Tour Sales & Low Air Fares: Why Now is the Time to Start Planning Your Fall 2026 Getaway

Why Now is the Best Time to Start Planning Your Fall 2026 Getaway

Are airfares high right now? Well, that depends on what you compare them with. If you are looking at last year's numbers, you might notice a bit of "sticker shock". But airfares in 2025 were some of the lowest ever. We were a little spoiled by those post-pandemic rates, but the current market has shifted into a new "normal."

However, there is plenty of good news. I have been doing some sleuthing into the autumn schedules, and the outlook for this October is actually excellent—provided you know which direction to point your compass.

In addition, several tour operators are offering great deals.

This is why now is the best time to start planning your fall 2026 getaway: you can take advantage of the "shoulder season," where the crowds thin out, the weather is great, and the pricing becomes far more competitive than the frantic summer months.

What deals can you get on adventure tours?

• Exodus: enjoy a FREE single room when you travel in 2026. Spots are limited so book now to avoid disappointment. Offer ends May 27 2026.

• Exodus: Go All In on 2027 – 10% OFF next year’s adventures. Offer ends June 2 2026.

• Explore: Book for a Buck. Secure your next adventure for just $1. Offer ends May 21st

• Intrepid: Up to 20% off selected trips. Offer extended until May 23rd

The Fall Airfare Report: Where the Value Is

I’ve analysed sample return airfares for two-week trips departing in mid-October. The data shows a massive opportunity for those looking toward Europe and Central and South America, where prices are exceptionally low. Africa is not showing any marked price increases.

Conversely, East Asia is the primary region where fares are holding at a premium. This is largely due to local fuel supply challenges and the logistical complexities of rerouting flights around global conflict zones.

Destination	Airline (one stop)	Price from	Airline (non stop)	Price from
Santiago	Delta	1125	N/A
Buenos Aires	Avianca	1241	N/A
Bogota	COPA	650	Air Canada	745
San José	Avianca	646	Air Canada	755
Reykjavik	N/A		Iceland Air	647
London	Iceland Air	955	Air Canada	1021
Amsterdam	Iceland Air	765	Air Canada	732
Paris	Iceland Air	807	Air Canada	871
Madrid	TAP	924	Iberia	1055
Rome	Air Canada	970	ITA	1113
Istanbul	Air Transat	1413	Air Transat	1189
Madeira	TAP	1024	N/A
Dubrovnik	Air Canada	1446	N/A
Casablanca	Air Canada	1065	Royal Air Moroc	1175
Nairobi	Air Canada	1757	N/A
Johannesburg	Ethiopian	1836	N/A
Tashkent	Lufthansa	2849
Delhi	Cathay Pacific	1784	Air Canada	2190
Colombo	Cathay Pacific	1696	N/A
Bangkok	Cathay Pacific	1840	N/A
Saigon	Air Canada	2613	N/A
Tokyo	Westjet	2058	Air Canada	2203
Sydney	Air Canada	2960	N/A
Auckland	Air New Zealand	2560	N/A

Fares valid on May 7th. Lower fares for longer routings may exist

Key Takeaways for Your Autumn Itinerary

1. The "Iceland Advantage"

• Non-stop flights to Europe offer exceptional value. Learn how to use them to your advantage here.

• If you’re looking for warmth without the long-haul price tag, San José (Costa Rica) and Bogota (Colombia) are the clear winners.

• Flights to Tokyo and Saigon are currently commanding a premium.

Why Book Now?

The most frequent question I see is: "When is the best time to book fall flights?"  The answer for 2026 is now. With fuel surcharges and capacity fluctuating on certain routes, locking in these mid-October rates ensures you aren't caught by the price hikes that typically occur as summer draws to a close. Combine that with the great tour sales on offer now, whether it's a walking & wine tour in Tuscany or a rainforest trip in Costa Rica, the "sweet spot" for booking is officially open.

Ready to turn your autumn daydreams into a boarding pass? Contact me today to lock in these rates before they fly away!