Long-haul destinations to look forward to in 2027

There are more travel opportunities on the horizon, and we’ve got a host of far-flung destinations joining our collection for the first time in 2027. 

For even the most ardent explorer, there are always more discoveries to be made, and we’re excited to help our customers embrace another memorable year of travel in 2027 and beyond. With that in mind, we’ve got plenty of escorted tours across Africa, Asia and South America joining our collection, and we’re planning even further ahead with 2029 departure dates on some of our customer favourites. Need some inspiration for next year’s travel plans? Here are four destinations you won’t want to miss out on.  

Destinations further afield to look forward to next year and beyond

Babanango Game Reserve, South Africa 

Spanning 21,000 hectares of Zululand, the malaria-free Babanango Game Reserve is home to some of the most successful rewilding work in the world. This remote corner of KwaZulu-Natal also hosts hundreds of rare species, making it the ideal spot for a thrilling animal-spotting adventure in the South African bush. What’s more, with an all-inclusive stay at the homestead-style Valley Lodge, set in the heart of the reserve, your downtime will be just as memorable as each game drive.  

It’s not just the animal encounters that’ll be of interest here, and with excursions across the dramatic Zululand Battlefields, you’ll learn more about the events that shaped this enchanting region. Across your stay, you’ll also be shown the reserve’s ancient rock formations, with some sections dating back more than three billion years, and spot the constellations under the open African skies on a stargazing session.  

Our recommended tour – On Safari in South Africa – Babanango & Zululand – Premier 

Paro, Bhutan 

Nestled amongst a sprawling Himalayan valley, Paro is one of Bhutan’s most significant cities and showcases its monastic heritage in a truly unique way. While Bhutan’s Buddhist monasteries are sure to pique your interest, it’s the Paro Valley’s ‘Tiger’s Nest’ that is the most impressive. Situated more than 2,900 feet above the valley floor, this majestic hilltop monastery clings to the edge of a cliff and boasts some of the finest panoramas in the country. Also of interest are the monastery’s remarkable water-powered prayer wheels and its intricately designed central shrine, and you can see them all on an insightful guided tour. 

Better yet, the Tiger’s Nest only scratches the surface of Bhutan’s many treasures, and with a stay in Paro, you’ll enjoy easy access to the national capital, Thimphu, and nearby Punakha. In Thimphu, the Buddha Dordenma, one of the world’s largest sitting Buddha statues, is a must-see and the regal Tashichho Dzong is another highlight. It’s here that you can get the best introduction to the traditions and customs that underpin Bhutanese culture. In Punakha, take in a series of ancient dzongs, with their vast collections of traditional Bhutanese artwork, and soak up a fine selection of Himalayan vistas 

Our recommended tour – The Kingdom of Bhutan & Darjeeling 

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 

Malaysia is widely known for its diverse collection of communities, cultures and historical influences, and in no city is this more apparent than its lively capital city, Kuala Lumpur. It’s a destination that rewards those who take the time to go beyond the most popular spots. Whether you’re exploring the farmers’ markets of Kampung Baru or venturing up to the breathtaking Batu Caves. There are plenty of iconic sights to tick off your travel wish-list in the city too. No itinerary would be complete without a visit to the Petronas Towers and their high-altitude observation decks either. 

Outside the capital, you’ll be well-placed to explore more of the diverse influences that make Malaysia the country it is today. UNESCO-listed Malacca is a particular highlight, and a sunset river cruise and evening walking tour offer a unique view of the city’s Dutch colonial heritage. There’s also Johor Bahru, with its vast Islamic landmarks, and nearby, the ‘Garden City’ of Singapore promises the perfect way to complete your exploration in Southeast Asia. Known for its hyper-modern skyline and innovative artificial gardens, this majestic city-state packs numerous wish-list highlights into a relatively compact space. 

Our recommended tour – Malaysia, Singapore & Desaru Beach Escape – Premier 

Montevideo, Uruguay 

If South America is calling, there are few better ways to truly appreciate its diverse range of cultures, customs and traditions than by taking in multiple countries at once. One of the best choices for a holiday on the continent, and one which is sure to satisfy even the most discerning traveller, is Uruguay, the lesser-explored neighbour of Brazil and Argentina. Of the country’s major hotspots, Montevideo is a particular highlight, and its eclectic blend of Neoclassical, Art Deco and colonial-era landmarks promises no shortage of fascinating exploration.  

The coastal Ciudad Vieja is worth a spot on any Uruguayan itinerary and reflects the city’s history, with its grand Solis Theatre and Metropolitan Cathedral. Elsewhere, the Mercado del Puerto, with its asado (barbecue) vendors, offers the perfect place to try some traditional Uruguayan delicacies.  

Past the city limits, Uruguay’s many highlights extend to its marvellous estancias (ranches) and winemaking towns of the surrounding countryside. While here, be sure to also spend some time by the sea, whether that’s soaking up the timeless beauty of Colonia del Sacramento’s coastal old town or unwinding on the idyllic beaches of Punta del Este.  

Our recommended tour – Brazil & Argentina with Uruguay 

Discover somewhere new with Newmarket Holidays 

Feeling inspired? Our friendly holiday planners are on hand to answer any questions and help find the perfect tour for you. Give them a call to secure your next escape or check out our full range of wish-list escorted tours, now with 2029 departure dates available, on our dedicated destinations page.