Where to Travel in 2026: Eight Destinations That Deserve a Spot on Your Shortlist
Every year, new places pop up on the travel radar—not just because they’re “new,” but because they’ve got something special. Maybe it’s the kind of landscapes that feel like the edge of the earth, or cities with energy you can’t explain until you’re there. For 2026, we’re looking at destinations with a little more grit, a little more adventure, and plenty of reasons to go see them for yourself.
👉 Here are eight spots that should be high on your list.
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1. Guatemala – Ancient Ruins and Wild Jungles
Guatemala is one of those countries that hooks you right away. It’s got ancient temples that rise out of the jungle, colorful markets that buzz with energy, and volcanoes you can actually hike up. Unlike some of its neighbors, Guatemala still feels raw and authentic—except for maybe Antigua, one of Guatemala's biggest tourist hotspots.
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Trek through the Maya Biosphere to El Mirador, one of the largest ancient cities you’ve never heard of.
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Chill out at Lake Atitlán, where each lakeside village has its own vibe—hippie, local, spiritual, or party.
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Take a dip in the turquoise pools of Semuc Champey or explore the Kanba caves nearby in the jungle area of Lanquin.
If you’re looking for a country that combines history, nature, and affordability, Guatemala should be high on your 2026 list.
2. Belize – Sailing and Hidden Islands
Belize is often overlooked, but it’s a dream for anyone who loves the ocean. Instead of sticking to the well-known spots like Caye Caulker, you can head further out to explore tiny islands and untouched reefs.
The best way to do it? By sailing. Picture yourself island-hopping across turquoise waters, snorkeling with reef sharks, and camping on your own slice of sand.
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Dive the Lighthouse Reef Atoll or snorkel around Laughing Bird Caye—both are teeming with marine life.
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Spend the night on a tiny private island, falling asleep to nothing but the sound of waves.
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Mix in jungle adventures on the mainland—waterfalls, Mayan ruins, and caves are just a few hours away.
Belize is Caribbean paradise without the cruise ship chaos, perfect if you want something wild yet accessible.
3. The Stans – Central Asia’s Great Adventure
If there’s one region that feels like it’s built for explorers, it’s Central Asia. Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and their neighbours are where ancient Silk Road history meets massive mountains and nomadic culture. Travelling here is about slowing down, getting on the road, and soaking up the landscapes and traditions that have barely changed in centuries.
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Hike through the Tian Shan mountains in Kyrgyzstan and camp in yurts.
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Get lost in the bazaars and mosaics of Samarkand and Bukhara in Uzbekistan.
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Road trip Kazakhstan’s vast steppe and see surreal landscapes you won’t believe exist.
It’s affordable, friendly, and still way under the radar. With the regions rising popularity, the secret might not last forever—so 2026 is the time to go.
4. Morocco – Desert Nights and Colourful Towns
Morocco is one of those countries where every region feels like a different world. In the same trip, you can wander through ancient medinas, trek snow-capped mountains, and ride camels into the Sahara. And while tourism has been growing, there’s still plenty of space to explore at your own pace.
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Trek the High Atlas Mountains and stay in Berber villages for a true local experience.
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Camp in the Sahara Desert and watch the stars in total silence.
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Get lost in the winding streets of Fès or Chefchaouen, where tradition meets modern creativity.
- Surf on the Moroccan coast near Sidi Kaouki and Essaouira. Laid back vibes, amazing waves and very few tourists if you avoid high season.
It’s colourful, intense, and endlessly rewarding—especially if you’re up for mixing city energy with remote adventures.
5. China – Back on the Map in 2026
China is back in the travel spotlight after a long break, and 2026 is the perfect year to rediscover it. The country is massive—every province feels like a new country, with its own landscapes, food, and traditions. Yes, it can be challenging to navigate, but that’s exactly what makes it exciting.
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Hike the karst mountains around Yangshuo, some of the most dramatic landscapes in Asia.
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Explore the desert cities of the old Silk Road in Xinjiang and Gansu.
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Taste your way through Sichuan’s fiery food scene—the spice is real. That actually goes for all of China. Even in the average Beijing restaurant, our mouths were burning!
- Explore mega cities like Shanghai, Guangzhou and Chongqing and get amazed by the crazy architecture and infrastructure.
China isn’t for the lazy travellers, but if you’re after something different, it delivers in a big way.
6. Northern Albania – One of Europe's Best Hiking Destinations
If you think Europe is all booked out and overpriced, head to northern Albania. The region is rugged, welcoming, and still flying under the radar. You’ll find dramatic mountain trails, clear rivers, and towns full of history, all at a fraction of what you’d pay in Western Europe.
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Hike the Accursed Mountains on the Peaks of the Balkans trail, one of Europe’s most underrated treks.
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Explore Shkodër, a laid-back city with a creative streak.
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Discover a mix of Ottoman history and local traditions you won’t find elsewhere.
It’s Europe as it used to be—uncrowded, affordable, and packed with character.
7. Malaysia – Classic Asia With a Twist
Malaysia is Southeast Asia’s best-kept secret. It has the perfect mix of big-city buzz, wild rainforests, and dreamy islands, plus some of the best food in the world. Whether you want to dive with turtles, hike through the jungle, or eat at a hawker stall, Malaysia makes it easy and affordable.
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Spot orangutans in Borneo’s rainforests.
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Wander through tea plantations and jungle trails in the Cameron Highlands.
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Eat your way through Kuala Lumpur’s night markets—street food here is unbeatable.
If you love variety, Malaysia is one country that gives you a bit of everything.
8. Patagonia (Chile & Argentina) – Dramatic Landscapes & Hiking
Patagonia feels like the edge of the world, where mountains crash into glaciers and the winds remind you how small you really are. It’s one of the most dramatic landscapes on Earth, and it’s made for those who love wild adventures. Getting around takes effort, but that’s part of the experience.
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Trek the famous W Trek in Torres del Paine National Park.
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Visit the Perito Moreno Glacier and watch huge ice chunks crash into the water.
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Road trip the Carretera Austral, one of the world’s most scenic drives.
Patagonia is one of those destinations you will be talking about for the rest of your life - it's that special.
What is your pick for travelling in 2026?!
Travel in 2026 is about chasing those places that stay with you—the ones that challenge you, surprise you, and make the journey as unforgettable as the destination. Whether that’s trekking Patagonia’s wild trails, exploring the Silk Road in the Stans, or diving into the culture of Guatemala and Malaysia, these are the kinds of adventures you’ll still be talking about years from now.
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