2026 Holiday Destinations: Where South Africans Should Travel Next 

So, you’re planning your 2026 holidays and you want to explore something new? Consider this your green light to go! South Africans are getting adventurous, and this year it’s all about unique destinations – places that mix culture, adventure, luxury, and value. From whisky trails in Scotland to the colourful medinas of Morocco and India, these are the spots that will make your 2026 travel plans that much more exciting. 

Consider this your cheat sheet – and yes, Pentravel can make it all happen. 

Asia Adventures: Vietnam & Japan 

Let’s start with Asia. 

Vietnam is basically the playground for travellers who want adventure without burning their budget. Picture this: you, on a motorbike, winding along the Hai Van Pass with the sea on one side and mountains on the other. Sounds good, right? Or, if that’s a bit extreme, explore limestone caves in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. And the street food… oh, the street food. Think meals from R15 to upscale dining that costs from R250 – all these options have one thing in common – they’ll make your taste buds sing!  

Japan is making a cultural comeback in 2026. Sure, Tokyo and Kyoto are iconic, but smaller cities like Kanazawa and Takayama are where the magic really happens. You can: 

• Explore Kanazawa’s historic districts and craft villages 
• Stroll through Takayama’s old-town markets 
• Take sushi-making or pottery workshops 

And here’s the best part: whether you want a fully packaged holiday with flights included, or a tailor-made trip with just your accommodation and activities booked, Pentravel can sort it. You tell us what you need, and we’ll make it happen. 

Morocco: Fès, Marrakech, and Beyond 

Morocco isn’t just Marrakech and desert tours. Have you heard of Fès? It’s a cultural goldmine: 

• Maze-like medinas full of artisans 
• Colourful tanneries and workshops 
• Authentic Moroccan cuisine experiences 

It’s perfect for South Africans wanting unique places to visit in the world – and it’s less touristy than Marrakech. Speaking of Marrakech, yes, the luxurious riads are a treat if you’re craving indulgence, while Chefchaouen, the famous blue city, is ideal for slow, photo-friendly exploring. 

Pro tip: Visit in spring or autumn to dodge the scorching heat – trust us, your tan will thank you. 

India’s Hidden Gem: Udaipur 

Ever wanted a holiday where you can relax but also feel like you’ve stepped into a real-life storybook? Udaipur in India has you covered. Known as the City of Lakes, it’s far more than a pretty postcard: 

• Stay in heritage hotels converted from palaces (yes, actual palaces) 
• Take boat rides on Lake Pichola 
• Explore bustling markets with hand-crafted textiles 

Whether you want to reconnect with yourself, recover from burnout, or learn a skill like cooking, art, or music, Udaipur is one of those unique destinations that gives you culture, calm, and fun all in one. And yes, you guessed it – Pentravel can put together a holiday package here exactly how you want it. 

Europe Off the Beaten Path 

Europe doesn’t have to be crowded cities or long queues. Check out these underrated spots: 

Albania 

• Golden Ionian beaches 
• Ancient villages and archaeological sites 
• Vibrant local markets and authentic cuisine 

Oulu, Finland 

• Northern Lights, husky rides, snow sports 
• Slow-paced and mindful – perfect if you need a burnout recovery trip 

Islay, Scotland 

• Whisky lovers, this is heaven on earth. 
• Small distilleries, tasting tours, coastal hikes. 
• Compare Islay vs Speyside: Islay = smoky, rugged, coastal; Speyside = smoother, gentler, inland 

Bucharest, Romania 

• Trendy cafes, nightlife, historic palaces 
• Budget-smart and unique – perfect if you want the buzz of the city without draining your wallet 

Travel Tips for Unique Holidays 

Off the Beaten Path 

Looking for lesser-touristed alternatives? Albania, Oulu, and Udaipur are your best bets. Authentic experiences, fewer crowds, and stories that your friends won’t have heard yet. 

Off-Peak Travel 

• Vietnam & Albania: For better value and fewer crowds, the shoulder season is always a winner. 
• Morocco: spring and autumn are ideal for milder weather 

Travel Based on Purpose 

• Reconnect & Recover: Oulu or Udaipur for a calm, reflective, soul-nourishing experience 
• Adventure & Learning: Vietnam, Morocco for a hands-on, active, and engaging escape. 
• Luxury Escapes: Japan and Islay are both indulgent stays without crowds. 

Budget Smart 

Albania, Vietnam, and Bucharest give South Africans unique holidays without overstretching the rand. Meals, accommodation, and experiences are often far cheaper than Western Europe. 

Sustainable Travel 

Eco-conscious? Consider Albania, Oulu, or Fès. Fewer tourists mean you’re helping local communities, and many accommodation options are eco-friendly. 

Time to Plan Your Trip 

2026 is shaping up to be a great year for unique holidays. Whisky trails in Scotland, medinas in Morocco, serene lakes in India… there’s a world of adventure, culture, and value waiting. Consider this your sign to go – it’s time to plan that trip you’ve been dreaming about. 

Whether you want a fully packaged trip including flights, transfers, and hotels, or a tailor-made holiday to fit your style, we can make it happen. You tell us what you want, and we’ll take care of the rest. 

Seriously, your future self will thank you – stories, laughter, memories, and zero planning stress. That’s what Pentravel is here for.