It’s a new year, and with that comes new ideas for destinations to visit on your 2023 travels.
CNN compiled a list of more than 20 great travel destinations to check out this year. Below are Travel Off Path’s top picks for the best places to visit in 2023 for every type of traveler.
Laos
A landlocked country in Southeast Asia, Laos is underrated compared to neighboring Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia.
The ancient kingdom of Laos was known as “The Land of a Million Elephants.” Today, this country is best known for its stunning natural scenery and waterfalls, its adventure capital Vang Vieng, and the charming French colonial city of Luang Prabang.
A semi-high-speed railway opened in the country in 2021, making it easier than ever to get around and explore this unique country. It’s also one of the most affordable destinations to visit in 2023.
Tanzania
Tanzania is one of the hottest destinations of 2023.
This country in Eastern Africa is packed full of incredible sights and activities. Climbing Africa’s highest peak Mount Kilimanjaro, going on safari in Arusha Serengeti National Park, and relaxing on the picture-perfect beaches of Zanzibar are just a few of the best things to do in Tanzania.
Tanzania was one of the most-loved travel destinations of 2022, and its popularity will only continue to grow.
Poland
Poland is a fantastic European destination with a lot to offer, especially for those interested in history. It also offers great value for travelers, with some of the most affordable prices in Europe.
During WWII, more than 85% of Poland’s capital Warsaw was destroyed and subsequently rebuilt. Meanwhile, beautiful Krakow was largely spared and retains its original architecture.
Poland is home to fairytale castles and the breathtaking Tatra National Park, as well as sobering reminders of WWII like the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp.
Belize
While Mexico continued to set new tourism records in 2022, neighboring Belize is still a somewhat underrated gem in Central America.
This small country packs a big punch: from awe-inspiring Mayan ruins to pristine beaches to lush jungles, there’s plenty to explore in Belize.
The island of Caye Caulker is known for its gorgeous beaches and laidback vibe, while the Great Blue Hole offers some of the best scuba diving and snorkeling in the world.
Xunantunich, Altun Ha, and the ATM Cave are fascinating archaeological sites that are a must-visit for anyone interested in Mayan history.
Rwanda
Rwanda is a bucket list destination for many people because of one thing: gorilla trekking.
Getting up close and personal with gorillas at Volcanoes National Park is one of the biggest draws to this African nation. However, Rwanda has even more to offer to visitors.
Nyungwe Forest National Park is a stunning area of natural beauty where you can walk on a 300-foot canopy bridge over the rainforest. And in the capital Kigali, the Genocide Memorial honors the victims of the horrific conflict that encompassed the country just decades ago.
Fiji
Fiji is a far-flung South Pacific destination that is perfect for adventure travelers.
When you picture “tropical paradise”, the palm-lined beaches and rugged beauty of Fiji are exactly what you would expect to find.
And although it’s still not a cheap destination, it’s one of the South Pacific countries that is more affordable with more options for budget travelers than just endless pricy resorts.
Uganda
Although Uganda is an East African destination known for its safari and wildlife experiences, the country has been shaking things up and expanding its tourism offerings in recent years.
Beyond trying to spot the Big Five, visitors to Uganda can experience volcano trekking, whitewater rafting on the Victoria Nile, hiking in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, or experiencing local Ugandan food and culture in Kampala and smaller villages around the country.
