Here Are the Best Countries To Travel in 2025 According to Lonely Planet
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Lonely Planet just released its ‘Best in Travel’ list for 2025. They rank the top countries to travel to based on several factors, including the amount of sights, safety, and beauty.
From bucket-list adventures to awe-inspiring natural scenery, these destinations have plenty to offer travelers in the new year. Here are the best countries to travel to in 2025, according to Lonely Planet.
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Kazakhstan
Kazakstan is a country in the middle of Asia with plenty to offer tourists seeking adventures. It has a unique culture and intense natural beauty that few destinations can compare to. The country also invests a lot of money into its tourism industry, so you’ll feel welcomed with open arms.
Some highlights listed are its gourmet neo-nomad cuisine, Altyn-Emel National Park, and its exciting capital city, Almaty. You’ll see wide open spaces and dramatic scenery and experience a warm and friendly culture.
Kazakhstan is the ultimate destination for nature lovers, but it offers fans of history and culture a lot to enjoy. Bring your hiking boots and camera because you’ll be entering a wild landscape worth experiencing firsthand. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try horseback riding, whitewater rafting, or driving through Kazakhstan’s vast wilderness.
Read also: Planet’s Most Beautiful Countries
Fiji
Fiji offers travelers beautiful beaches, natural wonders, and a rich cultural heritage. You’ll experience world-class diving, surfing, hiking, and culturally enriching experiences found nowhere else.
Fiji’s highlights include its coral reefs, unparalleled hospitality and friendliness, and adventurous jungle adventures. This is another destination for travelers wanting an authentic and life-changing experience.
You can choose between staying on off-shore islands or the main island, which has jungle treks and cultural experiences. If you surf, hundreds of destinations with world-class waves are ready to experience. Regardless of what you’re looking for, Fiji will give you a warm and friendly welcome.
Read also: World’s Most Iconic Destinations
Cameroon
Cameroon is an African nation celebrating its 65th anniversary and ready for tourism. It has unspoiled beaches, rich cultural attractions, and a warm vibe that travelers will love. You’ll also experience one of the world’s richest ecological zones, with animals and plants found nowhere else.
Lonely Planet’s report highlighted the Kribi region, the capital of Yaoundé, and the wildlife of Parc National de Campo-Ma’an. You’ll get the chance to see unparalleled wildlife and protected tropical forests.
From its music scene and cuisine to its natural beauty and people, Cameroon offers something for everyone. When you visit, book tours through official companies for the ultimate experience.
Read also: Best Countries for Quality Living
Lithuania
Lithuania is a beautiful European nation rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. You’ll enjoy a welcoming vibe and plenty of seasonal activities. Plus, the country is looking to boost tourism numbers.
Some of its highlights include its live music and cocktail scene, the Hill of Crosses monument, and protected forests. You’ll see medieval architecture and experience cultural activities and traditions found nowhere else on Earth.
Time your visit to Lithuania’s festivals and events throughout the year. You can experience harvest festivals and some of Europe’s biggest Christmas celebrations. Regardless of when you visit, you’ll have the time of your life in this small European country.
Read also: Top World’s Happiest Countries
Slovakia
Slovakia is a beautiful country in the heart of Europe. Its attractions include ancient castles, rich gastronomy, and a booming wine scene. Locals also want more tourists to experience their country.
Some of the top reasons to visit include its capital, Bratislava, Slovenský Raj National Park, and its immense cave system. The country also has a great tourism infrastructure and a diverse amount of cities and towns worth seeing.
When you visit, plan on taking photos of every corner of the country. From its communities to its natural sights, endless places feel like they’re in a painting. Prepare to spend time in nature and enjoy Slovakia’s famously fun nightlife.
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Read also: Surreal Landscapes Worldwide
Laos
Laos is a country in Southeast Asia ready for tourism, and there are many reasons why. It has ancient history, renowned cuisine, and quirky destinations. People also want tourism, and the government is doing more to promote its tourism industry.
Check out Laos’ Vang Vieng region for outdoor sports, Vientiane’s temples, and natural highlights like waterfalls and forests. You’ll see historical landmarks and learn about traditions that have remained unchanged for centuries.
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One of the best things about Laos is its safety. People are friendly, and traveling around the country is safe without worrying. This gives solo travelers and travelers with families even more reason to visit.
Read also: Lesser-Known Countries Worth Your Travel Time
Trinidad and Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago is the ultimate Caribbean destination, with beautiful places, cultural wonders, and great food. You’ll find endless music and art and see some of the world’s most striking natural wonders.
Some must-experience destinations include birding and turtle watching, swimming in Pigeon Point Beach, and the Temple in the Sea. From relaxing beaches to adventures in the jungle, there’s something for every traveler.
When you visit, make sure you’re prepared for both relaxation and outdoor activities. From watersports to hikes, you’ll want to take advantage of all the natural highlights the country offers.
Read also: Most Famous Landmarks Around the World
Paraguay
Paraguay is an amazing South American country that is off the usual tourist trail. You’ll experience exciting cities, natural wonders, and friendly people. Paraguay also has a food culture that will surprise you.
Some of its highlights include Carmen del Paraná beach, the Pantanal wetland, and the country’s architecture. Its capital, Asuncion, has a fun restaurant scene and great nightlife.
Try its national beverage, terere, a tea made with herbs and yerba mate. Also, don’t miss the chance to see wild capybaras frolicking in the wetlands. If you love nature and a laid-back vibe, Paraguay won’t disappoint you.
Read also: Countries Embracing Digital Nomads
Armenia
Armenia is a small country tucked into the beautiful Caucus Mountains. It has an ancient history and endless destinations to explore. Plus, the government and local people want more tourists to see their beautiful country.
Highlights include wine tasting in ancient vineyards, sampling its cuisine, and visiting its UNESCO-registered monasteries. You’ll see ancient structures that existed before Roman times. You can also partake in traditions and festivals with ancient roots.
It’s also the perfect country for a road trip, with endless highways that take you through dramatic scenery. From its mountains and lakes to charming towns and villages, Armenia’s countryside is a destination not to miss. If that’s not enough, prepare to try some of the best food and wine of your life.
Read also: Wealthiest Countries in the World
Vanuatu
Vanuatu is a small island nation in Oceania with many things to offer tourists. You can experience jungle treks, world-class diving and snorkeling, and a rich cultural heritage. The people are friendly, and the government is doing its best to promote the country as the next best thing.
Some of its highlights include Tanna Island’s Yasur Volcano, its beverage kava, and scuba diving in Efate Island. You’ll see natural wonders rich in rare wildlife and awe-inspiring beauty. Festivals and events throughout the year will add more to your visit.
If you love adventure and natural beauty, Vanuatu is the perfect destination. Bring your hiking boots, swimwear, and camera because this destination is going to be jam-packed with activities.
Read also: Low-Cost Countries for Travelers
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