Global tour operator Collette has released its travel trends outlook for 2026, revealing a clear shift towards more intentional, experience driven travel among Australian travellers.
Drawing on analysis of close to 3000 tours operated worldwide over the past 12 months, alongside forward booking data, the findings highlight growing demand for small group touring, solo travel, historical and cultural immersion, food led experiences and purpose driven travel.
According to Collette, travellers are moving away from fast paced itineraries and checklist travel in favour of journeys that offer deeper connection with destinations and communities. The trend is particularly evident in the continued growth of small group touring, with Australian bookings for Collette’s small group Explorations tours recording double digit growth since 2023. More than half of all Collette travellers are now choosing small group experiences for 2026 departures.
The appeal lies in access and authenticity. Smaller groups allow for slower pacing and experiences that are not viable at scale, including home hosted meals, artisan workshops and village based encounters. Popular itineraries include safaris across South Africa, Victoria Falls and Botswana, cultural journeys through the Balkans and immersive programs across southern Italy from the Amalfi Coast to Puglia.
Destination trends for 2026 reflect strong alignment with broader industry data, with Asia Pacific continuing to dominate for Australian travellers due to proximity, value and accessibility. Japan, Thailand and Vietnam remain high demand markets, while Europe and Africa continue to perform strongly as aspirational destinations. The United Kingdom and Italy lead European bookings, while interest in Africa is increasing year on year.
Collette reports strong demand for signature itineraries including Cape Town to Cairo, Peaks of Europe, Japan and South Korea, Wonders of Thailand and Scotland Land of Lore and Legend.
Solo travel continues to gain momentum, particularly among women aged 50 plus seeking personal enrichment alongside the structure and security of guided travel. Extended stays in walkable cities, flexible pacing and built in free time are key drivers, allowing solo travellers to explore independently while benefiting from group support. Leading solo friendly itineraries include Kenya and Tanzania safaris, Colours of Morocco and Journey through Egypt and Jordan.
Cultural depth remains a major booking driver, with travellers prioritising tours that offer historical context, storytelling and meaningful engagement with local and Indigenous communities. Experiences such as learning about the Vietnam War from a veteran, exploring Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca or connecting with communities across Southeast Asia are resonating strongly with travellers seeking a deeper understanding of place.
Food led travel is also playing an increasingly important role. With tour designers based in destination, Collette continues to integrate regional cuisine into its itineraries, positioning food as both a cultural and social experience. Culinary highlights range from Vespa led food tours in Hanoi and wine paired lunches in South America to truffle hunting in Tuscany and hands on cooking classes in Portugal and Spain.
Purpose driven travel is no longer a niche consideration, with travellers actively seeking itineraries that support local economies, women led enterprises and community initiatives. Ethical wildlife encounters and social impact experiences are becoming essential inclusions, with strong interest in programs such as Thailand’s ChangChill Elephant sanctuary, Japan’s ama pearl divers and Kenya’s Ocean Sole initiative.
Collette says the trends point to a future where fewer places, deeper engagement and positive impact define premium guided travel. With small group formats, in market expertise and thoughtfully paced itineraries, the operator believes the industry is entering a new era of more meaningful, connected travel experiences.
