We’re adventurers at heart, which means we love sticking our noses into a map and finding fresh ground to explore. And we know you do, too. That’s why we’re delighted to share our up-and-coming adventure hotspots of 2025.
Based on a surge in interest from 2024, these destinations are quickly climbing to the top of every traveler’s list. From hidden gems to fresh perspectives on beloved favorites, these are the places to watch—and visit—this year.
Albania
The Land of Eagles has been a regular fixture on ‘next hot getaway’ lists for years, largely due to budget-friendly prices and the azure waters of the Albanian Riviera – an attractive alternative to the coastal resorts of Greece, Spain, Croatia and Italy. However, its allure as an adventure destination continues to rise.
In the north, the Albanian Alps are stealing the spotlight. Hiking trails wind through untouched wilderness, jagged peaks, and vast Alpine forests. Known as the Accursed Mountains—a nod to the harsh conditions once faced by locals—this range is anything but cursed for adventurers. Its rugged beauty rivals Europe’s finest, making Albania a must-visit in 2025.
Adventure to book: Walking in Albania
Albania product manager, Hope Johnson, says: “Rooted in generations of family heritage amid Albania’s northern peaks, our expertise reveals a landscape where every step uncovers authentic encounters and enduring traditions. From the dramatic crossing of Theth to Valbona and the warmth of highland communities, to the storied bazaar of Kruja and Berat’s UNESCO-listed quarters, this journey blends breathtaking panoramas with meaningful cultural immersion. With in-depth local knowledge ensures that each traveler savors genuine flavors, connects with welcoming hosts, and gains a profound understanding of Albania’s diverse heritage—resulting in an experience that transcends ordinary travel and lingers long after the journey ends”
Uzbekistan
Poised for a surge in popularity, Uzbekistan is stepping into the spotlight as a must-visit destination, with ambitious plans to double visitor numbers by 2030. The country plans to showcase its rich offerings through negotiations with Netflix and major TV networks, including CNN and the BBC, to bring the nation further into the mainstream media.
Though best-known as a major stop on the Silk Road, Uzbekistan offers much more for the cultural adventurer: grand Soviet buildings in Tashkent, the opportunity to sleep in remote mountain villages, and ancient desert fortresses to explore. A robust rail network, including high-speed trains linking Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara, makes a trip that much easier. Add the recent discovery of two medieval Silk Road cities in the southeastern mountains, and it’s clear this destination is on the rise for 2025 and beyond.
Adventure to book: Uzbekistan Uncovered
Uzbekistan product manager, Thomas Manchester, says: “We’ve recently revamped our Uzbekistan Uncovered itinerary for 2025. There is so much to see in the country, so we’ve extending the length of the trip, added a night in a mountain village homestay and now include Karakalpakstan in the remote north where the remains of the Aral Sea and the Savitsky Museum are found.”
The Baltics (Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania)
A trio of independent nations often explored together, the Baltic states are becoming a magnet for travelers seeking culture and history in a compact, accessible region. With charming old towns and ancient architecture, they also offer a unique perspective on recent history, allowing visitors to hear gripping first-hand accounts of life under Soviet rule from local leaders and guides.
Additionally, the Baltics are an emerging destination for hikers, particularly those looking to ease into walking tours. The national parks are often flat, with numerous islands to explore and a Cold War Museum in a one-time Soviet nuclear missile base in Lithuania’s Zemaitijos National Park.
Adventure to book: Walks of the Baltics and Finland
The Baltics product manager, Vivien Urban, says: “On this walking tour we discover four historically rich countries on foot including the two biggest Estonian islands. It is an excellent opportunity to gain an in depth understanding of the region, learn about history, culture and discover the beautiful nature of the Baltics and Finland.”
Zimbabwe
In the heart of southern Africa, Zimbabwe is raising the bar for safari adventures. Known for its expertly trained guides—who undergo a rigorous four-year certification process—Zimbabwe ensures every safari is as educational as it is thrilling.
As you explore Hwange National Park to spot lions, rhinos, leopards, cheetahs and hyenas, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the wildlife and their habitats while prioritizing the respect and care these animals deserve. With a streamlined e-visa process making travel even easier, Zimbabwe is set to shine as a top safari destination in 2025.
Adventure to book: Botswana & Zimbabwe Lodge Safari
Customer operations executive, Josh Raubenheimer, says: “I’ve just come back from this trip and experiencing Zimbabwe the way I did is something that I will remember and cherish for the rest of my life! From walking among rhinos, to seeing the wildlife-packed Hwange National Park, to the thunderous Victoria Falls – this is an adventure packed couple of days you’ll be lucky to experience!”
Slovenia
The Golden Age of Alpinism in the mid-19th century popularized mountaineering as a sport in Europe and inspired generations of climbers. Since then, much of the focus has been on the great peaks of France, Switzerland and Italy, which has left the Julian Alps of Slovenia relatively undiscovered by those outside the mountaineering community.
That looks set to change over the next few years, with growing interest in walking adventures among the jagged limestone peaks of the Julian Alps. The star trio here is Mount Triglav, the highest peak in Slovenia, and the two glacial lakes of Bohinj and Bled, all with the beauty to rival their equivalents in other Alpine destinations. Thankfully, the trails remain free of tourist hordes, while still offering stunning mountain views, wild meadows and walks for all levels.
Adventure to book: Walking the Slovenian Alps
Bhutan
The Himalaya act like an invisibility cloak for Bhutan, secreting it from the wider world. But the small kingdom, which only fully opened to outsiders in 1974, is quite unlike anywhere else. Here, prosperity is measured, not by GDP, but GNH (Gross National Happiness), while the country also captures more carbon than it emits, thanks to the forests that cover around 75% of the land.
Infrastructure is improving too. Where roads once made travel difficult, a huge amount of investment has made journeys far smoother. Plus, when it comes to adventure, there’s plenty to offer. The unique celebrations, such as the Paro and Thimphu festivals, are particularly special with masked dances, hundreds of monks in brightly colored robes, and a carnival atmosphere.
Adventure to book: Festivals of Bhutan
Sales consultant, Sophie Moran, says of her recent travels to Bhutan: “A memorable aspect of my journey was experiencing Bhutan’s Buddhist teachings and learning about the religious leaders, both past and present. One of the most striking and memorable symbols for me, especially evident in Punakha but found throughout Bhutan, was the presence of phallic symbols adorning houses and towns. These symbols are often depicted in a playful, lighthearted manner, reflecting Bhutan’s unique approach to spirituality and its deep connection to tradition. They serve not only as cultural expressions but also as symbols of protection, fertility, and good fortune.”