Top 10+ Nations That Could Shut the Door on Tourists Soon

Bhutan: The Pursuit of Happiness Over Tourism

Nestled in the Himalayas, Bhutan has always stood out for its unique approach to tourism. Rather than chasing record visitor numbers, Bhutan chooses to prioritize the happiness and well-being of its own people.

The government enforces a “High Value, Low Impact” policy, which includes a steep daily fee for every tourist who enters the country. In 2023, there was talk of raising this daily tariff even higher, making it one of the most expensive destinations for travelers.

This is not just about money—it’s a signal that Bhutan wants to welcome only those who genuinely respect its culture and environment. The government’s plans are rooted in preserving ancient traditions and the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.

As a result, many expect Bhutan to become even less accessible in the near future, giving priority to sustainable travel over mass tourism.

Venice, Italy: A City at Risk of Overcrowding

Venice, the city of canals, has become almost a victim of its own beauty. With over 30 million tourists crowding its narrow streets and delicate bridges every year, the city’s infrastructure is under constant strain.

In a move that shocked many in 2023, city officials proposed an entrance fee for day-trippers as a way to control the overwhelming crowds. There are also new discussions about restricting the number of tourists allowed in each day, especially during busy summer months.

Locals, fed up with overcrowding, rising rents, and environmental damage, have demanded action to reclaim their city. If these strict measures go into effect, many travelers may soon find it much harder—or more expensive—to visit Venice.

The city’s future as a tourist hotspot hangs in the balance as it seeks to protect its heritage from being trampled.

Barcelona, Spain: Balancing Tourism and Local Life

Barcelona’s vibrant culture and sunny beaches have attracted more than 12 million visitors in 2022 alone, making it one of Europe’s most popular cities. However, the flood of tourists has not come without consequences.

Many local residents feel pushed out by rising prices and noisy crowds, leading to growing resentment. In response, the city council has proposed a freeze on new hotel licenses in some of the most popular neighborhoods.

There’s also talk of capping short-term rental properties to ensure that housing remains affordable for residents. The city is now at a crossroads, trying to find the right balance between a booming tourism industry and the quality of life for its people.

If these proposals become law, Barcelona’s streets may soon see fewer tourists and a return to a more local feel.

Machu Picchu, Peru: Protecting Cultural Heritage

Machu Picchu, the mystical Incan citadel perched high in the Andes, has faced its own battle with overtourism. Around 1.5 million people make the journey each year, putting immense pressure on the ancient stonework and surrounding environment.

In 2023, the Peruvian government announced plans to limit the number of daily visitors, aiming to reduce foot traffic and preserve the site for future generations. These changes mean that travelers may need to book their tickets months in advance or risk missing out.

The government is determined to protect Machu Picchu’s status as a UNESCO World Heritage site, even if it means turning away eager tourists. This move could transform the way people experience one of the world’s most famous landmarks.

Thailand: A Shift Towards Sustainable Tourism

Thailand’s stunning beaches, bustling markets, and ancient temples have drawn millions of visitors, with places like Maya Bay becoming social media sensations. But this popularity has come at a high environmental cost.

In 2023, Thai officials revealed plans to limit visitor numbers at top attractions and even closed Maya Bay for three years to help the ecosystem recover. These bold steps show a new commitment to sustainability, even if it means sacrificing short-term profits.

There is growing recognition that preserving Thailand’s natural beauty and cultural heritage is more important than ever. As the government moves forward with further restrictions, tourists may find fewer open doors and more protected sites in the near future.

Iceland: Managing the Impact of Tourism

Iceland’s dramatic landscapes, from steaming geysers to icy glaciers, have captivated travelers worldwide. The number of annual visitors exploded from 600,000 in 2010 to over 2.5 million in 2022.

While this tourism boom has boosted the economy, it has also brought environmental concerns to the forefront. The Icelandic government responded in 2023 by announcing plans to cap the number of visitors at certain fragile sites, hoping to prevent lasting damage to its unique environment.

These restrictions could mean that some of Iceland’s most famous spots will soon be off-limits to all but a lucky few. The country’s leaders are making it clear that preserving Iceland’s wild beauty is a higher priority than breaking new tourism records.

New Zealand: A Focus on Conservation

New Zealand is famous for its pristine wilderness and adventure tourism, but even paradise has its limits. With around 3.8 million international visitors crowding the islands in 2022, concerns about the impact on native ecosystems have grown louder.

In 2023, the government floated the idea of a visitor levy—a special fee for all tourists—to help fund conservation projects and reduce pressure on natural resources. The conversation has shifted toward quality over quantity, with strong support for stricter rules and limits on visitor numbers in sensitive areas.

If these measures take hold, the country may become more exclusive, with fewer tourists allowed to roam its famous landscapes.

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador: Protecting Biodiversity

The Galápagos Islands, a living laboratory of evolution, have long been under threat from too many visitors. With around 270,000 tourists arriving each year, local authorities are worried about the danger to rare species and fragile habitats.

In 2023, the Ecuadorian government announced new plans to tighten regulations and cap visitor numbers even further. Strict guidelines are being considered to limit the size of tour groups and the number of boats allowed to enter protected waters.

These changes could make the Galápagos an even more exclusive—and expensive—destination. It is a clear signal that protecting biodiversity comes first, no matter how popular the islands may be.

Dubrovnik, Croatia: Managing Overtourism

Dubrovnik’s ancient walls and red-tiled roofs have made it an icon of the Adriatic—and a victim of its own fame. The city welcomed over 1.5 million tourists in 2022, and the pressure on its Old Town has never been greater.

In 2023, city officials proposed capping the number of daily visitors and even limiting the arrival of cruise ships. These measures are designed to protect Dubrovnik’s cultural treasures and give locals some breathing space.

If put into action, travelers may soon need to plan well ahead or risk being turned away at the gates. The city’s future may depend on how it handles the rising tide of visitors.

Bali, Indonesia: A Call for Sustainable Practices

Bali’s lush scenery and vibrant culture have drawn crowds from around the world, with tourist numbers soaring to 6 million a year. Yet the island’s popularity has come at a cost: traffic jams, pollution, and a strain on local resources.

In 2023, authorities announced plans to limit access to some of the most visited sites and enforce stricter rules for tourist behavior. The intention is to protect both the island’s environment and its traditional way of life.

These steps signal a turning point for Bali, as it tries to move from mass tourism to a more thoughtful, sustainable approach. The message is clear: Bali’s doors may not always be open to everyone.

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