Uzbekistan, Albania and Namibia are among Exodus Adventure Travels’ growth destinations for 2027, the operator said on November 10, as US travellers rethink what adventure means.
The Exodus adventure travel report found 78% of US respondents would consider a lesser-known destination or region, and 90% would consider a country they have never visited. Some 90% would also travel outside the busiest season.
The State of Adventure Travel Report 2026/27 draws on YouGov research among 1,010 US adults aged 35 and over planning an international holiday within two years. Of those, 662 were planning an adventure or activity-based trip. The research ran in September.
Some 75% say a real adventure means exploring somewhere new, against 26% who link it to achievement. The average US adventure traveller surveyed is 53.
“People haven’t stopped seeking adventure. They’ve changed what adventure means,” said Sally Cowdry, Managing Director of Exodus Adventure Travels.
Guides carry weight. Some 81% say a knowledgeable guide increases the value of an international holiday, and 73% would trust human expertise over AI when something goes wrong.
Respondents named high-quality food and drink (63%), comfort and convenience (59%), seamless travel (59%) and high-quality accommodation (52%) as the main ingredients of a premium trip.
Some 63% want their next main holiday to mix relaxation with active experiences, and 84% find multi-activity trips appealing. Among those considering solo travel, 54% would consider an organised small-group trip with people they did not know.
Operators are building multi-activity trips in the named markets. EverTrek has added an Albania multi-activity trip, and Uzbekistan plans 30 new tourism zones by 2030.
Exodus also cites Japan and China as growth destinations. It runs trips to more than 90 countries.
