Kenya has long produced the best distance runners on earth. Eliud Kipchoge alone makes the case. But elite athletics is only one layer of what this dopamine-inducing destination offers.

“Let’s put it this way, it’s a good place for travellers who don’t want to sit still,” says Antoinette Turner, GM of Flight Centre South Africa. “Sure, you can run and hike there, but it has plenty more to offer outdoor enthusiasts across the board. What surprises most people is just how much is packed into one destination, and how accessible it all is.”

Here’s what makes Kenya a compelling destination for active South African travellers, according to Flight Centre’s team of Travel Experts.

Iten: Where the best runners train

Known as the Home of Champions, the town of Iten sits at 2,400 metres above sea level in the Rift Valley, offering the perfect elevation for endurance training. Unsurprisingly, it has produced more elite marathon runners than anywhere else on the planet. More and more serious amateur runners are heading there to train at altitude alongside Kenyan athletes, eat simply, sleep well, and come home in better shape than they left.

“Active travellers who go to Iten expecting a challenging training camp often come back talking about how peaceful it was,” Turner adds. “Morning runs on red dirt roads through highland mist. Afternoon rest. Nutritious, whole foods. No distractions.”

A testament to the earth’s raw sculpting forces, Kenya’s Great Rift Valley is flanked by sloping escarpments, lake shores, and volcanic terrain that get trail runners excited. Routes around Lake Naivasha and Hell’s Gate National Park offer technical, scenic running at altitudes that will test your fitness and reward your effort.

“Hell’s Gate is also one of the few parks in East Africa where you can move at nature’s pace on foot or by mountain bike without a fence between you and the local wildlife,” Turner says. For mountaineers seeking a new frontier, she nudges towards Mount Kenya, topping out at 5,199 metres.

Cycling the highlands

The road from Nairobi into the Aberdare Range delivers a high-altitude adventure through tea plantations (Kenya is the world’s largest exporter of black tea), spectacular waterfalls, and cedar forests.

According to Turner, Kenya’s highlands suit multi-day safari cycling well – there’s enough gradient to make it interesting and enough scenery to justify stopping often. “The roads here are far quieter than anything comparable in Europe, and guided cycling routes are particularly well-established,” she says.

Walking safaris in the Maasai Mara

A walking safari provides an immersive alternative to 4×4 safaris, with all senses engaged. You read animal scat and spoor and move at a slower pace, allowing you to notice things you might miss from a vehicle seat.

“Active travellers opting for walking safaris are often the ones who’ve already done a conventional safari and want something different and more intimate,” Turner says. “This experience requires your full attention combined with physical movement, which is exactly why active and adventurous travellers love it.”

Water sports and kitesurfing

Diani Beach, on Kenya’s south coast near Mombasa, is a world-class kitesurfing destination, promising reliable trade winds, protected coral reefs, deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, and more. It is also, frankly, a fine place to do absolutely nothing for a few days, according to Turner.

“Downtime near the ocean delivers what most of us need to reset,” she adds. “The beach delivers on both ends of the activity spectrum: wading through the shallows or deep-sea fishing, depending on what kind of day you’re after. It’s worth the flight to Mombasa via Nairobi from Johannesburg.”

Yes, Kenya. But why now?

The country welcomed about 2.7 million international visitors and 5.2 million intra-African travellers in 2025 (including South Africans, who can enter Kenya visa-free for a period of up to 90 days), demonstrating the depth and diversity of its travel market.

The exchange rate works in South Africans’ favour, too. R1 buys approximately 8.00* Kenyan shillings, so accommodation, guides, and experiences that would stretch a budget in Europe sit comfortably within reach in Kenya.

“Kenya is not a budget destination in the rough-travel sense,” Turner says. “But South Africans get genuine purchasing power there, and that changes what kind of trip is actually possible.”

In short, when it comes to booking a trip to Kenya, don’t walk. Run.

*According to the exchange rate on 15 June 2026

Despite fares rising by between 10% and 50% on many routes, only 10% of South African travellers have cancelled their holiday plans, according to a survey conducted by the Association of Southern African Travel Agents and Advisors (ASATA). That says everything about the South African traveller’s relationship with travel. But absorbing a crisis and navigating it intelligently are two very different things.

“The fuel crisis is real, and, in some cases, the cost increases are significant, but South Africans are still travelling,” says Sue Garrett, GM Supply, Pricing & Marketing at Flight Centre South Africa. “Our job is to help them do it smartly.”

Here’s what you actually need to know before your next booking decision.

What’s driving the price increases?

Jet fuel more than doubled in price between late February and early April 2026, following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global oil supply. The Middle East accounts for roughly 41% of European aviation fuel imports, and that supply has been severely disrupted.

The knock-on effects have been significant: 13,000 flights cut globally in May alone, nearly two million seats removed from the market, and Lufthansa announcing 20,000 cancellations through October. Closer to home, jet fuel at South African inland airports jumped 115% month-on-month as of 1 April, with coastal airports up 145%, and FlySafair’s temporary fuel surcharges rose nearly 400% in March.

A recent dip in global oil prices followed ceasefire talks, but experts are clear: even if the Strait fully reopens, it will take months for pricing to normalise. The fuel arriving at South African ports today was purchased at higher prices, so relief, when it comes, will be slow.

Should you wait, or book now?

Book now – and here’s why.

Capacity is being removed from the market while South African demand remains high. Less supply plus sustained demand points in one direction only: higher fares. The travellers waiting for clarity are, in most cases, waiting for prices to rise.

The good news? You can lock in today’s fares for travel up to 12 months out. For peak-season travel (school holidays and long weekends), Garrett says that booking four to six months in advance is advisable, as seats fill quickly.

“From a currency perspective, the rand is currently sitting at around R16.34* to the dollar, which is meaningfully stronger than the R17–R18 range South Africans were navigating for much of the past two years. That makes now a relatively favourable moment to lock in international fares. Waiting for a better rate is a gamble, and fare increases could easily outpace any rand strengthening,” Garrett explains.

One important note from Flight Centre’s Travel Experts: quote and ticket on the same day, particularly on international routes. Fares can shift between quote and purchase, and in the current environment, that gap can be costly.

Where is the value right now?

Surprisingly, some of the most competitive fares currently available are on routes that travellers might be avoiding out of lingering uncertainty.

Emirates has confirmed that 96% of its global network has been restored, and Qatar Airways is targeting more than 150 destinations from mid-June. Both carriers are currently offering fares that, on certain routes, are lower than pre-conflict February levels – in some cases, over 60% cheaper than non-Gulf alternatives on the same routes.

According to Garrett, for long-haul travel, Asia is currently the most competitively priced destination, with fares ranging from approximately R11,000 to R15,000 per person return, making countries like Thailand and India consistent value picks despite the broader disruption.

“Carrier selection has become one of the most important conversations we’re having with clients right now,” she says. “South African travellers who are still defaulting to non-Gulf alternatives out of lingering uncertainty are, in many cases, paying a significant premium for a risk that has materially diminished.”

The surcharge conversation nobody is having

When you see an advertised fare, it rarely tells the full story. Fuel surcharges appear on your ticket as YQ (fuel surcharge) or YR (carrier-imposed charges), and on some international routes, these charges alone exceed the base fare.

Surcharges are proportionally higher on longer flights, which means domestic and regional African travel is currently meaningfully more affordable relative to long-haul, simply because the surcharge component is smaller.

“The critical thing to know is that surcharges are fixed at the date of ticketing, not the date of travel. If you book today, you are protected against any future surcharge increases – unless you change your ticket – another compelling reason not to wait,” Garrett comments.

“Always compare the total ticket cost, not the advertised price. What looks like a cheap fare can carry a surcharge that significantly changes the picture,” she adds.

Flexible fares: worth it or not?

With 57% of South African travellers worried about losing money on non-refundable bookings, the flexible fare question is front of mind, and rightly so.

A flexible fare will typically cost R3,000–R8,000 more than the cheapest standard economy fare on the same route, depending on the airline and season. Whether that premium is worth it depends on your circumstances, but in an environment where airlines are cutting flights and adjusting schedules, the cost of inflexibility has rarely been more visible.

There is, however, a middle path worth knowing about. Emirates and Qatar Airways are currently offering complimentary date-change options on new bookings – a direct response to the uncertainty of the current environment. In practice, this typically means one or two permitted changes, with restrictions around ticketing and travel dates, and you would still pay any fare difference if the new fare were higher. The specifics vary and are changing frequently, so confirm the exact terms at the time of booking.

Travel insurance: the detail that matters most

Approximately 20% of South African travellers are now actively opting for “Cancel for Any Reason” (CFAR) insurance, even at a premium. If you’re considering it, there’s one rule that overrides everything else, according to Flight Centre’s Travel Experts:

Buy your travel insurance on the same day you pay your first deposit.

Pre-existing condition waivers and CFAR cover typically expire within 14 to 21 days of deposit. Miss that window and you may find yourself with a standard policy that doesn’t cover the scenarios you’re most concerned about.

“CFAR is an add-on to a comprehensive travel insurance policy, not a standalone product. It allows you to cancel for any reason and receive a partial reimbursement – typically 50–75% of pre-paid, non-refundable trip costs, which significantly reduces your exposure,” Garrett explains.

The case for not going it alone

“Travellers no longer want to navigate the current landscape alone,” says Otto de Vries, CEO of ASATA. “They want a professional in their corner who can guarantee flexibility and provide a safety net. No app or online booking platform can call an airline at midnight, fight for a refund, or redesign an itinerary in real time.”

Flight Centre’s own research, conducted before the conflict began, found that 97% of South African travel intenders see value in using a travel agent – the highest proportion of any market surveyed globally. In a Middle East crisis that has doubled jet fuel prices and made the cost of a wrong booking decision more consequential than ever, that instinct is well-founded.

South Africans haven’t stopped travelling, but the gap between travelling smart and travelling blind has rarely been wider.

*Based on ZAR/USD exchange rates on 25 May 2026.

The survey revealed that South African travel intenders lead the field on nearly every metric that matters:

• Trust in travel agents sits at 97%.
• 83% say travel is essential to their mental health and wellbeing.
• 62% are actively pursuing luxury travel.

“South Africa is one of the world’s most economically pressured consumer markets, and yet it carries one of the deepest relationships with travel of any country we surveyed,” says Antoinette Turner, General Manager at Flight Centre South Africa. “It is also one of the most under-researched.”

Turner argues that travel is not a discretionary reward for South Africans. Rather, it’s considered a necessity and a form of identity, and in many cases a deliberate act of resistance against difficult circumstances.

Here’s what Flight Centre’s latest data reveals about how South Africans want to experience the world.

Travel planning with intention

South Africans are actually among the most open to AI tools for travel planning of any market surveyed, and yet 97% still see value in using a human travel agent. In this market, technology and expertise coexist rather than compete.

“The data reflects a traveller who thinks carefully about where they go and who wants to feel cared for when they go. This traveller plans accordingly and has no interest in compromising on the experience. The relationship with a travel agent is genuinely valued in a way that’s quite different from other markets,” comments Turner.

Resourceful by necessity

96% of South African survey respondents are looking to make travel more affordable, and they’re doing it methodically by booking well in advance, hunting for package deals, and choosing budget airlines when they have to. They’re also, at 77%, among the most likely to have combined, or be open to combining, business and leisure travel.

What explains it? Partly geography, according to Turner. “South Africa sits far from most of the world’s major travel corridors, which means getting anywhere takes planning, money, and commitment. There’s no casual weekend trip to Paris or Rome. When South Africans travel, they mean it,” she says.

The 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia is already on the radar for many South African fans, and with Qantas operating direct flights from Johannesburg to Sydney (just over 12 hours) and both Qantas and SAA offering direct flights to Perth (just under 10 hours), the tournament has never been more accessible.

“South Africans are incredibly resourceful when it comes to making travel happen. Australia is still a long-haul, and traditionally expensive destination, but many South Africans are determined to get there anyway,” Turner adds.

Luxury, wellness, and slow travel

Although South Africans are the most likely of any market to travel during off-peak seasons (49%), they’re also amongst the most likely to prioritise luxury experiences, displaying an appetite for slow and restful travel (86%), food and gastronomy (83%), eco-tourism (76%), nature (67%), and spending time with partners and family (66%).

LATAM Airlines’ direct flight from South Africa to São Paulo, Brazil, launching in September 2026, matches this appetite well, bringing visa-free travel within easy reach without a stopover.

“We’ve always known that our customers here are deeply committed to travel. But seeing it quantified, and seeing how it compares globally, does make you look at this market differently,” Turner adds. “South African travellers think carefully about what they want, cherish what they choose, and deserve more credit than they get,” she concludes.

What happened next depended almost entirely on one decision that had been made weeks or months earlier, in a moment when everything still felt certain: how these travellers had booked their trip.

Had they booked through a travel agent – someone they could call immediately for support and damage control – or had they decided to go it alone?

What the airlines did right

Emirates and Qatar Airways, whose hubs in Dubai and Doha were most directly affected by the Middle East airspace closures, responded with speed, transparency, and genuine passenger care that set a very high standard. According to Sue Garrett, GM Supply, Pricing and Marketing at Flight Centre South Africa, the airlines communicated full refunds by 10am on the same morning the airspace closed, and they extended rebooking windows repeatedly as the situation remained uncertain. Furthermore, contact centres operated 24/7 throughout, including during Ramadan, when extended hours would not normally apply.

“Emirates ran open-forum webinars for travel agents the same afternoon policies were issued, and Qatar’s country manager in South Africa was communicating directly with Flight Centre via WhatsApp, ensuring agents had accurate, current information to pass on to clients,” comments Garrett.

This exceptional response during times of crisis matters. Because what follows is not an argument that the airlines failed, but about something more precise and more important.

The gap between communication and guidance

Good airline communication tells you what has happened. But it’s your travel agent who tells you what to do next.

When an airline notifies you that your flight has been cancelled, it can offer you two options: a refund or rebooking on the next available service. What it cannot tell you is which of those options is right for your specific situation – whether your onward connection can be salvaged or your hotel booking is recoverable, whether your travel insurance covers the additional night’s accommodation, or whether an alternative carrier has availability on your routing that would get you home faster than waiting for the airline’s next service.

“When a journey has already commenced and disruption strikes, the airline is the right first call. They’re best placed to manage the immediate flight situation,” explains Zay Ferguson-Nair, Customer Experience Leader at Flight Centre South Africa. “But the moment that’s resolved, the travel agent steps in to manage everything else, including the hotel extension, the car hire, the onward connection, and the insurance claim. Those are the moving parts that fall through the cracks when there’s no one coordinating them.”

That coordination happened automatically for travellers who had booked through a travel agent. For those who had booked directly, whether with the airline or through an online platform, the coordination was their responsibility – in an unfamiliar city, exhausted and stressed, with a phone full of conflicting information and a queue stretching the length of the terminal.

The moment that made it real

Among the thousands of South Africans navigating the disruption, one case stayed with Garrett.

A South African passenger had been stranded mid-route in Singapore. It was Sunday and she needed to be home by Tuesday for dialysis.

“I was trying to reach Emirates’ contact centre,” Garrett recalls. “When I finally got through, a supervisor called me back personally. We explained the situation, and without hesitation, they worked with us to confirm a seat on an alternative carrier, getting the client home in time for her treatment.”

What made that outcome possible was the combination of an airline supervisor willing to exercise human judgment, and a travel agent who knew who to call and how to make the case. Remove either element and the outcome changes.

What South Africans already know, and the data that proves it

Flight Centre’s Global PR Survey found that 97% of South African travel intenders see value in using a travel agent – the highest endorsement of any market surveyed globally. 66% cite expertise and knowledge as the primary value, 62% cite peace of mind if things change or go wrong, as well as reduced stress by having someone taking care of everything, and 54% value assistance with complex or multi-destination itineraries.

South African travel intenders are also the most likely of any market globally to trust travel experts as a source of travel advice – ahead of social media and significantly ahead of AI tools. Rather than blind loyalty, that trust is the accumulated evidence of what expert guidance actually delivers both in normal times and in moments of crisis.

“South Africans have always understood instinctively that having someone in your corner makes a difference. What the past few months have done is provide the clearest possible demonstration of what that difference actually looks like in practice,” says Garrett.

What’s ahead?

The Middle East crisis will resolve. Its timeline remains uncertain, but its eventual conclusion is not. When it does, the travel environment South Africans return to will be more complex than the one they left, with more routing options, carriers, variables to navigate, and AI tools promising to simplify what they often complicate.

The question of what human expertise actually delivers has never been more relevant.

So, book with someone who knows what to do when things go wrong. Because, as recent events have proven, things go wrong.

But as Sue Garrett, GM Supply, Pricing & Marketing at Flight Centre South Africa, explains, the real draw for South African travellers has always been the combination of price and product.

“The ME3 – as they’re popularly called – consistently offer competitive fares, modern aircraft, generous baggage allowances, strong frequencies from Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban, and some of the world’s best inflight experiences,” she says. “Value-conscious South Africans have been exceptionally well served.”

According to Flight Centre’s booking data, Ethiopian Airlines, British Airways, Singapore Airlines, KLM, Lufthansa, Cathay Pacific and Qantas have all experienced a spike in demand since the beginning of March.

“Our Travel Experts are working hard to find the best available routes for our clients at the best possible price,” comments Garrett. “The reality is that demand for seats is outstripping supply, and rising jet fuel costs are pushing fares higher across the board. Our advice is to book early, remain flexible and be open to new routes and hubs.”

East: via Singapore and Hong Kong

Both Singapore Changi Airport and Hong Kong International Airport make perfect sense for travellers heading to Asia and Australia. 

Singapore Airlines is operating at its highest capacity since before the pandemic – with over 2,270 weekly flights scheduled over their summer, while Changi Airport is consistently rated the world’s best in Skytrax’s World Airline and Airport Star Rating programme.

South African passport holders don’t require a visa for Singapore, and stays of up to 30 days are permitted, which opens the door to a genuine stopover. Furthermore, the onward network from Changi is exceptional: Tokyo, Sydney, Bali, Bangkok, London and Auckland all connect cleanly.

Cathay Pacific out of Hong Kong is the other standout, with more than 80 international destinations and a particularly strong network across Asia (not to mention 4^th place in the 2026 Skytrax rankings for Hong Kong International Airport). South African passport holders are currently visa-free for short stays in Hong Kong, which lends itself beautifully to an exciting layover in the City of Skyscrapers.

Europe: a quiet comeback

European hubs have absorbed a significant share of displaced Gulf traffic. KLM (via Amsterdam) and Lufthansa (via Frankfurt and Munich) are both seeing strong demand from South African travellers, and the Johannesburg–London direct route on British Airways and Virgin Atlantic is particularly popular right now. That said, fares on these routes are under pressure due to capacity constraints, so booking early makes a meaningful difference.

Africa: a growing demand

Garrett says Flight Centre is seeing a significant increase in travel through Addis Ababa. “It’s easily Africa’s largest aviation hub with solid onward connections across Africa, Europe and Asia.”

If you intend spending a few days in Addis Ababa, South African citizens can get a tourist visa on arrival. Alternatively, you can apply for an eVisa before departure.

Travellers don’t typically need a visa to transit through Addis Ababa Bole International Airport – and Ethiopian Airlines offers compelling stopover packages for passengers with layovers between eight and 24 hours. These packages generally include a free hotel stay, transit visa, transfers and meal vouchers, with different (paid) options for curated city tours to explore local attractions. Garrett recommends chatting to your travel expert about the options and taking the opportunity to explore somewhere completely new.

“Kenya Airways also has various layover tours on offer,” she says. “They’re quick and competitively priced, which means if you’ve never been to Kenya before, you can tack on exciting city tours and even half-day safaris to Nairobi National Park from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.”

The unexpected upside

For Garrett, along with offering a different route to the same destination, alternative hubs also unlock entirely different networks. Some of the world’s most extraordinary travel is in easy reach for South Africans willing to look at the map with fresh eyes.

Routing via Singapore brings Thailand (and Phuket, a South African favourite), Japan, Vietnam, Bali and Sri Lanka onto the table. Hong Kong opens up Southeast Asia beautifully. And Ethiopian Airlines’ Addis Ababa hub serves more African destinations than almost any other carrier – a reminder that our continent still holds some of travel’s greatest rewards.

Travel smart

As Garrett explains, it’s a fast-moving landscape. Fares, availability and airline schedules are shifting by the day, and visa requirements are always worth a careful check before booking, particularly transit visas and visas for multi-stop itineraries. Flexibility on travel dates, attention to fare conditions and a willingness to consider new routing options will all make a real difference right now.

“The environment is still competitive. While capacity constraints and oil prices are driving fares up, there are still great accommodation deals to be found. Regional holidays, including perennial favourites like Mauritius, will become even more popular, so our advice is to book early. And ultimately, the Middle Eastern carriers will be back with great deals,” says Garrett.

Garrett also notes that, as of early April, Emirates and Qatar Airways have both increased capacity and are offering competitive pricing, though the situation remains volatile and could change at any time, so travellers are advised to confirm availability and fares before booking. The message? Stay positive and stay flexible. For South African travellers prepared to rethink the route, there may be more to discover than they expected.

Zay Ferguson-Nair, Customer Experience Leader at Flight Centre South Africa, notes how Flight Centre’s Travel Experts are seeing a shift towards more hyper-personalised travel experiences.

“Yes, travellers have always booked trips that satisfy an interest or passion, whether it’s a birding safari or a bucket-list trip to see the northern lights. This year, it’s just expanded into unexpected territory,” she explains.  “Think travellers who plan their journeys around beauty brands, skincare and wellness – or grocery store tourism, which caught everyone off guard! In 2026, travel is about indulging very specific obsessions.”

1. Glowcations

Korean beauty (K-beauty) brands have garnered a massive, dedicated following due to their innovative formulations and ‘glass skin’ results, with Korea’s capital, Seoul, fast becoming the home of glowing skin and cutting-edge (never mind TikTok-trendy) treatments.

The latest trend reports refer to ‘glomads’ (a predominantly young cohort of travellers who build their holidays around beauty brands and regimes) or ‘glowcations’ (where holidaymakers return with a youthful glow, rather than a suntan).  And the best destinations for a glowcation? Conde Nast says Seoul (Korea), Tokyo and Kochi (Japan), Tromsø (Norway), Rabat (Morocco), Paris (France) and Sao Paolo (Brazil) should be top of the list.

Must do: If you’re heading to Seoul, Ferguson-Nair recommends a visit to Namsam Park (with the observation deck offering sweeping views across the city), a stroll through Bukchon Hanok Village (home to over 900 traditional Korean homes), and a food tour in the Gwanjang Night Market.

“The foodie experience is next level,” she says. “Don’t leave without trying Korean fare, whether it’s the fiery kimchi – a base for most Korean dishes – or octopus tentacles. While the markets are the best place for an authentic foodie experience, the Lotte World Tower has a selection of restaurants and bars with some of the best views in town.”

2. Shelf discovery

Here’s the trend that took everyone by surprise: according to Hilton’s 2026 Trends Report, 77% of travellers already participate in grocery store tourism, and 35% plan to visit a local supermarket on their next trip. What started as a quirky bit of fun (and a pretty straightforward excursion if you’re self-catering) has exploded into a full-blown phenomenon, with 2026 declared “the year of grocery store tourism” by different travel publications.

So, why are travellers swapping museums for supermarket aisles? It’s simple: grocery stores offer an authentic, affordable window into daily life. From what’s on the shelves to how stores are laid out, wandering through a local supermarket tells you more about habits, preferences, and culture than a guidebook ever could.

Of course, social media has a lot to answer for. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram have turned stores into destinations themselves. Japanese konbini (convenience stores), Spain’s Mercadona stores, and even Los Angeles’ Erewhon have become must-visit spots, with travellers posting “snack hauls” that rack up millions of views.

“I think what’s driving this trend is that people want to live like the locals, even just for a day,” says Ferguson-Nair. “Choosing cheese, cold meat and a few gourmet pantry essentials in a Parisian deli or even discovering a limited-edition Coca-Cola flavour in a Tokyo FamilyMart are fun moments that often stick with you!”

Must do: Yes, the exchange rate is against us, and yes, some of the UK’s department stores hardly qualify as ‘grocery’, but if you find yourself in London this year, a wander through Fortnum & Mason (the ‘Queen’s grocer’ with a grand staircase that looks more hotel than shop) is irresistible. And for those heading to the Cotswolds? Jeremy Clarkson’s Diddly Squat Farm Shop has become a pilgrimage site for fans of his show.

3. Bookish breaks

If you’re the type who plans trips around favourite books and authors, you’re in excellent company. According to Euronews’s analysis of 2026 travel trends, literary tourism is gaining significant momentum as travellers seek to immerse themselves in the worlds created by literary legends.

This trend encompasses everything from visiting landscapes described in beloved novels (like the Yorkshire Moors of Wuthering Heights) to attending major literary festivals. The festival calendar for 2026 is particularly robust, with events like the Jaipur Literature Festival, Edinburgh International Book Festival, Jane Austen Festival, Hay Festival in Wales, and the Paris Book Festival at the Grand Palais drawing book lovers from across the globe.

Must do: South Africa also hosts several key literary events each year, including the Kingsmead Book Fair (Johannesburg), the Open Book Festival (Cape Town) and the Franschhoek Literary Festival (Franschhoek).

4. Fandom takes flight

Amadeus’s Travel Trends 2026 report identifies ‘Pop Culting’ as a major trend, where hit shows, films and franchises are motivating fans to travel. The numbers back this up: Amadeus data shows international flight searches for travel to San Diego during Comic-Con are up 9% for 2026 versus 2025. Meanwhile, Visit Bath expects the Netflix drama Bridgerton to contribute approximately £5 million per year to its local economy.

From Labubus merchandise (which sold an estimated US$1 billion worth in 2025) to K-Pop themed experiences, pop culture is inspiring new forms of tourism. The Seoul Tourism Organisation created an end-to-end traveller journey revolving around the film K-Pop Demon Hunters, where fans can make traditional knot bracelets worn by characters, eat featured meals, and even join K-Pop dance programmes near the scenic Cheonggyecheon Stream.

‘Set-jetting’ – visiting film and TV locations – has boomed thanks to streaming and social media. Popular destinations include Hawaii, Sicily and Phuket for The White Lotus, Malta and Dubrovnik for Game of Thrones, Paris for Emily in Paris, and Yorkshire for Downton Abbey.

5. Game-day dreams

2026 is shaping up to be a goodie for sports fanatics. According to Expedia, more than half of all tourists look to catch competitive action while on vacation, and the World Economic Forum predicts the sports tourism sector will surpass $1.7 trillion by 2032.

The calendar is packed with bucket-list events, including the Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina (currently underway), the 2026 FIFA World Cup spanning the USA, Canada and Mexico (48 teams across 16 cities), Premier League clashes at iconic stadiums like Anfield and Old Trafford, Formula 1’s Monaco Grand Prix and Six Nations rugby fixtures.

Suppliers like Edusport Travel create seamless packages that go beyond just match tickets – think stadium tours, meet-and-greets, merchandise and local cultural experiences, adding value and excitement to every trip.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply want to experience the electric atmosphere of a major sporting event, 2026 offers endless opportunities to tick off your game-day dreams.

Must do: It’s a big year for rugby fans, with South Africa hosting New Zealand in August and September. ‘The Greatest Rivalry’ feels like an old-school test series, and local fans can catch the action at Ellis Park, FNB Stadium, Loftus, DHL Stadium and Kings Park.

As travel gets more specific, travel advisors are proving their worth – using their expertise to craft trips around your interests, whether that’s K-beauty clinics, literary pilgrimages or game-day bucket lists. In 2026, everyone deserves an adventure.

“The severity of our weather depends on where you go,” says Antoinette Turner, GM of Flight Centre South Africa. “Fortunately, sunny alternatives abound within our borders, such as KwaZulu-Natal’s Dolphin Coast, where the new Club Med is set to open its doors. But for travellers with greater flexibility, there’s still a whole world wide open without needing to route through high-risk or congested airspace.”

Turner and her team of Travel Experts share their top picks for escaping the cold this winter – locally, regionally, and internationally.

Namibia

South Africa’s sunny neighbour, Namibia, remains wildly beautiful and unspoilt year-round. Think cerulean skies, blood-orange sunsets, glorious wildlife, and endless landscapes stretching far beyond the horizon.

“It’s very much an enigma, and arriving there feels a lot like stepping out onto another planet – Mars, perhaps?” says Turner. “The sheer vastness of Namibia adds to its crowd-free appeal, and it also brings the night back into focus, with crystal-clear skies delivering some of the best stargazing in the world.”

Weather conditions: Namibia’s colder season (April to September) brings mild, sunny days, with average temperatures between 20–25°C and almost no rainfall. Note that coastal areas are cooler, typically hovering between 18–22°C.

Mauritius

No South African travel list would be complete without our travel darling, Mauritius. It’s close enough for an easy getaway, yet far enough to feel like a true island adventure. If escaping winter is the goal, Turner urges travellers to discover the island’s west coast, famed for its year-round sunshine and all-inclusive offerings.

Weather conditions: Winter (May to October) is mild, with low humidity and coastal temperatures hovering around the mid-20s. Occasional brief showers may occur, depending on the region.

Zanzibar

When last did you visit Zanzibar? According to Turner, it remains firmly on the list for South African travellers this year, with FlySafair operating direct flights from Johannesburg.

“Zanzibar is an easy choice this winter. It’s close, and brimming with all-inclusive beachfront options,” Turner explains. “There may be slightly more travellers than you’d like to contend with during this time of year, but the weather is superb, in addition to minimal rain and humidity, creating perfect conditions for snorkelling and sun-lounging.”

Weather conditions: Zanzibar’s ‘winter’ runs from June to October, offering pleasant, dry weather with temperatures ranging from 21–29°C.

Brazil (São Paulo)

Right now, choosing smart, well-routed itineraries that avoid potential disruptions linked to Middle East tensions is part of travelling wisely. With direct flights between São Paulo and Cape Town, Turner highlights Brazil as a seamless option for South Africans, in addition to being visa-free.

“You could spend an entire week in São Paulo relaxing poolside at your all-inclusive hotel,” she adds. “But the best stays go beyond that, exploring the city’s many charms, including strolling through the local streets, where the petiscos (fried snacks) are hot, and the chopp (draft beer) is always crisp.”

She notes June through August, along with the shoulder months of May, October and November, offer fewer crowds and better value, making it an ideal time to visit.

Weather conditions: São Paulo’s winter (mid-June to mid-September) is generally dry, with a subtropical climate. Cold fronts can bring cooler temperatures, particularly in June and July.

Mozambique

Closer to home, Mozambique invites South Africans to indulge in uninterrupted tropical escapes. “I have a serious soft spot for Machangulo Beach Lodge,” Turner says. “It’s tucked away on a secluded peninsula in southern Mozambique, but still easy to access via boat transfer from Maputo.”

For travellers looking for a slightly different type of getaway, although not entirely crowd-free, Turner highlights MSC Cruises, which offers three- to four-night all-inclusive sailings to Portuguese Island from Durban. “Local cruises guarantee pleasant weather for sun-worshippers, along with the adventure of the open sea, minus the stress of planning every detail,” she says.

Weather conditions: Winter in Mozambique (May to October) is the dry season, with ample sunshine and minimal rain. Temperatures hover around the mid- to high 20s.

And if none of these listed destinations quite fit the brief, Turner confirms there are plenty more places where your money stretches further and your soul gets exactly what it needs. All it takes is some imagination – and the right guidance – to find that perfect holiday fit.

More and more of us are craving the comfort of places that sparked our wonder when the world felt bigger (and maybe a little bit kinder) back when we were kids. Now, a new travel phenomenon is emerging, says Sue Garrett, GM Supply, Pricing & Marketing at Flight Centre South Africa.

“Many of our customers are retracing childhood footprints but layering the journey with finer food, more freedom, and “grown-up” indulgences that weren’t part of the experience back then. It’s essentially a trip back to the beginning – only this time, they hold the map.”

The psychology of going back

Nostalgia (literally a longing to return ‘home’) was once described as a kind of homesickness. Today, experts know it’s one of the brain’s built-in comfort mechanisms, especially in times of change.

Psychologists like Krystine Batcho have found that nostalgic memories help us remember who we were and make sense of who we are today. That gentle ache for simpler days is a psychological anchor, giving us a rare sense of belonging and clarity, especially when the world feels off-balance. As Professor Ziyan Yang has said, nostalgia is a form of mental time travel that can spark profound feelings of warmth, purpose, and connection.

So, it’s no surprise that these feelings have surged in recent years. Difficult times, from the pandemic to the pressures of modern adulthood, can send us hunting for comfort in our earliest, happiest places. When we revisit those childhood escapes, either physically or through memory, we’re able to escape the present momentarily, all the while stitching ourselves more tightly to the life stories that moulded us.

“Revisiting a place that you loved as a kid is a way to reconnect with who you were, and often to rediscover what really matters to you now,” Garrett explains.  

Add in all those sensory triggers – ocean spray, braai smoke, savouring those lazy sunsets surrounded by loved ones, the squawk of hadedas at sunrise – and it’s easy to see why nostalgia-chasing travellers find the experience almost medicinal.

Why Gen Z and Millennials crave retro escapes

Considering that Gen Z and Millennials are both chasing optimised productivity, digital dopamine, and never-ending “hustle”, it’s striking how many younger travellers are yearning for something slower, softer, and rooted in the past. Sociologists call it a survival strategy. Both generations, facing constant pressure to optimise every hour, are turning to nostalgia as a kind of self-care and emotional reset.

As Vivek Iyyani, founder of Millennial Minds, noted at the Singapore launch of Pinterest Predicts 2026, “Gen Z are overworked, overscheduled, and overwhelmed. They’re always planning and scheming how to be more productive with their time, looking for hacks to save little bits of their time and energy. So, it’s no surprise they’re looking towards a distant past they have only heard of, but probably never experienced – those ‘nostalgic’ days when life was simpler.”

Pinterest’s data confirms it. Nearly one in four users is consciously reviving nostalgic habits, from revisiting childhood hobbies to collecting vintage keepsakes. Old-school activities, like sending hand-written postcards and packing disposable cameras, are back as a way to slow down and reconnect with the present. In Singapore, the spike in “pen pals” tells the same tale: a craving for connection that transcends Wi-Fi and social media algorithms.

Here in South Africa, many holiday destinations are practically family heirlooms. Mauritius, for one, has been winning hearts for decades, weaving itself into the treasured memories of thousands of families. According to Flight Centre’s Year In Travel 2025 Report, this sunshine-soaked island was the ultimate international favourite last year, and consistently ranks in our national top three. Why? Because so many of today’s travellers once splashed in its warm waters as children – and are now passing that magic on to their own kids.

“The reason destinations like Mauritius and Kruger never go out of style is simple – they’re woven into our family stories. People return for the memories, but they also bring a new version of themselves to the experience,” comments Garrett.

How to plan a meaningful retro escape in 2026

• Start with your senses.

Ask yourself what tastes, sounds, or smells pull you back to those golden years? Was it the crunch of a toasted cheese at a freeway café or the smell of pine trees on a camping trip? Let these sensory cues guide your itinerary.

• Mix old favourites with new luxuries.

Blend the comfort of familiar spots with grown-up upgrades, such as a historic train ride with a gourmet lunch or a childhood amusement park followed by a spa afternoon. There’s real satisfaction in pairing retro pleasures with fresh indulgence.

• Bring your people.

Invite siblings, parents, childhood friends… or bring your own children along for the ride. Their perspectives (and stories) can refresh old memories and create new inside jokes.

• Include something unexpected.

Break your own pattern. Book that art gallery tour you always skipped or try a local cooking class. Sometimes the most meaningful moments come from combining what you loved then with grown-up forms of curiosity.

• Capture it analog.

Trade the Instagram scroll for something hands-on like a disposable camera or a playlist of vintage hits. These little rituals slow down your travel experience and let you savour both the journey and the return.

So, maybe that’s the real promise of nostalgia in 2026 – it’s an invitation to reclaim wonder, to rediscover joy, and to show up fully present for the comfort trips that turn into new adventures. In a world short on certainty, there’s something revolutionary in going back, only to discover something beautifully new.

According to Antoinette Turner, GM of Flight Centre South Africa, there’s a romantic destination to suit every type of traveller in 2026: “Planning a getaway doesn’t have to mean splurging on five-star hotels or first-class flights. It’s about finding the destination that speaks to you as a couple.”

And where better to seek inspiration than the travel specialists? Read on for Flight Centre’s pick of romance-inducing destinations.

Star-crossed lovers

Couples seeking a 2026 adventure away from the crowds can turn their attention to each other (and the stars) with South Africa’s growing list of dark-sky tourism offerings.

“This type of travel focuses on immersive nighttime experiences, and it’s deeply romantic,” says Turner. “Private reserves and lodges across South Africa offer evening game drives, celestial storytelling tours, stargazing, and open-air sleep-outs under the Milky Way.”

Leading the way is Africa’s first International Dark Sky Sanctuary, the !Ae!Hai Kalahari Heritage Park in the Northern Cape, along with Limpopo’s Lapalala Wilderness Nature Reserve (Southern Africa’s first certified Dark Sky Park). However, Kruger and Pilanesberg National Parks also offer easy-access stargazing. Further afield, Botswana’s Makgadikgadi Salt Pans and a Chobe River cruise are also worth considering.

Best for: Adventurous couples ready to set their out-of-office and experience the cosmos together.

Atmospheric sunsets & ancient sites

With Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey hitting cinemas this year, couples can bring the legendary tale of love and epic battles to life by visiting its real-world setting: the ancient city of Troy, located in present-day Turkey.

This destination offers immersive experiences that won’t break the bank, and South Africans can obtain a free e-visa online. Turner notes that just one direct flight from Johannesburg or Cape Town can have couples wandering Istanbul’s bustling souks, exploring ancient ruins (The Aphrodite of Aphrodisias!), or drifting together over Cappadocia in a hot-air balloon.

“If you’re willing to venture slightly further, Greece is a travel match made in heaven, with crimson sunsets, Mediterranean cuisine, and excellent holiday deals on swoon-worthy islands like Mykonos, Santorini, Corfu and Paxos.”

Best for: Adorable duos drawn to history, culture, and each other.

A storybook seaside setting

Tropical getaways remain a perennial favourite for South African couples beyond Valentine’s Day. Topping the list is Zanzibar, offering snorkelling, sunset sailings, and intimate beach lounging with a cocktail or two.

Mauritius, just a four-hour flight from Johannesburg, offers year-round sunshine and hassle-free travel with no visa requirements. The same goes for Phuket in Thailand, where couples can sneak off to an all-inclusive resort and say ‘sawasdee’ to spa time and seaside sprawling.

Closer to home, Mozambique beckons with beautiful beaches and warm Indian Ocean waters perfect for a more laid-back escape. “MSC Cruises also provides three- to four-night all-inclusive sailings to Portuguese Island, allowing couples to savour the romance of the open sea without the stress of planning every detail,” says Turner.

Best for: Sun-worshippers chasing all-day beach vibes.

Wildly romantic mountainscapes

Not quite the moors of Wuthering Heights, but couples can still channel a little of Heathcliff and Catherine’s wild, windswept passion in the Drakensberg.

“For nature-loving romantics, the Berg delivers in spades,” adds Turner. “Towering peaks, winding mountain roads, isiZulu villages, horse rides, padstals, and cosy coffee stops set the scene for slow travel and shared discovery.”

Over in the Western Cape, couples can indulge in an epicurean fantasy, a tiny piece of France right on our doorstep – Franschhoek. Stellenbosch proves equally enticing, with leisurely picnics at Spier Estate and Jordan Wine Estate, where couples can sip fine tipple against those swoon-worthy mountain backdrops.

Best for: Couples craving dramatic landscapes and a touch of whimsy.

To sum it up, if you want to participate in the Valentine’s Day celebrations this month and really want to give him or her something meaningful, you can’t go wrong with the gift of travel.

Even better? Flight Centre’s legendary Travel Expo is back from 19-22 February 2026 at Sandton City.  “If any of these destinations have captured your imagination, come and chat to our travel experts at Flight Centre’s pop-up Travel Expo,” says Turner. “We’re here to help turn your romantic notions into reality – and make 2026 the year you finally escape together.”

Sandton City from 19 to 22 February 2026

After a six-year absence, Flight Centre’s popular Travel Expo is back – pop-up style — and this time, it’s bringing the best of travel to Sandton City.

From 19 to 22 February 2026, Sandton City will transform into South Africa’s premier retail travel destination as the Flight Centre Travel Group invites top suppliers and partners, including airlines, hotels and cruise lines, to share new products and exclusive deals in a pop-up expo format.

“If you’re planning a trip in 2026, you need to join us at the Travel Expo,” says Antoinette Turner, General Manager at Flight Centre South Africa. “We have 16 stands and over 40 brands showcasing over the four days, so not only will there be buckets of inspiration and experts on hand to answer all your questions, but there’ll be expo specials and travel deals that you simply won’t be able to get anywhere else.”

The four-day expo will feature exclusive packages from Flight Centre’s global network of travel partners, alongside consultations with Flight Centre’s travel experts – who will help you design your dream trip, from honeymoons, tours and cruises to all-inclusive beach packages, African safaris, bucket-list adventures and sports packages.

Why attend?

• Exclusive expo-only deals available across flights, accommodation, tours and cruise packages.
• Face-to-face consultations with Flight Centre’s travel experts.
• Travel inspiration for your 2026 (and beyond) adventures.
• Competitive pricing backed by trusted brands.
• Engage directly with travel suppliers (airlines, hotels, and tour operators).

“We’re seeing strong demand for 2026 travel as South Africans explore new destinations and reconnect with old favourites,” says Turner. “The Travel Expo is designed to build confidence: think more value, more expert guidance, and more ways to travel well.”

The expo coincides with peak travel planning season, when families and professionals map out their year ahead, secure dates and accommodation for peak times, explore shoulder season deals, or simply gather information and inspiration for future trips.  

Travel Expo 2026 Details:

• Dates: 19–22 February 2026
• Venue: Sandton City, Johannesburg
• Admission: Free

“Stop dreaming and start planning,” says Turner. “Come down to the expo, meet our suppliers, get inspired, and make 2026 the year you finally go!”