World Expeditions has started the year strongly, and while there is some uncertainty in the air, New Zealand gm Natalie Tambolash says it is still seeing strong demand for well-established adventure destinations.
“New Zealand travellers continue to prioritise meaningful travel experiences, particularly those that com bine active exploration with cultural connection.”
She says Japan continues to be a standout for Kiwis, particularly walking journeys along historic pilgrimage routes such as the Nakasendo Way, Kumano Kodo and the Michinoku Coastal Trail. “These trails resonate strongly with New Zealand travellers who have long embraced pilgrimage-style journeys in Europe.”
. . . Canada & Horses
Canada has also experienced a resurgence this year, says Tambolash, with itineraries such as Scenic Trails of the Rockies, Mountains of Western Canada on Foot and the Guided East Coast Trail performing particularly well.
There’s growing interest in journeys that offer deeper cultural immersion as well, she adds. “Our horse trekking adventures are a great example of this, allowing travellers to experience daily life in regions where horses remain central to local culture, whether riding across Mongolia’s vast steppe or through the remote mountain landscapes of Central Asia.”
More broadly, going into 2026 she says World Expeditions expects demand to continue growing for destinations that are relatively easy to reach from New Zealand, especially those that can be accessed with just one long-haul flight.
. . . Trade Plans
Tambolash says it will continue to strengthen its agent engagement through training, product updates and trade support this year.
It recently introduced enhanced on-line booking capabilities, making it easier for agents to access itineraries and confirm bookings, and it is also ‘exploring opportunities’ for future famils and trade initiatives.
“We know first-hand experience of our style of travel is one of the best ways for agents to confidently recommend our journeys to their clients.” See more HERE.
