2026 is just around the corner, and many of us are wondering what’s next—especially for the travel industry. After a year of lockdowns and change, it’s clear the world isn’t the same. Let’s take a closer look at the future of tourism in 2026 and what exciting changes could be on the way.
The World Less Travelled – Will Tourism Survive?
In just a span of a few months, the tourism industry came tumbling down. Due to this, many lost their jobs and a lot of businesses had to shut its doors forever. Even though it was a tough time for most, other businesses adapted with the change and chose to do things differently. It was a trying time, but this is not the end of tourism.
Tourism Predictions and Trends for 2026
By 2026, the rest of the industry will probably adapt to the new reality that is the travel and tourism industry. Here are some of our predictions for the future.
Rise in Private Transportation
Before covid, inexpensive travel methods were the rife. But due to restrictions, travel bans and social distancing, things have changed. This shift could mean that there will be a rise in private transportation and travel. Instead of taking crowded domestic flights, travellers might opt for taking private jets or make use of rental cars and road trips instead.
Decline in Business Travel
Large gatherings and events should still be avoided at all costs. Many business conferences, seminars, and other special events had to be postponed or cancelled this year. The innovators in the industry adapted with the times and 2020 saw an increase in digital events. More and more people chose to conference call their events instead.
The Year of Local Travel
We will always have Paris, so why not choose Parys instead? Even though international travel bans have been lifted in South Africa, many other countries haven’t opened their borders yet. Those who have wanderlust will travel locally instead. And because the year had such a strain on many people’s mental health, they would want a change of scenery too.
The End of Mass Tourism?
The collapse of international travel took a toll on many countries and services that usually benefitted from mass tourism. Airlines laid off some of their staff, travel agencies and tour operators closed, and so did other businesses. Only time, supply and demand will tell if travelling will become more expensive. This could also influence mass tourism.
Is it Still Worth it to Study Tourism?
Many businesses suffered major losses in 2020. But that doesn’t mean it is the end of travel or the tourism industry. In fact, leaders in the industry will welcome great new ideas to revive tourism.
There are still opportunities for tourism professionals and guesthouse managers today. While it is unclear what the future has in store, experts believe that tourism will fully recover by the end of the 2020’s.
This means that if you enrol, you can experience a major industry shift. There’s also a possibility of you being part of implementing new ideas that could change the industry.
What Tourism Management Courses Do You Offer?
Do you love travel and want a job in tourism? At Skills Academy, we have three fun and easy courses you can study from home. You don’t need a matric to start—just a love for learning and a big dream!
| Tourism Management Courses | Tourism Management Course Description |
|---|---|
| Tourism Management Short Course (4 Months) | This beginner course teaches you what tourism is all about. You’ll also learn important first aid skills to help people in emergencies. |
| Tourism Management Certificate Course (8 Months) | Want to learn more? This course helps you build better communication and customer service skills, along with first aid and tourism basics. |
| Tourism Management Comprehensive Certificate Course (12 Months) | This full course gives you all the tools to work in tourism or even start your own business. You’ll learn about leadership, planning, and how tourism works. |
These courses are a great way to get started in the tourism industry. You can study at your own pace, right from home. And with support from Skills Academy, you won’t be alone on your journey.
Is Your Future at Stake?
Only you can answer this question. So choose wisely. Choose our distance learning tourism and guesthouse courses if you want to be part of the new age of tourism.
- Speak to a course expert on 0800 39 00 27
- Or fill out a contact form for a call back
Frequently Asked Questions
In South Africa, the Big Five are five famous animals that tourists love to see. These animals are strong and were once the hardest to hunt. Today, people go on safaris to spot them in the wild and take photos.
- Lion
- Leopard
- Elephant
- Rhino
- Buffalo
Sustainable tourism means taking care of nature, people, and places while travelling. It helps keep the environment clean and supports local people. It also makes sure that future visitors can enjoy the same places too.
Tourism in 2050 will be very different and exciting. People will travel in ways that protect the earth and use smart technology to plan trips. They’ll also look for fun and special experiences that respect local cultures.
The three main parts of tourism are about helping people, saving nature, and growing the economy. These help tourism be good for everyone. It means more jobs, cleaner places, and happy local communities.
Tourism is always changing to meet new needs and ideas. People now want clean, safe, and fun ways to travel. That’s why we see things like eco-friendly trips, online tours, and travel that helps local towns.
