The Scotsman reports that more UK travellers are ditching the holiday lie-in in favour of something more dramatic: nature at its most extraordinary. New research from leading travel search engine KAYAK suggests holidays in 2026 are increasingly built around rare, time-sensitive natural moments. The shift reflects a defining 2026 travel trend identified in KAYAK’s What The Future Report 2026: travellers are building trips around natural phenomena.
According to the report, 55% of Gen Z and Millennial travellers say natural wonders will guide their travel plans in 2026. From solar eclipses to a bird murmuration at dusk, travellers are increasingly choosing moments - not just destinations. KAYAK survey data shows half of travellers surveyed (50%) say they are now more likely to wake up earlier than in previous years to make the most of the day.
There’s something quietly powerful about setting our alarms to go off before dawn so that we can witness something truly extraordinary.
More than four in ten (44%) say they would wake much earlier than usual to experience a rare or awe-inspiring moment while travelling. Nearly half (47%) say the main reason they head out at sunrise or after dark is to maximise their chances of seeing a natural phenomenon. The specific natural phenomena most popular among travellers in 2026 have not been detailed.
To bring the trend to life, KAYAK partnered with award-winning writer, adventurer and broadcaster Phoebe Smith to uncover the top awe-inspiring natural experiences to plan for in 2026. " Rachel Mumford, UK Travel Expert at KAYAK, noted, "We’re seeing a clear move towards nature as the main event. Travellers aren’t just choosing destinations - they’re choosing moments.
Those early, quiet moments often become the most memorable part of a trip.
" The sample size and methodology of the KAYAK survey have not been disclosed.
We’re seeing a clear move towards nature as the main event. Travellers aren’t just choosing destinations - they’re choosing moments. Timing is becoming just as important as place.