10 Popular Countries Around the World That May Close Soon to Tourists

It’s no secret—Filipinos love to travel. Whether it’s a budget weekend getaway in Thailand, a beach escape to Bali, or a long-awaited European holiday, many of us are always planning our next trip abroad. But here’s something to keep in mind: some of the world’s top tourist destinations are now considering limiting visitor access.

With overtourism, climate concerns, and the impact on local communities, several countries are beginning to rethink how they manage their travellers. New tourist taxes, stricter entry rules, and even seasonal closures are being discussed or already rolled out.

Also read: 10 Underrated Visa-Free Countries Every Pinoy Must Visit

If you’re a Filipino traveller with an ever-growing bucket list, here are 10 destinations to consider visiting sooner rather than later, before access becomes more restricted.

1. Thailand

Phi Phi Island, Maya Bay | Iakov Kalinin via Getty Images

Thailand is a top pick for Pinoy travellers; it’s nearby, budget-friendly, and offers everything from temples and street food to island hopping. But overtourism has taken its toll, especially in areas like Phuket and Maya Bay.

The government is pushing for sustainable travel by spotlighting lesser-known regions and raising entry fees in national parks. Popular sites could soon see seasonal closures or tighter visitor limits. If you plan on visiting, consider going off-season and supporting eco-conscious tours.

2. Bali, Indonesia

Manta Bay or Kelingking Beach, Bali | Miniloc via Getty Images Pro

Bali remains a favourite for Filipinos seeking a mix of surf, spirituality, and scenery. But the island is under pressure, traffic congestion, rubbish, and water shortages are on the rise, and some cultural sites are being overwhelmed.

Indonesia is proposing a tourist tax, cracking down on unruly behaviour, and exploring limitations on mass tourism. Places like Ubud and the Gili Islands may soon have visitor caps or seasonal restrictions. It’s a great time to go before stricter regulations are enforced.

3. Bhutan

Punakha Dzong Monastery, Bhutan | Kardd from Getty Images Pro

This tiny Himalayan kingdom offers a travel experience unlike anywhere else. Filipinos looking for peace, nature, and culture will find Bhutan unforgettable. But it doesn’t come cheap: tourists must pay a Sustainable Development Fee of USD 100 (₱5,600.00) per day.

Bhutan follows a “High Value, Low Impact” tourism model, and future changes may include even higher fees, seasonal closures, or limited permits to protect sacred sites and fragile ecosystems. It’s a unique journey worth taking before it becomes even more exclusive.

4. New Zealand

Piha Beach, Auckland, New Zealand | Grace Thang via Getty Images Pro

For many Filipino adventure seekers, New Zealand is a dream destination, offering glaciers, fjords, glow-worm caves, and Māori culture. But its natural wonders are feeling the strain of increasing tourist numbers.

The government promotes the Tiaki Promise, encouraging travellers to care for people and place. Expect stricter trail permits, seasonal access, and higher fees for popular parks. Some fragile areas may require guided tours only in future.

5. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

Bartolomé Island, Galápagos Islands | Claudiovidri via Getty Images

Nature-loving Filipinos who dream of seeing giant tortoises and marine iguanas in the wild often set their sights on the Galápagos Islands. But this ecological paradise is under threat.

Guided tours, aircraft limits, and park entry fees are already in place. More strict visitor caps and no-go zones are being proposed to protect the islands. Getting there isn’t easy, but it may become even harder.

6. Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu Inca Ruins, Peru | SL Photography via Getty Images Pro

Filipino backpackers often include Machu Picchu in their South America itinerary. But the UNESCO-listed site can no longer handle the tourist load.

Peru now requires advance booking, enforces time slots, and limits daily visitors. In the future, expect even stricter controls, including mandatory guided visits, a rotation system, or temporary closures for restoration.

7. Barcelona, Spain

Park Guell, Barcelona | Tomas Sereda via Getty Images

Spain is a hotspot for Filipino tourists and OFWs. But in Barcelona, locals have grown weary of the crowding in historic districts like El Raval and Barri Gòtic.

The city has frozen new hotel licences, cracked down on illegal rentals, and may ban short-term lets entirely by 2028. Visiting outside of summer and exploring lesser-known areas can help ease the strain and improve your experience.

8. Venice, Italy

Venice, Italy | Phant via Getty Images Pro

Venice is often on the European bucket list for Filipino honeymooners and travellers. But it’s struggling with mass tourism and rising sea levels.

Large cruise ships have been prohibited, and an entry fee for day-trippers was implemented in 2024. Officials are now discussing strict visitor caps and timed access to landmarks. See it now while the canals are still open to all.

9. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik, Croatia | Picography via Pexels

Dubrovnik gained international fame as “King’s Landing” in Game of Thrones, and fans from the Philippines have followed. But the fame brought in cruise ships, noise, and overcrowding.

Authorities are limiting tourist shops and tracking visitor flow. Future plans include ticketed entry to the Old Town and peak-season restrictions. For the best experience, visit in spring or autumn.

10. Iceland

Hallgrimskirkja Church, Iceland | Basiczto via Getty Images Pro

For Filipino travellers chasing the Northern Lights, Iceland offers a magical setting. But this natural wonderland is delicate, and it’s now seeing signs of overtourism.

Expect rising entry fees, seasonal closures, and some sites requiring guided tours only. Iceland isn’t cheap, but it may soon become even less accessible for independent travellers.

Also read: 8 Countries Filipinos Can Visit That Are Not on the Map But Worth the Adventure

Final thoughts

These countries aren’t closing their doors out of hostility, they’re fighting to preserve what makes them beautiful. As more Filipino travellers explore the world, we carry a shared responsibility to be respectful, mindful, and supportive of sustainable tourism.

So, before these places tighten their visitor policies, consider adding them to your itinerary. And when you do go, travel with purpose, leave only footprints, and take only memories.