The Best Destinations for Luxury Travel in 2026

** From Guatemala to Sweden's Sápmi region, here are the best places to find a deeper connection this year, as picked by the experts at Jacada Travel**

(London) The very definition of luxury travel is shifting profoundly. It's moving from extraction and consumption to meaningful connection. True luxury is now found in access to nature as well as exclusive experiences, as well as in opportunities to learn from ancestral knowledge and not just chasing new openings. This focus on connection ensures that a trip is not only memorable but delivers a lasting emotional impact. When done right, luxury should also carry a sense of responsibility, supporting the people and places you visit.

In 2026, Jacada Travel will continue to craft trips that combine unparalleled expertise, thoughtful luxury, and exclusive access, all guided by the Positive Impact Principles - whether that means supporting environmental initiatives, contributing to wildlife conservation efforts, or emphasizing authentic connections with communities. And as always, the aim is to prioritize experiences that highlight the first-hand knowledge and perspectives of local community members, such as Indigenous guides.

*GUATEMALA*

Guatemala is only recently emerging in the luxury market, and this destination is ideal for travelers who define luxury through an experiential lens. Jacada specializes in memorable moments, such as arranging a private stargazing session at the ancient temple of Uaxactún. This experience is part of the Positive Impact Collection, providing employment and economic support for local guides from Uaxactún. By promoting dark-sky awareness and highlighting ancestral knowledge of astronomy, the experience helps preserve Maya cultural heritage while fostering appreciation for natural environments and creating incentives to protect the surrounding forest. More adventures await that highlight the country's natural wonders and rich Indigenous heritage, such as traditional weaving workshops with the Maya women of San Juan La Laguna, volcano hikes around Antigua, and mobile glamping.

👉 Need to know: Jacada's travel designer Jen recommends Guatemala for adventurous couples and honeymooners or families with older children.

*MOROCCO*

Morocco is at the top of Jacada's list for 2026 when it comes to family trips, thanks to a selection of experiences that will appeal to children - and adults - of all ages, helping them connect not only to each other but with their surroundings. Jacada's travel designer, Jack, highlights activities like a treasure hunt through the souq of Marrakesh, hands-on Moroccan cooking classes, and bread-making workshops in Fes and Skoura. If your family is hoping to explore the outdoors, Jacada can organise exciting treks to the Akchour Waterfalls or Ouzoud Falls near Azilal. For an unforgettable desert adventure, head to either the Sahara or the smaller Agafay Desert closer to Marrakesh. You can traverse the otherworldly landscapes via 4x4, quad bike or buggy.

👉 Need to know: A few highly anticipated new hotels will open in Morocco in 2026, including the Curio Collection by Hilton in both Casablanca and Rabat - the latter of which is inspired by the city's botanical garden.

*EGYPT*

Egypt is bursting with significant historical sites, from the Great Sphinx and Pyramids of Giza to the temples of Luxor and the Valley of the Kings. Trips to Egypt are rising in popularity among Jacada clients, up 58% in the last six months. Jacada's travel designer Rosie recently visited the country and came back inspired by incredible experiences in Cairo, Luxor, Aswan and Alexandria, each enhanced by the knowledge and passion of expert guides. Imagine touring the pyramids or visiting the tombs of Aswan alongside Egyptologists who have dedicated their life to the study of this ancient culture. The insights these guides provide offer an in-depth encounter with history, allowing travelers to gain a deeper understanding of each site and fully immerse themselves in its stories and symbolism.

👉 Need to know: Jacada can arrange exclusive private tours of some of Egypt's most amazing places, including after-hours visits to the pyramids and Sphinx or visiting hands-on archaeological digs.

*ANDALUSIA, SPAIN*

The southern Spanish region of Andalusia boasts an abundance of history, nature and delicious cuisine. It's one of Jacada's favourite 2026 destinations for low-season travel, with temperatures often reaching 20oC (68oF) even in the depths of winter (December-February). During these months, travelers will find relatively small crowds in some of our favorite spots; our travel designer, Luisa, suggests
Seville, Granada, and Córdoba. The region's rich heritage can be explored through authentic flamenco shows, local food tours, and private visits to fascinating places like Seville's Palacio de las Dueñas and historic bodegas, where traditional production methods craft world-famous wines and sherries.

👉 Need to know: On August 12, 2026, a solar eclipse will be visible from certain parts of Spain. Although only a partial eclipse will be visible from Andalusia, you can easily travel farther north to see the total eclipse from regions like Asturias or La Rioja.

*THE SEYCHELLES*

The Seychelles are among Jacada's favorite destinations to combine with an African safari. After wildlife explorations across eastern and southern Africa, travelers head to these idyllic islands. It's the perfect place to reset and connect with the archipelago's incredible scenery, and to learn about marine conservation efforts that mirror the mainland's terrestrial initiatives. Jacada's travel designer, Jacob, sings the praises of Alphonse Island Lodge, located in a remote atoll and surrounded by abundant marine life. The island itself is home to giant tortoises and rare birdlife, and the lodge operates a solar farm to supply the ingredients for its cuisine. In 2026, there will also be the option to tour the Seychelles on a new super yacht from Aqua Expeditions, with itineraries ranging from five to fourteen nights.

👉 Need to know: Jacada recommends visiting from December to April for calm waters and quieter conditions in nearby safari destinations like Tanzania, where you can also witness the wildebeest calving season from January to March.

*SÁPMI, SWEDEN*

Northern Sweden is part of Sápmi: a vast cultural region that stretches deep into the Arctic Circle and is home to the Indigenous Sámi people. Featuring swathes of remote wilderness and an array of restorative wellness experiences, Swedish Sápmi is an incredibly unique destination that combines unparalleled seclusion with both natural and cultural immersion. It's a place where you can sink into the silence of uninhabited forests, snowshoe across pristine white plains, and gaze up at shimmering skies illuminated by the northern lights. It's a land of both adventure and relaxation: from crackling bonfires and traditional saunas to ice fishing, dog sledding, and snowmobile safaris.

👉 Need to know: In 2026, Jacada is particularly excited about Sápmi as a destination for disconnecting and resetting in nature - the sort of wellness that invites you to embrace silence and solitude to reconnect with yourself.

*LOMBOK AND SUMBA, INDONESIA*

Indonesia is well known for its sandy beaches, crystalline waters, terraced rice fields and ancient cultural sites. And although the country has several thousand islands to choose from, there are a couple that Jacada is especially excited about as we look toward 2026-first, Lombok: a secluded paradise boasting empty beaches, dense foliage, and the volcanic Mount Rinjani. Then there's Sumba, a relatively large island where you can hike, scuba dive, surf, and forge genuine connections with the local residents, who proudly maintain ancestral traditions and ancient trades. Jacada suggests a stay at Cap Karoso, which offers farm-to-table cuisine, locally inspired spa treatments, and beachfront suites and villas.

👉 Need to know: Lombok and Sumba are within close reach of each other and several other islands, making it easy to combine multiple destinations on the same itinerary.

*SOUTHERN AUSTRALIA*

If you're hoping to make your first trip to Australia in 2026, the southern region offers an ideal introduction to the country's cities, coasts, mountains, and wildlife. Encompassing the states of South Australia, New South Wales, and Victoria (and both Sydney and Melbourne), southern Australia has a little bit of everything - from the rugged Blue Mountains to the lush Lord Howe Island. The region's natural wonders are perfectly complemented by its vibrant cities, where history comes alive on tours led by Indigenous guides. In Sydney, travelers can explore the historic neighbourhood of the Rocks while learning about its Aboriginal heritage. In Melbourne, they can meet local artists and chefs who weave Aboriginal traditions into their work.

👉 Need to know: The shoulder seasons of spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May) are ideal for first-time trips, especially in southern Australia, as they promise pleasant weather and emptier beaches and trails outside of the peak season.

*KERALA AND TAMIL NADU, INDIA*

Jacada's travel designer Rosanna recently visited southern India and returned with captivating stories of her time there. She marveled at the region's intricate temples and coastal beauty, and learnt about distinctive traditions that set it apart in a country of deep culture and incredible landmarks. The southern tip of India is split into two states: Tamil Nadu to the east, which is known for its tea plantations and nicknamed the 'Land of Temples', and Kerala to the west, where you'll find lush waterways and the historic Fort Kochi. As they're less visited than some of India's more famous attractions, travelers can expect a laid-back atmosphere and wonderfully authentic experiences.

👉 Need to know: The best time to visit southern India is during the cooler and drier months from November to March.

*SAMBURU AND THE MAASAI MARA NATIONAL PARK, KENYA*

Kenya has always been one of Jacada's favorite safari destinations in Africa, but in 2026, the team is especially looking forward to exploring its conservation-focused camps and reserves. Sarara Camp in the Samburu National Reserve is owned by the Samburu community and directly involved with local efforts to restore the land and protect endangered wildlife. It also collaborates with Reteti Elephant Sanctuary: the world's first community-owned sanctuary for African elephants. Certain sections of the Maasai Mara are incredibly popular from July to September. Jacada recommends visiting outside of these peak months or exploring lesser-known areas of the National Park, to avoid contributing to overtourism and ensure a less-crowded experience. November through December offers the beautiful green-season scenery with relatively low rainfall, while January through March brings dry conditions without the high-season crowds.

👉 Need to know: In addition to Sarara Camp, Jacada will recommend clients stay at the gorgeous Sarara Treehouses in 2026. The team is also looking forward to the opening of Wilderness Mara in May.


For more information on the best luxury travel destinations and much more from Jacada Travel, please call 1-646-895-8368 or visit jacadatravel.com.

For the complete list, please click here:
https://www.jacadatravel.com/all/travel-guides/best-places-to-visit/
https://www.jacadatravel.com/positive-impact-collection/experiences/

Andrea Schnoor Communications
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About Jacada Travel

Jacada Travel is a luxury tour operator and leader in positive impact luxury travel. Offering bespoke, one-of-a-kind journeys in more than seventy countries across six continents, Jacada sets the benchmark for travelers who appreciate luxury in all its forms. Every trip with Jacada is completely personalised, crafted around guests' personal interests, and driven by the team's honest advice and first-hand knowledge. Jacada's destination experts have been named among the world's top specialists. Three travel designers feature on Travel + Leisure's A-List, while six are listed among Condé Nast Traveler's Top Travel Specialists. Alex Malcolm, who founded Jacada in 2008, continues to lead the brand. His philosophy is shaped by a vision where travel can be a force for positive change. Underscoring this commitment, the Jacada Positive Impact Collection was launched in 2024. It now brings together more than one hundred remarkable properties and experiences, each carefully evaluated through the lens of the United Nations' SDGs. Discover more at jacadatravel.com.

This release was published on openPR.