When there are so many wonderful destinations, it can be tough to choose just one to visit. Month-by-month, we help you pick.
If you’re reading this blog you’re probably an enthusiastic traveler. And you have a long list of continents, countries, cities, and islands on your “to visit” list.
So many in fact that you might be confused when it comes to deciding where to go at any given time. There’s such a wealth of destinations to choose from–how can you pick between the dazzling beaches of Costa Rica and lush forest hikes in Indonesia? Or between joyfully snowshoeing in Finland’s frozen white wonderland or surfing the world-class waves of Nazare in Portugal?
We can help you choose.
Here’s a month-by-month guide to where to travel when based on climate, opportunities for adventure, and our travel experiences.
Many of these destinations sparkle all year round or have several different “best” seasons, depending on what you’re looking to do. So don’t take this list as gospel. It just offers suggestions and guidance to help you make a decision. Use the links to learn more about our tour offerings in that country.
Remember these are sample itineraries; all of our tours can be customized to your specifications. Feel free to browse here and when you're ready contact us at travel@globalbasecamps to start planning your trip.
January
New year, new beginning. Start off right with a trip to one of these brilliant destinations.
Argentina is one of those destinations that draws visitors all year round. With a temperate climate and a range of choices from sophisticated city culture to untamed natural adventure, it checks all the travel boxes. January is the peak of summer in Argentina, making it an excellent time to explore its varied landscapes and exciting culture. In Buenos Aires, attend outdoor tango shows and visit colorful neighborhoods like La Boca. Head to Patagonia for breathtaking hikes or to witness the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier. The warm weather is perfect for wine-tasting in Mendoza--with the picturesque Andes backdrop. For those seeking adventure, the Iguazu Falls, pictured above, present a spectacular natural wonder on the border with Brazil, with lush rainforests surrounding the powerful cascades.
January in South Africa is midsummer, with warm, sunny days that invite exploration. Wildlife enthusiasts can head to Kruger National Park for exceptional game viewing, with opportunities to spot the 'Big Five' in their natural habitat. The Western Cape, with its beautiful beaches and the bustling city of Cape Town, provides a seaside escape with activities like Table Mountain hikes and visits to the historic Robben Island. The Cape Winelands are in full swing, offering scenic vineyard tours and exquisite wine-tasting experiences. For those interested in water activities, the coastal towns along the Garden Route offer excellent opportunities for surfing, diving, and whale watching.
Also great in January: Finland, Cambodia, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, Guatemala, India, Laos, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam, and Iceland.
February
By the time February rolls around holiday cheer is a distant memory and winter cold is in full force. Maybe it’s time for some relief. Here are two possible antidotes to winter's chill.
Guatemala: February is a fantastic month to visit Guatemala, a time when the dry season brings pleasant weather ideal for exploring. You can wander through the ancient ruins of Tikal, marveling at the majestic Mayan temples against a backdrop of clear, blue skies. In the colonial city of Antigua, you can enjoy charming streets and the rich culture without worrying about rain. This month is also great for hiking up to Lake Atitlán for stunning vistas of the lake surrounded by volcanoes, pictured above. For those interested in local culture, the colorful markets in Chichicastenango offer a feast for the senses, showcasing traditional crafts and textiles.
New Zealand: February is one of the best times to visit New Zealand, with warm summer weather inviting outdoor adventures. On the North Island, you can explore the geothermal wonders of Rotorua and relax on the beautiful beaches of the Bay of Islands. The South Island offers breathtaking experiences like hiking the trails of Fiordland National Park, pictured above, where the Milford Sound presents a spectacular natural landscape. Adventure seekers can enjoy bungee jumping in Queenstown, the adventure capital of the world. Wine enthusiasts will love the Marlborough region, known for its exquisite Sauvignon Blanc, with vineyard tours and tastings.
Also great in February: Argentina, Cambodia, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, Egypt, Guatemala, India, Laos, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam, Iceland, Costa Rica, and Finland.
March
With winter clearly in the rearview and summer on the horizon, it could be the right time to head off with the whole family for a spectacular spring break.
Cambodia: March is an excellent time to visit Cambodia. The weather is warm, not stifling, and relatively dry–just right for exploring the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, where you can witness the sun rising over ancient stone spires. In the capital city, Phnom Penh, you can delve into Cambodia’s rich history and culture. March also provides a great opportunity to experience the serene beauty of the Cambodian countryside, especially with a boat trip on the Tonle Sap Lake, observing the floating villages and abundant birdlife. In Sihanoukville, pictured above, chillax on a beach that seems yours alone.
India is both geographically and culturally enormous, with endless gifts for adventurous travelers. March there marks the transition from winter to summer, making it a favorable time for travel. Visit the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra without the extreme heat or crowds of peak tourist season. In Rajasthan, cities like Jaipur, known as the pink city, and Udaipur are pulsing with color and culture, offering a glimpse into India's royal past with their majestic forts and palaces. March also coincides with the festival of Holi, celebrated across the country with vibrant colors and joyous gatherings, providing an immersive cultural experience. In the south, visit Kerala on the Malabar Coast, named one of the ten paradises of the world by National Geographic Traveler magazine.
Also great in March: Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, Guatemala, India, Laos, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam, and Iceland.
April
April is definitely not the cruelest month for traveling. The whole Northern Hemisphere awakens to spring and its endless possibilities for exploration and adventure. Peek at these destinations to whet your travel appetite.
Japan: We’ve all seen the spectacular photos of cherry blossom season in Japan, but you have to be there to truly appreciate the glory of the sakura. Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and other cities transform into magnificent landscapes of delicate pink and white blossoms, perfect for hanami, traditional cherry blossom viewing parties. Gorgeous as it is, Japan has much more to offer than cherry blossom season: bustling Tokyo, the snow-capped peak of Mt. Fuji, and the culture and temples of the ancient city of Kyoto to name just a few attractions. And don’t restrict yourself to April in Japan. The country’s natural beauty makes it a great country to visit any time of the year.
Morocco: April in Morocco is a time of mild temperatures ideal for both desert excursions and city explorations. In Marrakech, wander through the bustling souks and the serene Jardin Majorelle, or visit the historic Bahia Palace. The coastal city of Essaouira provides a breezy escape with its charming medina and fresh seafood. For adventure seekers, April is perfect for a Sahara Desert tour, where you can ride camels over the dunes and experience a night under the stars in a Berber camp. The Atlas Mountains offer breathtaking hikes and the chance to visit traditional Berber villages.
Also great in April: Argentina, Chile, China, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Egypt, Guatemala, Jordan, Sri Lanka, and South Korea.
May
Botswana: May is shoulder season in Botswana, and that means fewer crowds and excellent game viewing. Botswana also offers remoteness, intoxicating sunsets, endless horizons, mokoro (traditional dugout canoes) trips along narrow, reed-lined channels, herds of elephants, packs of wild dogs, and lions stalking their prey. Huge herds of game roam freely between the plains of the Kalahari and the waterways of the Okavango Delta, where you might have the life-altering experience of seeing a hippo in its native habitat, pictured above. The vast expanses of Okavango's pristine wilderness are protected by some of the strictest conservation policies in the world.
Peru: May is a prime month to visit Peru, offering clear, dry days perfect for hiking and outdoor activities. This is a fine time to trek the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, with stunning views and fewer crowds before the peak tourist season. In the Sacred Valley, you can explore ancient Inca sites like Ollantaytambo and Pisac, enjoying the pleasant weather and green landscapes. The Amazon Rainforest is also accessible in May, providing opportunities for wildlife spotting and jungle excursions. In the capital city of Lima, you can enjoy the rich Peruvian cuisine and explore the city's colonial past.
Also great in May: Argentina, Chile, China, Indonesia, Japan, Jordan, and Morocco.
June
In June enjoy warmer weather and--at least until school’s out–fewer crowds than you’ll see during high summer. Take this opportunity to visit popular destinations before everyone else does.
Australia: June is the dry season in the tropical north, making it the optimal time to visit the Great Barrier Reef for world-class snorkeling and diving. Or explore the natural wonders of Kakadu National Park and view the ancient rock art of Ubirr. The mild temperatures in Sydney and Melbourne make for comfortable city exploring, great for visiting landmarks like the Sydney Opera House, or enjoying Melbourne's renowned coffee culture. For those interested in skiing or winter sports, the Snowy Mountains in New South Wales and Victoria's Alpine region begin their ski season in June.
Italy: Early summer in Italy offers perfect weather but is still free from high-summer tourist hordes–although there will always be tourists in Italy. Italy has it all–iconic historic sites like the Colosseum in Rome, Venetian canals, Greek temple ruins in Sicily, the rolling hills of Tuscan wine country, dazzling beaches on both coasts, and rigorous hiking in the Dolomites. And of course, the food. It’s all there ready to be experienced.
Also great in June: Argentina, Botswana, Indonesia, Japan, and Peru.
We hope this guide helps you choose a destination. Are you ready to make some travel plans? Let us assist you in getting there.
Come back next time for Where to Go When: Part 2, July to December.
