The Most Popular Family Holiday Destinations for 2024

In 2023 we have seen families reconnecting to the best holiday destinations in a deeper, more authentic way; finding new ways to discover and explore and looking for the points of difference which define not just a good holiday but a truly memorable trip. With the number of people choosing to travel getting back towards the levels that we saw in 2019 we are seeing savvy travellers booking ahead for 2024 and beyond.

It is our preference to work with smaller boutique owner-run properties as we think this gives you a much more authentic experience and no shortage of quality. It is these properties that often get booked in advance so planning ahead is key.

Where will you be travelling?

Here we share some of those destinations that might be on your radar for the first time, or those that are more timeless but you can experience in a new way.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica has long been a popular destination for family holidays. It is not hard to see why, with wildlife encounters, jungle trails and a focus on outdoor activities it is perfect for children of all ages. The Costa Rican phrase Pura Vida or ‘Pure life’ celebrates the simpler things in life and this is something that you will experience throughout your trip as you embrace the natural environment.

Costa Rica is the great pioneer of eco - tourism and has it all. Unique volcanic and jungle landscapes; exquisite tropical beaches; bustling historic towns and an almost limitless range of adventurous activities, so it is like a real life geography lesson.

With direct flights reinstated from the UK to both Guanacaste and San Jose for 2024 it is once again easier to reach.

Here we share some of our favourite things to experience in the country with young children.

Galapagos

The Galapagos Islands are home to many endangered species, with some of it’s most famous inhabitants being Marine Iguanas, Giant Tortoises and the Blue-Footed Booby. The Galapagos National Park regulates immigration and tourism in the entire archipelago, so this really is a place to plan in advance.

Our tailor-made family holidays to the Galapogas Islands take into your consideration your interests, your travel style and budget. Combined with a trip to beautiful Ecuador, this is a true once in a lifetime experience.

Iceland

The Northern Lights are high on the ‘bucket list’ for most families. Your family holiday to Iceland offers this and many other unique experiences. From volcanoes, geysers, lava flows, lakes and waterfalls to whale watching and the chance to ride a skidoo.

The choice of accommodation is varied, from staying in the tiny but nonetheless welcoming, and interesting Viking city of Reykjavik and it’s great family friendly hotels, to more remote properties with the opportunity to stargaze.

For families that are looking for flexibility you can easily explore this amazing country on your own or with a private guide. Allowing you to do things at your own pace. For some holiday inspiration you can view our example itineraries here.

Kenya

Kenya is the quintessential safari destination with golden grasslands, flat acacia trees and all the great African animals. Experience one of the greatest wilderness sightings on earth as the Great Wildebeest Migration crosses the Mara River in the Maasai Mara.

A Big Five safari is probably on the wish list of most people - even more so if you can experience it as a family. Many of the safari camps also have Little Ranger activities to cater for your whole group, some of the activities on offer include, bush walks, warrior training, a visit to Samburu village. What is even better is that many of these camps are in malaria free locations.

Our African specialists would be happy to talk to you about choosing the safari lodge that is best suited to your family.

Jordan

Jordan is a firm favourite for us and many of our Little People Families. With such a variety of activities there is scope to visit again and again. This is an authentic and historical land full of ancient wonders, impressive World Heritage sites, Bedouin camps and stunning desert landscapes, Castles, the Dead Sea, vast desert wadis and of course Petra, they won’t be short of material for a school project or two.

One place that is a must visit on any trip here is Petra. One of the Seven Wonders of the modern world, this is best visited at sunrise, to beat the crowds and before the midday heat. We spent around 5 hours exploring the site which is just about enough for little legs. Contrast this with an amazing sunset safari visit to the desert at Wadi Rum and some star gazing from your own little Martian bubble tent.

If you have already visited let us inspire you with some more off- the beaten track experiences and delve into more of what the country has to offer.

Croatia

From the cobbled streets of Dubrovnik to the luxury yachts of Hvar, the clear blue Adriatic sea and a coastline that seemingly never ends, Croatia is a popular family holiday destination. Island hopping as day trips or a short overnight stay from the towns is a great way to see what each of them have to offer. From sea kayaking, to cycling and snorkelling there is more than enough to keep all explorers entertained.

You can spend an entire family holiday exploring the country and still have plenty to see on a second or third trip. Or, you can easily combine this with some of it's neighbouring countries and visit the castles of Slovenia or the stunning Kotor Bay in Montenegro.

Sri Lanka

After some well documented political issues in 2022 Sri Lanka is safe, open and welcoming visitors. A Sri Lanka family holiday has so much to offer, balancing outdoor adventurous activities with heritage and relaxation on the beaches, and is genuinely one of the most beautiful and diverse locations to spend a truly memorable family trip. The National Parks will also give you a great opportunity for wildlife spotting.

It is genuinely a year-round holiday destination with lots of sunshine, and high temperatures, although the best time to go to is between December and mid-April, considered to be the peak season. The seas are warm and some of the bays are perfect for swimming or spotting Blue and Sperm whales.

For some inspiration on what you else you could do whilst you are there, including spotting elephants at one of the national parks, or the famous Ella to Kandy train ride you can find a link to some of our example itineraries here.

Japan

Japan makes for a rewarding family holiday, with its distinct cultures striking landscapes and futurisitc cities there is always a perfect time to go. The Setouchi Prefecture is just one of the regions that have invested heavily in increasing the accessibility of the area with new high speed connections from the bustling metropolis of Tokyo. it is possible to combine so many of the areas that Japan has to offer in just one trip.

We will use our first hand knowledge and your preferences to plan your trip to encompass the best festivals, activities and regions for the time of year that you wish to visit.

Whatever you want to visit in Japan our suggested itinerary could be a great starting point for seeing what is possible. View our Japanese Family Adventure here.

We know that now more than ever making the most of your time on holiday is so important, to talk to us about designing the holiday that best suits your family you can call us on 0118 336 0363 or email us at info@littlepeoplebigadventures.com and we would be delighted to help you.