Mercury Holidays Sees Record 55% Growth in Solo Travel Bookings and Announces Six New Tailored Itineraries for 2026 to Meet Rising Demand

Mercury Holidays has reported a significant 55% increase in solo escorted tour bookings, reflecting the growing demand from independent travellers, particularly older generations, seeking well-organised but flexible travel experiences.

Mercury Holidays has reported a significant 55% increase in solo escorted tour bookings, reflecting the growing demand from independent travellers, particularly older generations, seeking well-organised but flexible travel experiences. The rise in solo travel is not just a trend but a shift in how people approach exploring new destinations. In response, Mercury Holidays is expanding its portfolio to include six new solo itineraries for 2026, offering more opportunities for solo travellers to enjoy immersive experiences without the stress of planning every detail themselves.

The Surge in Solo Travel Demand

Solo travel is experiencing an undeniable boom, with more people opting for guided tours that offer the freedom to explore while still benefiting from a structured itinerary. Mercury Holidays’ data shows India as the top destination for solo travellers, with nearly 30% of all solo bookings in the last month. Following closely behind are Vietnam and China, with solo travellers increasingly seeking culturally rich experiences. Morocco remains a popular choice for shorter trips, contributing significantly to the growing demand for solo travel.

This shift toward solo travel is particularly pronounced among older travellers, who value independence but appreciate the reassurance of a professionally managed trip. The combination of self-guided exploration with the support of a small group and a local guide is resonating strongly with this demographic. For many, solo tours offer the perfect balance: the chance to immerse themselves in new cultures while being part of a friendly, supportive group.

Mercury Holidays Expands Solo Offerings for 2026

In response to this growing interest, Mercury Holidays is expanding its range of solo travel packages. Six new itineraries are set to launch in January 2026, designed to cater to the over-60s age group, which continues to be a key growth segment. These new tours will offer private rooms with no single supplement, ensuring solo travellers can enjoy a high level of comfort without the added cost of a single occupancy fee.

The new offerings include exciting destinations, with the Wonders of China for Solo Travellers and the Grand Tour of North India for Solo Travellers among the most eagerly anticipated. These tours are specifically crafted to give travellers a deep, culturally immersive experience, with local guides and curated activities that cater to the interests of independent explorers.

The Wonders of China tour, a 16-day journey, will take guests on a scenic Yangtze River Cruise, followed by visits to iconic sites such as the Terracotta Army, the Forbidden City, and Tiananmen Square. A highlight of this tour will be the chance to see the giant pandas at the Chengdu Panda Breeding Centre. The tour is priced from £2,999 per person and departs in December 2025, with additional departures in 2026.

Similarly, the Grand Tour of North India offers a 17-day experience through Delhi, Varanasi, Jaipur, and Amritsar. Highlights include a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges, a visit to the Taj Mahal, and stunning views of the Himalayas. This culturally rich itinerary will allow guests to immerse themselves in the spiritual and historic heart of India. The tour is priced from £2,899 per person and departs in 2026.

Tailored Experiences for Solo Travellers

Mercury Holidays is committed to providing more than just standard holidays; the company aims to deliver tailored travel experiences that resonate with solo adventurers. The growing popularity of solo travel has prompted the company to carefully craft itineraries that offer a balance of independence and structure, ensuring guests can explore freely but with the security of having every detail organised for them.

The demand for solo tours is not only a reflection of a shift in travel preferences but also an indication of how the travel industry is evolving. Many solo travellers, particularly those over 60, are seeking enriching experiences that allow them to travel further afield but prefer the support of a guided, hassle-free journey. Mercury Holidays continues to meet this demand by expanding its solo portfolio with diverse and exciting destinations.

Looking to the Future: Mercury Holidays’ Vision for Solo Travel

As the demand for solo travel continues to grow, Mercury Holidays remains at the forefront of this shift. The company’s expansion of its solo itineraries in 2026 is just the beginning. With more travellers seeking personalised, well-organised travel experiences, Mercury Holidays is set to introduce even more options in the future, providing solo travellers with even more opportunities to explore the world on their own terms.

The company is also focusing on maintaining its commitment to high-quality service, ensuring each solo traveller feels comfortable, secure, and well-supported. With its growing portfolio of solo tours, Mercury Holidays is positioning itself as the go-to brand for solo travellers seeking immersive, structured, and socially engaging holidays.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Solo Travel with Mercury Holidays

With solo travel becoming an increasingly important part of the tourism landscape, Mercury Holidays has successfully tapped into this growing market. By offering immersive experiences in destinations like India, China, and Morocco, the company is providing solo travellers with the ideal balance of independence and structured exploration. As demand continues to rise, Mercury Holidays is committed to expanding its solo offerings, ensuring that every traveller can explore new destinations with confidence and ease. For those seeking a personalised yet secure way to experience the world, Mercury Holidays remains a leading choice in the solo travel market.

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