COVID-19 continues to dictate travel and the industry altogether. 2021 has been a transformative year where consumers have changed their traveling behaviour and expectations. Apart from bringing the industry to a complete halt, the pandemic has profoundly impacted consumer demand and expectations. As 2021 comes to an end, and with uncertainty surrounding the Omicron variant, we expect some of the trends of 2021 to continue into 2022 with some other traveling trends that may make it perfect for families, couples, and individuals, to visit East Africa.
Luxury Travelling
Although it may seem counterintuitive, with economic conditions and buying power decreasing, we expect luxury travelling to rebound in 2022. People have saved more money since they could not travel for a very long time. It would help pick up luxury travelling in East Africa for all-inclusive safari packages and other exciting and glamorous adventures in the region. Travellers, especially families, would be willing to spend the extra money to get away on a well-deserved vacation of exploration and reconnecting with nature.
Checking off your Bucket List
COVID-19 has influenced many trends and has shaped our way of perceiving life. COVID-19 has given unpredictability a whole new meaning. People are more aware of uncertainties in life now, putting this trend into overdrive. Solo travellers, couples, and families will all want to get in on ticking things off their bucket list before it’s too late or the pandemic takes a turn for the worst and travel restrictions are reimposed. Many people have wildlife encounters on their bucket list or trekking Mount Kilimanjaro, making East Africa an ideal destination to get multiple things done in one trip.
Experiences
Lockdowns and work-from-home may have caused a lot of stress, anxiety, and depression. It has limited the human need for experiences. It is critical to experience different feelings, sensations, surroundings, and events. Travellers will now choose their destinations, focusing on locations that provide unique and immersive experiences. East Africa offers some of the most unique, experiential travelling opportunities, where you can go on safaris, interact with exotic animals, witness the power of mother nature and its many miracles, and explore colourful cultures.
Quality over Quantity
Connected with the last tren for experiences, travellers will be planning trips that offer more qualitative opportunities rather than looking to stay in destinations with overextended stays with little to do. An ideal safari tour can last anywhere from four days to a week, making East Africa another potential destination for quality-conscious travellers.
Community and Culture
COVID-19 has impacted economies throughout the world. Travelling used to be the lifeline of many destinations and the building blocks of many economies. Everyone has felt and experienced the impact of COVID-19 in one way or another. Conscious travellers will also choose their travelling destinations keeping these things in mind. They will prefer to choose locations and communities that can use the uptick from their travelling and spending.
The pandemic may have changed our perception of many things, and it may have even changed our behaviour towards many decision-making processes. Although people may be travelling less due to restrictions and health concerns, one thing is for sure, we as human beings cannot live without travelling, exploring, adventure, and change. We all need a vacation every once in a while. East Africa can provide you with life-changing experiences that will be a breath of fresh air given the turmoil we have endured. To learn more about the region and some of the best safaris in East Africa, read our Comprehensive Safari Guide for Kenya.
