Intrepid Travel reported a record-level of travellers in September 2026, with more than 35,000 customers travelling with the operator during the month.
The surge in travellers resulted in an 11% year-on-year (YoY) rise in monthly departed revenue, with significant growth in travel to the Middle East, Europe and Asia.
Australians made up the largest proportion of travellers globally, accounting for 43% of all customers. Vietnam was top of the list for Aussies, followed by domestic travel (+145% YoY), Morocco, India and Egypt. Meanwhile, most Kiwis travelled to Vietnam, Egypt, Morocco, Turkey and Japan in September.
Globally, the most popular destination in September was Morocco, followed by Vietnam and Italy. There was also significant rising demand for Ecuador (where customers rose 93% YoY), Argentina (+59%) and Uzbekistan (+40%).
Following the uncertainty around the Middle East region earlier in the year, the uplift in customer numbers in September reflects a return to traveller confidence, the popularity of shoulder season travel and continuing demand for immersive, locally led travel experiences.
Intrepid Travel ANZ Managing Director Brett Mitchell said: “September is always a popular month for travellers looking to enjoy the milder post-peak season temperatures across Europe, the Middle East and Northern Africa, but this year the demand has been exceptional. Despite rising cost pressures and ongoing geopolitical uncertainties, travel remains a key aspiration for more people. In addition to a bumper month of departures, Intrepid’s NPS score finished ahead of target at 83. This is testament to our ongoing commitment to delivering on our promise of authentic experiences led by incredible local leaders, while also managing our busiest month ever.”
Intrepid is also seeing a rise in travellers seeking active and nature-based adventures, as well as growing interest from families with young children wanting to explore the world together.
