A growing number of Australians are sidestepping traditional tourist hotspots in favour of regions still healing from armed conflict – including some that would have been seen only recently as definite no-go zones.
Boutique NSW travel consultancy Forward Travel founder and director David Smyth said Afghanistan – which marked three years this week since the return of its hard-line Taliban regime – and Iraq were “rising stars in the tourism world”.
“The number of people visiting, or wanting to visit, these destinations has increased sharply. We’ve seen a 15 per cent increase in bookings to Iraq in 2024,” he said.
“Meanwhile, African Sub-Saharan countries such as Mauritania, Senegal, Western Sahara and Sierra Leone are really kicking off.”
“As conflicts end and these countries open up, tourists are increasingly reassured by the safety they offer, with some reporting they feel safer under Taliban watch than on the well-trodden paths throughout Asia and Europe.”
@annaroundtheworld Replying to @maryam2ic I went to Afghanistan after the takeover — beautiful country🤍 #afghanistan #afghanistantourism #everycountry ♬ Evergreen – Richy Mitch & the Coal Miners
The apparent increase in interest for travel in conflict-afflicted regions from Australians echoes similar global trends.
United Nations Tourism data shows international tourism to the Middle East exceeded pre-pandemic levels by 36 per cent in the first three months of this year.
Countries in Africa have also collectively welcomed 5 per cent more international arrivals this year than in 2019.
Comparatively, Europe visitor growth in the same period was more subdued (1 per cent), although the figures likely came from a higher base than the Middle East and Africa.
International arrivals in Asia and the Pacific were still almost 20 per cent down on pre-pandemic levels.
Smyth said the Australian portion of travellers to former war zones tended to be “well-travelled, well-educated” people aged between 50 and 70. Many are retired or semi-retired.
“While a beach or cruise holiday would be an easier holiday option, these adventurers are driven to travel beyond their comfort zone by the desire to see history unfold, support local communities and challenge mainstream perceptions of these regions,” he said.
“We’ve also noticed a significant rise in the number of women doing solo cycling or driving trips to places like the west coast of Africa.
“This trend highlights the evolving landscape of travel, with people breaking traditional barriers and embracing new challenges in pursuit of those truly once-in-a-lifetime experiences.”
He said social media played a significant role in the recent travel trend by providing a platform to share content that challenged views held by some that classified certain regions as dangerous.
@chloejadetravels Solo travel in Iraq as an American woman This is a country that has been so demonized by the media, but it is so bizarre to me because it is such a welcoming and free country. I’ve been to many countries all over the world, and it is safe to say that some countries have stricter laws or might feel a bit more restrictive as a woman Iraq was not one of those countries for me I love how people coexist in this country and allow people to be however, they want to be Everyone is incredibly educated because university is totally free, and there are so many other surprising things about this country that I learned there. I’m excited to share my experience again for all of the people who may be new here on my account ❤️and with a new perspective ##iraqitiktok##visitiraq##traveltheworld##travelvlogger##adventuretravel##middleeasterncheck##solotravelwoman ♬ Emotional Love – Azwar
“Having travelled to Iraq myself, I can genuinely say that it was one of the most welcoming countries I have been to – the people are so open and sharing,” Smyth said.
“After many years of war and dictatorship, I found they just want to show the world their kind and peaceful nature, and that they’re not like the media portrays them.”
As with any overseas expedition, and particularly for some of these destinations, travellers should keep safety at the top of their minds.
For such off-the-beaten-path spots, Smyth recommends travellers:
- Research thoroughly: Understand local customs, laws and the potential risks before your trip
- Consult experts: If you’re booking through a travel consultancy, discuss the destination in detail with them, ask questions and have them resolve any concerns you may have
- Stay connected: Register with your consulate before departing
- Use common sense: Trust your instincts when navigating unfamiliar areas and always respect local traditions
- Listen to your local guide: Follow the advice they give and don’t let curiosity take over.