
Africa

We’ve all got that list of dream holiday destinations. Whether you’re a thrill-seeking adrenaline junkie, a nature-loving naturalist, or relish cultural immersion, planning bucket list holidays is about so much more than just booking annual leave; it’s about creating life-defining out-of-this-world memories.

In 2026, plan intentional travels that align with your personal goals. This year’s top destinations include Colombia for innovation, Hong Kong for sustainability, Japan for vibrant culture, Morocco for new beginnings, Slovenia for sustainability, Tanzania for outdoor adventures, Albania for budget-friendly escapes, and Panama for a digital detox in paradise.

Our experts have picked their best winter holidays for sun and balmy average temperatures in Europe and beyond. Take a look at our curated list of close-to-home city breaks and far-flung package luxury holidays to inspire your next getaway.

Riads, traditional Moroccan homes, offer an authentic and culturally rich accommodation experience in Morocco. Characterised by inward-facing designs and lush courtyards, they provide a serene escape from the bustling medina. Luxurious guesthouses, they reflect Moroccan heritage, combining artistry and comfort, making them a preferred choice for intimate stays.

No matter your photographic discipline, Morocco offers enough diversity to captivate any photographer. From bustling souks to vast desert plains, it’s quite astonishing how varied the landscapes and scenes are in what is just one country. With plenty of transport options and tour operators ready to show off the best of the land, it’s also…

Don’t be daunted by Moroccan cuisine. There’s a sumptuous variety of flavours to seek out, each infused with myriad spices, carefully chosen, and built on a culinary heritage going back gernerations. It’s also one of those classic melting pots, where Moorish meets Amazigh flavours from the mountains, and where colonialisation still leaves a legacy on…

South Africa is probably best known for its beaches, mountains and safari parks. But, did you know, it has one of the most incredible emerging food scenes? You might immediately think of game meats cooked on a braai but, while this is a delicious food experience, Cape Town has so much more to offer its…

When we’re not busy curating the finest escapes around the world, we’re heading out on our own adventures. Get the insider tips from Secret Escapes staff who’ve been lucky enough to travel to South Africa. Here are their insights.

Roaring masses of water, deafening roars, and showers of water vapour on the face – few experiences are as impressive as standing next to a mighty waterfall. These natural wonders are found on all continents and in all forms, from narrow and high to short and wide. This is a guide to some of the…

There’s nothing more bucket-list-ticking than a safari, whether it’s a thrilling game drive through famous Kruger National Park or a sand-strewing quad bike adventure across the Sahara Desert. We’ve rounded up the most unmissable safaris around the world, so you can plan the perfect one for you – whether you’re travelling with friends and family…