# Growth in dark and mystery tourism trends

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/growth-in-dark-and-mystery-tourism-trends
> Updated: 2026-10-28T07:01:00.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2.

Global interest in mystery, folklore, and horror-themed travel has seen a significant rise, particularly during the Halloween season. Data from the tour platform GuruWalk indicates that mystery tours accounted for one in ten Spanish-language bookings on October 31, 2025, doubling the interest seen in the previous month. For 2026, the company anticipates a 20% increase in mystery tour reservations globally.

Popular itineraries include Jack the Ripper tours in London, Roman legends tours, and destinations such as Prague, Kyoto, Tokyo, and Madrid. Seasonal hubs include Salem, Massachusetts—which is planning a 400th-anniversary drone show in 2026—Bran Castle in Transylvania, and New Orleans.

A broader trend in ‘dark tourism’ and paranormal experiences is emerging, described by Booking.com as a ‘Trip to the Beyond’ that is expected to be a significant movement for 2027. Research involving over 28,000 travelers across 32 countries shows that 65 percent of respondents express interest in paranormal-related experiences. Specifically, approximately 48 percent would consider activities aimed at contacting the afterlife, while 50 percent show curiosity regarding themes of death and spirituality.

In the United States, this trend encompasses visits to former psychiatric hospitals, mortuaries, and funeral homes for guided investigations and overnight stays. This shift moves beyond traditional attractions toward more immersive, historical, and spiritual experiences.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-28: Paranormal tourism emerges as a rising travel trend

A Booking.com study reveals a rising trend in paranormal tourism, with 65% of travelers interested in experiences related to the afterlife and spirituality.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dark-tourism-and-paranormal-experiences-emerge-as-travel-trends

### 2026-10-27: Global interest in mystery and horror tours rises for Halloween season

Halloween is driving a global rise in mystery and horror tourism, with top-rated tours in London, Rome, and Prague, alongside seasonal destinations like Salem and Transylvania.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/global-interest-in-mystery-and-horror-tours-rises-for-halloween-season

---
Cite as: Growth in dark and mystery tourism trends. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/growth-in-dark-and-mystery-tourism-trends
