8 New Trends OARS Adventures in 2026
From roaming the wild landscapes of Chile’s Atacama Desert to paddling your own boat through Idaho’s canyon country, OARS reveals the top travel ideas for 2026.
“In 2026, people want deeper, more hands-on adventures that combine culture, nature, new skills and connections,” said Steve Markle, OARS vice president of sales and marketing. “Our newest tours reflect what our guests are asking for: more hikes, more meaningful connections to the places we visit, and a greater variety of international and domestic adventures. We’re also excited to continue and grow our specialty tour offerings, from wellness retreats to tours that create space for specific communities on the river.”
Popular new trips for 2026 include kayaking in the turquoise waters of Croatia’s picturesque Dalmatian Coast and two new all-Dolly adventures on the Snake River through Hell’s Canyon in Idaho. OARS is also expanding its skills- and affinity-based services out west, including an all-female paddling clinic on the Lower Salmon River, a Summer Solstice Yoga Retreat on the San Juan River, and LGBTQ+ tours of West Water Canyon.
Hold on to your sandal straps! These 2026 adventures have already begun. Start planning your next big trip.
Embark on an international journey
Explore Chile from deserts to glaciers
Chilean Explorers: Atacama to Patagonia The journey provides a comprehensive introduction to the country’s most dramatic landscapes. To the north, wander the Atacama Desert, where salt flats, steaming geysers and flame-colored canyons dominate the horizon, then paddle the turquoise waters of the Petrohué River to explore Chile’s Los Lagos region and the charming town of Puerto Montt. This two-week immersive trip ends in Patagonia, where granite peaks, sparkling lakes, and ancient forests provide the basis for world-class hiking and wildlife viewing. Chilean culture, stargazing, high desert adventures and days spent beneath the spiers and towers of the southern Andes are all part of this unforgettable itinerary. Explore three of South America’s most iconic regions in depth with a local guide.
Revel in the nature and culture of Croatia and Montenegro
With the rise of the “slow travel” trend, Croatia and Montenegro As a leading destination for authentic local experiences and more meaningful encounters with nature and culture, we continue. This carefully curated multi-sport itinerary perfectly combines sea kayaking, rafting, hiking and coastal exploration for an “all-inclusive” adventure that will satisfy your appetite for energetic and nature-focused fun. Speaking of appetites, accommodation is arranged in local private hotels and dinner is usually in a private house or restaurant, chosen for its ambience and local quality. By visiting the Croatian coastline and the landscapes of Montenegro together, you can combine Adriatic seascapes, historic towns, rivers and mountains in one trip.
Experience the wild beauty of the American West
Ride a Dory through Hell’s Canyon
Last season we saw high demand for our all-inclusive tours on the Colorado River through Cataract Canyon, so we expanded our offerings there but also added Two New Dory Tours in Hell’s Canyon 2026 – to the famous Idaho whitewater dory fish has been around for decades. Starting deep in the steep canyon of Hells Canyon, the deepest river canyon in North America, visitors ride Class III to IV rapids in a classic hard-shell gondola. Baggage boats carry heavy gear in true OARS Dories style, a rare opportunity to experience a legendary river at the highest end of boating style.
Rock out on the Colorado River through Cataract Canyon
Building on the success of our 2025 Rogue River Music Tour with Jerry Garcia contemporary Joe Craven, Through Cataract Canyon is a highlight of 2026. Imagine floating down the Colorado River through dramatic red rock canyons with rugged Class III rapids, towering canyon walls, tranquil rivers, and riverside camping under the stars. Then add nightly acoustic jam sessions hosted by Craven and other experienced musicians. All jams are open, whether you want to play or just listen. Either way, you’re sure to enjoy turning the canyon into a floating music festival. This trip is part of OARS’ growing lineup Music Lover’s Adventureincluding our dear A journey of stars and guitars—More musical tours will also be announced.
Celebrating the Summer Solstice on the San Juan River
this Summer Solstice Yoga and Wellness Retreat Our hotel on the San Juan River in southern Utah invites guests to welcome summer and the longest day of the year with all their heart. Led by somatic therapists Melissa Keller and Andrea Meronuck, this soul-nourishing retreat gives you time to slow down, connect with nature, and rediscover balance under the desert sun. Daily yoga classes, guided mindfulness exercises, delicious meals prepared by your guide, picturesque rafting days, towering canyon walls, archaeological sites and warm desert nights create a natural sanctuary for reflection and rejuvenation. It’s a restorative way to welcome the longest day of the year.
Find community on a Westwater Canyon LGBTQ+ tour
OARS is expanding its affinity-based offerings with new approaches LGBTQ+ Colorado River Rafting Trip Through Stunning West Water Canyon. Designed for travelers who want both adventure and a sense of belonging, this 3-day trip, led by LGBTQ+ guides and allies, creates a warm, non-judgmental and supportive space offering rapids, spectacular canyon walls and unforgettable desert nights. This is an opportunity to connect, celebrate and experience the Colorado River in an exciting and affirming way.
Learn to paddle for salmon – women only
Recognizing that women-specific rowing would be difficult to achieve in the river world, OARS debuts A new lower salmon clinic This provides women with space, support and guidance from some of the best female guides in the industry. Lower Salmon, Idaho is known for its warm waters, sandy beaches, and fun and approachable rapids, making it the perfect classroom for a paddling clinic. Led by professional female instructors, this hands-on course teaches basic boating techniques, river safety, boat handling, reading the water and fast strategies. Whether you’re new to paddling or want to improve your skills, this supportive environment allows women to paddle with confidence while enjoying one of the most stunning river canyons in the West.
Beat digital fatigue at the Grand Canyon
As more travelers seek an antidote to digital fatigue, Grand Canyon Rafting Dory boat tours remain in high demand. Seats are limited for 2026 and reservations are open for the 2027 itinerary. In addition to the deep isolation from the outside world that visitors crave, this iconic river trip mesmerizes with its cathedrals of sandstone, limestone and schist, hidden slot canyons, exquisite desert vegetation and some of the best rapids in the world. Even though our guides have completed dozens of 15- to 18-day full canyon expeditions, they are still fascinated by the canyon’s secrets.