Looking for travel inspiration for your next adventure? Here's the guide you need
Planning your next adventure can be challenging, especially when choosing where to go next. Certain countries may have specific trekking seasons, like Nepal for example. Others might offer unique experiences only available at particular times of the year. World travel offers endless possibilities with so many awesome destinations and never enough time to visit them all!
Let's break it down. Here is a list of the absolute BEST places to visit for each month of the year. These are not fixed, and you can explore these regions outside of the months we suggest. Our recommendations below offer guidance on where it’s incredible to visit during any given month.
We’ve listed either a northern and southern hemisphere option, or one warmer and one cooler adventure, giving you the freedom to decide which suits you most.
Read on to find out where to visit when, what’s special about these places and our recommended itinerary for each. You can thank us later!
Quick summary
- January – Ascend Kilimanjaro in winter or try Gorilla trekking in Uganda
- February – Climb Toubkal in winter in Morocco or enjoy Patagonia in spring
- March – Trek the Sahara Desert or explore Greenland
- April – Hike in the Himalayas in Nepal or visit Machu Picchu in Peru
- May – Discover Jordan or trek Bhutan in spring
- June – Journey to Svalbard or visit Tanzania
- July – Explore Norway or escape to Ladakh
- August – Hike in the Alps France or travel to Ecuador
- September – Spend autumn in Armenia or try a wildlife safari in Tanzania
- October – Trek the tepuis of Guyana or avoid the crowds in Nepal
- November – Visit Peru in spring or Norway for the Northern Lights
- December – Adventure break in Dubai or off-season trekking in Nepal
Where to visit in January
For those in the northern hemisphere, that lull between Christmas and spring can feel endless. The short days and long dark nights bring a lethargy that is best dispelled with an adventure to look forward to. And where better to escape to than Africa?!
Climb Kilimanjaro in January
January is our favourite time to climb Kilimanjaro. The short rainy season has mostly passed, the climate is warm and dry and there are very few people about. Even better, this is the best time to find fresh snow on the summit of Kilimanjaro.
Yes, there is year round snow on Kili across the ice fields and glaciers, but fresh snow is much more likely on the summit during winter. We think this adds a bit of magic to trekking trips as winter snow close to the equator is a rare phenomenon.
Highlights:
- Experience peaceful slopes away from the high season crowds
- Climb Kilimanjaro summit for the best chance of fresh snow
- Benefit from bright, clear, mild trekking days during wintertime
Recommended trip – Climb Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho Route.
With a slightly longer ascent, and more time to acclimatise to the altitude, the Lemosho Route is our most popular Kilimanjaro trek with an average 98% summit success rate. This route is quieter, offers a better chance to spot wildlife and climbs the stunning Shira Ridge – a highlight not offered on other Kilimanjaro routes.
Gorilla Trekking Uganda
January is the dry season in Uganda, just like its East African neighbour, Tanzania. Temperatures range between 20-35°C making it the warmest time of year to visit.
We can’t think of a better way to escape the cold of the northern winter than a journey through the national parks of Uganda?! Trekking through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a truly unique experience, and one of only a few places you can still see mountain gorillas in the wild.
Highlights:
- Escape the depths of winter for cooler climates
- Trek the illusive mountain gorillas in the wild
- Fall in love with the warm, welcoming country of Uganda – the Pearl of Africa
Recommended trip – Gorilla Trekking in Uganda.
Explore the extraordinary national parks of Uganda on this epic 12-day adventure, which includes gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, rainforest hikes, game drives and river safaris.
Where to visit in February
In February, the heat of the southern hemisphere summer is waning, and the temperatures in northern regions are warming. Below are two awesome destinations, each offering spectacular trekking during this often-overlooked month.
Climb Mount Toubkal in Winter
Experience the stunning Atlas Mountains in winter for an unforgettable trekking adventure. Mount Toubkal is the highest peak in Morocco, and northern Africa, that offers a short, sharp climb at high altitude with relatively mild conditions.
Don crampons and use ice axes to hike through snow and ice to the rocky summit of this 4,167m peak during the last frosts of winter.
Highlights:
- Experience High Atlas trekking in winter conditions
- Rest and recuperate in vibrant Marrakech afterwards
- Summit the highest peak in north Africa
Recommended trip – Climb Toubkal in Winter
Journey from the fragrant souks of Marrakech to the highest peak in Morocco in less than a week. This awesome adventure is a thrilling challenge and an excellent opportunity to try out trekking skills when conditions are ideal for winter ascents.
Summer Patagonia Trekking
After the heat of December and January, Patagonia is deliciously mild in February – still warm but less windy. Covering the southern parts of Argentina and Chile, escape the northern winter to balmy South America for unbelievable treks and spectacular scenery.
Highlights:
- Explore the most remote landscapes in the world
- Journey through breathtaking ravines, high mountain passes and glacial lakes
- Escape the cold climate of the northern hemisphere
Recommended trip – Ultimate Patagonia
Set aside two weeks for this fantastic adventure and visit the highlights of Patagonia including Tierra del Fuego, Ushuaia, Buenos Aires and Torres del Paine. Patagonia is an absolutely must-visit destination for adventurers!
Where to visit in March
Really, you can go to all sorts of places in spring and have a great time. Landscapes are awash with new life and temperatures are moderate. Two more unusual places to visit in March are Greenland and the Sahara. Each has a relatively short window where conditions are just perfect for adventure travel.
Visit the Sahara Desert
The hottest months to visit the Sahara Desert are June – August. In contrast, March temperatures hover around a mild 21°C, making it a wonderfully comfortable time to visit. Journey from the coastal towns of Morocco deep into the interior to discover the hidden communities that reside in some of the harshest conditions in the world.
Highlights:
- See stars meet sand dunes and marvel at the endless dark skies
- Experience Berber hospitality and camp out in traditional style
- Trek and ride camels across the vivid red rolling dunes
Recommended trip – Trek the Sahara Desert
Totally immerse yourself in the dreamy Sahara on this eye-opening 10-day adventure. Explore the exotic city of Marrakech before heading east to trek with Berber guides, learn about the topography of the changing dunes and experience the magic of the desert.
Try a Greenland Adventure Expedition
For almost seven months of the year, Greenland is covered in snow, and the days are eerily short. In March, the snows begin to melt, and temperatures start to climb. The days get longer, and you can still enjoy a winter expedition but without the biting cold and treacherous conditions.
Highlights:
- Catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights dancing across the endless night sky
- Try dogsledding, snowshoeing, ride a snowmobile and sail past icebergs
- Learn about the fascinating Inuit culture
Recommended trip – Greenland Multi-Activity
Our multi-activity expedition to Greenland offers the chance to traverse Greenland on less conventional transportation. Glimpse the illusive Northern Lights and explore this remote country by land and sea.
Where to visit in April
April marks the start of the popular trekking seasons in two of our iconic destinations – autumn in Peru and spring in Nepal. Whether you fancy a pilgrimage through time on the ancient Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, or an epic journey to Everest Base Camp, consider this month as particularly special.
Book Nepal Trekking in Spring
The mighty Himalayas are an adventurer’s playground and home to the tallest mountain in the world – Mount Everest. Visiting Nepal in spring offers a front row seat to the emerging plant and animal life bursting forth after a dormant winter. Although there is risk of the odd chilly day, the quiet trekking routes and abundance of natural beauty emerging from the land make this the perfect time to hike in Nepal.
Highlights:
- Benefit from mild conditions and fewer visitors at this time of year
- Springtime across the mountains in Nepal is simply breathtaking
- Catch glimpses of Everest from the capital city, Kathmandu, while the skies are crisp and clear
Recommended trip – The Classic Everest Base Camp Trek
Hiking to Everest Base Camp via the classic route follows in the footsteps of Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay, the renowned first conquerors of Everest. Choose this truly iconic trek to EBC, or check out some of the other best routes to Everest Base Camp. The Gokyo Lakes trek is a challenging climb through indescribable remote passes, away from the crowds, or add another summit to your quest and trek to EBC via nearby Island Peak.
Visit Peru in Autumn
July and August are peak months for travelling to Machu Picchu. The preceding months of April-June are much quieter, and the climate is mild with only the odd shower.
A visit to Peru in the southern hemisphere’s autumn is the perfect time to explore the ancient wonders of the Sacred Valley, the Rainbow Mountains, Lake Titicaca and Colca Canyon, as well as Machu Picchu. And these are just a few of the fascinating sites found throughout the Andes – there are many more besides!
Highlights:
- Follow in the footsteps of an innovative civilisation on the iconic Inca Trail
- Explore Machu Picchu at a quieter time of year
- Enjoy incredible trekking in the Andes Mountains for unique insight into Peruvian culture
Recommended trip – Trek the Inca Trail
A classic trekking route, the Inca Trail is a historic pathway through the Andean Mountains to the ancient city of Machu Picchu hidden high above the forested slopes. Arrive through the original Incan entrance to the city, the Sun Gate, at dawn for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Where to visit in May
Again, there are plenty of places to visit in May. Spring is well underway and temperatures in the northern hemisphere are generally mild with summer just around the corner.
Destinations with HOT summers are ideal for adventurers in May, before they become unbearable, busy or both.
Jordan Adventure Tours
Sat at the junction between Europe, Africa and Asia, this Middle Eastern country was a vital stop on ancient trade routes, and is steeped in history and culture. Temperatures in June, July and August can become unbearable but May is deliciously warm and a great time to travel Jordan on foot.
Highlights:
- Discover the indescribable wonder of Petra – the ancient Nabataean city
- Camp out in the Wadi Rum desert
- Float on the salty Dead Sea
- Explore the intriguing capital city of Amman
Recommended trip – Ultimate Jordan
This comprehensive trip covers most of the wonders of Jordan in two incredible weeks. Even as a relatively small country, there’s plenty to see, do and learn here. We suspect your first trip might not be your last, as Jordan is a hidden gem of a destination that travellers rave about.
Experience Bhutan Trekking
Bhutan is a mysterious Himalayan country, bursting with history, culture and traditions. Closed to the outside world as it was for centuries, visitors are now drawn to this fascinating country to discover a destination preserved by isolation and time.
As the mountain snow thaws and the temperatures rise, May is a beautiful time to see Bhutan in bloom. This window before the monsoons arrive is peaceful and the land is rife with new beginnings.
Highlights:
- Visit the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched high on a cliff
- Immerse yourself in ancient Buddhist culture
- Trek through remote and untouched mountains
Recommended trip – The Druk Path Bhutan
Trek from Paro to the capital city of Thimphu through the striking mountains of Bhutan. Begin your journey at Paro Taktshang, the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, the most famous monastery in Bhutan, before hiking through mountain passes, forests and villages. Learn about this fascinating country as you trek and fall in love with the Bhutanese people – the happiest in the world.
Where to visit in June
June marks the beginning of summer across the northern hemisphere and with it comes warmth and opportunity. Many destinations are delightful in June but we think it’s the best month to visit Svalbard, the most northerly inhabited place in the world, and Tanzania, for renowned safari adventures.
Join a Svalbard Adventure Tour
Svalbard is an archipelago of islands north of Norway, within the Arctic Circle. Longyearbyen is the northernmost town in the world on the island of Spitsbergen. For its location alone, Svalbard should be on every adventurer’s list.
Highlights:
- Explore under the light of the midnight sun phenomenon
- Spot polar bears, Arctic foxes, whales, seals and sea birds across the icy tundra
- Trek, kayak and camp through fjords, glaciers and icebergs
Recommended trip – Svalbard Five Glaciers Expedition
One of our more challenging Arctic adventures, this expedition takes in five different Arctic glaciers on foot and by boat. Kayak through icebergs and sleep under the stars in pristine wilderness. This trip is a totally immersive, fully off-grid Arctic adventure and not for the faint-hearted.
Explore Tanzania
By June, the rains have almost receded and the dry savannahs are awash with fresh growth and new life. Wildlife safaris at this time offer excellent opportunities for spotting big game, young mammals and high concentrations of wildlife. It’s also a wonderfully mild time to climb Kilimanjaro, although the summit will still be chilly.
Highlights:
- Spot animals large and small in the iconic Serengeti National Park
- Climb Kilimanjaro – the highest mountain in Africa
- Enjoy quieter trails and safari parks before the summer crowds arrive
Recommended trip – Machame Route with Wildlife Safari
The Machame Route is the most popular route up Kilimanjaro. It’s slightly shorter but success rates are generally high as this route allows for better acclimatisation to the altitude. No Kilimanjaro climb should end without taking the opportunity for a Tanzania safari afterwards – the perfect chance to rest your legs and let your eyes do the hard work.
Where to visit in July
For North America and Europe, July and August are summer holidays.As such, popular destinations are teeming with visitors. To escape the crowds, visit south Norway or the Indian region of Ladakh. Starkly different but each offering incredibly unique adventures, July is the perfect time to discover somewhere new.
Explore South Norway
Northeast of Scotland, across the North Sea, is the southwestern tip of Norway. Experience mild summer temperatures in this region jam-packed with remote islands, breathtaking fjords and ancient glaciers. Although it’s one of the busiest times of year to visit Norway, there are so many awesome places to discover, it’s easy to evade the masses.
Highlights:
- Find phenomenal scenery in one of the most picturesque places in the world
- Explore the vibrant cities of Bergen and Stavanger
- Discover the famous landmarks of Pulpit Rock, Trolls Tongue and Kjerag Rock
Recommended trip – Best of South Norway
Trekking three fantastic mountain routes across southern Norway, this trip includes hikes between refuges, scenic boat trips through breathtaking fjords and visits some of the most iconic sights in Norway.
The Best Time to Visit Ladakh
Ladakh is in the northernmost part of India. Although July is peak trekking season here, it’s still relatively quiet. The dramatic mountain landscape offers a wealth of hiking and adventure activities and the chance to learn more about the unique culture here.
Highlights:
- Relax on the shores of the stunning Changtang Lakes
- Celebrate at the Phyang Tsedup Festival like a local
- Explore the remote Indus Valley, Sham Valley and Markus Valley
Recommended trip – Indus Valley and Phyang Festival
In July, locals gather in Phyang to celebrate good’s triumph over evil in a festival full of colour, song and dance. An excellent opportunity to learn more about Ladakhi culture after exploring the incredible mountain passes of the Himalayas in Ladakh.
Where to visit in August
The height of the summer in the northern hemisphere is a busy time to travel, wherever you go. However, we think the following destinations escape the majority of the masses during this peak period, offering summertime adventures in unlikely places.
Hiking Trips in France
France is a beautiful place to visit in the summer with many visitors flocking to the coast, wine regions and cosmopolitan cities. Avoid all of these in favour of the French Alps – fantastically warm, super scenic and much less crowded.
Highlights:
- Escape the heat of summer in the spectacular French Alps
- Trek the iconic Tour du Mont Blanc during the warmest month of the year
- Discover hidden pastures, alpine glaciers and high peaks
Recommended trip – Classic Tour du Mont Blanc
This world-famous route traverses the foothills of Mont Blanc – the highest mountain in France. Cross invisible borders as you pass through France, Switzerland and Italy on this iconic journey.
Visit Ecuador
Despite being a peak month for travel to Ecuador, during August it is still a relatively quiet adventure destination. With miles of coastline, cloud rainforest and high peaks, Ecuador is a haven for adventurers and offers uniquely challenging treks.
Highlights:
- Hike the Avenue of Volcanoes – the tallest volcanoes in Ecuador
- Bathe in secret hot springs high in the Andean mountains
- Explore the exciting city of Quito – an unmissable UNESCO World Heritage Site
Recommended trip – Peaks of Ecuador
One of our most challenging trips, climbing the triple crown in Ecuador is an epic adventure requiring grit, stamina and a positive mindset. Experience the vibrant city of Quito for acclimatisation before heading into the mountains to conquer some of the tallest volcanoes on the continent.
Where to visit in September
As peak season ends, there are still plenty of awesome trekking destinations beckoning in September. Temperatures continue to be mild and conditions perfect for adventurers as the seasonal crowds withdraw.
The Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro
September remains peak season on Kilimanjaro, but this month is much quieter than the busy summer holidays during July and August. It’s a picturesque time to visit Tanzania with mild temperatures and only occasional rain showers.
Highlights:
- Enjoy excellent visibility and stunning views in September
- Experience warmer temperatures than earlier in the dry season
- Find less people on the trails with a quieter route like the Lemosho Route
Recommended trip – Lemosho Route and Wildlife Safari
Although slightly longer, the Lemosho Route up Kilimanjaro offers the highest chance of summit success due to the extra time allowed for acclimatisation. Recover and unwind afterwards with game drives in Tarangire National Park, Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater, for some of the best wildlife spotting opportunities in the world.
Visit Armenia
Tucked away between southeastern Europe and the Middle East, Armenia is home to the stunning Caucasus Mountains. A fascinating history, deeply religious culture and incredible natural landscapes make this destination an intriguing one to explore.
Highlights:
- Visit ancient monasteries hidden throughout the mountain passes
- Follow the increasingly popular Transcaucasian Trail through Armenia and Georgia
- Take in the awesome autumn landscapes vibrant with colour as the seasons change
Recommended trip – The Transcaucasian Trail
Explore Tbilisi in Georgia, bathe in sulphur baths and trek a remote mountain range that is quite simply breathtaking. Few people have tried hiking in Armenia and Georgia so book your adventure before the trails become packed!
Where to visit in October
October is a lush time to visit well-known and lesser-known hiking destinations. Generally, conditions remain mild into autumn in the northern hemisphere making it a lovely time to explore – not too hot and not too cold, just right.
Trips to Guyana
Guyana is most notably famous for its incredible tepuis – rocky pinnacles that rise from the Amazon Rainforest below. With direct flights now available, visiting Guyana is easier than ever. Escape the northern autumn chill and journey to the southern hemisphere for spring in bloom.
Highlights:
- Explore the incredible Amazon Rainforest of Guyana
- Journey along waterways to spot local wildlife
- Witness breathtaking waterfalls such as Uchi Falls and Kaieteur Falls
Recommended trip – Trek the Tepuis of Guyana
The Guyanese rainforest is flourishing during October and the river levels are ideal for exploring the Amazon by boat. Temperatures are warm but the rains have passed, facilitating excellent views and enjoyable trekking during this time of year.
Nepal in Autumn
Autumn is considered the best time to trek in Nepal. Warmer than spring, cloudless skies and incredible views are more or less guaranteed. The monsoonal rains of June to August have mostly passed, and the landscape flourishes with flora and fauna. Visit later in October once the trails have hardened and less chance of residual rains.
Highlights:
- Excellent wildlife spotting opportunities while the climate is mild
- View sensational vistas with great visibility over lush and misty landscapes
- Enjoy mild temperatures – ideal for high altitude trekking
Recommended trip – Annapurna Circuit
Another world-famous trekking route, the Annapurna Circuit trek traverses the base of the Annapurna massif on an awesome 14-day adventure. This trip involves an extraordinarily beautiful journey through dramatic landscapes of a lesser-explore region in the Nepali Himalayas.
Where to visit in November
As winter draws near in the northern hemisphere, you have two choices – embrace the cooler climates and seek out a snowy adventure or head south for warmer experiences. Below we’ve listed one of each.
Trekking in Peru
The second shoulder season in Peru from September to November is perfect for trekking in the Andes. Conditions are mild and the occasional shower ensures the trails are quiet. Retreat from advancing winter in the north in search of spring in the south.
Highlights:
- Escape the crowds trekking in Peru and the Andes outside of peak season
- Explore ancient sites such as Machu Picchu, Vilcabamba and the Sacred Valley
- Acclimatise in exciting Cusco where Inca culture meets Spanish influence
Recommended trip – The Salkantay Trek
A great alternative to the classic Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek passes through the Salkantay valley, itself dotted with ancient remains as it passes through cloud rainforest and alpine highlands. This route to Machu Picchu is quieter than the Inca Trail but arguably more scenic.
Norway Northern Lights
The Polar night stretches for several months across Arctic regions in winter and the sun barely rises above the horizon. Late November is a wonderful time to explore Tromsø, the Lyngen Alps of Norway and the island of Senja.
Highlights:
- Visit Mefjord – a traditional town of colourful Norwegian huts
- Glimpse the aurora borealis across the snowy landscape
- Try snowshoeing through peaceful wilderness
Recommended trip – Northern Lights in Norway
An absolute favourite spectacle of ours are the Northern Lights. As we love Norway too, this trip combines both incredible experiences. Yes, it’s cold here in November BUT the chance to watch the multi-coloured lights dance across the ice is totally unmissable.
Where to visit in December
December might be the month for Christmas, festive food and spending time with loved ones – it’s also cold, dark and can be overwhelming. Trekking in December helps you escape the dreary northern hemisphere winter. Head to the Middle East for winter sun adventures or try hiking in Nepal during off-season. Whichever you choose you don’t need to be at home to boost those endorphins.
Visit Dubai
Find warmth in winter and travel to the Middle East. The United Arab Emirates enjoys mild temperatures all year round but as a long weekend adventure, or as a stopover on a trip elsewhere, experiencing the excitement of Dubai is unforgettable.
Highlights:
- Try thrilling adventure activities in a wonderfully warm climate
- Explore the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve and camp out with the Bedouin
- Relax on the city beaches of Dubai
Recommended trip – Dubai Adventure Weekend
Pack as much in as possible with 4 days in Dubai. Perfect as a layover option or equally fun for a long weekend break in winter, this trip takes you on a wild ride through the city and out into the desert. Enjoy this whistlestop tour as a little pick-me-up from those winter blues.
Trek Nepal in Winter
Nepal probably isn’t the first place you think of visiting in December as it’s colder than the UK and equally wet. However, it’s off-season for hiking which means you’ll have the trails more or less to yourself. If you fancy adding a bit of drama to your Nepal trekking, navigate winter conditions in the Himalayas for an authentic mountain adventure. Nepal under a blanket of snow is simply stunning and unlike any other time of year.
Highlights:
- Enjoy popular hiking trails with far fewer people
- Experience the challenge of winter conditions in the Himalayas
- Trek under cold, clear skies offering excellent visibility and spectacular scenery
Recommended trip – Trek Poon Hill
Poon Hill is famous as the best viewpoint in Nepal offering breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri and Annapurna. Just a short flight from the fascinating city of Kathmandu, explore Pokhara before trekking into the mountains. This trip is ideal for beginner hikers, winter treks and those short on time.
Discover your Next Adventure with Kandoo
Whenever you want to go, there’s always an adventure waiting with Kandoo. We travel to the world’s iconic destinations, and those lesser-known gems too.
Not only do we keep you safe every step of the way, but our trips provide authentic adventure experiences that are truly memorable.
Get in touch with our friendly team of travel experts at Kandoo HQ to discuss your next mission.