From the impact of social media on the willingness to explore beyond the familiar safari destinations to nostalgia travel driving the growth of parent-teen safaris, these are some of the key trends that specialist operator Acacia Africa says will shape the year ahead.
Green Season Travel Gains Momentum
While overtourism hasn't impacted Africa in quite the same way as other continents, people are more conscious of the effects of peak season travel, with a growing number of safari-goers embracing green season. Traditionally considered the quieter period, these months (October through April) appeal to visitors looking for good value, fewer crowds, vivid landscapes, and dramatic photography. Think Botswana, where the Chobe National Park turns lush and green, its river cruises thick with hippo grunts, fish eagles, and the slow, regal movements of elephant herds. A haven for migratory birds, in the Okavango Delta, mokoros glide between the reeds as kingfishers flash their brilliant colours, and herons and storks wade in the shallow waters.
"Conservationally Conscious" Travellers Reshape the Safari Map
Social media hasn't merely influenced our choice of destination; it's also enriched our travel choices. Targeted storytelling around wildlife issues, shared by grassroots organisations and specialist operators, is reshaping the safari landscape. Iconic parks such as the Kruger, Masai Mara and Serengeti will continue to draw significant interest, but in 2026 Acacia expects a greater demand from conservation-minded travellers for lesser-known destinations. Wildlife areas like Matobo are set to benefit, with the national park's expert guides leading travellers on foot through granite kopjes to track both black and white rhino.
The Continued Rise of Female Solo Travellers
Increasing numbers of solo female travellers are joining Acacia's group departures. Key drivers include the safety and structure of guided tours, the chance to be part of a community, and the opportunity to combine independent and organised activities. On the 19-day Cape Town to Victoria Falls, a large portion of the trip is spent in Namibia, with many of the destinations visited challenging to reach. Featured activities include a desert walk and Dune 45 climb in the Namib Naukluft National Park and safaris in Namibia’s Etosha National Park. An adventure hub, in Swakopmund, the group has time to explore the city solo, perhaps taking strolls on the historic jetty or simply relaxing and taking in the remarkable sunsets from one of the many well-positioned restaurants.
Nostalgia Travel & Parent-Teen Safaris
Nostalgia-driven travel is driving family safaris, with parents who once explored the continent in their twenties now returning with their teenagers in tow. For many millennials, this is a chance to share formative experiences, from wildlife encounters through to adrenaline-charged pursuits, with their children. According to Acacia, travellers often describe it as a full-circle moment: revisiting familiar landscapes, introducing their kids to places that shaped their own early adventures, and spending meaningful time together before older teens head off to university or take their own independent trips.
Arno Delport, Sales & Marketing Manager at Acacia Africa, comments: "Africa’s mix of wildlife, wilderness and open space creates a setting where that sense of connection comes naturally, and repeat visitors frequently speak of it as a kind of homecoming."
With Acacia, families have several small group safaris (open to families with children from eight years of age) available to them. Covering South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe, the tours range from seven to 14 days.
Beach-Safari Getaways Making Waves
Demand for itineraries that pair wildlife experiences with coastal relaxation continues to grow. Couples in particular are opting for safari-plus-beach escapes, with Zanzibar and Mozambique proving to be especially popular as adventure moons.
The 14-day Mozambique and Zimbabwe Explorer links South Africa’s Kruger and Zimbabwe’s Hwange and Matobo national parks with the coastline of Mozambique, including Bilene, Tofo and Vilanculos. Travellers experience Big 5 game viewing, rhino tracking and a visit to the Great Zimbabwe ruins with the addition of dhow trips, snorkelling and intimate walks along stretches of Indian Ocean beach.
Acacia Africa (WhatsApp: +44 20 7706 4700; info@acacia-africa.com; acacia-africa.com) ABTA No. W4093 PROTECTED.
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