We asked 26 travel experts for their opinions of the places shaping this year. Then we asked artificial intelligence. Our plan was to understand what gets lost – or gained – when artificial intelligence decides what we discover.
The two lists in our ‘Man v Machine’ quest revealed something profound about how we discover the world today. Only one destination – Botswana – features on both lists.
AI favours destinations with clear signals: anniversaries, access changes, conservation credentials and major openings. It is good at spotting patterns but cannot convey anticipation.
1. Kyoto, Japan
150 Years in the Making
Kyoto marks the 150th anniversary of its cultural preservation movement in 2026, which unlocks restored sections of historic temples and ceremonial spaces normally unseen by the public. The city also welcomes Six Senses Kyoto, opening near the Higashiyama District with traditional architecture, Zen gardens, and wellness programs rooted in local botanicals, marrying cultural immersion with refined comfort. Seasonal cherry blossom exhibitions and enhanced access to artisan workshops make Kyoto unusually rich with experiences this year.
2. Patagonia, Chile & Argentina
Peak Patagonia Arrives
The Patagonia season rounds out 2026 with one of the year’s most anticipated openings: Explora El Calafate, a 20‑room lodge overlooking Lake Argentino and Perito Moreno Glacier. Positioned between Torres del Paine and El Chaltén, this property offers over thirty curated “explorations” — from iceberg boat trips to guided glacier treks — with architecture that harmonises with its surroundings. The lodge reinforces Patagonia as a standout destination for adventure travellers seeking seamless, luxury wilderness access this year.
3. Marrakech, Morocco
UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy
In 2026 Marrakech steps into a new cultural moment as it’s recognised as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy — a designation boosting culinary programming and small‑scale dining experiences. Specialty tasting menus spotlight local spices and modern interpretations of Moroccan cuisine, while restored riads and intimate gallery openings enrich the medina’s evolving cultural footprint. Seasonal design weeks and craft markets make this year particularly magnetic for travellers who want a sophisticated take on Marrakech beyond its souks.
4. Amalfi Coast, Italy
Path of the Gods Centennial
2026 celebrates the 100th anniversary of the Path of the Gods trail with curated access to rarely visited stretches and guided treks that pair cliffside panoramas with local storytelling. Newly opening properties like The Lake Como EDITION (just a short drive from here and emblematic of 2026’s resort trends) hint at a broader luxury rebirth along Italy’s iconic coasts. Seasonal cooking experiences showcase Amalfi lemons and seafood profiles, combining heritage and refined exploration this year.
5. Rwanda
Enhanced Gorilla Access & Culture
Rwanda expands gorilla trekking permits in 2026, enabling more (but still limited) access to Volcanoes National Park. Complementing this are newly developed eco‑lodges and cultural programs in Kigali, including a contemporary art festival that brings creators from across Africa. The result is a year where wildlife encounters feel more immersive, conservation‑focused itineraries are better curated, and urban cultural engagement pairs naturally with wilderness adventure.
6. Reykjavik & Iceland’s Highlands
Wilderness Unlocked
Iceland opens new wilderness zones in the Highlands in 2026, reachable via helicopter or guided excursions that bring travellers into zones previously restricted for environmental preservation. Reykjavik itself celebrates the 75th anniversary of its International Film Festival, with special screenings and VIP events. Rustic‑luxury lodges paired with curated adventure itineraries make this year ideal for those who want dramatic natural landscapes and refined cultural programming together.
7. South Island, New Zealand
Longer Stays, Deeper Trails
With the launch of a new multi‑year adventure visa in 2026, the South Island becomes especially appealing to travellers seeking extended stays. Luxury lodges across Fiordland and Queenstown now offer bespoke glacier and fjord itineraries. Highlights include heli‑hiking off‑grid and boutique winery experiences in Central Otago. Together, the visa change and expanded curated itineraries give travellers more time and flexibility to explore New Zealand’s rugged, scenic heart in comfort.
8. Santorini, Greece
Sustainable Tourism Year
Santorini anchors Greece’s Year of Sustainable Tourism, giving visitors enhanced access to rarely open archaeological zones and private vineyard tours. New cliffside estates and seasonal wine festivals showcase indigenous varietals while sustainable dining programs champion local produce. Private‑charter sailing excursions to isolated coves make 2026 a year when travellers can savour Caldera views and immersive island experiences with thoughtful, culturally rich context.
9. Botswana
National Geographic Safari Destination of the Year
Botswana’s Okavango Delta has been named National Geographic’s Safari Destination of the Year for 2026, spotlighting newly opened camps like andBeyond Sandibe Under Canvas — solar‑powered luxury tents for exclusive wildlife encounters. Conservation‑driven itineraries now feature intimate boat and mokoro experiences during peak water seasons. With refined safari lodges and fewer crowds, this year offers an elevated, deeply local safari rhythm.
10. Dubai, UAE
Future Forward Luxury
Dubai marks the 10th anniversary of the Museum of the Future in 2026, expanding its immersive exhibits and VIP programs. Also launching this year is the Atlantis The Royal Residences on Palm Jumeirah, featuring new penthouse retreats and culinary collaborations with Michelin‑starred chefs. Easy‑access visa updates for select nationalities make it simpler to combine desert adventures, art festivals, and seaside luxury in a single trip.
11. Bhutan
Himalayan Wellness Sanctuaries
Bhutan debuts wellness lodges in the Himalayas in 2026 that integrate spa therapies with cultural immersion. Seasonal mountain festivals include rare mask dance performances and guided pilgrimages to sacred sites. With restored dzongs and farm‑to‑table gastronomy experiences built into itineraries, travellers this year can explore Bhutan’s spiritual and wellness landscapes with balance and elevated comfort.
12. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
Private Yacht Discovery
The Galápagos introduces private yacht itineraries in 2026 that limit group sizes and maximize wildlife viewing with marine biologists onboard. Eco‑lodge stays pair with guided snorkeling and diving excursions, revealing up‑close marine life with minimal footprint. These curated, high‑touch experiences combine luxury small‑ship travel with immersive natural discovery, making this year especially attractive for environmentally aware adventurers.
13. Florence, Italy
Renaissance Revealed
Florence’s cultural calendar in 2026 is anchored by the Uffizi Gallery’s full renovation reveal, unveiling artworks not shown in decades. New openings like La Réserve Firenze on Via Santo Spirito add French‑luxury flair with personalised service. Seasonal cooking classes in Tuscan estates focus on truffle harvests and olive‑press rituals, offering travellers tactile encounters with local food heritage alongside world‑class art.
14. Seychelles
Eco‑Reimagined Private Islands
Fregate Island in the Seychelles reopens in autumn 2026 after a complete rebuild, with 17 redesigned villas and estates that prioritise conservation alongside exclusivity. Jungle trails, giant tortoise habitats, and pristine beaches come with spa sanctuaries and tailored marine experiences. Small‑group sailing and diving excursions let travellers experience the Indian Ocean’s biodiversity in comfort with authentic local insight.
15. Cairo & The Nile, Egypt
Treasures Unveiled
The Grand Egyptian Museum opens a new wing in 2026, bringing famed pharaonic artefacts into full view. On the Nile, newly refurbished luxury vessels — with curated excursions to reopened temples like Dendera and Abydos — make for a refreshed cruise experience. Combined with private dining events inside museum galleries, this year offers travellers a fresh vantage on ancient history and contemporary hospitality.
16. Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Underwater Luxury
Bora Bora’s 2026 hotel scene includes expanded overwater villas with private plunge pools and direct access to coral gardens. Seasonal marine events allow for guided manta‑ray encounters from luxury catamarans. High‑end charters and remote beach picnics blend effortless tropical escape with personalised service, making this year feel like a new chapter in Pacific Island travel.
17. Quebec City, Canada
Winter Reimagined
The Quebec Winter Carnival expands its curated programming in 2026 with VIP ice‑hotel stays, chef‑led food tours, and small‑group excursions into Laurentian forests. Newly renovated heritage hotels in Old Quebec provide warm, refined bases for snowshoeing, ice‑fishing, and Après ski experiences. This season’s emphasis on bespoke winter activities makes snowy Canada feel both magical and accessible.
18. Lapland, Finland
Northern Lights at Their Best
Lapland’s winter season in 2026 sees new glass igloo lodges and sustainable wilderness stays that prioritise Aurora visibility with minimal light pollution. Private husky‑sled excursions and Sami cultural encounters add depth to the Arctic experience. Travellers seeking Northern Lights and pure outdoor adventure will find this year rich with exclusive winter programming.
19. Istanbul, Turkey
Palaces Reopened, Stories Rediscovered
2026 brings the reopening of Ottoman palace wings previously closed for restoration, giving visitors access to private chambers and gardens. Urban culinary workshops highlight seasonal Turkish delicacies and Anatolian wine tastings. Boutique hotels in historic quarters pair heritage architecture with contemporary comfort, offering deeper insight into the city’s layered identity this year.
20. Maldives
Eco‑Chic Overwater Escapes
The Maldives introduces One&Only Moonlight Bay in mid‑2026, an eco‑luxury resort with overwater villas, private pools, and coral‑restoration initiatives. Underwater dining experiences and bespoke yacht excursions connect guests with marine conservation efforts. This year’s openings signal a new era of ocean‑centric luxury that blends relaxation with environmental stewardship.
21. Lisbon & Azores, Portugal
Design & Discovery
Lisbon’s hospitality scene expands in 2026 with contemporary design hotels and art districts, while the Azores open boutique nature lodges on volcanic islands. Whale‑watching expeditions, geothermal hiking routes, and curated wine tours spotlight local flavours and landscapes. The dual focus on urban culture and remote nature experiences creates a compelling story for Portugal this year.
22. Namibia
Desert Journeys, Elevated
Vestige Namibia opens in northern Namibia in summer 2026, offering discreet lodges that merge luxury with rugged desert surroundings. Guided safaris through Sossusvlei and Skeleton Coast dune landscapes are complemented by stargazing dinners and conservation‑led birding walks. Namibia’s combination of solitude and refined service makes it a standout for adventurous souls this year.
23. Mexico City & Oaxaca, Mexico
Culinary & Cultural Renaissance
Expanded contemporary galleries and private culinary workshops with master mezcal makers and regional chefs define Mexico City and Oaxaca in 2026. Heritage hotels in restored colonial homes pair boutique environments with immersive cultural tours, connecting gastronomy with history and design. This year offers an elevated, sensory‑rich take on Mexican culture.
24. Tasmania, Australia
Wilderness Refined
New wilderness lodges and private conservation‑reserve stays open across Tasmania in 2026, featuring curated hikes, coastal wildlife tours, and regional food itineraries focused on local produce. Seasonal events celebrating Tasmanian wine and seafood pair outdoor adventure with approachable luxury, making the island a refined yet rugged choice this year.
25. Vienna, Austria
Imperial Revival
Vienna’s 2026 calendar showcases restored sections of Hofburg Palace alongside a chamber music festival series in historic venues. Boutique city‑center stays pair modern design with imperial heritage, and seasonal culinary tours highlight Austrian classics with contemporary flair. The combination of culture, sound, and refined hospitality gives the city a renewed allure.
26. Cape Town & Winelands, South Africa
Harvest & Coast
New luxury lodges open in the Cape Winelands and along the South African coast in 2026, with harvest festivals that spotlight region‑specific varietals. Curated wildlife excursions offer close encounters with penguins at Boulders Beach and fynbos nature walks. Seasonal surf and whale‑watching tours add dynamic variety, making this year especially rich for cultural and coastal exploration.
Compare with our human list: From the Experts: 26 Destinations for 2026
Read our opinion piece about the two lists: Man v Machine: Where next in 2026?
