2026 is shaping up to be a year for travellers looking for the rare, the remote, and the unforgettable. From untouched islands and desert escapes to wild mountain lodges and off-the-beaten-path cultural treasures, these destinations combine luxury, adventure, and exclusivity. Here’s where to go next year, and where to stay.
Madagascar, Madagascar
Madagascar has always been a natural wonder, but 2026 makes it more accessible than ever, thanks to Emirates’ expanded flights via the Seychelles. This island is a playground for wildlife enthusiasts: 85% of its flora and fauna can’t be found anywhere else.
Insider tip: Venture beyond Nosy Be to the remote Ankarana Reserve, where limestone tsingy forests and hidden caves offer a surreal landscape, or explore the Avenue of the Baobabs at sunrise for one of the world’s most iconic photo opportunities.
Where to stay: Miavana by Time + Tide, on Nosy Ankao, combines private island seclusion with bespoke adventure. Kayak with turtles, trek alongside lemurs, and enjoy private beach dinners under the stars.
Oman, Oman
Oman’s rugged beauty and centuries-old culture make it a perennial favourite for travellers seeking both serenity and adventure. In 2026, the opening of The Malkai, with its three pavilion-style camps in the Al Hajar Mountains, Barkaa farmlands, and Sharqiyah Sands, will allow visitors to explore Oman’s dramatic landscapes in unmatched luxury.
Insider tip: Book a night-time desert safari paired with a traditional Omani feast under the stars. For culture lovers, a guided tour of Nizwa’s ancient souks and forts unveils Oman’s rich heritage far from tourist crowds.
Where to stay: Alila Jabal Akhdar, perched 2,000 meters above sea level, is perfect for those wanting cliffside infinity pools, sunrise canyon hikes, and serene starlit evenings.
Western Canada & Alaska
With Vancouver and Toronto hosting the FIFA World Cup, 2026 will shine a spotlight on Canada. Yet the true allure lies in its wild, remote landscapes. British Columbia and Alaska promise both adventure and luxury.
Insider tip: In B.C., fly-fish in the pristine rivers near Fawn Bluff Lodge, then enjoy a private floatplane excursion to spot grizzlies from above. In Alaska, combine a stay at Eleven Winterlake Lodge with glacier kayaking and midnight sun photography trips for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Where to stay: Fawn Bluff Lodge in B.C. and Eleven Winterlake Lodge in Alaska offer immersive wilderness experiences with the highest comfort and style, ensuring adventure without compromise.
Hokkaido, Japan
While Tokyo and Kyoto remain perennial favourites, Hokkaido in northern Japan is tipped as a 2026 must-visit for luxury travellers seeking winterless escapes, wellness retreats, and pristine landscapes. Think snow-dusted mountains, volcanic hot springs, and secret sushi spots in sleepy fishing towns.
Insider tip: Visit Otaru Canal at dawn for quiet reflections, explore hidden onsen resorts in Noboribetsu, and dine on fresh crab and uni straight from local markets. Spring and summer bring wildflower hikes and cycling routes that feel like private tours of a fairytale landscape.
Where to stay: The Kiroro, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, offers alpine chic with ski-in/ski-out access, private onsens, and curated wellness programs for a restorative retreat amidst Hokkaido’s snow-capped peaks.
2026 is the year to go beyond typical travel routes. Whether it’s Madagascar’s lemur-laden jungles, Oman’s desert serenity, Canada and Alaska’s untamed frontiers, or Hokkaido’s quiet sophistication, these destinations promise transformative experiences, and stays that redefine luxury.
