Travelling in the month of August is great way to beat that mid-year slump and to take advantage of the shoulder season travel deals that this month often presents. Whether you’re keen to enjoy the end of summer in the north, or the beginning of the warmer days in the south, you’re bound to enjoy travel in August!
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Ireland is alive with activities during the summer months, the streets are full of cheer, the sun is out and there are festivals on every corner. Take a road trip along the country’s coast to enjoy its full splendour or head down to the beach for a quick dip on the Surf Coast.
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Enjoy the summer music festivals in Dublin
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Visit the surrounding islands such as Boa and Rathlin
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Go horse racing along the water’s edge in County
Meath
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Cooler temperatures peak at around 19°C
This popular destination has it all and visitors from across the globe flock to Turkey at the end of summer to enjoy all that it has to offer. Many of the country’s top attractions are free to visit, while the golden beaches are known to entice at large. Turkey is also well-loved for its tasty treats and cuisine.
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Relive the history at Topkapi Palace in Istanbul
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Practice your bargaining skills at Grand Bazaar
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Wander the canyons of Rose Valley in Cappadocia
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Enjoy summer temperatures of around 30°C
Italy has been on the bucket list of travellers for years and years, and with its unique allure of waterways and dreamy cuisine, you should visit it too. August is the warmest month of the year in this glorious country and from inner city architecture to coastal hideaways, Italy is the place to be.
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Take in the Sistine Chapel and Colosseum in Rome
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Try the renowned oven-baked pizza of Naples
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Enjoy the rich culture of Milan
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Days of up to 32°C!
The beautiful country is all marvelous landscapes and picture-perfect towns and villages, it’s like stepping into a 12th century European story book! There is plenty to enjoy during August - explore the mountains, visit ancient ruins and enjoy the greenery from all directions.
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Soak up the atmosphere of Old Town in Tbilisi
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Trek up the Caucasian Mountains
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Unwind along the beaches of Batumi
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Enjoy summer temperatures of around 31°C!
France – Rock en Seine
Get set to stomp your feet at this well-loved rock festival in Paris! The annual event has seen patrons coming in from across the globe to attend and see the impressive line-up since 2003. There’s even a mini rock concert for children aged 6 – 10!
16-18°C daytime temperatures
Third week of August
Paris
Spain – La Tomatina
Prepare for a day of fun and lots and lots of ripe tomato pulp on your clothes, under your nails and everywhere in between! This famous event is a top attraction in Spain and is the world’s biggest food fight since 1945. The day promises loads of laughs and tomato stains to last you a lifetime.
17-30°C daytime temperatures
Last Saturday of the month
Bunol
England – Bristol International Balloon Festival
Enjoy the splendour of more than 130 creatively-shaped hot air balloons ascending the English sky in August. Teams from across the world come to participate and show off their beautiful creations. For something extra special, see the inflated balloons at night accompanied by lights and music.
14-23°C daytime temperatures
Second weekend of August
Bristol
Greece
Greece was made for those who love the ocean, as the country has the most wonderful coastline and islands galore! Temperatures during August soar to a maximum of around 33°C with nights around the low 20s. The Mediterranean coast is pristine and you’ll love the warm sea temperatures. Travel from Balos beach in the north, to Porta Katsiki beach in the south, and make a stop at Zante Island too.
Spain
Spain and its stunning beaches make it one of the top destinations to visit in Europe. August is peak season and you’ll have to find hidden coves to get a good spot on one of the hundreds of sparkling beaches across the country. Temperatures are around 30°C during this month. Coastal cities like Palma de Mallorca and Malaga.
Croatia
Croatia has more than 100 blue flag beaches that are perfectly lined with pearly white pebbles and turquoise waters. Islands make up the majority of the beautiful beach bays, with popular stretches such as Cres, Brac and Krk. On the mainland, set your sights on the cool waters of the Kamenjak Peninsula and the coast of Brela. August temperatures bring about days of around 27°C.
August is the end of the dry season in Botswana and the ideal time to visit with slightly cooler temperatures and natural beauty at its peak. Feel the beating heart of Africa as you make your way through the national parks and take a hot air balloon ride over the savannah.
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Explore Gaborone’s art scene
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Enjoy an elephant safari in Kasane
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Take a lake cruise in Maun
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Soak up the sun with 26°C daytime highs
Experience the golden landscapes as the plains of the Namib Desert unfold. Explore beautiful cities, rich in architecture and hidden gems. Namibia in August offers warm temperatures that are also ideal to visit the country’s famous national parks and hike its glorious mountains.
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See the desert meet the sea in Swakopmund
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Encounter wild beasts in Ondagwa
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Shop the quirky boutiques of Windhoek
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Enjoy sunny days with 25°C weather
August marks the dry season in Uganda, the ideal time to go trekking through the dense, mystical rainforests of Uganda! The country is your ultimate African destination, with gorillas lurking in national parks and one of Africa’s greatest lakes in its midst.
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Try the local cuisine at eateries around Entebbe
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Encounter gorillas at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
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Swim under the waterfalls of Murchison Falls
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Pack in your sun hat for 25°C
Lush green valleys and endless landscapes of beauty is what you can expect on a trip to Ethiopia. The country is the home of some of the world’s most beloved coffee, a medieval town that houses 13th century churches and cities that are to be explored.
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Set your heart on shopping in Addis Ababa
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Marvel at the ancient ruins across the country
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Soak up the coffee aromas in Kaffa
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Sunny days with 20°C temperatures
One of Africa’s most-loved travel destinations, Morocco has the beauty of its landscape, culture and cuisine in its favour. The country has wonderful weather all year, with August falling at the end of summer. The Mediterranean Sea also plays its part in the appeal of this wonderful country.
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Indulge in the famous Moroccan cuisine!
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Visit the beaches of Casablanca & Essaouira
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Enjoy hot days of up to 27°C
Famous for its ancient pyramids and sphinx, Egypt has lots of offer the exotic traveller – including pristine beaches, desert safaris, its exquisite cuisine and so much more. After the sun sets, see the cities come alive with cool air breezes and cafes that cater to that midnight crowd.
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Visit the great pyramids and sphinx in Cairo
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Soak up the Mediterranean breeze in Sharm-el-sheikh
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Marvel ancient Egyptian architecture in Abu Simbel
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Keep hydrated with daytime highs around at 34°C
Ivory Coast – Waka Waka Festival
Combine music, fashion and dance and you have a festival of grandeur that takes place every year, in Abidjan. This festival’s main aim is to bring people from various cultural backgrounds together, to celebrate and have a great time. Make sure to dress comfortably as you’re bound to be partying the night away!
22-27 °C daytime temperatures
Dates TBA
Abidjan
Limpopo, South Africa – Oppikoppi Festival
This music festival takes you out of town to enjoy the fresh air of Limpopo, alongside a good dose of some of the best music in the country. The festival started out as stage for rock music, but has since grown to include many different genres of music under one open-air roof.
6-22°C daytime temperatures
First weekend of August
Limpopo
Ghana – Chale Wote Festival
Immerse yourself in an authentic African festival with performances from across the continent and beyond. Held in the capital of Ghana, this annual event comes alive with plenty of music, street art displays, dance and performances across the streets of Accra.
22-27°C daytime temperatures
Second week of August
Accra
Mozambique
Tropical breezes and warm summer nights are all that you can look forward to when enjoying a beach vacation in Mozambique. The famous stretches of Tofo and Vilanculos are perfect for warm dips in the ocean, with hundreds more kilometers of sparkling coastline to explore. The marine life of the Mozambican shore is enough to get you excited – manta rays, sharks, dolphins and so much more. Pack your bags for a relaxed beach holidays with August temperatures at around 25°C.
Mauritius
Mauritius has a coastline that stretches for more than 330 kilometers and warm sea temperatures throughout the year– this is the perfect beach retreat! The island nation has sparkling Indian Ocean waters and gorgeous beaches. It is also a popular destination for all kinds of marine sport, from snorkelling to free diving. Temperatures in August linger around the 23 -25°C mark.
Seychelles
One of the most famous tropical islands known, the Seychelles is a destination for any beach lover. August is a great time to visit as it falls right before the rainy season, with hot days at around 29°C. The island not only has some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world, it is also filled with a variety of activities that includes hiking its dense jungle and all sorts of diving adventures.
China is an immense country with endless opportunities for adventure and unforgettable experiences. From the glittering cities of Hong Kong and Shanghai to the lantern-lined streets of Beijing and Guangzhou, China is the trip of a lifetime.
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Walk along the legendary Great Wall of China
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Visit the ethereal Forbidden City
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Be awed by Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
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Get ready for some sun at 30°C
Vietnam is one for the books, with a rich cultural pull alongside a luxury appeal that appeals to many. The landscapes are varied, from the stunning beaches to the top-notch cities with amazing eateries. You could spend three months in the country and not run out of things to do.
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Explore the beaches of Ha Long Bay
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Indulge your taste buds with the cuisine!
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Wander the winding streets of Hanoi
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Daily temperatures average 32°C
Indulge your senses in one of the most tech-savvy destinations in the world, which is also the home of ancient empires that once ruled by sword! Japan is the country to try it all, from cartoon-based themed parks and gorgeous green parks to the best sushi and majestic mountains!
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Marvel at the bamboo forest in Kyoto
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Visit a traditional tea house in Tokyo
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Take in the bright lights accross the city centres!
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Plenty of sun with averages around 29°C
Israel is the playground of the Mediterranean, with first class cities, gorgeous beaches and a lively atmosphere that beats no other. It is also home to religious pilgrimages, giving the country a nice blend of deep-rooted culture and modern living. Visit the waterfalls of En Gedi Nature Reserve.
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Dip your toes into the Dead Sea
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Enjoy the amazing cuisine
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Walk the holy streets of Jerusalem
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A hot 31°C with sunny skies
A small country with lots to offer, Singapore is a tropical paradise with a futuristic skyline. The country is very easy to navigate, and you could easily see all of its wonderful attractions within a few days. There are beaches to laze on and the world’s most advanced greenhouse to explore.
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Enjoy the tropics in the city centre with Garden by the Bay
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Unleash your inner kid at Universal Studios!
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Take a ferry out to Sentosa Island
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Daily temperatures average 31°C
Cambodia appeals to the adventurous traveller with its endless landscapes of lush hills and extensive national parks that are home to exotic beasts. The Southeast Asian country is gaining popularity as time passes, offering an authentic look into the less touristy side of the world.
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Visit the night markets in Siem Reap
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Try some snorkelling off Koh Rong island
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Discover the ancient Angkor Temples
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Enjoy summer temperatures of around 391°C
Sri Lanka - Nallur Kovil Thiruvila
The Nallur Festival runs for 27 days and is a much-loved event for the Hindu religion across the globe. Patrons from all over make their way by train and bus from Colombo, to the city of Jaffna to celebrate and call upon the deities of the Nallur Temple. Join in the crowds, beautifully dressed in their best, as they watch and participate in drumming, dance and other festivities.
Daytime averages of around 25°C-30°C
5 August - 1 September
Jaffna
Japan – Obon Festival
Also simply known as the ‘Bon Festival’, this beautiful event commemorates the ancestors and lost loved ones, with the belief that their spirits visit over this auspicious period of time. Paper lanterns are hung across the homes and public places across Japan, and traditional foods are made and enjoyed with family and friends. Look forward to traditional Obon dances, performed across temples and parks.
Daytime averages of around 19-28°C
13 - 15 August
Across the country
India – Independence Day
Celebrating its freedom with bright floats, dancing in the streets and drums ablaze, India comes alive in August to celebrate its independence from England in 1947. We suggest heading down to the major city centres, such as Delhi and Mumbai, and join the crowds as parades take place from noon into the evening with a fun, party atmosphere.
Hot days at around 30°C
14 August
Delhi and Mumbai
Fiji
With more than 300 islands and average temperatures of 27°C, Fiji is where you want to be on your beach break. Qalito Island has amazing snorkelling and scuba diving, while Korotogo Beach is great for frolicking and beach games. Liku Beach is 3,000 feet of pure white sand and blue lagoon that is perfect for swimming, snorkelling, or just generally lazing about and enjoying the warm water. And if you want to witness the beaches of Fiji at their absolute best, be sure to explore the Yasawa Islands.
Thailand
A country that needs no introduction with regards to its pristine beaches, Thailand is a playground for all thing’s leisure and exotic. Besides having a plethora of wonderful beaches along the coasts, such as those along Krabi and Pattaya, you’ll also get a chance to enjoy the beaches of Phuket, Koh Lanta, Koh Samui and so many more. You may have a hard time finding a private spot, but it’s all part of the Thai experience. Temperatures range at around 30°C with a fair share of rain bouts.
Philippines
The Philippines offer amazing hiking experiences, dormant volcanoes to explore and of course, some of the most beautiful stretches of beach that you could ever imagine! Water sports across the country are a big highlight, with snorkelling and scuba diving a lifetime experience in the warm waters of the region. August offers warm days of around 30°C.
The USA heads toward the end of summer in August, and this means plenty of beach and surfing opportunities along the coastal regions, and warm, breezy days sightseeing attractions. Consider visiting the states of Florida and North Carolina, or venture off to Hawaii to take full advantage!
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Enjoy the crazy water parks (274m slide!) in Texas
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Get your beach towel out for Miami
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Take a yacht out in the town of Atlantic Beach
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Enjoy warm days at around at 27°C
Cuba is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world! Many of the bays are located in natural reserves, allowing for the locations to always stay in as pristine condition as always. The country is alight with street music in Havana and exquisite historical charm in Santiago de Cuba.
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Enjoy a Havana city tour in a vintage car
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Lounge the beaches of Varadero
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Try a Cuban cigar!
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Hot days that average 32°C
Grenada is one for the senses, with coco, nutmeg and other spices to entice travellers to this Caribbean island. Spend your days between the beaches of this beautiful island and the natural attractions that can be enjoyed, such as the national park and forest, filled with the sounds of tropical birds!
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Explore the city of St. George’s pretty scenes!
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Visit the rainforests and gushing waterfalls
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Dive the island’s famous shipwreck
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Pack your sunscreen for a high 30°C
Mexico is the land of deliciously spicy cuisine, topaz beaches, endless deserts and so much more. The country’s allure lies in its authenticity and ancient ruins. August marks the beginning of autumn, perfect for early morning hikes and afternoon dives in the colourful reefs.
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Enjoy the nightlife of Cancun
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Visit the beaches of the Gulf
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Enjoy the decadent cuisine on every corner!
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Cooler temperatures peak at around 23°C
Adventure awaits in Costa Rica, with its tropical charm and majestic landscapes. August falls in the rainy season of the country, so whereas you may skip lounging on the sparkling beaches, there’s still plenty to do. There are wild rainforests to forage through and daytrips up steep mountains.
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Go white water rafting on San Juan river
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Join a wildlife cycling tour in Tamarindo
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Relax in a hot spring in the jungle!
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Daily temperatures average 28°C
Though you can expect daily rainfall during August, the Dominican Republic is a great destination to visit at any time of the year. Life is slow here so during your trip, plan in relaxing days sightseeing the historical attractions around the major cities, and visits to the national parks to enjoy the stunning waterfalls and deep rivers of the land!
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Explore the coasts of Puerto Plata
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Join a tour group and go snorkelling
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Try the exotic fruit of the country
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Enjoy summer temperatures of around 31°C
USA – Annual Blueberry Arts Festival
Food and drink enthusiasts adore this festival, held in the small town of Ketchikan in Alaska. For a summery weekend in August, thousands from across the USA flock to the town to enjoy good food and displays of art. Of course, blueberries are the star here and you can enjoy all sorts of tarts, crepes and artisanal drinks made from the fruit!
Daytime averages of around 12-17°C
First weekend of August
Alaska
Canada - Heavy Montreal
Heavy Montreal is the premiere heavy metal show of the year, every year. The lineup just keeps getting better and better and those in the know book tickets early to see their favourite bands live in all their glory for the weekend festival. Bands such as Slayer, Evanescence and Godsmack are said to headline the list of the event.
Daytime averages of around 17-24°C
Dates TBA
Montreal
Puerto Rico - Chocolate Festival
Enjoy a weekend tasting and playing around with one of the world’s favourite indulgences - chocolate! The festival takes place over two days at Palacio de Recreacion y deportes de Mayaguez, where chocolate enthusiasts can visit hundreds of food and drink kiosks dedicated to this sweet treat. The event includes workshops and live classes by well-known chefs.
Daytime averages of around 22-30°C
11 - 12 August
Mayaguez
Panama
Snorkelling, scuba diving, surfing or just lounging across the hundreds of beaches found along the coast, Panama is a complete marine and beach paradise. This destination is situated on both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans so you’re bound to enjoy the best of both worlds. Popular beaches range from Cayos Zapatillas and its archipelago bays to the San Blas coves, voted amongst the most beautiful in the world. August sees hot days that range between 23 - 30°C daily.
Barbados
Barbados combines the old with the new, with quaint colonial architecture and flashy, hip beachside resorts, cafes and bars. Barbados is loved as a beach destination, on the most eastern end of the Caribbean. August sees warm days of high 20°C weather. Long stretches of pearly sand beautify the coast, and if you’d like, visit the pink beach in the north of the island - Bottom Bay! Other fantastic beaches include Bath Beach for relaxed swimming, Silver Sands for a bit of windsurfing and the longest of them all, Cattlewash Beach.
Cayman Islands
The Cayman Islands consist of three main islands, with plenty to enjoy during your stay there. The islands focus on eco-tourism, meaning your stingray encounter will be a safe and memorable one. The beaches are sparkling and wide, the main beach called Seven Mile for that reason! Enjoy your August summer days with temperatures that reach up to 33°C.
Bolivia’s landscapes are large and proud, and you could spend a few days hiking the Andes and spotting beasts such as llama, and then a few more days making your way down Lake Titicaca - a world UNESCO site. Its cities, such as Santa Cruz, are a melting pot of unique and interest-piquing attractions!
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Meet locals from 36 various ethnicities
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Explore the Tarija wine region
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Do a tour of Salar de Uyuni
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Cooler temperatures peak at around 23°C
A wonderful destination for all, Ecuador is as magical as you’d imagine with a rich culture and heritage! The country has dense forests, a coastline of intricate bays and coves to discover, wondrous natural attractions and more sunny days than many other holiday destinations.
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Get lost (with a guide!) in the Amazon Forest
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Visit the Galapagos Islands
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Admire Quito’s Grand Plaza
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Enjoy cool days with averages of around 21°C
Guyana is an adventurer’s delight, with undiscovered paths and kilometres of scenic nature in all directions. There are waterfalls to swim under, wild creatures to encounter and rivers to tame. The country may be relatively unknown, but what it lacks in fame, it makes up in mind-blowing experiences!
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Go abseiling down Kaieteur Falls
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Visit local villages
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Spot jaguars in the forest!
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Daily temperatures average 30°C
Argentina has some of South America’s most beautiful natural attractions, that include rainforests, waterfalls, breathtaking glaciers, and so much more! Spend your days moving between the soulful city streets where you can join in a tango class, as well as the winelands, beaches and mountain tops.
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Visit the Glaciers National Park
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Go river rafting at Iguazu Falls
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Shop curios in quirky Palermo Soho
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Daily temperatures average 17°C
Brazil is the most well-known country in South America, with its world-famous beaches, natural attractions and beautiful cities. The country is also a great entry point to the Amazon Forest, where you will encounter large and small beasts, hidden rivers, coves and other delights.
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Visit the famous Copacabana Beach
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Enjoy Brazilian cuisine - feijoada, anyone?
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Walk the streets of Rio de Janeiro
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Sunny weather welcomes you at 25°C
August is the end of winter in Chile, perfect for venturing out into the country’s icy regions and enjoying a bit of snowboarding or skiing in the Andes Mountains. In the cities of Santiago and Valparaiso, enjoy mixing with the locals and enjoying the local cuisine that the country is known for.
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Take a mystical trip to Atacama Desert
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Visit ‘the end of the world’ in Cape Horn
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Tick Easter Island off your bucket list
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Cooler temperatures peak at around 16°C
Colombia - Festival of the Flowers
Take a deep breath and take in all of the wonderful aromas of Festival of the Flowers in Colombia! Each year, vendors from around the country and across South America descend on the city of Medellin with bouquets and arrangements of the most beautiful flowers and flora that you have ever seen! For one week, enjoy all that is wonderful at this spectacular fair.
Daytime averages of around 8-19°C
3 - 12 August
Medellin
Argentina - World Tango Championship
Unleash your inner dance passions at this marvelous event, held annually in the capital of Argentina, Buenos Aires. Dancers, singers, poets and many others from the art scene of the country come together to celebrate the alluring dance of tango. The two-week festival offers free tango classes and many of the events are free to attend, across the city. Not just tango, but music from across the Latin genre is enjoyed and appreciated.
Daytime averages of around 9-17°C
Dates TBA
Buenos Aires
Bolivia - Independence Day
To commemorate its independence from Spain in 1825, the cities and towns of Bolivia come alive in colour and splendour to celebrate! If you’re in the country on this day, you’re in for a treat as there are parades, free concerts, festive food and so much more to enjoy and participate in. As the sun sets, enjoy the fireworks from the city squares.
Daytime averages of around 6-23°C
6 August
Across the country
Peru
Peru is a land of ancient wonders and a coastline that is almost 2500 kilometres long. Though August in the country is winter, the coastline has a desert climate, allowing for warmer days than the rest of the country. You’ll be spoilt for choice as you make your way from one spot to the next, from Playa Roja on the outskirts of Lima, up north to Punta Sol - the paradise beach of the country. Enjoy warm days that range from mid-teens to high 20 degrees Celsius. There’s also the International Surfing Reserve in Huanchaco for surf enthusiasts.
Suriname
The country may best be known for its inland natural wonders, but let’s not forget that it also has wonderful beaches on its coast. The most alluring part is that you will have that seclusion you’re looking for, while soaking up the sun under palm trees. Take a coastal road trip from the capital, Paramaribo, and make your way from one beautiful beach to the next. Make sure to stop at White Beach, located on the Suriname River. Enjoy hot August days of around 30°C.
Brazil
Brazil is one of those beach destinations that everyone wants to go to! Plan a beach-specific trip to the country and you won’t be disappointed. Watch the sunset over the silky waters of Ipanema Beach in Rio de Janeiro, enjoy scuba diving in Bahia’s numerous spots and skip the crowds an hour out of Recife, at Praia dos Carneiros. Brazil offers hot days that range at around 27°C.
When travelling, remember to book 3 months in advance to get the best deals.
Book in May to get great discounts on your August trip!
Not ready to travel in August? Book your trip in August and travel in November to get the best deals!