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.
Each of our trending destinations has seen a significant surge in interest in 2024, according to data mined from our site, which means they’re bound to be the ones our most intrepid friends and travellers will be eyeing up.
Albania
Though the Land of Eagles has been a regular fixture on ‘next hot getaway’ lists for the last few years, much of that is down to the azure waters of the Albanian Riviera and budget-friendly prices – an attractive alternative to the coastal resorts of Greece, Spain, Croatia and Italy. However, its popularity as an adventure destination is on the up, a rise that will continue in 2025.
We’re particularly excited about the Albanian Alps in the north, where hiking trails cut through remote wilderness under jagged peaks. Though they’re nicknamed the Accursed Mountains, due to the tough living conditions once faced by the residents that lived here, the peaks are among the most attractive in Europe, with large swathes covered in Alpine forest.
Adventure to book: Walking in Albania
Albania product manager, Hope Johnson, says: “Our tour leaders’ expertise facilitates authentic encounters and the discovery of enduring traditions, blending breathtaking panoramas with meaningful cultural immersion. Their in-depth local knowledge ensures everyone can connect with our welcoming hosts and gain a profound understanding of Albania’s diverse heritage, resulting in an experience that transcends ordinary travel.”
Uzbekistan
Expect interest in Uzbekistan to skyrocket over the next few years, with the government pushing hard to market it as a tourist destination. They’ve negotiated deals with Netflix and major TV networks, including CNN and the BBC, to bring the nation further into the mainstream, according to local media. The goal is to increase yearly visitors from 6.6m in 2023 to 15m by 2030.
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 good rail network, including a high-speed train between Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara, makes a trip here that much easier. And the recent discovery of two medieval Silk Road cities in the southeastern mountains shows there’s still much more to discover.
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)
Three independent nations often wrapped into one trip, the Baltic states are becoming a magnet for culture lovers seeking diversity in a manageable distance. Each has beautiful old towns and ancient architecture to discover; but it’s the more recent history, as part of the Soviet Union until 1991, that sets the trio apart, meaning you can hear first-hand stories of life under Soviet rule from tour leaders and guides.
Additionally, the Baltics are an emerging destination for hikers, particularly those looking to ease into walking holidays. The national parks are often flat, plus there are islands to explore and even a Cold War Museum in a one-time Soviet nuclear missile base in Zemaitijos National Park, Lithuania.
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 and culture, and discover the beautiful nature of the Baltics and Finland.”
Zimbabwe
You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to safari adventures in southern Africa. But Zimbabwe has carved itself out as one of the best, in no small part thanks to the intensive training the guides undertake for their certification. The four-year course includes two years learning under a qualified guide and ends with a tough week of exams.
That means when you’re touring Hwange National Park in search of lions, rhinos, leopards, cheetahs and hyenas, you’re maximising your adventure, learning about the animals, and, most importantly, treating them with the respect they deserve. Other positives, including a recently simplified visa process that allows you to obtain an e-visa before travel, make Zimbabwe an attractive option in 2025.
Adventure to book: Botswana & Zimbabwe Lodge Safari
Customer operations executive, Josh Raubenheimer, who took the Botswana & Zimbabwe Lodge Safari trip in 2024, says: “Experiencing Zimbabwe the way I did is something 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 destination I feel lucky to have experienced!”
Slovenia
The Golden Age of Alpinism in the mid-19th century popularised 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
Slovenia product manager, Hope Johnson, says: “Slovenia is known for its hospitality and friendly locals, which greatly enhances the overall experience. If you enjoy a steady-paced itinerary admiring stunning scenery, tasting strudels in the mountains and finishing the day in a well-run family property in a quiet, picturesque old town, this trip is for you.”
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 percent of the land.
Infrastructure is improving, too. Where the 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 coloured robes, and a carnival atmosphere.
Adventure to book: Festivals of Bhutan
Sales consultant, Sophie Moran, says of her recent visit: “Bhutan is culturally unique, which makes a local tour leader essential. For example, we saw phallic icons adorning houses and towns across the kingdom, particularly in Punakha. They were depicted in a playful, lighthearted manner but their meaning wasn’t instantly obvious. Kinlay, our tour leader, told us that they serve as symbols of protection, fertility and good fortune, which, I think, reflects the country’s unique approach to spirituality and deep connection to tradition.”
