As South Africans reinvent their approach to wellbeing, the word “wellness” now means more than endless downtime or diet smoothies by the pool. Today’s traveller wants to be both energised and indulged – think kayaking at sunrise, then unwinding with a lazy afternoon massage and a champagne toast as the sun sets – according to Flight Centre’s global survey.
SATSA’s latest adventure tourism research supports Flight Centre’s findings, showing that most South African travellers crave value and experience rather than excess. The leading motivators are relaxation (21.2%), family time (21.1%), and, as a very close third, adventure (20.3%). Talk about getting the best of every world.
“Balance has become the real travel flex,” explains Antoinette Turner, Flight Centre South Africa’s General Manager. “For our clients, peak wellbeing means mixing pulse-raising adventure with pure relaxation. These days, the ultimate luxury is not having to choose.”
Flight Centre’s top wellness adventures for 2026
If you’re ready for more than a static spa sabbatical, Flight Centre’s latest packages offer a passport to both invigoration and well-deserved indulgence. Here’s a taste of what’s on offer in 2026. But hurry, as many of these specials expire soon:
- Cape Town: 5-Star Capital Mirage + Sunset Champagne Cruise
Why it’s next-gen wellness:
Start your mornings with a delicious breakfast and ocean air. Spend the afternoon exploring Greenmarket Square, and then set sail on a luxury sunset cruise, glass of bubbles in hand as Table Mountain glows beneath the pink evening sky.
“Cape Town is the kind of city where you can pack in a hike, a gourmet lunch, and a sunset sail before dinner. Our guests don’t have to compromise – it’s luxury that keeps pace with their sense of adventure,” says Turner.
- Buenos Aires: 4-Star Ramada Centro + Rooftop Relaxation
Why it’s next-gen wellness:
Seven nights in Argentina’s capital lets you live a little louder. Mornings start with breakfast on the terrace, followed by private city tours that get your step count soaring through Recoleta, La Boca, and beyond. Shop the lively markets, try a tango class, or wind down at the rooftop pool as the city lights flicker on. Culinary cravings are sorted, too, with world-renowned steak and empanadas never more than a block or two away.
- Bali: 5-Star Paradisus by Meliá – Nusa Dua
Why it’s next-gen wellness:
Paradise isn’t a passive state in Bali. Paddleboard at sunrise or cycle through rice paddies as the village wakes up. After exertion, cool off in your private pool or indulge in a Balinese massage. Concierge services, exclusive Dine Around privileges, and family fun make this escape as inclusive as it is indulgent.
- Porto: 4-Star Mercure Centro + 6 Bridges Cruise
Why it’s next-gen wellness:
Porto rewards the curious and the cultured. Explore cathedrals and wine cellars by day, then cruise under iconic bridges at sunset. Walking tours are matched with rooftop terrace downtime, and port tastings are practically therapy.
- Venice: 4-Star ai Mori d’Oriente + Gondola Ride
Why it’s next-gen wellness:
Five nights in the Cannaregio quarter, priority access to St. Mark’s, daily art and architecture strolls, and a bucket list-worthy gondola ride. Get lost in Venice’s maze of bridges and canals, pausing only for creamy gelato or an aromatic espresso. This is indulgent escapism, Italian-style, where every detour feels delicious, and walking is half the pleasure.
Why settle for one holiday flavour?
South African travellers are leading the way in demanding more from their holidays: more movement, more relaxation, more unforgettable moments. According to Flight Centre’s research, 81% prioritise adventure and outdoor activities, while 86% want slow, restful escapes tucked into the same trip. The verdict? The best holidays are the ones where you never have to compromise.
“Our advice is to let go of the old ‘either/or’ mindset. Ultimate wellness is saying ‘yes’ to early-morning adventure and evening decadence. That’s how you come home actually feeling restored – not just rested.”
Speak to your Flight Centre Travel Expert today to book a wellness escape that works as hard as you do (and relaxes as deeply as you should). Visit www.flightcentre.co.za or your nearest store today.