As global travel moves into a new phase of maturity, personalised and immersive experiences powered by artificial intelligence are expected to define travel trends in 2026, according to Alankar Chandra, Founder & CEO of experiential travel company Wild Voyager.
Chandra notes that travellers today are no longer satisfied with generic itineraries or checklist tourism. “The focus has shifted to highly customised journeys where travellers want to understand what value a destination adds to their personal interests, beliefs, and lifestyle,” he says. Conventional travel, he adds, is rapidly giving way to bespoke experiences tailored around culture, wildlife, and local landscapes.
Immersive travel — which encourages deeper engagement with local communities, ecosystems, and traditions — is gaining prominence globally. Rather than simply visiting destinations for social media moments, travellers are seeking meaningful interactions that foster awareness, empathy, and cultural understanding.
Climate change concerns are also reshaping travel behaviour. According to Chandra, travellers are increasingly making conscious choices such as avoiding overcrowded destinations, opting for locally sourced food, and actively contributing to wildlife conservation through volunteering and donations. “Responsible travel is no longer optional; it has become central to how people choose where and how they travel,” he explains.
Looking ahead to 2026, Chandra believes travel will evolve beyond being just an escape from routine. “Travel is becoming a reflection of personal identity and values — a statement of who you are and what you stand for,” he says.
Wild Voyager operates across India, Kenya, the US and the UK, and also runs Ilora Retreats, a luxury experiential property in Kenya’s Masai Mara, catering primarily to travellers from India, the UK, the Middle East and the US.
