Mexico Joins Spain, Italy, Switzerland, France and Kenya as Fodors Warns Against Travel to These Destinations in 2026, Here Is What You Need To Know

Published on November 26, 2025

In 2026, Mexico joins Spain, Italy, Switzerland, France, and Kenya on Fodor’s No List, a warning to travelers about the growing pressures of overtourism. Fodor’s Travel has highlighted these destinations as facing unsustainable tourism, which is straining local resources, damaging environments, and affecting the quality of life for residents. Mexico, once a sought-after destination for its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes, is now experiencing the negative effects of mass tourism, including overcrowded attractions and a housing crisis fueled by short-term rentals.

Similarly, other destinations like Spain, Italy, Switzerland, France, and Kenya are grappling with similar challenges. Fodor’s aims to raise awareness, encouraging travelers to reconsider their plans and explore alternative, less impacted regions to help ease the strain on these popular spots. Here’s what you need to know about why these destinations are facing this critical issue in 2026.

1. Antarctica: The Last Wilderness Facing Overcrowding

Antarctica has long been a dream destination for eco-tourists, but it is now struggling with an influx of mass tourism that threatens its fragile environment. Environmental experts are sounding the alarm, urging visitors to wait until appropriate visitor caps and stricter regulations are in place. The once-mystical appeal of Antarctica is being undermined by the increasing number of tourists, and climate change is only exacerbating the situation.

While tourism was originally controlled and focused on small, responsible eco-tours, recent years have seen the rise of larger ships and mass groups visiting the continent. As one expert pointed out, Antarctica’s environment cannot sustain high numbers of visitors, which could lead to long-term ecological damage.

2. Canary Islands: Overtourism Straining Local Resources

The Canary Islands, a popular European destination, are facing severe overtourism, which is leading to an increase in housing costs, environmental degradation, and strained local resources. Residents have been protesting against the changes in housing regulations, which allow short-term rentals through platforms like Airbnb. This has driven up property values and rental prices, making it increasingly difficult for locals, particularly young people, to afford housing.

Tourism continues to rise, but experts warn that the region’s infrastructure cannot handle the growing number of visitors without severe consequences for both the environment and the local community. Travelers are advised to reconsider the Canary Islands until improvements can be made to manage tourism in a sustainable way.

3. Glacier National Park: Environmental Damage and Climate Change Threats

Glacier National Park in Montana has been a favorite among nature lovers, but the park is now under significant strain from both tourism and climate change. The park is experiencing rising temperatures, more frequent wildfires, and changes to seasonal habitats, all of which have been exacerbated by mass tourism. Experts caution that the park’s delicate ecosystems cannot continue to support the high number of visitors it currently receives.

Given the park’s status as a UNESCO World Heritage site, conservation efforts are crucial to preserving its natural beauty for future generations. Visitors are advised to avoid the park until it can recover from the combined pressures of overtourism and climate change.

4. Isola Sacra, Italy: A Threatened Coastal Ecosystem

The coastal area of Isola Sacra, near Fiumicino in Italy, has become a hotspot for tourists, particularly with the rise of cruise ship traffic. However, locals have raised concerns about the environmental toll that the cruise port has on the delicate ecosystem of dunes, wetlands, and unique vegetation. With rising tourism numbers, the area faces the risk of irreversible damage to its natural habitat.

Activists and locals are calling for a halt to further development and for a reevaluation of tourism policies that prioritize environmental protection over profit. Tourists planning to visit Italy are advised to explore alternative destinations to help ease the pressure on Isola Sacra.

5. The Jungfrau Region, Switzerland: Balancing Tourism and Environmental Preservation

Switzerland’s Jungfrau Region, home to the iconic Jungfraujoch, is facing the challenge of balancing a booming tourism industry with the need to protect its environment. In 2024, the region saw record-breaking numbers of visitors, with more than a million people visiting Jungfraujoch alone. While the region’s stunning views and mountain experiences attract tourists, the environmental impact of the infrastructure needed to support such numbers is becoming increasingly evident.

Climate change has further intensified the problem, with glaciers melting and ecosystems shifting. Travelers are encouraged to explore other parts of Switzerland to allow the Jungfrau Region time to recover and develop more sustainable tourism practices.

6. Mexico City: The Strain of Overtourism on Local Communities

Mexico City, a vibrant cultural hub, has seen a sharp increase in tourism in recent years. However, the city’s rapid growth as a tourist destination has led to significant social and housing challenges. The rise of short-term rental platforms like Airbnb has contributed to gentrification, pushing local residents out of neighborhoods and altering the city’s social fabric.

Mexico City’s infrastructure is also under pressure, with overcrowded public spaces, transportation systems, and environmental degradation. Experts recommend avoiding the city until better regulation of tourism can be implemented to support sustainable growth and protect local communities.

7. Mombasa, Kenya: Rising Tourism Straining Local Resources

Mombasa, Kenya’s second-largest city, is facing the challenges of overtourism as it becomes increasingly popular with international visitors. The city has experienced a massive rise in port traffic, contributing to congestion and environmental degradation. The strain on local resources, from water to waste management, has reached critical levels.

Tourists are encouraged to explore other parts of Kenya to alleviate the pressure on Mombasa and give the city time to implement sustainable tourism practices.

8. Montmartre, Paris: Overtourism Threatening Local Identity

Montmartre, one of Paris’s most iconic neighborhoods, has been increasingly overrun by tourists, especially at night. The Place du Tertre, a famous square known for its artists and cafés, is now dominated by tourists, to the point that some locals are expressing dissatisfaction with the loss of authenticity.

Experts warn that the area is at risk of losing its unique cultural identity due to overtourism. Travelers to Paris are encouraged to explore other, less crowded neighborhoods to help preserve the local character of Montmartre.

Key Takeaways

• Fodor’s 2026 No List highlights destinations like Antarctica, the Canary Islands, and Glacier National Park, where overtourism is causing environmental and social harm.
• Tourists are encouraged to explore alternative destinations to reduce the pressure on these fragile locations.
• Many of the listed destinations, like Mombasa and Mexico City, are facing issues such as overcrowding, housing crises, and environmental degradation due to mass tourism.
• Sustainable travel practices and conscious tourism are more important than ever for preserving these iconic locations for future generations.

Disclaimer: The Attached Image in This Article is AI Generated