As we look towards 2026, adventurous travellers are seeking destinations that promise more than just sights: they want to experience culture, landscapes and communities first-hand. While classic favourites will always have their place, a fresh wave of countries and experiences are stepping into the spotlight.

From the vast wilderness of Central Asia to the vibrant coastlines of Sri Lankas, read on to discover how KE's guided trips can offer a deeper, more meaningful way to explore these trending destinations.

Why it’s trending:

The Stans are the ultimate adventure for explorers seeking mystery and majesty. Once the realm of Silk Road traders and nomadic tribes, this region now captivates travellers with its vast deserts, sparkling mountain lakes and ancient cities that feel frozen in time. Adventurous travellers have started to discover these destinations this year, making 2026 the perfect opportunity to experience their raw beauty before the wider crowds arrive.

Authentic experiences:

Cycle or trek across Kazakhstan’s mountains and deserts, trek in Tajikistan’s Fann Mountains or explore Kyrgyzstan’s highlands with guided walks on small group tours. Our local guides share their traditions and daily life, giving you an insider perspective on the region’s unique culture and landscapes.

Why it’s trending:
Sri Lanka is bursting back onto the radar as a multi-faceted adventure playground. From misty hill-country tea estates to golden beaches and ancient temples, it offers a dazzling mix of landscapes, wildlife and cultural treasures, all within a small island where you can experience it all in one journey. 2026 travellers are drawn to its colourful festivals, wildlife safaris and adrenaline-filled experiences.

Authentic experiences:
Walk through central highland tea estates, cycle across the island, or enjoy a family-friendly adventure. Explore off-the-beaten-track villages, wildlife reserves and scenic trails, immersing you in the landscapes and vibrant local culture and experiencing the island in a way few independent travellers do.

Why it’s trending:
South Korea is capturing imaginations with its stunning contrasts. Towering city skylines sit alongside misty mountains and centuries-old temples, while rivers and rolling countryside provide the perfect playground for active travellers. 2026 is the year travellers are uncovering South Korea’s hidden charms, far beyond the bright lights of Seoul.

Authentic experiences:

Our guided cycling adventure takes you through quiet riverside trails, rural towns and UNESCO-listed sites, providing insider access to South Korea’s culture and scenery, beyond the usual tourist hotspots.

Why it’s trending:
South Africa offers the ultimate “epic journey” for wildlife lovers and adventurers alike. From the untamed savannahs where the Big Five roam to windswept beaches and dramatic mountain ranges, it’s a destination that keeps giving. In 2026, travellers are seeking multi-country safaris and outdoor adventures that combine adrenaline, culture and jaw-dropping landscapes.

Authentic experiences:
Walk the Drakensberg, explore the Wild Coast, or go on safari across Namibia, Botswana, Zambia and South Africa. KE’s trips don’t just whisk you past the wildlife, they bring you into the landscapes, communities and cultures that make these regions so extraordinary. You’ll experience Africa in the same way locals live it: close to the land, connected to nature and full of unexpected encounters.

Why it’s trending:
India continues to mesmerise with its mix of spirituality, history and epic landscapes. 2026 travellers are drawn to high Himalayan treks, tiger-spotting adventures and vibrant cultural experiences that awaken all the senses. Whether it’s visiting Himalayan monasteries or exploring Rajasthan’s palaces, India offers adventures that linger long after the journey ends.

Authentic experiences:
Explore the Golden Triangle, trek in Ladakh or Sikkim, cycle through Rajasthan, or enjoy family-friendly adventures in Kerala on small-group tours with local guides eager to share their country with you. You’ll see India as it’s really lived - full of colour, tradition and the warmth of everyday hospitality.

Why it’s trending:
Canada’s vast wilderness is calling adventurers who crave epic landscapes and fresh-air experiences. From glacier-fed lakes and rugged mountain trails to wildlife spotting and multi-activity family adventures, it’s a destination that feels limitless. In 2026, travellers are seeking these wide-open spaces for both thrill and tranquillity.

Authentic experiences:
Hike the Canadian Rockies or take a family adventure from Vancouver to Calgary. Guided by experts with local knowledge, you’ll uncover hidden spots, enjoy breathtaking vistas and experience the region in a truly immersive and memorable way.

Travelling with a guide allows you to go beyond the surface and gain insight into local culture, communities and landscapes often missed on independent trips. These trending destinations offer immersive adventure opportunities and 2026 is the perfect year to experience them in the most authentic, meaningful way.