Solo exploration and Active Adventures Top Women‘s 2026 Travel Plans
NEW YORK - A new survey reveals that women are prioritizing solo adventures,active travel,and cultural immersion when planning their trips for 2026. Conducted by AdventureWomen, a provider of women-only adventure tours, the study of 500 women aged 35 to 75 indicates a strong desire for independent exploration alongside physically engaging experiences.
The survey found women are prepared to invest significantly in their travel, anticipating spending between $5,000 and $12,000 on annual trips lasting eight to 14 days. Hiking and trekking are notably popular, with 40% expressing interest in these activities for 2026. Cultural journeys focused on ancient sites appeal to 30% of respondents, while 13% are eager to experience wildlife through safaris. A majority of those surveyed prefer to dedicate 2 to 3 hours each day to intense physical activity during their adventures.
Interestingly, despite 45% of respondents being in relationships, a substantial 54% primarily travel solo.This trend highlights a growing preference for women to pursue their travel aspirations independently.
“Women today are redefining what adventure means,” said AdventureWomen President Paige Davis, according to Travel Pulse. “What’s most inspiring to us is seeing how many women are choosing to travel solo, not because they don’t have partners, but because they want to live their own travel dreams on their own terms.”
Looking ahead to 2026, Europe and Oceania are emerging as favored destinations, with nearly half (45%) of respondents open to visiting entirely new locations. The findings underscore a broader shift in travel preferences, emphasizing self-directed experiences and a desire for meaningful engagement with the world.
