Where's trending so far this year?
As is always the way in travel, we never know what new developments the world has in store with every passing week. So, considering how 2026 has unfolded thus far, we thought we’d share where has been popular with our Wild Frontiers community, with some traveller reviews, expert insights and additional inspiration to help you choose where should be next on your travel list…
CHINA
As many of our travellers will know, we were thrilled to have recently launched three brand-new China group tours earlier in the year. This has been coupled with the news that, until 31 December 2026 and hopefully beyond, UK nationals will be able to travel to mainland China visa-free for up to 30 days.
The new trips span Beijing, Xi'an, and the dramatic topography of wild Sichuan, including a combination itinerary that pairs mainland China with Taiwan.
Southern China Explorer: From Megacities to Mountain Realms
East China & Taiwan: Shared Traditions, Distinct Cultures
China: From Imperial Capitals to Wild Sichuan
"As travel to China becomes significantly more accessible again, we’re seeing growing interest from travellers looking for deeply immersive and culturally focused experiences. These new itineraries combine many unmissable sights, with scenic rail journeys, local cuisine, and experiences in lesser-visited regions that mainstream tourists typically miss."
Speaking of local cuisine, check out our blog: ‘The Best Foods to Try in China’ - a regional guide to Chinese cuisine.
We also have a China webinar coming very soon…. Subscribe to our emails HERE so you don’t miss it!
UZBEKISTAN
It’s no secret we’re big Uzbekistan ‘Stans’ in the Wild Frontiers office. And the heart of the Silk Road is now better connected than ever as with the new high-speed rail which connects Tashkent (the capital) to Khiva (the historic Silk Road city) via Urgench.
For our US travellers, they can now enter Uzbekistan entirely visa-free for tourism stays of up to 30 days. This eliminates the need for the time-consuming e-visa application process, aligning US travellers with UK, EU, and Canadian citizens who already enjoy 30-day visa-free entry.
And while not favourites to win, Uzbekistan is competing for the very first time in the FIFA World Cup – so you can expect a buzzing atmosphere in the country during the summer..
“We recently went to Uzbekistan on the "Treasures of the Silk Road" trip. There were 10 of us in the group. We had an excellent guide, the hotels all had local character, were quite small and well-situated. Restaurants we went to all served local food so we had a great culinary experience. Well organised itinerary. The most spectacular architecture came last in Samarkand just when you thought you'd seen it all!”
ALGERIA
Many adventure travellers have been buzzing about North Africa this year and Algeria continues to boom. In 2025, Algeria experienced its highest tourism sector growth in 20 years, with over 2.5 million visitors, and aims to welcome 12 million tourists by 2030. The introduction of e-visas and relaxed entry requirements for southern regions have made it easier for travellers to explore the country's diverse offerings.
While this spike may have some concerned about overtourism, Algeria presents an opportunity to explore a destination that is both captivating and — as the largest country in Africa —considerably less busy, whether you’re exploring its historic cities or the endless Saharan dunes.
“I’ve recently come back from a brilliant tour of Algeria. This is not my first trip with Wild Frontiers, and I have booked with them again to go to Mongolia next year. They have small groups in Algeria, there were only five of us. The tour leader, Rafik, was superb. The sights were brilliant, with daily ‘wow’ moments, even in 40-degree heat in the desert. I can’t praise them highly enough!”
INDIA
If exploring India has been on your bucket list, 2026 might just be the time to seize the moment. Beyond the iconic Golden Triangle, an obvious starting point for many travellers new to India, many of our seasoned Indophiles frequently revisit India time and time again because this country simply has so much to offer — even on your fifth trip, you’ll feel like you’re exploring a brand-new destination.
Some travellers are taking advantage of India’s shoulder seasons, where high-end, locally rooted lodging — from restored havelis in Rajasthan to sustainable spice-plantation eco-lodges are now staying open longer into the spring and autumn.
India's spiritual tourism sectors in Kerala and Rishikesh have also advanced dramatically, blending ancient Ayurvedic practices with world-class, luxury infrastructure.
And finally, the expansion of India's modern, air-conditioned Vande Bharat semi-bullet train network offers a highly comfortable, punctual, and scenic alternative to domestic flights for mid-range distances.
“We have just had four brilliant weeks in India arranged by Wild Frontiers, the first two on a group tour and the second as a tailor-made extension. The group tour felt like a very safe and supported introduction to India; everything worked like clockwork and we did far more than we would have done on our own. It was such a treat to have all the arrangements done for us so we could concentrate on all the amazing things we saw. The others in the group were all lovely. The tailor-made extension planned by Jess was wonderful; gorgeous hotels in fascinating places. Having our own driver made us feel completely safe, and every last detail of the trip was meticulously planned and delivered. We will certainly travel with Wild Frontiers again.”
KYRGYZSTAN
Later this year, Kyrgyzstan takes centre stage as host of the 6th World Nomad Games – a spectacular celebration of traditional sports, culture, and heritage from across Central Asia. This global event shines a spotlight on the country’s epic landscapes and proud nomadic traditions, offering travellers a rare chance to experience Kyrgyzstan at its most vibrant.
While this event is attracting the eyes of the sporting world, there is a growing intrigue in the country from adventure travellers looking beyond the festival, in part due, for UK travellers at least, to the recent airing of the latest series of the BBC television show, Race Across the World. From family trips to second-time visitors to Central Asia expanding their passion for the region beyond Uzbekistan, frequently first on the Central Asia travel wish list, this is a country that is set to continue to rise in popularity.
“This was my first trip with Wild Frontiers and they didn’t disappoint. This trip was very well organised with a tour guide, Alex, who could answer all questions asked. Alex went above and beyond to introduce us to his culture and inform us on the history of Kyrgyzstan. The scenery is stunning and I would highly recommend this trip. Sleeping in the cozy Yurts was wonderful. Food was exceptional. The people are so friendly, and it was a beautiful trip. The driver was superb as well. Very, very well planned out.”
JAPAN
2026 seems to be the year everyone has "Japan" on their lips and on their travel lists. As predicted, Japan remains a truly captivating destination. It's little surprise, given that it offers something for every conceivable traveller desire: natural wonders meet cutting-edge modernity, and timeless traditions pair with exquisite architecture — not to mention an incredible food scene.
While recent visa cost increases won’t necessarily be a deterrent, we’re noticing a growing interest from adventure travellers who wish to avoid the typical tourist trail, and we love to shine a light on the lesser-visited areas of the destinations! So, for those seeking the road less travelled, try visiting the four major islands of the archipelago – Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku and Kyūshū on group tour: Japan: Four Island Adventure or tailoring your own adventure with our experts.
“This long 3-week tour of Japan was meticulously prepared by both the company and the excellent local guide. We experienced a much more diverse Japan than I could have imagined or organised as an independent traveller. Hotel accommodation was excellent and locations chosen were superb and often off the beaten track. Absolutely first class.”
TURKEY (TÜRKİYE)
With ancient cities, traditional markets, and UNESCO World Heritage sites that tell the story of millennia of history, Turkey is an increasingly appealing destination for those seeking a deeper, more authentic travel experience beyond the well-known hotspots.
Turkey has been trending so significantly that our team recently hosted a podcast exploring some alternative options for travel through Turkey. For those craving a real deep dive into the region, you can check out The World by Wild Frontiers most recent episode here: Alternative Travel Guide to Turkey or listen to it on Youtube below.
“I’ve just returned from my sixth trip with Wild Frontiers – though my first was a five-week-long Silk Road trip from Beijing to Tehran, so that perhaps counts as more than one trip! This one was Turkey: Eastern Borderlands, and it didn’t disappoint. I’ve always found Wild Frontiers trips wonderful. They’re well organised, the pre-departure support is excellent, their itineraries are always fascinating, and their tour leaders are always helpful and professional. I also appreciate the small group sizes, which adds a personal touch and means you’re not constantly waiting for straggler number 25! I’m addicted!”
EGYPT
Egypt has been building momentum as an adventure travel dream destination, and this looks set to continue into 2026 as our travellers this classic destination. This year also marks 50 years since the passing of Agatha Christie, whose iconic novel Death on the Nile immortalised the country’s mystique, making it the perfect time to retrace her footsteps along the historic river.
Adding to the excitement, the long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) has finally opened its doors, showcasing treasures of ancient Egypt on an unprecedented scale. With history, culture, and renewed global attention, Egypt in 2026 promises an unmissable journey.
Plus, as Egypt travel experts, we're thrilled to be partnering with the Ramses and the Pharaohs' Gold exhibition at NEON, Battersea Power Station in London, to offer you 2 for 1 tickets using code WILD241* so you can experience the history of Egypt before you even depart.
Terms & conditions: Code applies Sun-Thurs, for any time slot for two adult tickets. Offer cannot be combined with other vouchers or codes. Add at checkout under 'Voucher or Gift Cards'. Online booking fees apply.
“I greatly enjoyed my trip Egypt: Slow Boat to Aswan, which was my first journey with Wild Frontiers. Our guide, Sherine, was exceptionally well organised, knowledgeable, patient, and helpful throughout. The itinerary was thoughtfully planned and offered a wonderful variety of local people, experiences, and places to explore. We often felt incredibly fortunate to have so many sites almost entirely to ourselves.”
GEORGIA
Georgia has been growing steadily in popularity over the years, especially after captivating viewers in BBC’s Race Across the World 2026. And with outstanding natural beauty, warm hospitality and centuries of history, we’re certainly not surprised here at Wild Frontiers HQ.
There are also some exciting long-term restoration projects wrapping up at the end of 2026 in Georgia. Renovations at Tbilisi's centrally located Vera Park are complete, and the architectural landmark, Chess Palace, is scheduled to be completed the end of 2026.
Georgia's Protected Areas saw record-breaking crowds last year, prompting the government to roll out six new protected areas in 2026 featuring newly marked hiking trails and visitor centres.
“To begin with, Georgia is a fascinating country, but one where there's huge benefit in doing a tour rather than driving or relying on public transport. The interesting places are distant from one another, and some are quite remote. Because this tour was really well-organised and efficient, we saw a lot of landscapes and places of interest. I also enjoyed the range of regional foods and craft activities we saw. I felt that we had really learned a lot while enjoying ourselves.”
ARMENIA
As we often see when one country is in the spotlight, their neighbours soon feel the benefit too! We have seen such demand for Armenia after travellers have fallen in love with Georgia, that we have added a dedicated Armenia tour to complement our Georgia offerings: Armenia: In The Shadow of Mount Ararat
Armenia flourishes as a standalone, must-visit destination. It is home to the world’s oldest known winery, stands as the birthplace of Christianity, and is rapidly developing into an adventure tourism hotspot, boasting world-class hiking routes along the Transcaucasian Trail and updated GPS mapping.
Best of all, the UK has just launched its first direct flight to the Armenian capital of Yerevan, with Wizz Air’s new route from London Luton Airport beginning on June 12, 2026.
“From the initial contact with Kenny in the Wild Frontiers office to David, our guide, helping us at check-in for our flight home, our trip to Armenia was fantastic. Kenny had tailor-made a superb itinerary to see as much of the country as time would allow, and David and Asholt, our driver, were excellent in bringing it to life. They immersed us in the culture and history of Armenia in a way that was both enlightening and engaging. Armenia should definitely be on everyone's bucket list of countries to visit, and Wild Frontiers is the company to choose. Both driver and guide were a credit to the company.”
SRI LANKA
Sri Lanka is an adventure traveller’s dream, offering a vibrant mix of wildlife, rich cultural highlights, and hiking trails through lush tea plantations. Even better, Sri Lanka recently introduced a 30-day tourist visa free of charge for 40 eligible countries, including the UK, USA, Australia, and Canada.
This fantastic news, paired with new direct British Airways flights to Colombo launching in winter 2026, means Sri Lanka is definitely one to keep an eye on for the rest of this year and well into 2027.
“I have travelled with Wild Frontiers several times previously and can honestly say I have always had great trips. "Sri Lanka: Hidden Treasures of the Sacred Island" was no exception. This trip is really diverse, reflecting the country itself, including different scenic landscapes, key historical sites, wildlife and cultural highlights. As always, Dammika our guide was excellent, as was the food and accommodation. I have no hesitation in recommending it.”
ALBANIA
Albania offers a travel experience unlike almost anywhere else in Europe, thanks to its stunning mountain scenery, Roman and Ottoman ruins and fascinating recent history. We're such fans of Albania we have just introduced our 5th group tour that includes this incredible country: In The Footsteps Of Alexander: Bulgaria, Greece, Albania & North Macedonia
Upon returning from a visit, there is one thing our travellers never fail to mention — the hospitality.
The culture is driven by a concept known as Besa — an ancient, sacred code of honour that translates roughly to "to keep a promise" and dictates that a guest must be treated with the utmost protection and hospitality.
"The hospitality in the Albanian guesthouses is incomparable. In the remote village of Vermosh, we sat and chatted with multiple generations of a local family sharing local beers and spirits they proudly offered. It is a quiet spot, completely untouristy, meaning every cultural interaction feels relaxed and natural."
BHUTAN
Bhutan continues to capture the hearts of adventure travellers. In an effort to stimulate sustainable tourism, the Bhutanese government introduced a temporary, massive 50% discount on its Sustainable Development Fee (SDF).
Currently fixed at USD $100 per night (approximately £78 to £80), this promotional incentive is officially scheduled to end in September 2027, making the 2026/2027 window a golden opportunity to visit the country affordably before fees are reassessed.
"The end-of-year 12-day trip to Bhutan was amazing. Being outside everyday, walking, hiking, and learning so much about Bhutanese culture was truly a life-changing experience. Our guides were second-to-none. This is Wild Frontiers' specialty: excellent local guides who help you immerse in the country you are visiting. I highly recommend."
