British holidaymakers are often associated with the sweltering Spanish sun. But a new generation of travellers is becoming more likely to swap poolside reading for studying charred car frames and buildings in war-torn countries.

Flight-and-stay inclusive packages are now available in almost every country in the world, including many barred by the government. There are group visits to a changing Syria, roving trips through Taliban-run Afghanistan and adventures in Jonestown, site of the Guyanese cult massacre in 1978.

More and more British tourists are inquiring about conflict zones and destinations on the “do not travel” list, according to operators running so-called dark tourism packages.

Companies such as War Tours in Ukraine and the Chinese-based Young Pioneer Tours offer holidays to dozens of countries from North Korea to Somaliland. They have reported a spike linked to global unrest.