Intrepid Travel has released its 2027 'Not Hot List,' identifying ten destinations recommended for travelers seeking alternatives to overcrowded tourist spots. The list, compiled through independent research, input from destination experts, and local leaders, focuses on locations that are less visited, have lower visitor numbers compared to similar areas, and demonstrate readiness for responsible tourism growth.

Criteria for Selection

The destinations were chosen based on three core criteria. Firstly, they had to be 'less-visited' with a low awareness and visitor volume. Secondly, 'tourism readiness' was assessed, evaluating the destination's infrastructure, community alignment, and sustainable planning for visitor numbers. Finally, the locations needed to offer something 'new in 2027,' such as new initiatives, improved connectivity, or significant developments.

Featured Destinations

Among the ten highlighted locations are:

  • Samburu National Reserve, Kenya: Located in northern Kenya, this reserve is noted for its unique ecosystems and is home to lions, leopards, cheetahs, and the 'Samburu Special Five.' It receives significantly fewer visitors than the Maasai Mara and is developing astrotourism. The local Samburu people are involved in a community conservation model that invests tourism income back into local livelihoods.

  • Mestia, Georgia: This region in Georgia offers hiking, skiing, and outdoor adventures, with medieval tower villages providing historical context. It experiences substantial snowfall annually and has seen infrastructure improvements. Unlike more popular mountain regions, Mestia offers a more peaceful experience. Mestia, in Georgia, offers a range of hiking routes suitable for all skill levels

  • Ajloun, Northern Highlands, Jordan: Following a period of political challenges, Jordan is promoting its green spaces. The Northern Highlands offer community-led tourism initiatives, abundant hiking trails, birdwatching, and wildlife experiences, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in rural communities.

  • Ta’an Kwäch’än Council, Whitehorse, Canada: Serving as a gateway to the Yukon Territory, Whitehorse is emerging as an Arctic tourism hub with mountains and glacier-fed lakes. The area is on Kwanlin Dün First Nation and Ta’an Kwäch’än Council territories and features extensive marked trails. The Arctic Canada Tourism Network promotes year-round visits and supports Indigenous-owned businesses. Whitehorse, in Canada, boasts impressive mountains and glacier-fed lakes

  • Alonnisos, Greece: This island in the northwestern Aegean Sea is highlighted as a model for responsible island tourism. It hosts Europe's largest marine protected area and has limited tourism numbers due to its accessibility only by ferry or private yacht. Alonnisos focuses on low-impact, nature-based tourism and is part of a circular economy program investing in sustainability. The Greek island of Alonnisos is a 'leading example of responsible island tourism'

  • Dili, Timor-Leste: One of Southeast Asia's least-visited nations, Timor-Leste is improving its accessibility with new flight routes and a modernized airport in Dili. Its recent acceptance into ASEAN is expected to boost local infrastructure and the economy through tourism. Timor-Leste, in Southeast Asia, has new flight routes and a modernised airport

  • Pekoe Trail, Sri Lanka: This is Sri Lanka's first long-distance walking trail, covering 300 kilometers through cloud forests, rivers, and tea estates. Developed as a community-led initiative, the trail is recognized for its immersive nature and low visitor numbers. The Pekoe Trail in Sri Lanka is the country's first long-distance walking trail

  • Liepāja, Latvia: Set to be a European Capital of Culture in the coming year, Liepāja is described as the 'Baltic alternative to the Mediterranean.' The city boasts 8 kilometers of sandy beaches, the large Seaside Park, and the Great Amber Concert Hall. Its visitor numbers are significantly lower than comparable European cities. Liep¿ja, in Latvia, is often dubbed the 'Baltic alternative to the Mediterranean'

  • Carretera Austral, Chile: This 1,240-kilometer road through Chilean Patagonia is described as one of South America's best-kept secrets. It passes through diverse landscapes including volcanoes and national parks, with numerous accommodation options along the route. Infrastructure improvements are underway to support this route. The Carretera Austral is 'one of South America's best-kept secrets'

  • Dalsland, Sweden: Often called Sweden's answer to the Lake District, Dalsland features over 2,000 lakes within forests and hills. A new rail link has increased its accessibility, making it appealing for outdoor activities. The region permits wild camping and offers various small-scale accommodation options. Dalsland, in West Sweden, is the country's answer to the beloved Lake District