Where to travel this year, based on your Chinese zodiac sign

Recently updated on February 9th, 2026 at 04:42 pm

The Chinese Zodiac is an ancient part of Chinese culture, dating back over 2,000 years to the Qin dynasty. There are 12 Chinese Zodiac signs, based on a 12-year cycle, with each year represented by a different animal. The animals were chosen based on the order they arrived during a great race.

The Chinese New Year falls on February 17 in 2026, heralding the beginning of the Year of the Horse, predicted to be a time of energy, independence, and ambition. To celebrate the Chinese New Year on February 17, we’ve chosen where to travel this year, based on each Chinese Zodiac sign. Whether you’re a sensitive Rabbit or a passionate Dragon, here’s all the inspiration you need to choose your next travel destination.

Year of the Horse – Australia

1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014

People born under the Chinese zodiac sign of the Horse are known to be easy-going, energetic and warm-hearted. Their likeable, positive nature makes them great in social situation. And that’s why we’re sending you to Australia. You’ll get along well with the famously laid-back Australians, plus you’ll love stretching your legs in the wide-open spaces.

Take a drive along the Great Ocean Road, explore the Red Centre around Uluru, go snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef, or soak up the vibrant energy of the cities like Sydney and Melbourne. You could even watch a thrilling game of AFL (Australian football).

Year of the Rat – South Africa

1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020

People born in the Year of the Rat are clever, kind, and curious. You love to keep things spicy with lots of variety, so we’re picking South Africa as your ultimate destination for this year.

You can go from exploring the rich history and culture to pumping up the adrenaline with activities like surfing, hiking, safari game drives, or swimming with sharks. You’ll also love the diverse scenery, with everything from beaches to winelands to the bushveld dotted with wild animals in the national parks.

Year of the Ox – India

1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021, 2033

The strong, resolute and careful Ox doesn’t always make bold leaps into the unknown. However, this could be the year for the Ox to get out of their comfort zone and take a leap of faith! India is the perfect destination to provide the best of both worlds.

People born under the Chinese zodiac sign of the Ox will love visiting the quiet temples in the holy city of Varanasi or witnessing the sacred rituals along the Ganges River. But you’ll also find plenty of colour and adventure from vibrant cities like Delhi to incredible festivals like Holi.

Year of the Tiger – Chile

1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022, 2034

People born in the Year of the Tiger are known to be confident, passionate, and ambitious risk-takers. While they’re likely to face many ups and downs, it’s just how the resilient Tiger likes it! If you’re looking for a destination to satiate your desire for adventure, we suggest heading to Chile.

You can explore the vast Atacama Desert or go hiking among the glaciers of Patagonia. Trek through the Andes Mountains, see the mysterious Moai statues of Easter Island. Hit the beaches of Viña del Mar or roam the vibrant streets of Santiago. Live it up Tigers, because this is your year!

Year of the Rabbit – Turkey

1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023

People born under the Chinese zodiac sign of the Rabbit are known for their patience and compassion, making them wonderful travellers. They’re also known for their sensitive and soft-spoken nature, so a holiday is the perfect way to relieve stress.

That’s why we’re sending Rabbits to Turkey this year. You’ll love exploring all the ancient history and culture, and the beautiful scenery across the country. Plus, you’ll feel right at home among the famously friendly Turkish hospitality.

RELATED CONTENT: Your essential Turkey travel guide

Year of the Dragon – Namibia

1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024

People born in the Year of the Dragon are characterised by their passion, ambition, and need for adventure. The strong and courageous Dragons will feel in tune with the dynamic energy of this year. That’s why we’re suggesting a trip to Namibia, where you’ll be amazed by the soaring orange sand dunes, vast desert landscapes, and massive wildlife reserves.

Get your thrills by dune-boarding down the Sossusvlei or spotting elephants and rhinos on safari. And satisfy your romantic side by camping out under the starry night sky.

Year of the Snake – Montenegro

1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025

Intelligent, intuitive and mysterious Snakes love to spend their holidays in a quiet place of luxury where they can reflect and unwind. We suggest heading to the beautiful Mediterranean country, Montenegro.

It’s got all the glitz and glamour of the French Riviera without the crowds and high prices. Kick back and enjoy the gorgeous Adriatic beaches, the medieval towns and the slower pace in Montenegro, all while still indulging in luxury five-star hotels, swanky marinas, and fine dining restaurants.

Year of the Sheep – Canada

1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, 2027

The calm, gentle, compassionate Sheep are known for their kind-hearted, social nature. They’re also deep thinking and sensitive, so we’re suggesting Canada for your next trip. It’s the perfect place to relax in the fresh air of stunning landscapes like the Rockies or Vancouver Island. Plus, you’ll fit in well with the friendly Canadians wherever you travel.

GET INSPIRED BY: Secrets of the Rockies and Glacier National Park

Year of the Monkey – Spain

1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028

People born in the Year of the Monkey are famous for their clever, curious, and humorous nature. Their optimistic ways will see them breeze through the year’s ups and downs. Monkeys are also confident and witty, plus they love to explore and have fun! That’s why we’re sending you to sultry Spain. You’ll love spending the long balmy days exploring colourful streets, eating tapas, and watching amazing Flamenco shows.

Year of the Rooster – Scandinavia

1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017, 2029

Roosters are known to be brave and confident people who dream big. You’re observant and hardworking, but you’ve also got an adventurous streak that will serve you well this year. We think you’ll love a trip to Scandinavia, where you can roam across spectacular countries like Sweden, Denmark, and Norway. You’ll be impressed by the simplicity, calm and comfort of Scandinavian minimalism, but you’ll also love getting a dose of adventure when you explore the stunning fjords, mountains and lakes of this region.

Year of the Dog – California

1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030

The loyal, honest and sweet Dog is the justice-seeker of the Chinese Zodiac. People born in the Year of the Dog are also friendly, active and playful, so we’re sending you on a trip to California, USA. You’ll love getting out into nature with the beautiful coastline and redwood forests. Plus, you’ll vibe well with the sunny disposition of the local Californians and the state’s sustainable ethos.

GET INSPIRED BY: Northern California

Year of the Pig – Thailand

1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031

People born in the Year of the Pig are known to be kind, trustworthy, joyful and very generous. That’s why we think you’ll love a trip to Thailand, famed as the ‘Land of Smiles’. Pigs will fit right in with the friendly Thai people and the generous Buddhist practices of the country.

Be sure to head to the beaches of southern Thailand and the northern mountains of Chiang Mai where you can explore magical waterfalls and dazzling temples. You can also observe the call to alms when Buddhist monks walk into the city to offer blessings and receive food from the locals.

What’s your Chinese zodiac sign? Have you decided where to travel this year? Let us know in the comments below….