Escorted tours specialist G Adventures has put Pakistan at the top of its annual ‘Where to Travel’ list.
Pakistan is a new destination for the operator in 2025, thanks to its “incredible hiking, untouched landscapes and deep history”.
G Adventures has launched three new trips in Pakistan, focused on bringing tourism to the ancient Thallay La Trail.
The operator reported that bookings across its whole portfolio had “rocketed” in October and November, and, along with more than 200 new trips being launch, it predicted 2025 is going to be “a big year for travel”.
In line with the operator’s commitment to community tourism, many of the ‘Where to Travel’ destinations include new itineraries that take travellers to remote communities that have not benefitted from tourism.
More: G Adventures’ non-profit partner helps 550 projects on back of funds hike
Bosnia is second on the list, thanks to its “rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, delicious food and a refreshing lack of crowds”.
A new visa-free travel policy means passport holders from more than 50 nations no longer need a visa to enter Bosnia.
G Adventures has worked with the Resilience Council and USAID Developing Sustainable Tourism in Bosnia and Herzegovina (Turizam) to introduce new trips designed to create jobs, raise awareness about the region’s rich history and encourage cultural exchange.
Third on the list is Tibet, noted for its “breathtaking landscapes, ancient monasteries and the warm hospitality of its people”, said G Adventures.
While travellers must join a group tour or book a guide to visit, recent easing of visa restrictions by China is making it easier than ever to explore this extraordinary region, added the operator.
In fourth spot is Thailand, which can offer “new and surprising” options for second, third and even 10h-time visitors.
The White Lotus TV series returns in 2025, with the drama now set in in Koh Samui, while Jurassic World Rebirth film will feature scenes filmed in Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai.
Morocco makes fifth spot thanks to new direct flights, the launch of remote adventures and “booming” booking stats, while the Philippines is in sixth, thanks to more international flights, which mean the destination is expected to return to pre-pandemic traveller numbers in 2025.
South Africa is in seventh spot, thanks to its wildlife and safaris, while Greece is eighth, with a spotlight on its smaller, quieter islands.
Portugal is in ninth, as traveller interest “shows no signs of slowing down”, with G Adventures seeing more than 50% growth in destination over the past two years.
Japan is 10th, as it will be in the spotlight next year thanks to the World Expo 2025 in Osaka. G Adventures has 12 new trips for 2025, which are closely aligned with the World Expo theme, focusing on physical activity, active experiences and lesser-visited, remote regions.
G Adventures’ annual ‘Where to Travel’ list:
1 Pakistan
2 Bosnia
3 Tibet
4 Thailand
5 Morocco
6 Philippines
7 South Africa
8 Greece
9 Portugal
10 Japan
Pictured: Thallay valley, Pakistan