19 Secret Travel Spots Locals Try to Keep to Themselves

There are countless hidden gems around the world that locals prefer to keep to themselves. These secret travel spots offer stunning landscapes, rich culture, and a sense of tranquility that is hard to find in more popular destinations. While tourist hotspots are often crowded, these hidden treasures provide an escape from the hustle and bustle. From secluded beaches to remote mountain trails, these spots offer unique experiences that many people are lucky to stumble upon. Locals cherish the peaceful atmosphere and often go out of their way to keep these places a secret.

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Joffre Lakes, British Columbia

Joffre Lakes, located in the Canadian province of British Columbia, is a series of stunning turquoise lakes surrounded by towering mountain peaks. The hike to the lakes is scenic, passing through dense forests and dramatic landscapes. While it has become somewhat known among hikers, it is still a relatively quiet spot compared to other destinations in the region.

Locals treasure the calm beauty of Joffre Lakes, especially the view from the upper lake where you can look out at the glaciers that feed the crystal-clear waters. The vibrant colors of the lakes, coupled with the stunning mountain backdrop, create a magical atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot for those seeking an outdoor adventure away from the crowds.

Lake Atitlán, Guatemala

Lake Atitlán in Guatemala is surrounded by volcanoes and small traditional villages, offering an authentic and peaceful experience. The lake is often called one of the most beautiful in the world due to its scenic setting and serene waters. The area is not widely known by international tourists, making it a perfect place for locals to unwind and enjoy nature.

For visitors who take the time to explore the surrounding villages, they will find a rich culture and an untouched landscape. The lake offers various activities such as hiking, kayaking, and visiting indigenous communities, all while being enveloped by an atmosphere of calm and quiet. It’s a hidden gem in Central America that continues to attract those in search of peace.

Kauai’s Na Pali Coast, Hawaii

The Na Pali Coast on the island of Kauai is an isolated stretch of coastline that remains largely inaccessible by road. Known for its towering sea cliffs and hidden beaches, it is a favorite destination for locals seeking to disconnect from the world. The only way to truly experience this spot is by hiking the Kalalau Trail, which is often quiet, allowing hikers to connect with the landscape.

This coastline is revered for its untouched beauty and is a place where locals often visit for solitude. The dramatic cliffs, lush valleys, and waterfalls create an otherworldly experience. Despite its popularity among adventure seekers, it still holds an air of seclusion for those willing to put in the effort to get there.

Aysén Region, Chile

Located in the southern part of Chile, the Aysén Region is a vast wilderness area known for its remote beauty. This region offers glaciers, deep blue lakes, and snow-capped peaks, making it a dream destination for nature lovers. While some parts have gained attention in recent years, the area remains relatively untouched by mass tourism, allowing locals to keep its beauty to themselves.

Aysén is often considered one of the last undiscovered places in Chile, where visitors can experience Patagonia’s wilderness in its most pristine form. Locals cherish the tranquility and the opportunity to explore the region’s vast landscapes, including the famous Carretera Austral. It’s a place for true adventurers who seek solitude and the chance to witness nature in its purest state.

Lofoten Islands, Norway

The Lofoten Islands in Norway offer some of the most breathtaking coastal landscapes in the world. Known for their towering mountains, dramatic fjords, and charming fishing villages, the islands remain a relatively quiet destination compared to other parts of Europe. The area has a magical quality that attracts those who seek peace and solitude in a spectacular setting.

The islands are perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and fishing. With its unspoiled beauty and isolation, Lofoten offers an escape from the crowds while still providing incredible natural experiences. Locals take pride in keeping this destination relatively secret, preserving its charm for those who are willing to venture off the beaten path.

Fogo Island, Canada

Fogo Island, located off the coast of Newfoundland, is an isolated haven known for its rugged beauty and unique cultural heritage. The island is home to several traditional fishing communities and offers a window into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. The island’s wild landscapes, including jagged cliffs and rocky beaches, offer a peaceful retreat for locals and those in the know.

Fogo Island offers a truly authentic experience, from the warm hospitality of its residents to the untouched scenery that surrounds you. It is a place where visitors can disconnect from the modern world and experience the raw beauty of the North Atlantic coast. Its secretive nature means that only a select few get to experience its magic.

Koli National Park, Finland

Koli National Park in Finland is a hidden treasure known for its ancient forests, rugged hills, and pristine lakes. The park’s landscape offers stunning views over Lake Pielinen, with panoramic vistas that are particularly breathtaking in the fall when the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and orange. It is a place where locals often retreat to connect with nature.

The area remains relatively quiet, as many tourists overlook this gem in favor of more popular destinations in Finland. With its serene atmosphere and stunning scenery, Koli National Park provides a perfect escape for those who want to experience Finland’s natural beauty without the crowds. Hiking and boating are popular activities here, but the real attraction is the tranquility that fills the air.

The Faroe Islands

The Faroe Islands, located between Iceland and Norway, are known for their rugged beauty and isolation. The islands feature dramatic cliffs, rolling green hills, and a rich cultural history that has remained largely untouched by modern tourism. While they are becoming more popular, they are still not widely known to many travelers, making them a hidden gem for locals.

Visitors to the Faroe Islands can explore charming villages, hike across mist-covered hills, and experience a landscape that feels both wild and serene. The islands’ beauty lies in their remoteness, offering an experience of peace and quiet that is hard to find elsewhere. Locals are proud to preserve the natural environment, ensuring that the islands retain their charm for years to come.

Svalbard, Norway

Located in the Arctic Ocean, Svalbard is a remote archipelago that offers an incredible wilderness experience. Home to polar bears, glaciers, and towering mountains, Svalbard is a place where the landscape feels untamed and pristine. The island is one of the northernmost inhabited areas on Earth, making it an ideal destination for those who seek isolation and the unique beauty of the Arctic.

Despite its growing popularity among adventurers, Svalbard still feels like a hidden treasure. The stark beauty of the landscape, coupled with the chance to experience the midnight sun or polar night, creates an unforgettable atmosphere. Locals value their quiet, rugged environment and are committed to maintaining the islands’ raw beauty for those who venture to this remote part of the world.

Puglia, Italy

The region of Puglia in southern Italy is often overlooked by tourists in favor of more well-known destinations like Rome or Venice. Puglia offers a blend of beautiful beaches, ancient olive groves, and charming villages. The region’s relaxed pace of life and unspoiled landscapes make it a favorite among locals who enjoy its quiet charm.

Puglia is rich in history, with its ancient stone houses and olive trees that have stood for centuries. The region’s coastal towns, like Polignano a Mare, are perfect for enjoying fresh seafood while taking in the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. It is a place where visitors can enjoy Italy’s authentic culture without the hustle and bustle of the usual tourist hotspots.

Tbilisi, Georgia

Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, is a city steeped in history and culture, yet it remains relatively unknown to most tourists. The city is famous for its ancient churches, winding streets, and vibrant arts scene. Locals often enjoy the city’s unique blend of Eastern and Western influences, which gives it a special charm that is still under the radar for many travelers.

The city is a haven for those seeking an authentic cultural experience. Visitors can wander through the picturesque old town, enjoy traditional Georgian cuisine, and soak in the city’s warm, welcoming atmosphere. Tbilisi is perfect for those who want to experience a lesser-known European gem.

Mount Roraima, Venezuela

Mount Roraima is a table-top mountain located on the border between Venezuela, Brazil, and Guyana. Its dramatic cliffs and unique landscape make it one of the most iconic and secretive travel destinations in the world. The trek to the top of Mount Roraima is both challenging and rewarding, offering a rare opportunity to experience an untouched natural wonder.

The mountain is known for its surreal, otherworldly environment, with unique flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth. Locals and those who are familiar with the area hold it in high regard, as it provides a sense of adventure and tranquility that is difficult to find anywhere else. It remains a hidden gem, perfect for those who seek both a physical challenge and a connection with nature.

Cappadocia, Turkey

Cappadocia is a unique region in central Turkey known for its surreal landscapes, including rock formations, underground cities, and ancient cave dwellings. While the area has gained some recognition due to the popularity of hot air balloon rides, it remains largely undiscovered by the masses. For locals, it is a peaceful retreat that offers a glimpse into Turkey’s rich history and culture.

Visitors to Cappadocia can explore its fairy-tale-like landscapes and discover ancient rock-cut churches and monasteries. The region is also famous for its hot air balloon rides that provide a bird’s-eye view of the striking rock formations. Despite its growing fame, Cappadocia still holds a quiet, secretive charm that locals cherish.

Lencois Maranhenses National Park, Brazil

Lencois Maranhenses is a national park located in northeastern Brazil, known for its vast sand dunes and crystal-clear lagoons. The park’s unique landscape, which is formed by seasonal rains, creates a stunning contrast of white sand and blue water. While the park is not entirely unknown, it is still relatively secret compared to Brazil’s more popular tourist destinations.

The park’s beauty is best appreciated during the rainy season when the lagoons fill with water, creating an oasis among the sand dunes. Locals and travelers who venture to Lencois Maranhenses are rewarded with a tranquil, surreal experience that feels like stepping into another world. It’s a hidden gem for those seeking a natural wonder away from the crowds.

Mount Rinjani, Indonesia

Mount Rinjani is the second-highest volcano in Indonesia and offers a challenging but rewarding trekking experience. Located on the island of Lombok, this active volcano is known for its stunning crater lake, Segara Anak. The trek to the summit provides an opportunity to witness breathtaking views of the island and its surroundings, including nearby Bali.

Despite its popularity among serious trekkers, Mount Rinjani remains off the radar for many casual tourists. The volcano’s rugged landscape and the surrounding nature make it a perfect getaway for those looking for adventure and solitude. Locals cherish the area for its spiritual significance and the beauty it offers to those who venture to its peak.

Picos de Europa, Spain

The Picos de Europa is a mountain range in northern Spain that offers a diverse landscape of deep gorges, rugged peaks, and lush meadows. The area is known for its traditional villages, which maintain a way of life that has been unchanged for centuries. The range is relatively unknown to mass tourism, making it a haven for locals seeking both adventure and tranquility.

Hiking and mountaineering are popular activities in the Picos de Europa, as the region offers some of the best outdoor opportunities in Spain. The natural beauty of the area is complemented by its rich cultural heritage, with ancient monasteries and villages scattered throughout the mountains. It is a secret destination for those looking for a peaceful escape in Spain’s hidden heartland.

Bohol, Philippines

Bohol is an island in the Philippines known for its stunning landscapes, including the famous Chocolate Hills and beautiful white-sand beaches. The island remains less commercialized than other parts of the Philippines, making it a favorite among locals who enjoy its quiet beauty. The rich marine life and pristine beaches offer an ideal setting for those seeking relaxation and adventure.

Visitors to Bohol can explore the Tarsier Sanctuary, swim with whale sharks, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Despite its natural beauty, Bohol is often overshadowed by more famous islands like Boracay, keeping its charm intact for those in the know. The island’s tranquility makes it the perfect getaway for those looking to enjoy nature without the crowds.

Koh Rong, Cambodia

Koh Rong is a secluded island located off the coast of Cambodia, known for its untouched beaches and vibrant marine life. While some parts of the island have started to see development, it remains a hidden gem for those seeking a peaceful escape in Southeast Asia. The island offers a variety of activities, from diving and snorkeling to hiking through lush jungles.

What sets Koh Rong apart from other tropical destinations is its laid-back vibe and the fact that it remains relatively undeveloped. Visitors can enjoy pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning sunsets without the distractions of over-crowded resorts. Koh Rong continues to be a secret escape for locals and travelers looking for an unspoiled paradise.

Nanda Devi, India

Nanda Devi is the second-highest mountain in India, located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. The mountain is surrounded by the Nanda Devi National Park, which is known for its untouched wilderness and rare wildlife. The area is protected and remains largely inaccessible to tourists, making it a hidden gem for locals who appreciate its serenity and natural beauty.

The Nanda Devi region is a paradise for trekkers and nature lovers, offering spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. It’s a place of spiritual significance for many locals, who visit the area for religious purposes and to connect with nature. Nanda Devi remains one of India’s best-kept secrets, offering solitude and stunning landscapes to those who make the journey.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.