15 Overlooked Countries Not Enough Americans Visit

You would be right if you thought that there were more tourists than ever. More than one billion people visit another country each year. A record number of Americans traveled abroad last year. There was an increase of more than 8 percent to a total of 67 million citizens, compared to about 62 million the previous year, according to government data. North America, more specifically Mexico, was the preferred destination.Take the road less traveled; explore the off the radar, untouched, and underdeveloped adventurous destinations.

Myanmar's tumultuous history and location prevent it from being higher up on adventurers' bucket lists. Getting there itself is arduous – several long flights just to get to the capital. The Southeast Asian country has been attracting a lot of visitors since 2012 when it opened up to tourism. One of the most spectacular attractions includes the Irrawaddy River, whose shores feature sacred stupas filled with Buddhist relics and awe-inspiring Bagan temples that date back as far as the 11th century. The U Bein Bridge, the world's longest teak footbridge, is one of Myanmar's most photographed sites.

Most people just go to Ireland, but its northern neighbor has a lot to offer. A major tourist attraction, the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, is also one of the scariest. It links the mainland to the tiny island of Carrickarede. The bridge is approximately 66 feet and 89 feet above the rocks below. The Dunluce Castle, an iconic Medieval Irish castle on the Antrim Coast, is a must-see. Visit Giant's Causeway, a natural wonder on the northern coast. It features 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, which came from a volcanic eruption.

Adventurous tourists often prefer Peru or the Patagonia region. Don't be like them or you'll be missing out on many thrilling activities. With its lively capital city, access to the Amazon Rain Forest and the world famous Galapagos Islands them small country of Ecuador, and especially its Cotopaxi National Park, are truly special. Climb one of the tallest active volcanoes in the world and see endangered wildlife such as the Andean condor.

Cuba is probably the most famous country Americans were not allowed to visit as tourists. But the restrictions were loosened. Cave diving in the country is superb – you can't dive and explore the depths of a cave that reaches 70-feet deep in many places. Scuba diving and zip lining are popular, too. Sign up for the Havana Marathon, go rock climbing, and visit in time for carnivals, which are usually in the summer. From hiking to the highest point in the country to world-class rock climbing, there's plenty to do in Cuba, should you have the opportunity to visit.

Most people will go to South Africa or the Maldives. Do something different and spend your time island-hopping throughout Seychelles' 115 islands. Enjoy the rich marine life and nature reserves, as well as luxuriously lounging on the white-sand beaches of the Seychelles' North Island. If you're up for it, enjoy some adventure activities. Embark on an eight-day North Island Escape Tour and spend time kayaking, hiking, fishing, cycling, and diving.

Estonia is on our list of unforgettable bucket list trips you can do on a budget, if you want to go to a place with over 1,500 islands, sandy and rocky beaches, lavish forests and many lakes, but you don't want to spend a lot. The picturesque capital, Tallinn, is becoming a hotspot for Europeans because of cheap drinks, flamboyant parties and entertainment. But there is more to see. The city is one of the most preserved in Europe. It has an interesting mix of modern and medieval architecture. 

Bhutan often loses to Nepal. But the Buddhist kingdom in the Himalayas has plenty of monasteries, fortresses, subtropical plains, steep mountains and valleys. Thimphu is one of the most captivating places to visit. A popular destination with tourists is the Phajodhing. The hike to get there is amazing as you pass by forests and valets. If you are looking for authenticity, the Snowman Trek is the place. The spectacular 200-mile, 25-day high-altitude adventure includes some of the most untouched rocky countryside with snowcapped peaks and glacier covered terrain.

Cambodia and Thailand are a lot more popular. Also, the country is still strongly associated with the war Americans were involved in for years. If you can get passed that, know that the country is gorgeous. And you're going to get a lot of bang for your buck. Ho Chi Minh is a thrilling destination off the beaten path. Go on a tour through the Mekong Delta, a vast maze of rivers, passing by rice paddies and houseboats. The beautiful Ha Giang province boasts a uniquely preserved tribal culture. The scenic landscape includes everything from terraced rice paddies to large forests.

Politics aside, Russia is a fascinating country. It's also one where the dollar is still very strong. The Russian ruble has been on a downward spiral since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2014 due to international sanctions. Explore ancient cities and learn about the country's rich cultural heritage and diverse traditions at a discount. You can see the famous palaces in St. Petersburg and Moscow's Red Square for a lot less, as well.

This is another country that is often ignored because Thailand is nearby. Malaysia boasts long white sand beaches and tropical islands that are as beautiful as ever; some of which, however, are no longer as quiet and deserted as they once were. The government has developed tourism heavily to make the country's economy less dependent on natural resources. Explore the Taman Negara, Malaysia's first ever national park and the largest area of protected land in the country. The lush rainforest is enormous in size, and is estimated to be about 130 million years old. 

Considering that Jordan's neighbors are Israel, the West Bank, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Syria, would you want to go? If you ever go, you won't regret visiting the Ma'In hot springs located near the Dead Sea. They are developed from winter rainfalls. Underground lava helps to heat them and infuses them with therapeutic minerals. The kingdom boasts many thrilling hiking paths, eco-lodges and cycling tours. The ancient city of Petra is on everyone's bucket list, but get there through Jordan's desert wilderness for a truly authentic adventure.

Iceland and Norway are the obvious choice for most tourists who are looking for an Arctic experience. Greenland's epic fjords and remote arctic tundra remain under the radar. With 300 clear nights, its visitors might have the magical Northern Lights all to themselves. But this massive island has something for every traveler. This is where you'll find some of the best opportunities for sea kayaking, ice cave exploring and rock climbing on the planet.

Most people go to Mexico or Belize and just fly over Guatemala. But they should consider landing there for a combination of ancient Mayan ruins and stunning nature. The weather is pleasant year-round. November through April is usually the dry season. Lake Atitlan is one of the most spectacular lakes in the world. Take a tour around it; climb Volcano Atitlan and Volcano San Pedro; and hike through the Onion Fields and take pictures of the amazing scenery.

South Africa is the more obvious choice in the region. But people get have an unforgettable island vacation in Mozambique, on the Benguerra Island, to be exact. It is blessed with hot and sunny weather year round, with little or no rainfall through most of the year, according to Azura Retreats. This is a place for people who want to relax while zip-lining through a rainforest and bungee jumping during the day. Snorkeling adventures and hiking up active volcanoes are also exciting options. Fishing there is prolific; you'll encounter an abundance of different species.

Morocco is a perfect destination for hiking. Go trekking in the Atlas Mountains – a mountain range which extends about 1,500 miles through the country. Consider making a trip to see the grandeur of the Sahara. Visit Marrakech to see stunning gardens, markets, and city squares covered with extraordinary works of art. Make time to explore Chefchaouen. Morocco's stunning blue city is breathtaking. Adventurers won't be bored – hikes along the hills are strenuous, mountain streams valleys, ravines, and scenic summits are plenty.