While Georgia has been trending for some time now, Armenia has often been considered simply an add-on adventure. However, we think it's time to explore this culturally significant, diverse, and rewarding destination in more depth. As the world's first official Christian country, expect many important religious sites alongside rolling mountains and dramatic landscapes. Our travel expert, Kenny, recently returned from a trip to Armenia and is backing this fiercely independent country with an intriguing heritage as a standalone hotspot for 2025.

Which tours? Classic Armenia tailormade tour or Azerbaijan, Georgia & Armenia: Across the Caucasus group tour

From the colourful streets of La Paz to the dreamscape of the Altiplano, Bolivia (somehow) continues to be one of South America’s best-kept secrets. This makes it the perfect antidote for overtourism, with vast open spaces and warm, welcoming locals. Escape onto the roof of the Andes and into the wilderness, travel the America’s most beautiful deserts and visit the Uyuni Salt Flats at the best time to attain photographic nirvana on its magical, mirror-like surface. 

“Bolivia, like much of South America is an enigma. Not only is it landlocked, but also to some extent culture-locked, seemingly oblivious to the world beyond its own borders. That makes it the most South American of all South American countries. It is a wonderfully authentic place to travel. Bolivia’s unique national character, set upon a backdrop of persistently stunning landscapes, ignites the senses.” – Richard, Latin America travel expert

Which tours? Complete Bolivia or Chile, Bolivia & Peru: High Deserts of the Andes tailor-made tours

Bosnia and Herzegovina is being heralded as one of the rising stars of the Balkans and as a less-crowded alternative to Croatia. It offers a unique blend of cultures, historical significance, and outstanding landscapes, including the famous Stari Most bridge in Mostar and the untouched nature of the Dinaric Alps. Bosnia and Herzegovina has a rich mix of Eastern and Western cultures, and its turbulent history has left it touched by a fascinating cultural heritage. While Sarajevo and Mostar are undoubtedly the jewels in its glittering crown, there is so much to see and do here, with fine wines, glorious landscapes, delicious food and much more. 

Which tour? Into The Balkans: Serbia, Kosovo, Bosnia & Herzegovina Group Tour

This beautiful corner of the world is genuinely trailblazing when it comes to the intersection of forward-thinking sustainability and community-based tourism, without sacrificing luxury.  Jaya House River Park in Siem Reap is an equal opportunity employer and plastic-free property that supports the local environment and community and offers tropical serenity, while Phum Baitang Resort (which translates as green village), will have you captivated by how simplicity and beautiful natural surroundings can nourish your soul. Or stay in a luxury tented camp in the jungle at Shinta Mani Wild, Sihanoukville (pictured above) which was created in collaboration with the Wildlife Alliance and the Cambodian Government. You can escape the tourist track and experience the ‘real Cambodia’, visiting incredible initiatives, such as the Kulen Elephant Forest, which protects former working elephants, and supporting local crafts.

Which tours: Heart of Indochina: Laos and Cambodia Group Tour or Classic Southeast Asia tailor-made tour 

Perhaps you’ve always dreamed of sailing from Luxor to Aswan aboard a private sandal or dahabiya (traditional houseboat), but this desirable bucket list destination currently has a question mark next to this it… While some believe travelling to the Middle East isn’t currently advisable, we take a slightly different perspective. We believe it is very safe to travel to Egypt, and travel in 2025 offers a rare opportunity to visit Egyptian temples & archaeological sites, from Dendera to Philae, with very few tourists swarming around some of the most impressive sights in the world. 

Which tours? NEW FOR 2025 - Highlights of Ancient Egypt Group Tour, Egypt: Slow Boat to Aswan Group Tour or Classic Egypt tailor-made tour

Ghana is still relatively untouched by tourism, but, recently back from a trip, our Product Manager, Rachel, can attest to just how ready and genuinely pleased they are to welcome travellers! An economically stable and culturally proud West African country, this destination offers so many unique experiences that travellers will relish. There is ample opportunity to meet and mingle with local Ghanaians, learn about transatlantic slave history at Cape Coast Castle, meet a chief in Elmina or watch the Ashanti monarchy during the Akwasidae Festival in Kumasi, and even witness armadillos, monkeys, elephants, and birds. 

Which tour: NEW FOR 2025 -  Ghana: Kingdom Of The Ashanti Group Tour

Whether you are visiting eagle hunters on the shores of Lake Izzyk Kul, or sleeping under clear skies in a yurt camp at Son Kul Lake, Kyrgyzstan or the Kyrgyz Republic is quite simply one of the most beautiful countries on earth. Riding off the back of Uzbekistan’s flourishing popularity, this country makes a perfect add-on to other ‘Stans, and also offers plenty as a standalone adventure. Here, you will find ordinary people with proud nomadic traditions and a great sense of hospitality, living quite extraordinary lives. The Tian Shan mountains, also known as the 'Mountains of Heaven, ’, stretch majestically across the length and breadth of Kyrgyzstan and are lush, high, and wild, dissected by sweeping steppe lands, primal forests, and turquoise lakes. 

Which tours? Kyrgyzstan Explorer Group Tour, Silk Road: The Five 'Stans of Central Asia Group Tour or Wild Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan tailormade tour

We’re predicting big things for Montenegro in the coming years, as it offers similar appeal to Albania with its stunning Adriatic coast, a UNESCO town and national park, and less-crowded beaches compared to neighbouring Croatia. From the unspoilt tranquility of Biogradska Gora’s primeval forest, to exploring Tara Canyon, Europe’s deepest gorge, in Durmitor National Park Durimtor National Park, it’s easy to see why it's also an emerging destination for eco-tourism and adventure sports.  With a classic Wild Frontiers twist, you can stay in the mountain cabins of a local farmer in Biogradska Gora National Park, and taste their traditional cheese and enjoy their hospitality. 

Which tours? Walking in Montenegro Group Tour or Balkans Insider: Albania, North Macedonia, Kosovo & Montenegro Group Tour

Nepal is bursting with natural beauty and rich, cultural UNESCO World Heritage Sites, great birding and wildlife viewing and safari options. There are amazing new hotels such as Shinta Mani Mustang, The Nanee and Burhan Wilderness Camp. Plus, the cool, independent, traditional Sherpa home, the Happy House in Phaplu, Namo Buddha and the rural heritage Famous Farm at Nuwakot. For those interested in responsible travel, Community Homestays is an amazing project that offers community experiences and family homestays for visitors to immerse themselves in the country.

Marianne, Wild Frontiers Product Manager, says, "We’re really excited about Nepal in 2025 as it has so much to offer a variety of travellers.  There is a lot of cultural appeal and chances to spend time in remote rural communities and learn about traditional crafts. Our Mustang Valley itinerary explores an area that was off-limits to tourists for many years and takes you right off the tourist trail without missing out on the highlights. For those looking for a trekking experience that’s a little different, our Alternative Annapurna Sanctuary trek offers a unique route that explores quieter parts of the region."

Which tours? Classic Nepal or Mustang Valley: Journey to the Himalayan Kingdom tailor-made tours

Algeria has continued to thrive in 2024, and we are confident this will extend into 2025. Along with Tunisia, these countries make great alternatives to the Middle East. Arab, Amazigh, and Tuareg-speaking countries with deep, ancient roots that will keep you immersed every step of the way. Pencil Tunisia in your diary for 2025 for a fascinating journey in the north through ancient Carthage, a city of antiquity and drenched in history. Or indulge the film buff in you with a trip to Tataouine (as immortalised in the Star Wars saga) in the south. Algeria holds many wonders, including wild camping amidst beautiful scenery with a Tuareg crew as support, climbing towering sand dunes and exploring ever-changing scenery by 4WD on a true adventure just 40 km from the border with Libya. 

Which tours? NEW FOR 2025 - Algeria: Crossroads Of The Maghreb Group Tour, Tunisia Uncovered Group Tour or Algeria: Saharan Desert Adventure Group Tour

Romania is known for its fascinating history, medieval castles, and picturesque Transylvanian landscapes. The relatively undiscovered status among travellers makes it an appealing destination for those well-travelled and hunting for the new hottest destination. In 2025, we're launching a new Romania tour that takes in the highlights of the country - Wild Frontiers style! It starts in Suceava, where you'll uncover UNESCO medieval painted monasteries, wild herds of European Bison and stunning mountain scenery. Then it's onto Bucharest via Transylvania, with feasts of traditional local cuisine along the way, and lots of treasures to marvel at. And of course, no trip to Romania would be complete without learning about the blood-soaked legends and vampire myths of Sighişoara.

Which tour: NEW FOR 2025: Romania: Across The Carpathians To Transylvania Group Tour

With Vision 2030 still well underway, there seems to be no slowing to Saudi Arabia’s tourism boom. The country continues to build and grow in various sectors and the influx of tourists is no exception to this trend. Our travellers who visit Saudi are consistently feeding back how positive and eye-opening visiting this transforming country is, with our tours providing a ‘unique window into the soul of Saudi Arabia’. Expect sweeping desert scenery, interactions with local communities, busy bazaars and architectural feats. If you’re drawn to destinations that challenge your perceptions and offer a glimpse into countries we are still lifting the curtain on - a little like our founder Jonny, who just returned from exploring Saudi Arabia - then it may be the perfect choice for you.

Which tour? Inside The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Group Tour

This year we’ve noticed a significant increase in bookings to Sri Lanka in 2024, and we can’t say we’re surprised! With rolling green tea fields, culinary wonders, national parks brimming with wildlife, incredible community initiatives, and the launch of our Pekoe Trail itinerary, this country will undoubtedly keep climbing in the must-visit lists.

Which tours? Walking in Sri Lanka: Along the Pekoe Trail tailor-made tour or Sri Lanka: Hidden Treasures of the Sacred Island Group Tour

Beyond Istanbul, balloons and beaches, Turkey is filled with much more to offer the adventurous, curious traveller. While we don’t deny the draw of the iconic sights in Turkey, we wouldn’t be doing our job if we didn’t also encourage visitors to dive a little deeper and time travel through labyrinthine lanes of Birgi and uncover ancient wonders in many corners of the country. From volcanic landscapes in Cappadocia to 4th-century monasteries, prepare to forget everything you thought you knew about Turkey in 2025 on one of our exciting group tours. 

Which tours? NEW FOR 2025: Turkey: Eastern Borderlands Group Tour, or also NEW FOR 2025: Turkey: Istanbul, Edirne & the Aegean Coast Group Tour

Off the back of Albania’s undeniable boom, the Balkans continue to increase in popularity, as seen with the inclusion of Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina above. But not to miss out on the other countries in this incredible region, in 2024, we launched our Balkans Insider group tour, taking in the best of North Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro, and Kosovo. This, along with our Into the Balkans tour which takes in Serbia, Kosovo, Bosnia & Herzegovina, shows you can gain an incredible insight into a cluster of beautiful countries in one trip. There is so much to explore in these varied and unique countries, as perfectly put by one of our group tour travellers:

“This tour certainly took me ‘into the Balkans’. I learned much about the people, lands and often tragic histories of the countries we visited. They have much in common and much to distinguish each of them. I’m just starting to understand their complex histories and current challenges.” – Helen

So, watch out for all of these growing in popularity come 2025!

Which tour? Into The Balkans: Serbia, Kosovo, Bosnia & Herzegovina Group Tour or Balkans Insider: Albania, North Macedonia, Kosovo & Montenegro Group Tour

Uzbekistan continues to fly high on our list of most-wanted destinations. In fact, we just had to add new Land of Silk Road Treasures departures in April and May because both months sold out so quickly! Despite its popularity here at WF, it's still considered 'emerging' to the uninitiated. But perhaps not for long. This year, we collaborated with the British Museum for their Silk Road exhibition, whose remarkable artefacts invite Londoners on a journey in the footsteps of its trade route history. Uzbekistan also received the Gold Award in the Most Desirable Emerging Destination category at the 2024 Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards. With other major restoration projects, high-speed train connections between cities and more international flights due in 2025, we can't imagine this destination will fly under the radar for much longer. 

Which tour? Group Tour: Land of Silk Road Treasures or Tailor-Made: Classic Silk Road Uzbekistan

Our best-selling destination is never going out of style, not just because there's nowhere quite like India, but because it never stops evolving - it seems like we get a new India every year. There is a wonderful and varied home-grown sense of style borrowing from the rich heritage of some of the finest arts, crafts, textiles and architectural styles characterising chic new properties. Even India's famed cuisine appears to be levelling up, with restaurants following suit. Corbett National Park, the oldest in India and home to the highest number of tigers and a staggering 600+ bird species (considering the whole country has 1,359 species) is opening new safari zones in the coming weeks. Plus, the once-every-twelve-years festival of Kumbh Mela, the largest gathering of humans on earth, quite fittingly kicks the year off in January (don't worry if you miss this - this is India, there's always a celebration going on somewhere!) gathering at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna and mythical Sarasvati rivers. With a growing number of domestic tourists, you're sure to feel the immense cultural pride, love and investment being poured into tourism right now, so 2025 is sure to be heaving with magical experiences, old and new. 

Which tours? Group Tour: India: Across The Ganges To Varanasi (Kumbh Mela Festival) or Tailor-Made: Central & South India In Style