wildlife viewing.
The majestic Maluti Mountains are perfect for trekking, while Leribe is a great place to uncover dinosaur fossils. Malealea, a small village that is home to just about 600 people, is the perfect place to learn more about local Basotho culture.
There’s much to see and experience in this tiny country. From hiking and biking to horseback riding, you could explore the stunning countryside in a myriad ways.
Rwanda
In the misty mountains of Rwanda, you’ll find some of the world’s few remaining wild mountain gorillas. Only a limited number of permits are issued each day, granting visitors an exclusive chance to trek through the dense forests of Volcanoes National Park and come face to face with families of gorillas in their natural habitat.
While gorillas are a big draw, there’s a lot more to do and see in Rwanda. Cross into the Nyungwe Forest National Park on the towering forest canopy walk, which offers stunning views of the rainforest nearly 200 feet below. The national park is exceptionally biodiverse, housing over a thousand plant species, twelve types of monkeys, and a number of birds.
Learn about the country’s rich traditions and culture at museums and tourist villages renowned for their beautiful craftwork and lively dance performances. You could also visit the Gorilla Guardians Museum or the National Museum of Rwanda.
Keen to discover some of the most captivating off the beaten path destinations around the world? Contact us, and we’ll create a bespoke itinerary based on your wishlist, whether it’s spotting the Big Five in South Africa’s Kruger National Park or trekking around Machu Picchu in Peru. Reach out to our destination specialists and get one step closer to booking your dream holiday!
Check out these sample itineraries
Luxury Gorilla Safaris Rwanda
Scenic Tour South America
South Africa Multi Centre Holidays
Bhutan inspiration
For more exciting destination ideas, browse these Bhutan pages and start planning your next adventure.
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