The Best Places to Visit in 2026

Northern Sweden is part of Sápmi: a vast cultural region that stretches deep into the Arctic Circle and is home to the Indigenous Sámi people. Featuring swathes of remote wilderness and an array of restorative wellness experiences, Swedish Sápmi is an incredibly unique destination that combines unparalleled seclusion with both natural and cultural immersion. 

This is a place where you can sink into the silence of uninhabited forests, snowshoe across pristine white plains and gaze up at shimmering skies illuminated by the northern lights. It’s a land of both adventure and relaxation: from crackling bonfires and traditional saunas to ice fishing, dog sledding and snowmobile safaris.

Need to know: In 2026, we’re particularly excited about Sápmi as a destination for disconnecting and resetting in nature – the sort of wellness that invites you to embrace silence and solitude in order to reconnect with yourself.

Two of our top destinations for 2026 lie on opposite sides of Brazil. In the north, Lençóis Maranhenses National Park beckons travellers to its surreal landscapes of undulating white sand dunes and turquoise lagoons. These freshwater pools form each year during the rainy season, making it possible for visitors to swim in their glistening depths and spot rare wildlife like the neotropical otter and scarlet ibis.

On the other side of the country, southern Brazil’s coastal destinations are equally mesmerising. Near Florianópolis there’s the new Awasi Santa Catarina, offering exclusive access to secret beaches and hidden coves. And a few hours outside of São Paulo you’ll find the charming seaside town of Paraty, where you can set out on an excursion through the world’s only tropical fjord: Saco do Mamanguá.

Need to know: These destinations are welcoming a couple of exciting new hotels for 2026, including Oiá Casa Lençóis in Lençóis Maranhenses and Pousada Literária in Paraty.

Vietnam and Cambodia share a border more than 1,100 kilometres (700 miles) long, presenting a perfect opportunity for a multi-country itinerary. If you’re planning a longer trip (at least two weeks) and want to explore both of these destinations in 2026, one of the best ways to do so is by taking a Mekong River cruise between Ho Chi Minh and Angkor Wat. 

On either end of this journey you’ll have the chance to delve into the local culture on carefully curated tours. In Siem Reap you can learn about charitable initiatives that support public health, safety and sustainable production, or join a food tour with a local author. Ho Chi Minh, meanwhile, is bursting with both modern culture and history, and is a perfect launching point for further exploration of Vietnam.

Need to know: A river cruise can reduce the environmental impact of your trip by lowering emissions, while also giving you the chance to slow down and appreciate even more of these two countries’ scenery and culture.

Kenya has always been one of our favourite safari destinations in Africa, but in 2026 we’re especially looking forward to exploring its conservation-focused camps and reserves. Sarara Camp in the Samburu National Reserve is owned by the Samburu community and directly involved with local efforts to restore the land and protect endangered wildlife. It also collaborates with Reteti Elephant Sanctuary: the world’s first community-owned sanctuary for African elephants.

Certain sections of the Maasai Mara are incredibly popular from July to September. We recommend visiting outside of these peak months, or exploring lesser-known areas of the National Park, to avoid contributing to overtourism and to ensure a less-crowded experience. November through December offer the beautiful scenery of the green season with relatively low rainfall, while January through March bring dry conditions without high-season crowds.

Need to know: In addition to Sarara Camp, we’ll be inviting you to stay at the gorgeous Sarara Treehouses in 2026. We’re also looking forward to the opening of Wilderness Mara in May.

The southern Spanish region of Andalusia boasts an abundance of history, nature and delicious cuisine. It’s one of our favourite 2026 destinations for low-season travel, with temperatures often reaching 20ºC (68ºF) even in the depths of winter (December–February). During these months you’ll find relatively small crowds in some of our favourite spots; our travel designer Luisa suggests Seville, Granada and Córdoba.

Learn about the region’s rich heritage through authentic flamenco shows, local food tours and private visits to fascinating places like Seville’s Palacio de las Dueñas or historic bodegas where traditional production methods are used to craft world-famous wines and sherries. We especially love this region’s combination of historic cities, seaside beauty and mountainous terrain.

Need to know: On 12 August, 2026 a solar eclipse will be visible from certain parts of Spain. Although only a partial eclipse will be visible from Andalusia, you can easily travel farther north to see the total eclipse from regions like Asturias or La Rioja.

The Galápagos Islands are nothing short of legendary, and in 2026 we’re looking forward to spotlighting their incredible diversity of wildlife – from the famous giant tortoises to other fascinating endemic species like marine iguanas and Galápagos penguins. 

One way to explore this archipelago is aboard a luxury vessel like the Monique, which will set sail on its maiden voyage in April 2026. But we also love land-based options like Galápagos Safari Camp, Pikaia Lodge and Montemar Eco Luxury Villas. The latter is an especially good choice for families, offering entirely bespoke stays and itineraries that are personalised to suit your specific interests and needs.

Need to know: The Galápagos Islands are a year-round destination, but each season offers different perks. For instance, December–April is ideal for snorkelling and April–June brings the best birdwatching, while certain animal species are most visible during specific months.

Our travel designer Rosanna recently visited southern India and returned with captivating stories of her time there. She marvelled at the region’s intricate temples and coastal beauty, and learnt about distinctive traditions that make it stand out in a country of deep culture and incredible landmarks. We can’t wait to explore more of its tranquil tea country, multi-tiered temples and verdant backwaters in the coming year.

The southern tip of India is split into two states: Tamil Nadu to the east, which is known for its tea plantations and nicknamed the ‘Land of Temples’, and Kerala to the west, where you’ll find lush waterways and the historic Fort Cochin. As they’re less visited than some of India’s more famous attractions, you can expect a laid-back atmosphere and wonderfully authentic experiences.

Need to know: The best time to visit southern India is during the cooler and drier months from November to March.

Whether you’re planning your first safari or seeking a new adventure unlike anything you’ve ever experienced, Rwanda is an ideal choice. You can see all of the Big Five in Akagera National Park, where the newly opened Wilderness Magashi Peninsula offers immersive safaris and private guides that let you personalise your days to your own pace and preferences.

Volcanoes National Park is a wholly different destination, known for its dense forests and magnificent mountain gorillas. Our favourite lodge in the park, Wilderness Bisate, is opening a brand new spa called The Sanctuary at the end of this year, which will provide carefully crafted spaces and treatments designed to promote genuine rest and revitalisation.

Need to know: Conservation initiatives in Akagera National Park have more than doubled the animal population in the last fifteen years, and reforestation efforts in Volcanoes National Park have led to the planting of over 300,000 trees and shrubs in six years.

The mountains of northern Greece promise some of the most stunning scenery in Europe. Often overlooked in favour of more famous European mountain ranges, the country’s peaks are delightfully uncrowded and brimming with authentic local culture. 

In Thessaly you can see the natural and architectural wonders of Meteora, with its soaring monoliths crowned by centuries-old monasteries. Meanwhile, picturesque villages like Metsovo and Aristi offer insights into modern ways of life in the mountains. Here you can visit local art galleries and wineries or take a hands-on cooking class for a taste of regional cuisine.

Need to know: We recommend visiting northern Greece in spring (March–June) or early autumn (September–October). Orthodox Easter is a particularly good time to go to Meteora if you want to see religious celebrations; in 2026, Holy Week will fall in the second week of April.

The Baja California Peninsula may be best known for the glittering resorts of Los Cabos, but there’s plenty more to explore here. You’ll find limitless opportunities for wildlife watching and outdoor adventures, from hiking and biking through its mountains and deserts to spotting migrating whales off its coast.

The peninsula includes several national marine parks where you can snorkel, scuba dive and visit protected islands with thriving populations of native flora and fauna. There are also plenty of small towns where traditional Mexican culture is maintained, including the artistic haven of Todos Santos.

Need to know: Stay at the adults-only Kimpton Mas Olas Resort and Spa, just south of Todos Santos, for a rejuvenating retreat based on a holistic wellness philosophy.

Indonesia is well known for its sandy beaches, crystalline waters, terraced rice fields and ancient cultural sites. And although the country has several thousand islands to choose from, there are a couple that we’re especially excited about as we look toward 2026. First, Lombok: a secluded paradise boasting empty beaches, dense foliage and the volcanic Mount Rinjani.

Then there’s Sumba, a relatively large island where you can hike, scuba dive, surf and forge genuine connections with the local residents, who proudly maintain ancestral traditions and ancient trades. We suggest a stay at Cap Karoso, which offers farm-to-table cuisine, locally inspired spa treatments and beachfront suites and villas.

Need to know: Lombok and Sumba are within close reach of each other and several other islands, making it easy to combine multiple destinations on the same itinerary.

South Africa is among our go-to choices for family trips, thanks in large part to its sheer variety of things to do and see. For 2026 we’ve hand-picked a few key regions that are particularly well suited for families with younger children. The first is the Whale Coast, where you can stay at Grootbos Garden Lodge for whale watching and nautical safaris to see the Marine Big Five.

As for land-based safaris, the malaria-free Kwandwe Private Game Reserve offers luxurious accommodation specially designed for families, as well as conservation-centred activities and chances to spot cheetahs, rhinos and more. We’re also launching new experiences in Cape Town, including art and food tours and cooking classes that are ideal for families with children.

Need to know: Our travel designer Jody suggests heading to the Winelands for a stay at La Residence’s newly opened Franschhoek House: a six-bedroom villa created specifically for families. It’s the perfect place to connect, relax and partake in a plethora of activities centred around the countryside, cuisine and – for the adults – exquisite wine.

The Alps are far more than just a few snowy summits. Including several different mountain ranges and spanning eight European countries, they encompass an unbelievable variety of landscapes and cultural settings. In 2026 we’re excited to explore these details further, discovering the distinctive charm of the Austrian Alps, Julian Alps, Bavarian Alps and beyond.

To appreciate the differences of each Alpine region, we suggest slowing down and venturing beyond the most well-known peaks. Visit Achensee in Tyrol, nicknamed ‘the Fjord of the Alps’, or embark on the Alpe Adria Trail in the Soca Valley (one of the best hikes in Europe). With 82 summits above 4,000 metres (around 13,000 feet), there are plenty of chances to get off the beaten path on epic Alpine treks.

Need to know: Our travel designers recommend visiting the Alps during summer. In July and August this region promises cooler temperatures and fewer crowds than the continent’s popular cities and coastal destinations.

Although it’s a relatively small country, Guatemala packs in an impressive variety of adrenaline-filled adventures, tranquil nature and interactive cultural experiences. You can visit its abundant ancient Mayan sites and converse with local guides and craftspeople to gain a nuanced perspective of its past and present – and how they intertwine.

Some of our favourite experiences here include stargazing at Uaxactun, a traditional weaving workshop with the Maya women of San Juan La Laguna, volcano hikes around Antigua, mobile glamping and a long list of other adventures that highlight the country’s astounding natural wonders and rich Indigenous heritage. We find that these experiences work well for adventurous couples or families with older children in particular.

Need to know: In 2026 we’re excited to embrace Guatemala’s definition of luxury, as detailed by our travel expert Demi in Forbes. Demi explains that diverse experiences and slow, intentional growth allow for standout adventures that are intimate and exclusive.

If you’re hoping to make your first trip to Australia in 2026, this region offers an ideal introduction to the country’s cities, coasts, mountains and wildlife. Encompassing the states of South Australia, New South Wales and Victoria (and both Sydney and Melbourne), southern Australia has a little bit of everything – from the rugged Blue Mountains to the lush Lord Howe Island.

The region’s natural wonders are perfectly complemented by its vibrant cities, where history comes alive on tours led by Indigenous guides. In Sydney you can explore the historic neighbourhood of the Rocks while learning about its Aboriginal heritage, and in Melbourne you can meet local artists and chefs who weave Aboriginal traditions into their work. 

Need to know: The shoulder seasons of spring (September–November) and autumn (March–May) are ideal for first-time trips, especially in southern Australia, as they promise pleasant weather and emptier beaches and trails outside of the peak season.

Morocco is at the top of our list for 2026 when it comes to family trips, thanks to a plethora of experiences that will appeal to children – and adults – of all ages. Our travel designer Jack highlights activities like a treasure hunt through the souq of Marrakesh, hands-on Moroccan cooking classes and bread-making workshops in Fes and Skoura.

If your family is hoping to explore the outdoors, we can organise exciting treks to the Akchour Waterfalls or Ouzoud Falls near Azilal. For an unforgettable desert adventure, head to either the Sahara or the smaller Agafay Desert closer to Marrakesh. You can traverse the otherworldly landscapes via 4×4, quad bike or buggy. 

Need to know: A few highly anticipated new hotels will open in Morocco in 2026, including the Curio Collection by Hilton in both Casablanca and Rabat – the latter of which is inspired by the city’s botanical garden.

The Seychelles are among our favourite destinations to combine with an African safari. After your wildlife explorations across eastern and southern Africa, head to these idyllic islands. You’ll reset and be able to connect to the archipelago’s incredible scenery, and have the opportunity to learn about marine conservation efforts that mirror the terrestrial initiatives of the mainland.

Our travel designer Jacob sings the praises of Alphonse Island Lodge, located in a remote atoll and surrounded by abundant marine life. The island itself is home to giant tortoises and rare birdlife, and the lodge operates a farm to supply the ingredients for its cuisine. In 2026 there will also be the option to tour the Seychelles on a new super yacht from Aqua Expeditions, with itineraries ranging from five to fourteen nights.

Need to know: We recommend visiting from December to April for calm waters and quieter conditions in nearby safari destinations like Tanzania, where you can also witness the wildebeest calving season from January to March.

Egypt is bursting with significant historical sites, from the Great Sphinx and Pyramids of Giza to the temples of Luxor and the Valley of the Kings. Our travel designer Rosie recently visited the country and came back gushing about incredible experiences in Cairo, Luxor, Aswan and Alexandria, each of which was enhanced by the knowledge and passion of expert guides. 

Imagine touring the pyramids or visiting the tombs of Aswan alongside an Egyptologist who has dedicated their life to the study of this intriguing ancient culture. The insights they provide can transform a simple sightseeing experience into an in-depth encounter with history, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of each site and fully immerse yourself in its stories and symbolism.

Need to know: Our local experts can arrange exclusive private tours of some of Egypt’s most amazing places, including after-hours visits to the pyramids and Sphinx or hands-on archaeological digs.