Experiential travel
Experiential travel is a type of travel focused on immersive activities in a destination, in comparison to sightseeing, crossing landmarks or countries off a list. The goal is to connect with local communities, culture, food, traditions, nature, or daily life. Almost as if a small travel group is taking the role of anthropologists!
Experiential travel: Focus on Experiences and Immersion
What is experiential travel?
Experiential travel is a type of travel focused on immersive activities in a destination, in comparison to sightseeing, crossing landmarks or countries off a list. The goal is to connect with local communities, culture, food, traditions, nature, or daily life. Almost as if a small travel group is taking the role of anthropologists! The goal is travel that gives more meaning, experience, and connection.
Experiential travel is characterized by:
- Sustainable and community driven trips
- Small travel groups
- Active adventure
- Activities such as: tea ceremonies, safari tours, food making, language learning
- Responsible tourism
- The journey rather than the destination
Experiential travel: Its Growing Popularity Among Youth
According to a survey on Global Travel Trends in 2026, Millennials and Gen Z especially value engaging activities, chasing stories, rather than destinations. They prioritize unique, authentic experiences, off-the-beaten-path experiences, over popular tourist attractions.
Small-group travel
Small-group travel is a type of organized travel where a small number of travelers, often 6 to 20 people, travel together on a guided itinerary. It is growing in popularity among young people who don’t want to travel solo or in big groups.
According to the Freepackers team, there is a very clear trend in the last year or so: people do not want to travel alone. They want to share, meet others, experience as a group, it gives them a sense of community and security at the same time.
Do you have any questions?
Experiential travel vs conventional holiday trip
Conventional travel Experiential travel
Seeing famous attractions Immersing in local culture
Fast-paced itineraries Slower, deeper exploration
Sightseeing Sight-doing
Resorts and tourist zones Local neighborhoods and communities
Popular destinations & activities
Although destination is not the most important for experiential travel, here are examples of activities and programmes in amazing destinations by Planeta First. There are nature adventures, sports getaways, surf trips, responsible road trips that include volunteering, as well as cultural experiences and spiritual retreats.
Sri Lanka: Surf and yoga tour
Bali: Cultural tour
Argentina: Horse riding tour
Croatia, sailing holidays
Experiential travel packages by Planeta First
Frequently asked questions
What cultural differences should you be aware of before traveling to a country?
Before you leave, take the time to learn about the country’s basic customs: everyday habits, etiquette, traditions, and any potentially sensitive topics. Once there, the most important thing is to adopt an attitude of respect and active listening. Keep in mind that you are a guest: kindness, sharing, and humility make all the difference.
What is responsible tourism?
Responsible tourism is about making travel better for everyone involved. That includes local communities, the environment, and travelers themselves. It’s not just about where you go and the next photo-op. It’s about minimizing negative impacts, maximizing positive contributions to local communities, respecting local cultures and ecosystems, and supporting sustainable, locally led initiatives that continue even after you leave.
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