Explore Worldwide has reported a strong rise in interest for the destinations featured in Race Across the World 2026.
*All details correct at time of publish (25 May 2026)
This year’s series began in Palermo and saw teams travel 7,400 miles across Europe and Asia to reach the finish line in rural Mongolia, following parts of the historic Silk Road.
Along the way, viewers watched contestants navigate their way through Italy, Greece, Turkey, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, showcasing everything from bustling cities to remote landscapes and extreme climates.
As the series has unfolded, Explore Worldwide has seen the latest wave of the “Race Across the World effect” translate into an increased surge in interest for trips inspired by the route.
Year-on-year organic search increases have been recorded across several itineraries, including The Three Stans (+237%), The Five Stans of the Silk Road (+39%), Highlights of Albania (+30% YoY) and Amalfi Coast Walking – Agriturismo (+3% YoY).
Michael Edwards, Managing Director at Explore Worldwide, said: “We love seeing how Race Across the World captures people’s imagination and inspires them to consider destinations they may never have thought of before.
“Many of the countries featured in this year’s route have been long-standing favourites among our travellers, particularly those across the Silk Road. The continued interest we’re seeing shows that viewers are eager to turn inspiration from their TV screens into real-world adventures.
“Some of the destinations were already proving to be popular with our customers in 2026, with bookings in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan up 71% and 49% year-on-year, respectively, and that was before the show had even aired, so we are delighted to see such beautiful locations showcased on such a popular platform.”
Explore Worldwide has over 40 years of experience, with 350 trips across 100 countries, including those featured in this year’s Race Across the World. To find out more, visit www.explore.co.uk.
