In 2025, Patagonia, Medellín and Oman stand out as three of the most exciting destinations for French-speaking travellers: vast wilderness straddling Chile and Argentina, the cultural renaissance of a Colombian city that became a global symbol of resilience, and the desert and coastal landscapes of a sultanate that has largely escaped mass tourism. What these three destinations share is a genuine commitment to responsible travel, alongside accessible entry requirements for French passport holders.
Protect my trip with YupwegoPatagonia: trekking and glaciers at the edge of the world
Shared between Chile and Argentina, Patagonia is home to some of the most spectacular scenery on earth. Its glaciers, jagged granite peaks and extraordinary wildlife (condors, guanacos, pumas) make it an unmissable destination for anyone who loves wide-open spaces and unspoilt nature.
Torres del Paine, Chile: the iconic trek
Torres del Paine National Park is the beating heart of Patagonian trekking. The ‘W Trek’ (around four to five days) takes in the Las Torres viewpoint, Grey Glacier and the Valle del Francés. For those with more time, the ‘O Circuit’ (eight to nine days) offers a full circumnavigation of the massif and is widely regarded as one of the finest hikes in South America. If you prefer not to tackle the whole thing on foot, a boat trip from Puerto Natales to Grey Glacier makes for a spectacular alternative for less seasoned walkers. Peak season runs from October to March (the southern summer): book your refugios and campsites well in advance, as places are limited and in very high demand.
Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina: a rare spectacle
On the Argentine side, within Los Glaciares National Park (Santa Cruz Province), the Perito Moreno Glacier stretches across 250 square kilometres, with a face five kilometres wide and standing between 70 and 90 metres tall. It is one of the few glaciers in the world that is still actively advancing, which means dramatic calving events are a regular occurrence. January and February offer the mildest temperatures for a visit.
To round out your itinerary, discover more ideas in our selection of the most beautiful hikes in South America.
Medellín, Colombia: a city reborn
Once notorious for all the wrong reasons, Medellín has reinvented itself as a creative, forward-thinking city. Its ‘eternal spring’ climate, a product of its altitude (1,500 m), a thriving arts scene and a series of bold urban regeneration projects make it one of Colombia’s most compelling destinations for 2025.
The Comuna 13: a symbol of resilience
Perched on the hillsides to the west of the city, the Comuna 13 was once one of the most dangerous neighbourhoods in Colombia. Today it is one of the country’s most visited sites, celebrated for its outdoor escalators, striking street art murals and live hip-hop dance performances. A guided tour with a local guide remains the best way to grasp the full depth of its history and the human stories behind its transformation.
Food, ecotourism and the surrounding region
Medellín’s food scene weaves together tropical produce and the culinary traditions of the Antioquia region. The surrounding area has plenty to offer too: the Aburrá Valley and the coffee plantations on the city’s doorstep are ideal for immersing yourself in local nature and the economy that sustains it.
Entry requirements for Colombia
French passport holders do not need a visa to visit Colombia for stays of up to 90 days. However, the Check-Mig form (an online migration registration) is compulsory and must be completed between 72 hours and 1 hour before boarding. A passport valid for at least six months beyond your planned exit date and a return ticket are also required on arrival.
For full details and key things to watch out for, see our dedicated guide: Visiting Colombia: travel restrictions and entry requirements.
Oman: the Middle East’s best-kept secret
Still relatively undiscovered by European travellers, the Sultanate of Oman offers a striking variety of landscapes: sweeping dune deserts, limestone mountains, turquoise-pooled wadis and pristine coastlines along the Indian Ocean. The country is actively investing in ecotourism and the protection of its natural heritage.
Must-see highlights
- Wahiba Sands Desert: a vast sea of dunes, perfect for a night in a Bedouin camp under a sky free from light pollution.
- Wadi Shab: a canyon of narrow gorges and turquoise rock pools, one of the most photogenic hikes in the country.
- Muscat: the capital combines the authentic architecture of Al Alam Palace, the bustling Mutrah Souq and the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque.
Entry requirements for French nationals
For stays of 14 days or less, French nationals benefit from a free visa on arrival, with no prior application required: a stamp is simply added to your passport at Omani immigration. For longer stays, an e-visa must be applied for before departure at evisa.rop.gov.om: 20 Omani rials for a 30-day single-entry tourist visa, or 50 rials for a multiple-entry visit visa valid for one year. In all cases, your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned exit date. No medical insurance is required to enter Oman.
For more help planning your stay, take a look at our in-depth guide: Oman, a hidden gem of the Middle East.
FAQ
What is the best time to visit Patagonia?
Peak season runs from October to March (the southern summer), with longer days and milder temperatures. January and February are the warmest months for visiting the Perito Moreno Glacier. If you are planning to trek in Torres del Paine, book your refugios and campsites well in advance: places are limited and demand is high during this period.
Do French nationals need a visa to visit Colombia?
No. French passport holders can stay in Colombia for up to 90 days without a visa. The Check-Mig form (an online migration registration) is however mandatory before boarding. Check the latest recommendations from the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs before you travel to confirm the conditions in force at the time.
Do French nationals need a visa for Oman?
For stays of 14 days or less, French passport holders receive a free visa on arrival with no prior application needed. For longer stays, an e-visa must be requested online at evisa.rop.gov.om before departure (20 rials for 30 days, single entry). Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned exit date.
Are these three destinations suitable for solo travellers?
All three destinations welcome solo travellers. Patagonia requires serious preparation: early bookings, appropriate equipment and unpredictable weather conditions. Medellín has a well-developed tourist infrastructure. Oman is known for its safety and hospitality. In all cases, check the country information pages of the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs before you travel.
Is travel insurance necessary for Patagonia, Colombia or Oman?
None of these three countries requires proof of insurance on entry. However, medical costs can be significant far from home, and outdoor activities in Patagonia carry specific risks (altitude, unpredictable weather, remoteness). Cover that includes emergency medical care and repatriation is strongly recommended for all three destinations.
