Specialist tour operator, Acacia Africa releases key travel trends that will shape the year ahead

(TRAVPR.COM) UK - January 23rd, 2026 - 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.

1. 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.

SAVE 10% (£314 pp): Experience the thrill of spotting the Big 5 on the 12-day Delta, Chobe & Victoria Falls tour, with the small group safari including visits to Chobe National Park, the Okavango Delta, and Khama Rhino Sanctuary. Green season showcases the Victoria Falls at their finest, their powerful roar echoing through the lush landscape. From £2,831pp (optional single supplement) + Safari Pass from £571pp including highlights, transport, accommodation (twin share rooms with en suite facilities for 10 nights, twin share pre-erected tent with en suite for 1 night), most meals, and the services of a tour leader and driver. Guaranteed departures on 09 and 23 February, 20 April, 2026. Normal tour price £3,145pp. Max 12. Open to safari goers from 8 years of age. Book by 31 January 2026. Saving available on departures through June 30, 2026.

2. "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.

3. 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 trip, 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.

4. 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.

5. 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 (020 7706 4700). ABTA No. W4093 PROTECTED.

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