Pope Leo XIV Announces Extensive 2026 Apostolic Journeys
Vatican City – Pope Leo XIV has unveiled a busy schedule of international travel for the first half of 2026, including Apostolic Journeys to Monaco, Spain, and a ten-day visit to four African nations: Algeria, Cameroon, Angola, and Equatorial Guinea. The announcement, made by the Holy See Press Office on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, signals a renewed focus on global engagement following the conclusion of the 2025 Holy Year.
Monaco Visit
Pope Leo XIV will begin his series of journeys with a one-day visit to the Principality of Monaco on March 28, 2026. This will be his first trip to the slight European nation.
Ten-Day African Tour
From April 13 to April 23, 2026, Pope Leo will embark on an extensive tour of Africa. The itinerary includes stops in:
- Algeria: Visiting Algiers and Annaba, following in the footsteps of Saint Augustine of Hippo.
- Cameroon: With planned visits to Yaoundé, Bamenda, and Douala.
- Angola: Including stops in Luanda, Muxima, and Saurimo.
- Equatorial Guinea: Visiting Malabo, Mongomo, and Bata.
The African journey will focus on themes of peace and solidarity with the poor and marginalized, according to the Vatican News. The trip also holds particular significance due to its connection to Saint Augustine, a key figure in Pope Leo’s religious order. Vatican News
Spain and the Canary Islands
Pope Leo XIV will then travel to Spain for a six-day visit in June 2026, encompassing Madrid, Barcelona, and the Canary Islands archipelago. The Independent
Resumption of Global Pilgrimages
These journeys follow Pope Leo XIV’s initial international trip to Türkiye and Lebanon in late 2025. Prior to these trips, the Pope focused on pastoral visits within Italy, including a planned visit to Lampedusa. Vatican News
The Pope’s extensive travel schedule reflects his commitment to engaging with the global Catholic community, a commitment strengthened after his election last May as the first US-born pontiff. The Independent