Sun Destinations

From where you go, to how you pack, to the activities you do, trends have a lot of influence on how we travel. Especially in the internet age, when we are taking more chances, exploring new areas, and looking for opportunities to unplug, relax and rewind. 

We have compiled a list of the top travel trends of 2026. If you are looking for extra inspiration to get that dream holiday off-the-ground, we have you sorted with what you should be looking for when booking your next trip.

1. Digital Detox

In the digital age, one often struggles with screen fatigue and the constant demand from our devices. In 2026, travellers want to escape the noise by going on vacation to places where they can totally switch off. No more emergency calls, no more ‘please check this email’, it’s time to completely relax. 

This trend, which is often called “Hushpitality” and “quietcations”, causes one to reconnect with oneself and one’s environment. Looking for a place for your digital detox?  Try Nambu Camp in the heart of the Greater Kruger in the Olifants West Nature Reserve. Built on an old anthill, these luxury rooms allow you to comfortably relax while still taking in the sights of the garden and mountain views. Go on a game drive, enjoy sundowners or simply relax in the infinity pool; there are endless options for the perfect digital detox.

2. ‘No Decisions’ Travelling

Sometimes the decision-making aspect of travelling proves to be the most stressful. Travellers in 2026 are looking for ways to enjoy a new location without constantly having to decide what to do next. They are looking for adventures that are pre-planned, itineraries that can be sent to them, and to go along for the ride. 

One of the best experiences that comes with ‘no decisions’ is a safari trip. From wake-up calls to set game drives to group dinners, it takes the constant decision-making out of the equation. Try Africa on Foot in the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve for your next trip. The Africa on Foot itinerary includes a wake-up call, a 3-hour morning walking safari, breakfast, lunch, night camp drive, drinks by the famous BushBar and dinner. Make your next vacation a simple one with this unique experience. 

3. Off-the-grid Travel 

Conservation and low impact are the words on everyone’s lips in 2026. We want to travel, but we don’t want to do more harm to the environment. It is thus important to be intentional about where you travel, what you do and whether it is sustainable. 

For example, Nkuwa Wilderness Camp in the heart of the Selati Game Reserve is completely off-the-grid. It is solar-powered and uses borehole water; without light and noise pollution, you can enjoy stargazing and connect with nature. The camp blends seamlessly into the landscape, and visitors can enjoy the incredible diversity of wildlife, which includes over 50 species of mammals and 300 bird species. 

4. “Sweat jetting”

Coined by TripAdvisor in the 2026 trend report, “sweat jetting” is the concept of travelling for fitness. This trend has seen tourists travel to compete in marathons, support their favourite sports teams, and take risks they might not have in their own cities. 

For adventure-seeking travellers, why not book a trip with Africa on Foot Wilderness Trails? This unique mobile safari experience in the Maseke Balule Game Reserve is specially designed to allow you to spend the day walking and then spend the night sleeping in a different location. A walking safari in the bush is a memorable fitness activity that will be enriching to you physically, mentally, and emotionally. 

5. “Touch Grass” Tourism 

It is a Gen-Z buzzword, but “touch grass” is about more than telling online users to understand the real-world consequences of their actions, it’s about connecting with the environment in a new way. Earth’s Song describes “Touch grass” travel as a shift towards “nature-first trips where the goal isn’t doing more, but feeling better.” It is about reconnecting with nature, taking in the sights and learning from the wildlife. It is about slowing down and taking a break from the noise. 

At Nyala Safari Lodge on the banks of the seasonal Mohlabetsi River in the Balule Nature Reserve, you can reconnect with nature while still being comfortable. The eco-aware lodge has a focus on sustainable dining, has five rondawel-style spiralling chalets with indoor and outdoor showers, and a beautiful deck area. The lodge overlooks a thriving waterhole where wildlife often visits. Nyala also takes visitors on two game drives a day at first light and in the late afternoon so that you experience the best of what the Greater Kruger has to offer. 

6. Travelling with purpose

In 2026, travellers are choosing to be intentional about where they go. They are taking note of the effect of their trip on their environment and local community. Travellers are more likely to go places where they can directly give back and support the ecosystem.

The perfect trip idea that meets all these boxes is safari tourism. When you book a safari, you are directly supporting conservation through conservation fees, which fund anti-poaching units, create employment in the surrounding communities and protect land which might otherwise be vulnerable to development. By travelling with responsible operators (like Sun Destinations), the traveller gets to play an active role in safeguarding wildlife, supporting local communities and ensuring ecosystems remain protected for future generations.

At Sun Destinations, we directly support organisations such as Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT), Nourish as well as The Black Mamba Anti-Poaching Unit. The EWT runs crucial programmes to protect endangered species and ensure their survival. Nourish strengthens conservation by working with the local community to provide education, skills development and food security initiatives. Nambu Camp also has an additional conservation initiative to support the Black Mambas to prevent poaching in the area.

Make 2026 the best year ever by being intentional about your travel and booking a memorable trip with Sun Destinations.