Travel in 2026 is getting a glow-up. Gone are the rushed, checklist-style holidays – next year’s travel trends are about slowing down, staying longer, and travelling with more intention. From luxurious beach escapes and cultural adventures to slow safaris and soul-filling food journeys, travellers are seeking meaning, connection, and experience.
So, where’s everyone heading next year? What are the new trends in tourism shaping the way we explore? And is 2026 a good year to travel? Here’s your insider guide to the top tourism trends, trending destinations, and smart travel tips – especially if you’re planning your next getaway from South Africa.
Absolutely. 2026 is shaping up to be a year of confident, creative travel. Flight routes continue to expand, accommodation options are more flexible, and travellers are thinking about why they travel, not just where.
The biggest trend? “Slow travel” – spending more time in fewer places to experience them more deeply. It’s about choosing connection over consumption. Add to that the rise of off-season escapes, purposeful trips, and multi-generational family getaways, and you’ve got a year built around meaningful exploration.
For South Africans, 2026 brings opportunity: better value in emerging destinations, an expanding list of flight routes to Asia and Europe, and creative new travel packages that make it easier to plan everything through a trusted travel expert like Pentravel.
People are pressing pause on rushed itineraries. Think spending two weeks in Tuscany, exploring by bike, or living like a local in Vietnam for a month. Travellers want to build memories, not just tick boxes.
Trips are becoming more intentional – from multi-generational family holidays to couples travelling to reconnect, and even solo adventures that focus on wellness or creativity. Travel is now seen as a form of self-investment.
Food is no longer an afterthought. Culinary experiences are now a major drawcard in luxury travel trends. Vegan tasting menus, organic wine pairings, and local food markets are leading the way.
Avoiding the crowds is officially a smart move. Travellers are booking in shoulder seasons to get better deals, more space, and authentic experiences. Think Morocco in May or Italy in October.
The open road is back – only this time, it’s powered by sustainable travel. Expect self-drive adventures in places like Namibia, New Zealand, and Canada, where flexibility and discovery are the point.
Here’s where travellers are setting their sights next year – from timeless classics to rising stars.
Safari never goes out of style, but 2026 is giving it a fresh twist. Kruger National Park remains a firm favourite, joined by Botswana’s Okavango Delta and Kenya’s Masai Mara. South Africans are also blending bush and beach experiences – spending a few days on safari followed by relaxation in Zanzibar or Mozambique.
Zanzibar, Seychelles, and Mozambique are topping the list for luxury beach holidays. Expect boutique resorts, villa stays, and a mix of adventure and indulgence – from snorkelling and stand-up paddle boarding to private dining under the stars.
Egypt and Morocco are buzzing. Egypt’s new Grand Egyptian Museum is drawing international visitors, while Morocco’s desert retreats and colourful medinas offer that balance of tradition and trend. Both destinations are becoming key players in the 2026 cultural tourism circuit.
Vietnam is one of the top trending travel destinations for 2026, and for good reason – it offers incredible food, rich history, and a mix of city and countryside charm at affordable prices. Thailand and Japan continue to attract South Africans for their hospitality, safety, and family-friendly experiences.
For those looking to go further, Latin America is calling. Argentina, Brazil, and Chile are emerging as dream destinations for adventure and culture lovers. Think Patagonia’s wilderness, Rio’s rhythm, and Buenos Aires’ energy – all in one long-haul journey.
The ultimate luxury adventure? Antarctica. Expedition cruises are becoming more accessible, attracting travellers who want once-in-a-lifetime moments – glaciers, penguins, and pristine silence. Trips often pair Antarctica with Chile or Argentina, combining exploration and indulgence.
Turkey, Egypt, and Morocco are proving that cultural travel never goes out of style. Istanbul’s East-meets-West vibe, Cairo’s ancient treasures, and Marrakech’s sensory overload make these countries perfect for travellers who love history, colour, and culture with a modern twist.
The next big thing isn’t a destination – it’s a mindset. Travel in 2026 is about purpose. Whether you’re travelling to reconnect with family, rediscover yourself, or explore sustainably, your “why” matters as much as your “where.”
Luxury travel trends are evolving to reflect these values – travellers want meaningful, memorable journeys that feel good and do good.
From the wildlife-rich plains of Kruger and the turquoise beaches of Zanzibar to the bustling streets of Hanoi and the icy allure of Antarctica, the top trending travel destinations of 2026 promise variety, meaning, and adventure.
So, whether you’re planning a solo wellness retreat, a family safari, or a cultural journey through Morocco, make your next trip seamless by booking with Pentravel. Our expert team will help you design a trip that fits your travel style, schedule, and budget – every step of the way.
Wherever 2026 takes you, make it count. Book your trip with Pentravel and discover a new way to travel – slower, smarter, and with more purpose.
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