New year, new budgets and a whole new opportunity to plan 12 months of adventure. And while Mzansi has no shortage of fantastic places to explore, this year set your sights on something a little more adventurous. From searching for polar bears in the far north to unpacking the rich history of the South Atlantic, here are six destinations worth seeking out in 2026.
Whether it’s on a cruise or from a sun lounger, South Africans love the Mediterranean. But for travellers looking to avoid the overtourism that blights many of the most beautiful islands and an exchange rate that makes it taxing on the wallet, Albania is stepping up as a prime alternative, offering all that Greece, Italy and Croatia have to offer at a fraction of the price. Soak up the history of Unesco-listed towns such as Berat and Gjirokastër, or spread out your towel on the sun-soaked Ionian beaches around Ksamil.
The archaeological park at Butrint speaks to the ancient human history of the region, while those of an adventurous bent will love exploring Europe’s last great wild river system in the Vjosa National Park or lacing up to hike the Albanian Alps, less prosaically known as the Accursed Mountains. Travellers with an eye on discovering the seaside towns of Palasë, Dhërmi and Himarë will be glad to know that Vlora International Airport is set to open in 2026, offering easier access to Albania’s southern riviera. Though just a four-hour flight from Joburg, Reunion — as an “Overseas Department” of France cast adrift in the Indian Ocean — comes infused with both Francophone and Creole charm.
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That’s evident from the warm hospitality to the fantastic food, where you might start the day with a baguette and fromage and end with a fragrant fish curry. The road network is excellent, albeit a bit narrow in places, making it ideal for self-drive adventures. The historical heart of Riyadh is being recast as a heritage-led destination.
Anchored by the Unesco-listed At-Turaif, the mud-brick city that was the birthplace of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, this ancient quarter is being transformed into a haven of considered luxury. Bujairi Terrace has evolved into a culinary destination in its own right, and a clutch of global hotel brands will open their doors in 2026, starting with The Langham, Diriyah. Why go now?
The Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale 2026 (January 30 to May 2) will take over the JAX district, bringing together Saudi and global creatives. While Rwanda and Uganda have long claimed the throne for rainforest adventures in Africa, Gabon is joining the action in 2026 with a handful of intimate luxury lodges offering insider access to some of Africa’s last forest wilderness. Loango National Park, famous for its surf-loving hippos, sees the opening of Loango Savannah Camp and the remote Sette Cama Eco Camp, offering guests access by boat or kayak and walking safaris to a forest shared by elephants, chimpanzees and western lowland gorillas.
To the south, Moukalaba-Doudou National Park, which has some of Gabon’s highest primate densities, is anchored by Nyanga Lodge, which opened in 2025, to combine gorilla tracking with seasonal whale, turtle and (catch-and-release) tarpon experiences. Getting to and around Gabon, where luxury is in its infancy, can be unpredictable and adventurous, but grab the opportunity to discover one of Africa’s most biodiverse, least-visited rainforest destinations.
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