Planning your 2026 travels isn't just about ticking off a list—it’s about being in the right place at the exactly right moment. Whether you're chasing the "Great Migration" in Africa, the cherry blossoms of Kyoto, or the quietest turquoise bays in Greece, timing is everything.

If you are looking to trade the drizzly UK weather for global adventures, here is your definitive 2026 travel calendar, curated by the experts at The Flights Guru.

2026 Travel Calendar: At a Glance

January – South Africa: Summer Sun & Safaris

Beat the post-Christmas blues with peak summer in the Southern Hemisphere. January offers the perfect climate for a Cape Town holiday, blending world-class vineyards in the Winelands with the dramatic coastal drives of the Cape Peninsula. It’s also a rewarding month for African safari holidays, with lush landscapes and excellent wildlife viewing in Kruger National Park.

February – Thailand: The Ultimate Winter Escape

February is the "Goldilocks" month for Thailand—not too hot, very dry, and perfect sea conditions. From the street food of Bangkok to the white sands of Phuket and Koh Samui, it’s the best time for a Thailand Holidays with multi-centre tropical retreat.

March – India Holidays

March is a standout month for India tour packages, offering comfortable temperatures before the summer heat arrives. Popular routes include the Golden Triangle India tour, while Kerala holidays appeal to travellers looking for nature, backwaters and relaxed coastal stays. Cultural festivals and historic landmarks make India one of the most enriching destinations in early spring.

April – Japan Holidays

April is peak season for Japan holiday packages, thanks to the famous cherry blossom season. Travellers searching for the best time to visit Japan often plan trips around this month to experience Tokyo and Kyoto at their most scenic. Demand is high, but for many, a Japan cherry blossom holiday is a true bucket-list experience.

May – Peru Holidays

May is ideal for Peru holidays, offering dry conditions and fewer crowds before the busy summer months. Machu Picchu holidays are especially popular now, whether via the Inca Trail or scenic rail journeys through the Sacred Valley. Combined with Lima’s rising reputation for fine dining, Peru is a strong choice for adventure and culture seekers.

June – Canada Holidays

Early summer is one of the best times for Canada holiday packages, particularly in the Rockies. Banff and Lake Louise holidays deliver emerald lakes, mountain scenery and long daylight hours, while cities like Toronto and Montreal shine with festivals and outdoor dining. June is perfect for travellers looking for scenic summer travel without peak crowds.

July – Indonesia Holidays

July falls in the dry season, making it one of the most popular months for Indonesia holiday packages. Searches for Bali holidays from the UK peak at this time, thanks to clear skies, cultural festivals and excellent beach conditions. Bali, Lombok and nearby islands are ideal for snorkelling, hiking and relaxed luxury stays.

August – African Safari Holidays

August is prime time for African safari packages, especially in Kenya and Tanzania. The Great Migration draws travellers from around the world, making it one of the most searched wildlife experiences of the year. Many visitors pair safari trips with Zanzibar beach holidays, combining adventure with relaxation.

September – Greece Holidays

September is a favourite month for Greece holiday packages, offering warm seas, quieter resorts and better value than peak summer. Greek island holidays in Crete, Naxos and Paros are ideal for beach lovers, while Athens remains lively for culture, dining and nightlife. It’s widely considered the best time to visit Greece.

October – USA Autumn Holidays

October is famous for USA autumn holidays, particularly in New England. Travellers search for October holiday destinations to experience fall foliage, scenic road trips and charming historic towns. Cooler temperatures and colourful landscapes make this a popular month for couples and photographers.

November – Mauritius Holidays

November is a sweet spot for Mauritius holiday packages, offering warm weather, calm seas and fewer crowds before the festive rush. It’s a top choice for luxury beach holidays, honeymoon escapes and snorkelling trips, and often considered the best time to visit Mauritius for value and comfort.

December – Winter Sun or Snow Escapes

December suits every travel style. Some travellers choose Lapland holidays for festive experiences, while others search for winter sun holidays in destinations like the Maldives, Dubai or Australia. Whether you want snow or sunshine, December is one of the most flexible months for end-of-year travel.

Plan Your 2026 Holidays with The Flights Guru

From luxury long-haul holidays to carefully planned multi-centre trips, The Flights Guru helps you travel at the best time, for the best value. Our experts design tailor-made holiday packages including flights, hotels, transfers and unforgettable experiences.

If you’re planning where to go in 2026, speak to The Flights Guru today and let us turn your travel ideas into a perfectly timed, expertly planned holiday.

Frequently Asked Questions About 2026 Travel

What is the best time to book holidays for 2026?

For long-haul and peak-season travel, booking 6 to 10 months in advance offers the best choice and value. Events such as cherry blossom season in Japan or the Great Migration often sell out early.

Which destinations are best for winter sun in 2026?

Popular winter sun destinations include Thailand, the Maldives, Mauritius, Dubai and Australia. February and December are particularly strong months for warm-weather escapes.

Is 2026 a good year for safari holidays?

Yes. August remains the best month for African safaris due to the Great Migration, while January and February also offer excellent wildlife viewing in Southern Africa.

Are tailor-made holidays better than packages?

Tailor-made holidays allow you to travel at the best time for each destination, choose flexible routing and match your budget to your priorities. This approach often delivers better value and a smoother experience.

Can The Flights Guru help plan multi-centre trips?

Yes. The Flights Guru specialises in multi-centre and long-haul itineraries, combining flights, hotels, transfers and experiences into a single, well-timed journey.