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7 unbelievable travel experiences Lonely Planet recommends in 2026

December 18, 2025

Category: News

With the year drawing to a close, you might be thinking about what you can look forward to in 2026. If you love to explore new destinations and tick off bucket list experiences, Lonely Planet has put together a list of the best experiences of 2026.

Whether you want to relax, get active, or learn more about a different culture, these seven experiences could be perfect for your next adventure.

1. Stay in a train carriage in Kruger National Park

Going on safari features on many bucket lists, and in South Africa, this unusual accommodation could make it even more memorable.

Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s largest game reserves, with the “big five” – lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalo – all residing here, as well as many other mammals and a diverse bird population.

There are a number of ways to experience Kruger National Park, but sleeping in a train carriage on a century-old railway bridge above the Sabie River at Kruger Shalati is a unique experience. As well as game drives, you can take in the landscape and animals from the comfort of your own room.

2. Cruise the Mekong River

Watch the world go by and take in the sights of Cambodia and Vietnam by cruising down the Mekong Delta. If you want a slower-paced break, this could be the perfect option for you.

The Mekong Delta is known as Vietnam’s rice bowl, so expect to see lush rice paddies and tropical fruit orchards as you travel through the waterways.

There are often plenty of stops along the way, from cycling trips and craft villages to excursions and ancient temples. You might even experience a vibrant floating market.

3. Visit Willamette wine country

When you think of famous wine territories, Tuscany, Napa, or Bordeaux might come to mind first. But if you want to experience an unsung region, a trip to the Willamette Valley, Oregon, USA, could be a great choice for 2026.

With fewer tourists than alternatives, you can really enjoy a weekend of tastings and exploring the charming, historic towns.

The region is famous for its pinot noir and other cool-climate wines. Eyrie Vineyards in McMinnville is where Oregon’s pinot noir production began 60 years ago. Find out more about the traditional techniques they use on a visit to the tasting room.

4. See the Philippines by bike

If you want to get active on your next adventure, why not try exploring the Philippines by bike?

Lonely Planet recommends taking in the smallest province in the Philippines, Batanes, by renting a bike. The province consists of three main inhabited islands, and with little traffic congestion, it’s often easy to get around on two wheels. It’s a fantastic way to take in the windswept landscape.

As you cycle from the capital Basco, visit Basco Lighthouse, admire the view of Mt Iraya, and explore boulder-strewn beaches in a day. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could take your bike on a boat to Sabtang Island, which is known for its traditional Ivatan culture and unique stone houses.

5. Explore the Great Victorian Bathing Trail in Australia

While Victoria, Australia, is known for its sandy beaches, the new 550-mile Great Bathing Victorian Trail offers a fresh way to explore. The road trip links historic and newly built springs and beach baths across the state – you’re sure to feel rejuvenated after luxuriating in the steaming stone pools.

As well as taking a dip in the springs, there are coastal hiking trails, chances to learn more about First Nations culture, and wellness activities, like yoga.

6. Become a citizen scientist in Peru

Have you ever dreamed about exploring a tropical rainforest and learning more about the unique habitat? Peru might just be the perfect place for you to visit.

According to Lonely Planet, Tambopata, Peru, has become known for its hands-on education approach to Amazon ecotourism pioneered by Rainforest Expeditions. The organisation pairs travellers with field biologists. You could find yourself placing a camera trap along jaguar migration paths or recording the calls of primates on a trip here.

7. Discover the night sky in New Zealand

New Zealand is aiming to become a Dark Sky Nation – a country recognised for protecting its night sky from light pollution. Already, there are eight certified Dark Sky Places in the country, making it the perfect place to lose yourself in the night sky.

One of the most accessible places to see the stars shining brightly is Wairarapa, which is just over an hour from Wellington. You may book a tour with astronomers who can offer interesting insights. For a truly special visit, plan your trip for mid-June to coincide with Matariki, a cluster of stars also known as the Pleiades, rising over the horizon to mark the Māori new year.

Of course, during the day, New Zealand has plenty to offer travellers, too, including stunning landscapes and its rich culture.

Searching for more incredible experiences?

If you’re looking for even more inspiration for your next adventure, Lonely Planet’s full list of the best experiences for 2026 contains 18 more unbelievable ways you could make 2026 a memorable year. Options range from spending the night in a Ryokan in Japan to tracking elephants in Namibia.

You don’t even have to travel far to tick off some of the bucket list experiences – two are in the UK. Attending a Premier League game and exploring street art in Bristol are both featured.

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