The 10 Best Summer Travel Destinations in The World [2026]

Summer is here, so let’s make it extraordinary! Think bucket-list safaris where you can see lions in the wild; island-hopping your way through tropical paradise; stunning mountain hikes and treks of a lifetime… When you go global with your summer travel plans, you’re unlocking an entire world filled with exciting possibilities. So, stop waiting and start chasing adventure with our 10 best summer travel destinations for 2026!

P.S., if you’re wondering where Europe is on our list, the truth is… we love it so much that it deserved its own best summer destinations in Europe guidebook. Because when you could be sipping on drinks along the Mediterranean’s best beaches, or exploring iconic cities like Florence and Madrid for a slice of culture, how could we possibly narrow it down?

Bali & Indonesia

Best summer travel destination for: island-hopping 🏝️

Nowhere captures the spirit of a summer getaway quite like Bali and Indonesia! With the British summer months falling under Indonesia’s dry season, this is an incredible time of year to see as much of this stunning country as possible.

Picture yourself escaping to palm-fringed shores that stretch from coast to coast, facing out onto shimmering, sun-kissed waters. From encountering tropical marine life as you snorkel in the sea to riding the waves at iconic surfer beaches, Indonesia makes an extraordinary impression. And that’s without accounting for all the other adventures of a lifetime you can experience here. Sunrise mountain treks, exploring ancient forests, partying the night away at beachside bars… It’s all waiting for you!

All you have to decide now is whether you want to experience the best of Bali or go beyond for the ultimate island-hopping experience on our Indonesia tours. It’s a tough decision to make… Yet if you’re looking for that added luxury in premium accommodation, may we suggest our 12 or 15-day Bali Intro Plus? 👀

Morocco

Best summer travel destination for: budget-friendly getaways ✈️

Looking for cheap summer destinations, while still getting to explore another continent? Morocco is the answer you have been looking for. Not only is this country around 4 hours away by plane from the UK, but Morocco is also super budget-friendly once you’re out there.

Adventure is on the horizon as you immerse yourself in Morocco’s rich culture, from camel riding and stargazing in the Sahara Desert to soaking in the bustling atmosphere of the historic medina markets. For the ultimate summer experience, escape to Morocco’s stunning beachside gems like Essaouira and Taghazout, famed for their golden sandy stretches and balmy ocean waves. On our 11-day Morocco: Deserts and Beaches trip, you can even learn how to surf!

Canada

Best summer travel destination for: stunning hiking trails 🏞️

If your perfect summer involves hiking trails across epic stretches of mountain and forest, then it is Canada that is calling your name. From kayaking along winding rivers to kicking back at bright turquoise lakes, this destination is the definition of a nature lover’s paradise. When you’re not exploring the depths of canyons, trekking across glaciers or trying adrenaline sports like whitewater rafting, Canada’s cities offer even more magic.

Canada is on our bucket lists for any time of year, yet there is something about experiencing this destination in the summer months. As the snow melts, nothing can prepare you for how breathtaking Canada looks with the sun shining over its most iconic national parks. If you’re a fan of camping, look no further than our National Parks of the Canadian Rockies tour: 14 days’ worth of discovering emerald wilderness and camping under the stars!

South Africa

Best summer travel destination for: safaris of a lifetime 🦁

We know that a safari is lingering at the top of your bucket list, and this summer is your chance to tick it off once and for all. With so many countries to choose from, you’re spoilt for choice when deciding where to go… But there is just something about South Africa that draws you in right away. Iconic for a reason, where else in the world can you experience lush vineyards, the Big 5 animals and some of the continent’s most bustling cities all in one place?

Although the British summer months coincide with South Africa’s winter, you can still anticipate warm days - just pack a cardigan for the breezy nights. This is arguably one of the best times to be visiting the world-famous Kruger National Park, with phenomenal safaris on offer. Elsewhere in the country, you can even go whale watching!

Whilst South Africa’s sun-drenched beaches may have to wait until a little later in the year, it gives you an amazing excuse to come back. Or to experience the best of both worlds, time your visit for late September to celebrate the end of summer in style.

Peru

Best summer travel destination for: discovering world wonders ⛰️

Speaking of bucket list trips, the secret to one of the best summers of your life is in Peru. An incredible choice for your first time in South America, you could easily spend weeks exploring everything that this vibrant destination has to offer. From uncovering the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, to sandboarding in the Huacachina Desert and sailing across the waters of Lake Titicaca, adventure is always around the corner on our Peru tours.

With Peru’s dry season lasting from May to October, it’s easily a top choice as one of the best summer destinations in the world. So it’s official; if you’re looking for a summer getaway that is truly out of the ordinary, Peru ticks all the right boxes!

Whilst we love a last-minute spontaneous adventure, please keep in mind that Inca Trail permits sell out months in advance - so if this specific route is the one you’re looking to do, we recommend planning your trip well in advance. An exciting alternative to experience hiking in the Sacred Valley is the Lares Trek. You can find out more with our Lares Trek vs Inca Trail guide!

Costa Rica

Best summer travel destination for: rainforests 🦥

We’ll let you in on a little secret… The dry season from January to April may be pretty amazing, but it is not your only chance to experience the magic of Costa Rica. Its lush ‘Green Season’ is one of our favourite times of year to explore this Central American gem, and not just because of the budget-friendly prices. From whale watching to sea turtles and all the little animals sheltered in the treetops, the wildlife-watching here is immense.

The tropical rain spells are typically shorter than what you get at home, with sunny days still on the horizon. And in July, you can even get to experience a natural phenomenon called ‘veranillo’, translating to ‘little summer’. Here’s what Sarah, our Creative Marketing Coordinator, had to say about her experience from visiting at this time of year: 

I went to Costa Rica in July and the rainforests were thriving with lush green leaves! The beaches were so dreamy too

You can find out more about Sarah’s Costa Rica Adventure by checking out her guidebook!

Mexico

Best summer travel destination for: beachy escapes 🏖️

Sometimes, all you need are some fresh cocktails and mouthwatering tacos by the beach. Maybe throw in a heavenly sunset for good measure… Listen, we are all for the little things in life. So if your ideal summer travel destination is more the ‘treat yourself’ kind, nowhere does it quite like Mexico. From Isla Holbox’s glistening shores to the beachside bars of Playa del Carmen and Tulum, Mexico delivers on paradise.

Craving a slice of adventure alongside island getaways? Whether we’re talking vibrant cities famed for their arts and cuisines, ancient Mayan ruins, colourful cenote pools or jaw-dropping emerald canyons, Mexico is a fantasy destination come to life. Discover everything you’ve ever dreamed of on our Mexico tours today.

Tanzania

Best summer travel destination for: climbing Africa’s highest peak 🌋

If you want to challenge yourself with a once-in-a-lifetime adventure this summer, you’ll find the answer in Tanzania. Home to Africa’s highest peak, conquering Mount Kilimanjaro is a memory that will stay with you forever. Anticipate enchanting scenery that transforms the higher you climb, reaching extraordinary heights.

And that’s only the beginning of everything you can experience in Tanzania. After trekking down Mount Kilimanjaro, the stretches of Serengeti National Park await. Picture yourself on a game drive at sunrise, or experiencing the views from above with a hot air balloon ride and champagne for breakfast (take your pick 🥂). Or for some well-deserved rest and relaxation, opt for the paradise shores of Zanzibar instead.

USA

Best summer travel destination for: road trips 🚗

It’s no secret that the USA is the ultimate destination for road tripping. Whether you’re exploring the southern states or driving from coast to coast, nothing beats the feeling of freedom you get while navigating this gigantic country. There are dozens of states to choose from, plus legendary itineraries like Route 66 and the Pacific Coast Highway - so take your pick!

When you choose America as one of the places to go this summer, you’re unlocking a world of possibilities. Whether your dream summer vibe is discovering legendary national parks like Yosemite and the Grand Canyon, learning how to surf at Venice Beach or catching the sunset by San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, there’s something for everyone (even passenger princesses 👑).

Whether you’re looking to do all of the exploring and none of the driving on our 16-day USA West Coast Road Trip, or hit the road independently with our Campervan Hire USA, it’s time to chase your American dream!

Australia’s Northern Territory

Best summer travel destination for: exclusive travel moments 🏜️

Our summer may coincide with Australia’s winter, but at the Top End of this epic country, there is an entire world of adventure opening up. With certain areas only accessible for a few months each year due to the monsoon climate, now is the best time to get out there and explore Australia’s tropical Northern Territory in all its glory.

This hidden gem is home to some of Australia’s most awe-inspiring landscapes, from waterfalls that cascade from astonishing heights to rugged, amber-coloured cliffs - including the one and only Uluru in the heart of the desert. 

More than a chance to explore the best of the Aussie wilderness, its regional capital, Darwin, is a melting pot of street art and international food (... it’s also only a short flight from Bali, in case you feel like hitting up 2 of our best summer travel destinations on a single trip ✈️). In other words, our Australia tours have what you’re looking for, and if you’re looking to do a longer trip or a working holiday in Australia, this summer is the perfect time to start, as you could save on flights and get to experience the transition into spring Down Under.
 

We’ve taken a trip all around the world showing you the best places to go this summer, but now is the time to actually make it happen. This is your sign to get out there on our global group tours, or continue getting inspired with our euro summer guide if you *need* to squeeze in a quick trip away. Adventure calls from the other side! 🗺️