G Adventures has released its annual list of eight destinations to watch for 2027, highlighting regions where new air routes and eased visa requirements are reshaping travel demand. The operator is steering clients toward less-visited areas to support sustainable tourism and local economies, a strategy that aligns with broader industry efforts to manage overtourism.
China leads with visa-free boost
China tops the list, with bookings up 52% year-on-year following the introduction of visa-free entry for many nationalities. G Adventures has responded by launching nine new itineraries, including the 19-day Signature China: From the Great Wall to Shangri-La, which features stays in fortress-style desert lodges. The move reflects a wider trend of China reopening to international travel after years of restrictions.
Central Asia, particularly Uzbekistan, has seen a 165% surge in bookings, making it the most popular region for the National Geographic Signature collection. The Stans: The Ultimate Silk Road Adventure offers off-grid experiences, including homestays and yurt workshops, tapping into growing interest in the region's cultural heritage and landscapes.
New air routes open up Sri Lanka and New Zealand
Sri Lanka is becoming more accessible with new direct flights, prompting G Adventures to introduce two new itineraries. The Sri Lanka Encompassed tour includes nature chalets, farm walks, and local cooking classes, catering to travellers seeking immersive experiences beyond the beach resorts.
New Zealand is gaining attention as a filming location, with Air New Zealand expanding its regional routes. The North Island Multisport tour includes eco-friendly stays at Blue Duck Station, a conservation-focused property that aligns with the operator's sustainability goals.
Dominica and Seychelles offer immersive stays
Dominica is shifting towards immersive stays with the opening of a new international airport, which is expected to boost visitor numbers. G Adventures' Geluxe itineraries offer activities like hiking and swimming with sperm whales in protected areas, positioning the island as a nature-first destination.
The Seychelles offers a multi-island adventure, showcasing free-roaming giant tortoises. The eight-day trip explores Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue, combining beach time with wildlife encounters and local culture.
Greece and Balkans counter overtourism
In Greece, G Adventures is steering tourists towards the northern mainland to combat island overtourism. The Hiking Northern Greece tour explores UNESCO-listed Mount Olympus, offering an alternative to the crowded Cyclades.
The Balkans are emerging as uncrowded Mediterranean alternatives, with Albania and Bosnia experiencing significant booking increases. The Hiking in Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro tour features stays in family-run guesthouses, supporting local communities while providing authentic experiences.
These developments come as travel professionals monitor shifting demand patterns. For agents, the list offers a roadmap for upselling emerging destinations. For airlines and hotels, it signals where to invest in capacity and partnerships. As Booking.com's 2027 predictions suggest, travellers are increasingly seeking emotional, AI-driven trips, and G Adventures' focus on off-the-beaten-path experiences aligns with that trend.
G Adventures' strategy also reflects a broader industry push toward sustainable tourism. By directing travellers to less crowded areas, the operator aims to reduce pressure on popular sites while spreading economic benefits. This approach is echoed in other sectors, such as Michelin Guide's prestige under fire as destinations weigh the costs of tourism.
For travel advisors, the key takeaway is the importance of staying ahead of demand. With visa policies and air routes shifting, destinations like China and Central Asia are poised for growth. G Adventures' new itineraries provide a template for creating unique, sustainable travel experiences that appeal to modern travellers.
