Best Places to Travel in 2026: Top Adventures and Emerging Destinations

2026 is shaping up to be one of the biggest years in recent travel history. From major global events like the FIFA World Cup and Winter Olympics to growing demand for sustainable adventure tourism, travelers will have more opportunities than ever to explore both iconic and emerging destinations around the world.

To help inspire your next trip, we’ve rounded up some of the best places to travel in 2026 — from classic cultural capitals to remote, conservation-driven experiences.

• Indonesia
• Japan
• Italy
• Brazil
• Sri Lanka
• Galapagos Islands
• Tonga
• New Zealand
• Montenegro & Albania
• Palau
• Georgia
• Rwanda
• Zanzibar
• Svalbard
• Borneo
• Mongolia

Top Adventure Destinations in 2026

Indonesia

Indonesia’s remote archipelagos beckon oceanic adventurers with unrivaled marine biodiversity, best explored through expert-guided liveaboard trips that prioritize sustainability. In 2026, skip tourist-packed hubs like Bali and immerse yourself in Raja Ampat—known as the “Amazon of the Seas”—alongside hidden gems like Alor, Halmahera, Sulawesi, and the Banda Sea. These destinations, often accessed via liveaboard ships or select ecolodges, offer thrilling snorkeling and scuba diving, whale and bird watching, and volcanic island adventures, led by conservation-focused organizations for unforgettable marine journeys.

Raja Ampat’s many islands and bays support extensive coral reefs. © Brian Hutchinson

Top Experiences in Indonesia

• Snorkel Raja Ampat’s vibrant reefs on a luxury liveaboard, in the company of expert naturalists who will guide you to the region’s best snorkeling spots. Glide between the limestone and jungle-clad islands with a small group of travelers.
• Explore Alor’s untouched reefs and crystal clear waters from a land-based luxury ecolodge, where blue whales are often seen off the coast.
• Venture into the remote islands of Sulawesi and Halmahera via luxury liveaboard, with stunning reefs, volcanic landscapes, and jungled islands. These islands offer a similar experience to Raja Ampat with a quieter, more intimate feel.
• Explore the Banda Sea, a pocket of Indonesia that is a hotspot for whales, dolphins, hammerhead sharks, and stunning islands and reefs forged by volcanoes.

Japan

Japan’s allure as a top travel destination continues to soar, captivating adventurers with its seamless blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity. With tourism booming after the Tokyo Olympics and fueled further by the Osaka World Expo, it’s easier than ever to explore Japan’s iconic cherry blossoms, high-speed bullet trains, and pristine coral reefs. From samurai-era temples to vibrant cityscapes, Japan offers unforgettable experiences for 2026 travelers seeking culture, nature, and adventure.

Delicate pink cherry blossom branches in full bloom in front of Osaka castle, evoking the serene beauty of sakura season in Osaka’s parks. Photo by Bagus Pangestu

Top Experiences in Japan

• Witness the fleeting beauty of cherry blossom (sakura) season from late March to early May in Kyoto, where historic temples, traditional tea houses, and samurai-era architecture create a timeless backdrop.
• Ride a high-speed bullet train (shinkansen) across Japan’s diverse landscapes, from the snow-capped peaks of the Japanese Alps to the coastal vistas of the Pacific, with seamless connections between vibrant cities.
• Explore Tokyo’s electric urban scene, from the neon-lit streets of Shibuya and Akihabara to Michelin-starred dining and hidden izakayas, offering a taste of Japan’s cutting-edge modernity.
• Hike or ski in Hokkaido’s pristine wilderness, where volcanic landscapes, national parks, and world-famous snow volume in winter make it a year-round adventure hub.
• Dive into Okinawa’s tropical waters, snorkeling or diving among vibrant coral reefs and historic World War II-era shipwrecks, surrounded by turquoise seas.
• Immerse in spiritual traditions at Mount Koya, staying in a shukubo (temple lodging) to experience Buddhist rituals, vegetarian cuisine, and serene forest trails.

Italy

If there’s one destination that consistently tops travel bucket lists, it’s Italy. Blending world-class ancient history and breathtaking landscapes with unparalleled cuisine, Italy offers an endless array of experiences. In 2026, the Winter Olympics in Cortina d’Ampezzo will spotlight the dramatic Dolomites, drawing adventure seekers to its ski slopes and hiking trails. Beyond the iconic cities of Rome, Florence, and Venice, lesser-visited regions like Sicily and Puglia offer uncrowded beaches, volcanic adventures, and authentic cultural immersion, making Italy a must-visit for those craving history, nature, and culinary delights.

Discover the enchanting peaks of the Dolomites in Italy—a breathtaking alpine panorama where rugged mountains meet rolling green hillsides. Image by Harry Burgess from Pixabay.

Top Experiences in Italy

• Hike Mount Etna’s volcanic trails in Sicily, then savor a wine tour in the Etna Valley, tasting unique Etna Rosso and Etna Bianco wines grown in mineral-rich volcanic soil.
• Explore Ostani, the coastal gem of Puglia, with white-washed architecture, panoramic views, restaurants in cobblestone alleys, and some of the best beaches in Italy, with a fraction of the crowds.
• Ski or hike in Cortina d’Ampezzo, the Dolomites’ premier resort town, where world-class slopes and rugged trails come alive during the February 2026 Winter Olympics.
• Cycle through Tuscany’s rolling hills, exploring medieval villages like San Gimignano and Siena, paired with tastings of Chianti wines and farm-to-table cuisine.
• Sail, kayak, and swim along the Amalfi Coast, weaving through turquoise waters, sea caves, and cliffside towns, with opportunities to hike the scenic Path of the Gods.

Brazil

Brazil remains a top destination for luxury travelers looking to experience white-sand beaches, tropical paradise, and vibrant culture, which in some cases is all packed into a single city, like Rio de Janeiro. But Brazil also captivates adventurous travelers with its unmatched biodiversity, from the world’s largest tropical wetland in the Pantanal to pristine marine sanctuaries like Fernando de Noronha. In 2026, the Oceanic Society’s expert-led Pantanal safaris offer a thrilling alternative to classic African safaris, immersing travelers in a wildlife haven of jaguars and giant otters. Beyond the Pantanal, Brazil’s natural wonders and conservation-focused adventures provide a fresh, sustainable way to explore this vibrant country, far from the usual tourist crowds.

Soar over Brazil’s Pantanal where wetlands meet meandering rivers in a symphony of wild beauty. This aerial glimpse reveals the world’s largest tropical wetland—home to jaguars, caimans, and endless horizons. Image by Jose Sabino from Pixabay.

Top Experiences in Brazil 

• Embark on a wildlife safari through the Pantanal, boating along the Cuiabá River to track wild jaguars (the highest density in the world), giant river otters, and anteaters, guided by expert naturalists. Experience the Pantanal and you’ll quickly understand why Brazil’s safari industry is poised to boom in 2026.
• Discover the marine wonders of Fernando de Noronha, a protected archipelago and ecological sanctuary located off the coast of Brazil, where you’ll see an abundance of sea life, including sea turtles, dolphins, and reef sharks while snorkeling or diving. Strict conservation measures here ensure a sustainable adventure.
• Hike the trails of Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, a biodiverse highland with waterfalls and rare species, offering a land-based complement to Brazil’s marine and wetland adventures.
• Hike up Sugarloaf Mountain for the best view of Rio de Janeiro, its stunning coastline, and the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, a vibrant island just larger than West Virginia, packs a remarkable range of adventures into its compact borders, making it a top pick for 2026 travelers seeking culture, wildlife, and thrills. From ancient Buddhist ruins to leopard-filled national parks and world-class surfing, this eco-conscious destination offers something for every adventurer. With recent investments in tourism infrastructure, Sri Lanka is easier than ever to explore, inviting travelers to discover its lush jungles, pristine beaches, and rich heritage beyond the usual tourist trails.

Hidden gems of Sri Lanka: A gentle giant navigates the lush brush of Yala National Park, where ancient rhythms of the wild still echo. Image by Oleksandr Pidvalnyi from Pixabay

Top Experiences in Sri Lanka

• Explore the ancient capitals of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, with iconic Buddhist monasteries built inside caves.
• Ride the waves of Arugam Bay, one of Asia’s surfing meccas, or just lounge on its stunning beach.
• Go on a wildlife safari in Yala National Park, searching for leopards, elephants, and sloth bears in one of Asia’s top biodiversity hotspots.

Galápagos Islands

The Galápagos Islands, a remote archipelago off Ecuador’s coast, captivate wildlife enthusiasts with species found nowhere else, from playful sea lions to giant tortoises, making it a bucket-list ecotourism destination for 2026. Beyond the islands, mainland Ecuador’s Amazon jungles and Andean peaks offer thrilling contrasts, ensuring a journey packed with biodiversity and adventure, far from typical tourist trails.

Photographer kneels low to capture a close-up of a massive Galapagos tortoise lumbering across cracked volcanic terrain. © Pete Oxford

Top Experiences in Galápagos Islands and Ecuador:

• Cruise through the Galápagos Islands under the guidance of expert naturalists, visiting islands like Santa Cruz, Isabela, and Fernandina to marvel at endemic species such as Galápagos penguins, marine iguanas, and giant tortoises, while snorkeling and hiking volcanic highlands.
• Dive or snorkel in the Galápagos’ marine reserve, encountering sea turtles, reef sharks, sea lions, and penguins with eco-conscious tours that support marine protection
• Explore Ecuador’s Amazon and cloud forest, looking for monkeys, parrots, and other wildlife in the remote rainforest of Yasuní National Park, or hiking misty cloud forests like Mindo to discover vibrant orchids and hummingbirds on guided eco-tours.
• Trek through the “Avenue of the Volcanoes”, a 200-mile corridor near the capital of Quito, lined by volcanoes in the Andes, where snowcapped peaks rise above emerald valleys.

Tonga

Tonga, a remote South Pacific paradise, is a dream destination for oceanic adventurers in 2026, offering one of the world’s rare opportunities to swim with humpback whales. While watching these majestic creatures breach and spiral from a zodiac is a classic wildlife experience, nothing compares to sharing the water with them up close. Beyond its whale encounters, Tonga boasts vibrant coral reefs, famously warm and welcoming locals, and pristine beaches—perfect for relaxing after a day at sea.

Top Experiences in Tonga:

• Swim with humpback whales off Vava’u, guided by Oceanic Society experts, locking eyes with these gentle giants as they nurse their young in crystal-clear waters, an unforgettable eco-adventure.
  
• Snorkel or dive Tonga’s vibrant coral reefs, exploring Vavaʻu’s sheltered coves and underwater gardens around Ha’apai or Tongatapu, encountering colorful fish and sea turtles.
• Immerse in Tongan culture on Tongatapu, joining guided visits to ancient trilithon ruins and local villages, where warm hospitality and traditional feasts showcase the island’s heritage.

New Zealand

New Zealand, a land of glacier-carved mountains, vibrant marine sanctuaries, and rich Māori culture, stands out as a top eco-adventure destination for 2026. From Queenstown’s adrenaline-pumping activities like white-water rafting, paragliding, and mountain biking to Kaikōura’s whale-filled waters, this compact nation offers thrilling experiences amid stunning landscapes. With a strong commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism, New Zealand invites travelers to explore its fjords, beaches, and wine regions, making it an ideal escape for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.

The Wanaka Tree stands defiant in the glassy embrace of Lake Wanaka, New Zealand. A must-see for 2026 wanderers seeking soul-stirring solitude. Photo by Nathan Cowley

Top Experiences in New Zealand

• Trek the Milford Track or Tongariro Alpine Crossing, two of New Zealand’s nine “Great Walks”, which showcase the country’s dramatic fjords, volcanoes, and alpine valleys.
• Go whale watching in Kaikōura, a marine sanctuary where sperm whales, orcas, and dolphins thrive thanks to local conservation protections.
  
  
• Kayak or hike in Wanaka, gliding across Lake Wanaka or trekking Roy’s Peak, soaking in alpine views and serene landscapes.
• Hike or bike around Mount Cook, exploring New Zealand’s highest peak and Lake Pukaki’s lupine-lined shores with eco-tours in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
• Hike or mountain bike through Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of glacier-carved fjords and dramatic waterfalls.

Montenegro & Albania

Looking to escape the crowds of Europe but still want to enjoy stunning Mediterranean coastlines and dramatic mountains? Consider heading to Montenegro or Albania for your next European adventure in 2026. While the environments of these Balkan countries are undeniably stunning, many of their alpine towns, like Gjirokastë in Albania, have a fusion of Roman and Ottoman architecture that creates an east-meets-west blending of history and culture.

A lone sailboat glides across the Adriatic near Kotor, Montenegro. Terracotta roofs, ancient stone towers, and limestone cliffs rise dramatically from the sea. Your ultimate Balkan escape awaits! Photo by Rufina Rusakova.

Top Experiences in Montenegro & Albania

• Hike Montenegro’s Durmitor National Park, near the dramatic Tara Canyon, a UNESCO site, showcasing alpine meadows and rare wildlife like chamois.
• Embark to Skadar, a vast lake that sits in a pristine wetland environment that is home to a diverse cast of birds and wildlife.
• Relax or sail along Albania’s Adriatic Riviera, where mountains collide with white-sand beaches and turquoise waters from Himara to Ksamil. These areas rival some of the best in the Mediterranean – without the crowds.
• Discover Gjirokastër’s Ottoman and Roman heritage, wandering UNESCO-listed stone streets and ancient bazaars on guided cultural tours, blending history with Balkan charm.

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Emerging Travel Destinations to Watch in 2026

Palau

Palau, a remote island nation in Micronesia no larger than Rhode Island, is home to one of the densest concentrations of marine life in the world. Its marine ecosystems are strictly protected by the government, including the world’s first shark sanctuary, making Palau a global model for innovative conservation. For travelers, this means near-endless world-class snorkeling opportunities packed into an easily manageable itinerary. It’s no wonder Palau is quickly emerging as one of the top destinations for snorkeling enthusiasts in 2026.

Aerial view of Palau’s dramatic Rock Islands, featuring jagged limestone karsts rising from turquoise lagoons, with a small boat anchored nearby as colorful snorkelers dive into the crystal-clear waters teeming with coral reefs. Photo by Udi Bornovski

Top Experiences in Palau

• Snorkel the legendary Rock Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site defined by mushroom-shaped limestone islands that rise from turquoise waters, providing habitat to over 1,500 fish and 385 hard coral species.
• Visit the dream-like Jellyfish Lake, where you can swim among millions of harmless jellyfish in one of the planet’s most unique marine environments.
• Dive Palau’s Blue Corner or German Channel to encounter reef sharks, manta rays, and vibrant coral walls in one of the world’s top dive sites.
• Discover Palau’s cultural heritage in Koror, visiting ancient stone monoliths and traditional bai meeting houses on eco-conscious cultural tours, blending history with sustainability.

Georgia

Georgia, nestled in the heart of the Caucasus Mountains with a stunning Black Sea coast, offers an irresistible blend of ancient wine traditions, rugged landscapes, and vibrant culture. Nestled in the dramatic Caucasus Mountains and bordered by the Black Sea to the west, Georgia offers an affordable, off-the-beaten-path European adventure, making it an ideal destination to explore in 2026. When you arrive in Tbilisi, you might even be handed a bottle of saparavi by the customs officer as they stamp your passport—such is the pride Georgians take in their wine-making traditions, which they claim are the oldest in the world. 

Panoramic view of the Caucasus Mountains in Georgia, showcasing steep rocky cliffs adorned with lush green hills and forests, rising dramatically against a clear blue sky with scattered clouds. Image by Ines Hirschauer from Pixabay.

Top Experiences in Georgia

• Visit Sighnaghi’s wine country, a picturesque castle town that rises above sprawling vineyards. Make sure to taste a Rkatsiteli, a delicious orange wine unique to the region.
• Head into the heart of the Caucasus Mountains to view the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church, set against the backdrop of the dramatic Mount Kazbek.
• Wander the winding cobblestone roads of old-town Tbilisi, where the aroma of cheese-pies fills the air and wine shops are tucked into shadowy corners.
• Explore the Black Sea coast at Batumi, relaxing on pebble beaches or kayaking along pristine shores, highlighting Georgia’s coastal biodiversity.

Rwanda

Rwanda, the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” shines as one of Africa’s premier ecotourism destinations for 2026, offering unforgettable wildlife encounters in its lush forests and savannas. Renowned for mountain gorilla trekking and the successful reintroduction of lions and rhinos, Rwanda blends thrilling safaris with vibrant cultural heritage and rolling landscapes. With a strong commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism, this compact nation invites adventurers to explore its biodiversity and warm hospitality, far from Africa’s more crowded safari trails.

Close-up portrait of a majestic silverback mountain gorilla in Rwanda, with dark fur, intense amber eyes, and expressive face peering through dense green foliage in a misty rainforest habitat. Witness the wild heart of Rwanda in 2026—up close and unforgettable. Photo by The World Hopper.

Top Experiences in Rwanda 

• Trek through the misty forests of Volcanoes National Park to encounter mountain gorillas up close, guided by expert rangers and trackers.
• Embark on a safari in Akagera National Park, spotting reintroduced lions, rhinos, and elephants with eco-conscious guides in a biodiverse savanna.
• Visit Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of Africa’s oldest rainforests, for the opportunity to see chimpanzees while on a canopy walk high above the treetops.

Zanzibar

Zanzibar lies at the heart of a historical crossroads for African, Arab, and Indian traders — and this influence is visible in everything from its architecture and cuisine to bustling markets and music. With pristine white-sand beaches, thriving coral reefs, and lush inland forests, this emerging eco-tourism hotspot offers a perfect mix of cultural immersion and natural wonders, making it an emerging adventure travel destination in 2026. 

Traditional wooden boats bob gently on Zanzibar’s pristine shores in Tanzania, where azure waves meet powdery sands. Image by Klimentgrozdanoski from Pixabay.

Top Experiences in Zanzibar

• Sail aboard a traditional dhow at sunset, gliding over turquoise waters with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean.
• Snorkel at Mnemba Atoll, a coral reef teeming with fish, sea turtles, and dolphins.
• Explore Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where carved wooden doors, bustling spice markets, and historic mosques reflect centuries of blended heritage.
• Explore Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, trekking through lush forests to spot rare red colobus monkeys and mangroves.

Svalbard

This remote and dramatic archipelago off Norway lies near the North Pole and offers travelers one of the purest Arctic experiences in the world: glacial fjords, sea ice, walruses, and abundant polar bears. Longyearbyen, the hub for exploring Svalbard, is the world’s northernmost town, and hosts a small community of researchers who provide guided excursions – with programs that often support their frontline conservation efforts.

Vast sea ice stretches endlessly near Barentsburg in Svalbard, where nature’s chill carves timeless patterns on the fjord. Dare to explore this icy frontier? Image by Simona Ricci from Pixabay.

Top Experiences in Svalbard

• Embark on a boat expedition through Svalbard’s icy fjords, like the legendary Isfjorden, viewing glaciers and icebergs, in search of polar bears, walruses, and seabird colonies.
• Kayak or snowshoe in Adventfjorden, exploring Arctic waters or snowy trails near Longyearbyen with sustainable guides, immersing in Svalbard’s pristine wilderness.
• Search for Arctic wildlife on Spitsbergen, trekking or cruising with eco-guides to encounter reindeer, Arctic foxes, and seals in their natural habitat.

Borneo

Borneo, the world’s third-largest island, boasts ancient rainforests teeming with wildlife, including orangutans, pygmy elephants, red leaf langurs, and clouded leopards. Its marine environment is equally spectacular, lying within the famed Coral Triangle and home to some of the healthiest coral reefs on Earth. Guided by conservation experts like the Oceanic Society, travelers can explore this emerging rainforest destination through sustainable wildlife and marine adventures, including an optional extension to snorkel in world-famous Sipadan. 

The majestic treetops of Danum Valley Conservation Area, safeguarding 43,800 hectares of irreplaceable rainforest teeming with life. A vital haven for orangutans, pygmy elephants, and untold species. © Charles Ryan

Top Experiences in Borneo

• Embark on a river safari along the long and winding Kinabatangan River in search of proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, and cloud leopards.
• Trek through the Danum Valley, a vast and ancient jungle, home to orangutans, who live in towering trees that grow over 300 feet tall.
• Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre to support conservation efforts for these endangered animals.
• Snorkel or scuba dive at Sipadan Island, diving into one of the world’s top marine sites, teeming with sea turtles, reef sharks, and vibrant corals.

Mongolia

Mongolia offers a truly unique adventure, where vast steppes, the Gobi Desert, and the Altai Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop to centuries-old nomadic traditions. Travelers can immerse themselves in daily life with nomadic herders, learn from golden eagle trainers, go horseback riding, and feel a deep connection to the land and sky. With new flight paths offered to the capital, Ulanbatar, Mongolia is poised to emerge as a top adventure travel destination in 2026. 

Nomadic Mongolian herders on horseback traverse vast golden desert dunes, with majestic golden eagles perched alertly on their outstretched arms, wings poised for flight. Photo by Julia Volk.

Top Experiences in Mongolia 

• Trek Mongolia’s steppes on horseback, staying in traditional yurts with nomadic herders on eco-conscious tours, immersing in the vast, open landscapes of the central plains.
• Visit the ancient nomadic hunters of the Altai Mountains in the western region of Mongolia, and watch as they train golden eagles to catch their prey.
• Explore the Gobi Desert’s dramatic dunes, camping under star-filled skies with eco-guides, discovering fossils and rare wildlife like Bactrian camels.
• Experience the Naadam Festival in Ulaanbaatar (held annually in July), celebrating Mongolia’s nomadic heritage, including wrestling, archery, and horse racing amid vibrant festivities.

Travel Trends to Watch in 2026

• Sustainable Tourism Growth – According to Radical Storage’s Ecotourism and Sustainable Tourism Statistics 2025, 84% of global travelers in 2025 now prioritize sustainable travel when booking trips. Demand for eco-lodges and community-led eco-tourism is expected to rise.
• Adventure Travel Boom – Valued at $400+ billion in 2024, adventure tourism is projected to grow, with safaris, hiking treks, and snorkeling excursions leading demand. This trend is largely driven by younger travelers and digital nomads.
• Last Chance Tourism – Travelers in 2026 are expected to be increasingly drawn to destinations like glaciers and coral reefs that are threatened by climate change. But visiting these fragile environments requires careful planning with sustainable operators who prioritize conservation.
• Shifting Tourism Policies – Longstanding tourism hotspots like Spain, France, and Italy are introducing stricter caps and fees to manage overtourism. In contrast, emerging destinations like Sri Lanka, Mongolia, Georgia, and even Svalbard are investing in tourism infrastructure.

Travel Tips for 2026

• Book smart: Studies show booking flights 18–29 days before departure saves up to 17% (Expedia, 2025).
• Choose sustainability: Ethical, sustainable tourism is a powerful tool that can transform economies and ensure that nature is treasured rather than exploited. Be sure to do your research, book stays at ethical eco-lodges, and work with local guides who prioritize wildlife and environmental sustainability.
• Use AI tools: Trip planners like Roam Around and Wonderplan can make destination research faster.

Frequently Asked Questions About Travel in 2026

Q: What are the best countries to visit in 2026?

A: Top countries for 2026 adventure travel include Italy for the Winter Olympics, Indonesia for snorkeling in healthy coral reefs, Brazil for wildlife safaris, Ecuador for Galápagos and Andes exploration, and Georgia for mountains, wine, and ancient monasteries. 

Other emerging destinations to watch include Palau, Rwanda, Mongolia, and Svalbard, which offer immersive ecotourism adventures that are well off the beaten path.

Q: What are the top travel trends in 2026?

A: Key trends include a rise in sustainable tourism, preference for immersive cultural experiences run by local tour operators, and adventure and expedition travel (such as hiking treks, snorkeling and diving excursions, wildlife safaris, and polar expeditions). 

Additionally, experts predict a rising demand in emerging destinations that were previously overlooked by mainstream tourists, and leveraging AI tools and new infrastructure for smarter, more flexible trip planning.

Q: Which destinations are budget-friendly in 2026?

A: Georgia, Ecuador, Albania, and Montenegro are just a few options that offer excellent value compared to destinations in Western Europe or North America. 

And while it may be more expensive to get to if you are based in the United States, a trip to Mongolia, Zanzibar, Borneo, or Indonesia also offers wild, ecotourism adventures that are budget-friendly.

Q: How can I travel more sustainably in 2026?

A: There are a variety of ways that travelers can support environmental sustainability while they travel. Be sure to do your research and learn about ways that tour operators may partner with frontline conservation efforts. 

Oceanic Society, for example, partners with local guides, nonprofits, and researchers that put environmental conservation at the heart of their work. The proceeds of each Oceanic Society trip support our small grants program, which funds conservation efforts around the world, and each booking directly sponsors the removal of over 200 lbs. of plastic waste from the ocean. 

In addition, be sure to minimize your use of single-use plastics, explore ways you can cut your carbon emissions (like prioritizing public transit when possible), and even consider purchasing offsets for carbon emissions to mitigate your carbon footprint as you travel (such as flights).