This year, our Where to Travel in 2025 list features several emerging destinations. These regions offer both unique and authentic experiences as well as alternatives from typical tourist destinations. Our 2025 picks offer a break from the ordinary and a chance to truly connect with the heart of a destination. 

Indeed, many of these hidden gems are just starting to shine on the travel radar. Therefore, consider enjoying their unspoiled nature and in-depth cultural engagement opportunities now before they become popular.

Whether you long for awe-inspiring natural beauty, rich cultural experiences, or a bit of both, these destinations are poised to deliver unforgettable moments in 2025. 

Located on Costa Rica’s northeast Caribbean coastline near the border with Nicaragua, Tortuguero National Park is one of the wildest and most biodiverse regions on the planet. The park plays host to an abundance of wildlife including monkeys, sloths, river otters, macaws, toucans, caiman, and more.

One of its biggest draws, however, is its hyper-active sea turtle nesting area, with large numbers arriving during nesting season and hatchings from July to February. Seek out the wildlife and explore the canals and lagoons of the park via guided day trip boat tours.

Also consider The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador and Mendoza, Argentina in South America for your Where to Travel in 2025 list.

With five distinct biogeographical and topographical regions, the natural beauty of the Eastern Cape is truly a sight to behold. Additionally, it offers a stark contrast to its highly developed counterparts in the Western Cape.

Historically, this region serves as the birthplace and home of South Africa’s brightest son, Nelson Mandela. Yet for safari-goers, undulating plains nestled between amphitheaters of mountains set the stage for bushvelds with far-reaching views, indigenous flora, and various mammal species. This includes Cape mountain zebra, rhino, buffalo, and cheetah.

Even a walk along the beaches of the region provides an opportunity to discover the rare oystercatcher bird. One can also explore caves and rock art created by early man and view the annual migration of the southern right whale. During this unmissable spectacle, mothers birth their calves and care for them among the craggy shores of the coastline.

Other contenders for our Where to Travel in 2025 list in Southern Africa include the Madikwe and Kalahari regions and the Lower Zambezi and South Luangwa National Parks, both in Zambia. 

Georgia is still very much an undiscovered gem in Europe’s crown. Kakheti, often referred to as the "land of wine," offers a captivating blend of ancient traditions, breathtaking landscapes, and world-class viticulture. Indeed, Kakheti boasts rolling vineyards, picturesque monasteries, and charming villages that exude a timeless charm.

The region has cultivated grapes and made wine for more than 8,000 years. Therefore, the family winery tradition remains strong, with over 100,000 micro-wineries producing wine in Georgia. They do so by an ancient method of filling huge clay urns called qvevri with grapes and burying them underground to ferment. You can also find wines produced using European-style maturation in oak barrels.

Whether you're a wine enthusiast seeking to sample unique grape varieties or an adventurer yearning to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, Kakheti promises an unforgettable experience.

Traveling to Europe in 2025? Also consider adding Andermatt, Switzerland; Bologna, Italy; and Berat, Albania to your Where to Travel in 2025 list.

Krabi, Thailand is a luxury travel paradise on the Andaman Sea. It boasts pristine white-sand beaches, dramatic limestone cliffs, karst towers, and crystal-clear waters. Therefore, beach lovers and adventure-seekers alike will find their dream destination here.

Enjoy a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences. Snorkel in turquoise lagoons and explore hidden caves and nearby islands. Phang Nga Bay, Khao Sok, and James Bond Islands, all UNESCO World Heritage Sites, resides nearby.

Also feast on fresh, local Thai cuisine and spend time exploring the street food scene of the vibrant night markets. In addition, local fishing villages offer a glimpse of authentic Thai culture. 

Additional suggestions for your Where to Travel in 2025 list in Asia include Kerala and Rajasthan in India and Sri Lanka.

South Australia offers travelers a variety of experiences. From the rugged outback landscapes of the Flinders Ranges and the pristine coastlines of the Eyre Peninsula, to the wilds of Kangaroo Island, South Australia promises immersive experiences for nature and wildlife lovers.

In the wine regions like the Barossa Valley and the McLaren Vale, enjoy vineyard tours, tastings, and gourmet dining under the stars. Plus, the big city of Adelaide offers festivals, thriving art galleries, and an emerging food scene. Whether you want to sip wine, spot wildlife, or stargaze in the outback, South Australia offers a perfect balance of culture, nature, and luxury experiences. 

Also consider the Great Ocean Road in Victoria, Australia, and Fiordland National Park in New Zealand for your Where to Travel in 2025 list.

Because of its location along the Pacific Northwest region of the western United States, Oregon offers a captivating mix of natural beauty and urban culture. Moreover, outdoor and nature enthusiasts will love the state’s natural wonders.

This of course includes the majestic Crater Lake National Park, home to the deepest lake in the United States. Crater Lake’s clear blue waters boast towering cliffs and lush forests. Additionally, Oregon’s Painted Hills feature a spectrum of red, yellow, and orange colors. Also explore the rugged coastline, where crashing waves meet sandy beaches, and picturesque lighthouses dot the horizon.

Yet Oregon’s allure is not solely in its natural splendor. For those who enjoy the performing arts, consider traveling to Oregon for the esteemed Oregon Shakespeare Festival, the oldest and largest theater festival in the United States. Oregon’s towns and cities also enjoy their own unique character. Take a private walking tour through Portland’s vibrant arts scene or take advantage of Bend’s outdoor adventures. 

Other contenders for Where to Travel in 2025 in North America include Merida, Mexico; St. Lucia, Caribbean; and Capitol Reef National Park in Utah.

Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda constitutes one of the most diverse ecosystems in Africa. Set in the western branch of the Great Rift Valley, this scenic park in western Uganda has lovingly become known as “The Pearl of Africa” for its varied natural wildlife and landscape.

For example, the world’s largest concentration of hippo populates the shorelines of the Kazinga Channel. The park also features a few of Western Uganda’s iconic prehistoric volcanic explosion craters—known as the “Mountains of the Moon.” These craters line the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains and shelter massive herds of elephant and buffalo. Some of these craters have even formed salt-water lakes where flamingos from as far away as Kenya come to gather like pink dust.

With over 600 different species of birds, it is one of the best places for bird watching in Africa. Finally, in the southern sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, live the region’s famous tree climbing lions. They usually rest in the branches of large fig trees near the Ishasha River.

South Georgia is a remote, pristine Antarctic wilderness in the South Atlantic Ocean. The large island features snow-capped mountains and fjords, creating a dramatic and beautiful landscape. Indeed, for intrepid explorers and wildlife lovers, it’s the ultimate bucket list destination.

The island plays host to an abundance of wildlife. This includes a vast population of Antarctic fur seals, king penguins, gentoo penguins, and macaroni penguins. Moreover, the king penguin colony at St. Andrew’s Bay is one of the largest penguin colonies in the world.

South Georgia also has a rich whaling history, and travelers can visit the historic whaling station at Grytviken. Traveling to South Georgia is an adventure in itself since it is so remote and difficult to reach. But the trip is definitely worth it. 

Looking for more ideas to add to your Where to Travel in 2025 list in the polar regions? Also consider Greenland; Churchill, Canada; and the Lyngen Alps in Norway.