February may be the shortest month of the year, but it certainly offers a delightful holiday experience. There are many destinations across the world offering diverse vacations. You could be skiing down the slopes of the Alps in Europe, or relaxing on the exquisite beaches in the Caribbean. Enjoy the best of the winter and summer seasons in countries around the world – the opportunities for a memorable holiday are endless! Let Travelstart guide you on the best places to visit in February.
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If you love snow sports, February is the best time to visit Slovakia! Ski resorts abound throughout the country, suiting skiers of every level. When night falls, cosy up with a warm meal and relaxing drink at the restaurants and cafés.
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Ski down the slopes of the Tatra mountains
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Warm up with the thermal pools in Tatralandia
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Eat brynda halusky dumplings
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Wear extra layers for a chilly 4°C
Winter in Switzerland means adventure! You’ll be close to the magnificent Swiss Alps, the slopes made for skiing. Besides that, let’s not forget another of Switzerland’s claims to fame: chocolate!
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Go dog sledding in Davos and Zermatt
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Visit a chocolate factory
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Travel on the St. Bernina Express
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Pack extra clothes due to a cold 5°C
The south of Greece offers the country’s best weather in winter! Explore the nation’s rich heritage with tours in Rhodes and Crete. For a cultural experience, discover the neighbourhoods in Athens and Mykonos.
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Walk through Rhodes’s Streets of the Knights
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Get lost in the Palace of Knossos in Crete
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Experience the lifestyle of Plaka in Athens
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Pack a little extra for a cool 14°C
Skip the crowds and long queues by visiting Italy in February. Set your own pace as you visit the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican or enjoy classical Italian food in Rome. Catch the delightful festivals and song contest that happen across the country.
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Admire the architecture at Doge’s Palace
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Snap some pictures of the Colosseum
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Meet the natives at the Aquarium of Genoa
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Prepare for a cool to cold 8°C
Immerse yourself in authentic Portuguese culture in the inner part of the Algarve region. Get in touch with the country’s history in Évora’s historic centre. For exciting nightlife, make sure to visit the towns and cities in Sesimbra.
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Wine and dine in Lisbon
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Explore the streets of Porto
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Discover the magnificent Sanctuary of Fátima
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Dress warmer with cool 14°C
Italy – Venice Carnival
The Carnival of Venice has people travelling from far and near to take part in the city’s biggest party. Join in the celebration as you admire elaborately designed costumes, colourful decorations and exquisite artworks. The event happens every year in the two to three weeks leading up to Shrove Tuesday (dates shift according to Easter). The majority of the activities during the Venice Carnival occur in St. Mark’s Square. During the last Sunday and last Tuesday of the celebrations, various plays and awards ceremonies for best costume take place on the stage in the square.
A cool 9-13°C with minimal showers
Two to three weeks in mid-February to early-March
Venice
Czech Republic – Let It Roll Winter
Let It Roll is one of the best winter events in Prague. The drum and bass festival has continued over the years to showcase the biggest and most exciting names of the music festival in the Czech Republic. All the acts have the accompaniment of state-of-the-art sound, light and visuals. Some stars that have featured at the event over the years include High Contrast, Noisia, Pendulum and Andy C.
5°C daytime temperatures with some rain
One to two days in mid or late-February
Prague
Switzerland - Momentum Ski Festival
The Momentum Ski Festival is all about taking the atmosphere and excitement of the World Cup ski race and making it accessible to snow sports enthusiasts in central Europe! Whether you’re into skiing or snowboarding, you’ll be welcomed at this event. Besides getting to test your own speed and watching the pros in action at the races, you’ll get to socialise with other snow sports lovers, enjoy entertainment and delicious lunches, and attend informative business conferences.
-3°C daytime temperatures
Four days in late-January, February or March
Switzerland – venues tend to change each year
Turkey
You’ll get to enjoy some of Turkey’s best beaches without the busy tourist season’s volumes of travellers. With temperatures ranging from 16° C–18°C, relax on the coast with moderate weather conditions. Spend time on the long, sandy stretch of Kleopatra Beach in Alanya. Or discover the hidden paradise of Iztuzu Beach, which includes a turtle sanctuary! These are just some of the beaches in Turkey you can visit in February.
Visiting Egypt in winter is always a good idea if you’re skipping the oppressive summer heat. There will be no better time to snap shots of the Great Pyramids of Giza and enjoy the country’s shopping scene without the bustling tourist crowds.
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Enjoy delicious ice cream that won’t melt!
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Visit the Great Sphinx of Giza
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Join a tour though the Temple of Karnak
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Pack light for a warm 21°C
During February, Kenya’s climate is dryer and clearer, ideal conditions for game drives and coastal diving. You’ll have the best chance to spot the local wildlife, including elephants and crocodiles.
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Explore the fascinating Ol Kinyei Conservancy
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Discover the expansive Tsavo East
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Relax at Diani Beach
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Feel the gentle breeze with a hot 31°C
Enjoy adventures through magnificent landscapes and discover the fascinating architecture in the cities. Sample the local traditional dishes and immerse yourself in the culture in Morocco’s Berber heartland. This and more awaits in Morocco!
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Visit the Jardin Majorelle in Marrakech
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Enjoy ATV adventures in Merzouga
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Explore the Medina in Chefchaouen
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Pack in a little extra for a moderate 18°C
While it may be hot and wet in Malawi in February, that doesn’t mean you won’t have many ways to enjoy your holiday. The hills, mountains and rivers come to life, a photographer’s paradise. February’s also a great time to go snorkelling and diving.
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Snap stunning pictures of Mount Mulanje
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See wonderful animals at Majete Wildlife Reserve
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Admire the artworks in Blantyre
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Pack light with temperatures around 30°C
The hot conditions, occasional rainy days and less tourists during February mean you’ll get to enjoy the country at your own pace. Time your visit right, and you can indulge in adventures through wonderful national parks, deserts and hiking trails.
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Explore the Sossusvlei desert
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Spot the Big 5 in Etosha National Park
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Discover the mystery in Kolmanskop Ghost Town
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Take some extra sunblock for a hot 29°C
With rain volumes still lessening in February, you can enjoy shorter queues while visiting Zimbabwe. February is the perfect time to discover the country’s wealth of cultural history, while bird watchers are in for a treat with many birds in migration.
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Take pictures of majestic Victoria Falls
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Explore the country’s history at Great Zimbabwe
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Meet incredible animals at Thetford Game Reserve
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Enjoy the breeze with a warm 25°C
Zanzibar - Sauti za Busara
Sauti za Busara is an exciting music festival that overtakes Stone Town for four days during February’s second weekend every year. The event primarily takes place in the Old Fort, while fringe events happen around Stone Town. There is even a carnival street parade! Musicians performing at Sauti za Busara come from all over Africa. Time your visit to Zanzibar just right so that you can get immersed in this thrilling music festival in Stone Town.
33°C daytime temperatures
Second weekend of February
Stone Town, Zanzibar
South Africa - Stellenbosch Wine Festival
Get to Stellenbosch in February, and experience the town’s claim to fame: wine production. In fact, the Stellenbosch Wine Festival provides one of the best ways to discover the Winelands outside of Cape Town. Sample hundreds of wines from the area, from big award-winning producers to smaller, niche boutique wineries. The Stellenbosch Wine Festival takes place for three days on the last weekend of February.
27°C daytime temperatures
Last weekend of February
Stellenbosch
Nigeria - Lagos Theatre Festival
The Lagos Theatre Festival is a major creative event that highlights the theatre makers in Nigeria. Get ready to enjoy hundreds of performances across a dozen venues around Lagos. Back in 2013, the British Council launched the festival as a way to provide a platform for playwrights and theatre production crews in the country. Make sure you don’t miss out on the chance to experience the locals’ wonderful creativity.
34°C daytime temperatures
From late-February to early-March
Lagos
Seychelles
Seychelles continues to shine as a beach holiday destination. While the archipelago boasts a wealth of beaches, for peace, privacy and a romantic setting, head to the beach of Anse Soleil, on the island of Mahé! This beautiful setting includes a casual café on the beach serving some of the best seafood in the area, adding to the appeal of Anse Soleil. With temperatures around 27°C, enjoy a relaxing time at this gorgeous destination, with its crystal-clear waters and white sands.
Mauritius
The island of Mauritius is well-known for its wealth of beaches. One of the most popular with locals and visitors alike is the beach of Belle Mare. This charming bit of coastline stretches several kilometres along the eastern coast of Mauritius. The beach’s claim to fame is thanks to the protection of a coral reef, a shallow bay, white sands and clear waters. With such conditions and temperatures around 30°C in February, you’ll be sure to enjoy some of the best snorkelling adventures along Mauritius’s east coast!
Mozambique
For the dreamy tropical island experience, head to the island of Bazaruto, which lies in Bazaruto National Park, off the coast of southern Mozambique. The island features beaches that seem to stretch forever out into clear turquoise waters before disappearing into the Indian Ocean. Palm trees dangle over the coast, offering you the perfect place to relax with a cocktail and enjoy palm-tree shading from the warm 31°C weather. Besides the island’s visual appeal, Bazaruto is also famous for its diving opportunities.
Since February is the last summer month, you can enjoy a quieter time in Australia while tourist volumes start decreasing. Don't miss out on the chance to indulge in spectacular beaches and catch sights of the cities' amazing architecture.
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Explore the scenic harbour of Sydney
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Take a relaxing stroll from Bondi to Coogee Beach
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Check out the Australian War Memorial
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Enjoy the breeze with a warm 26°C
Visit Thailand in February and you’ll get to enjoy the country’s drier weather before the rains arrive. Explore the temples, and go shopping with numerous shopping malls and markets. Don’t forget the mesmerising islands and beaches. Adventure awaits!
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Get lost in the party scene in Phuket
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Visit the Temple of Dawn in Bangkok
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Discover the magic of Phi Phi Island
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Dress lightly for a hot 33°C
If you visit Dubai in February, you’ll have the pleasure of relaxing with the city’s more tranquil conditions. Head outdoors and admire the stunning architecture. Go on a shopping spree in Dubai Mall and discover the city’s sacred mosques.
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Sit and enjoy the sights at the Dubai Fountain
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Get the best views from Burj Khalifa
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Cool off with a trip to Aquaventure Waterpark
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Enjoy more time outdoors at a warm 25°C
Enjoy greater access with the low tourist season in Israel. Feel free to explore the country’s historic sites at your own pace. Be amazed at the beauty of its national parks and geological formations.
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Explore the Old City of Jerusalem
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Discover the amazing Ramon Crater
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Have an adventure in Masada National Park
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Pack in a jersey for a cool 14°C
If you love skiing, head to Japan in February. There are even outdoor ice-skating rinks in central areas, a wonderful attraction for families and couples. Make sure to catch early sights of cherry blossoms in Kawazu City in early February!
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Enjoy a plate of fresh red king crab in Tokyo
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Visit the UNESCO site of Shirakawago Village
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Meet the residents of Jigokudani Monkey Park
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Dress warmly for a cool 10°C
With the rains lessening somewhat in February in Singapore, get ready to explore this amazing Asian destination! Prepare to enjoy theatre performances, exciting parties and comedy shows. For a change of pace, take a stroll through Marina Bay.
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Visit the enchanting Singapore Botanic Gardens
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Catch superb views from atop the Singapore Flyer
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Take a shopping trip down Orchard Road
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Dress lightly for a blazing 31° C
Hong Kong - Chinese New Year
If you’re looking for a place to experience the Chinese New Year, there is no place better than Hong Kong. Take in stunning sights at the International Chinese New Year Night Parade along Tsim Sha Tsui district. Watch the incredible fireworks show over Victoria Harbour. Hong Kong’s Chinese New Year celebrations are said to be among the liveliest and most colourful that travellers have experienced. The Chinese New Year is alternatively known as the Lunar New Year.
14-18°C daytime temperatures
Between mid-January and mid-February
Hong Kong
Australia – St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival
The St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival, commonly known as Laneway, began as an indie music event in Melbourne in 2005, before growing in popularity and expanding to four more Australian cities – Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide and Fremantle – as well as Auckland in. Today, the event is still going strong, featuring big line-ups, with artists such as Mac DeMarco, The Internet, POND, Shame and Slowdive. Laneway is all about focusing on the best new and established acts in the industry. Look forward to good music in iconic locations, with great food and drinks to match.
24-31°C daytime temperatures
From late-January to early-February
Australia
United Arab Emirates - Dubai Food Festival
Prepare for a gastronomic celebration! The Dubai Food Festival showcases the diverse culinary offerings of the city. Expect a packed schedule of events and offers. Dine on special set menus at the finest eateries in Dubai to help you discover the city’s hidden treasures. Take the family along to the Beach Canteen, where you can enjoy the city’s finest home-grown food concepts. At the Taste of Dubai, indulge in the opportunity to sample tasty dishes from leading restaurants and meet celebrity chefs from around the world.
24°C daytime temperatures
From late-February to early-March
Dubai
Maldives
With temperatures simmering at around 31°C, during February, you’ll be visiting at just the right time! The Maldives is renowned for its charming stretches of coastline. Among the best is Veligandu Island Beach, where you will find a paradise-like scene. A private resort, it offers a more secluded scene among the busier beaches. Enjoy scenic strolls along the vast coastline at Hulhumale Beach, as you gaze out at the clear waters. These are just a few of the Maldives’ stunning beaches.
New Zealand
Visit New Zealand and prepare yourself for spectacular beaches! With temperatures ranging from moderate to warm (18-25°C), you’ll have ideal conditions to explore the country’s alluring coastline. Chief among them is Awaroa Beach. This amazing location in the Abel Tasman National Park stays open to the public, thanks to thousands of Kiwis contributing to a crowd-funding campaign. Surrounded by deep green native bush and turquoise waters, this golden-sand beach is simply a heavenly location.
Philippines
Thanks to warm temperatures (around 25°C) and low rainfall, February is one of the best times to explore the beaches and diving scene in the Philippines. One location which stands out due to its gorgeous, dreamy setting is Boracay Island. Its inclusion of white sands, turquoise waters, and a lively nightlife is definitely one of the reasons the Philippines is a major tourist destination. Boracay Island offers you a number of beaches, the best of them being White Beach and Puka Beach.
Winter in Cuba means warm to hot days and low rainfall. It’s no wonder then that February, the last month of winter, is a great time to visit the country. Have some fun in the sun at picturesque beaches and enjoy the sights and sounds of the cities!
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Take a scenic walk along Varadero Beach
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Explore the area of Old Havana
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Drink a real mojito
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Enjoy daytime temperatures of 27°C
With comfortable temperatures and clearer skies, February is just the right time for a visit to Jamaica. Enjoy the Caribbean’s great outdoor scenes, relax at its beaches, and go on tasting tours of the local eating establishments.
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Take a jump down the waterfall at the Blue Hole
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Sunbathe at Seven Mile Beach
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Discover historic facts at Devon House
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Pack light clothing for a warm 27°C
February is one of the best months to explore the culture, beaches and historic ruins of Mexico. You can look forward to warm days and moderate evenings. Have fun at theme parks, enjoy scenic walks along boardwalks and tour the museums.
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Visit the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza
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Go snorkelling from Akumal Beach
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Experience the lifestyle in Quinta Avenida
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Enjoy the comfortable outdoors at 25°C
February brings some rainfall to Curacao, but that doesn’t mean you won’t still have sunny days in this Caribbean nation. Go on snorkelling adventures, enjoy boat tours and head off the beaten trail with ATV and 4WD escapades.
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Indulge in the beauty at Kenepa Beach
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Explore the Shete Boka National Park
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Discover the Punda neighbourhood in Willemstad
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Wear light clothing for a hot 29°C
It may be cold in Canada during February, so come prepared and you’ll get to enjoy the many fun activities taking place around the country. The hot chocolate festival across the country will keep you warm or you could get your blood flowing with free ice skating!
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Catch awesome sights at Niagara Falls
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Explore Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
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Discover the history of Old Quebec
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Dress warmly for a cold 3°C
February’s the last month of winter for some parts of the United States, meaning signs of spring towards the end of the month in most parts of the country. Visit the country’s major historic sites, discover exceptional artworks or try your luck at the casinos!
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Take some pictures at the Lincoln Memorial
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Explore the Louisville Mega Cavern
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Get amazing views across Horseshoe Bend
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The north averages 4°C, the south around 12°C
Canada - Winterlude
Head to Ottawa in Canada during February and discover the country’s capital transformed into a winter wonderland. The event celebrates the snow and cold with numerous activities. Watch colourful parades, admire beautiful ice sculptures and enjoy live music. Winterlude even breaks a few records as the world’s biggest natural ice rink as well as the world’s biggest snow playground. There are even quirky events like the bed race on ice! Canadians have been celebrating this event for more than three decades.
-4°C daytime temperatures
Early to mid-February
Ottawa
USA – Mardi Gras
This major celebration may possibly need no introduction! The Mardi Gras takes place across numerous cities across the United States, and in other parts of the world. Get ready for a thrilling party scene involving colourful costumes and catching bright beads being thrown from stunning floats. There’s even a parade for the dogs! In New Orleans, the biggest, most intricate and extravagant floats are courtesy of the top “krewes”, Orpheus, Bacchus and Endymion. Don’t miss out on this exciting street celebration in the USA.
7-17°C daytime temperatures
Fat Tuesday, depending on Easter Sunday
New Orleans, St Louis and Alabama
El Salvador - Permanent International Festival of Art and Culture
Make sure you’re in Suchitoto in El Salvador in February to catch this presentation of various art genres. Artists from more than 30 countries have taken part in this festival. You can look forward to music, opera, theatre and film productions by well-known national and international artists. Another drawcard is the fact that Suchitoto is something of an artist colony in northern El Salvador. This creative event makes February a wonderful time to visit Suchitoto.
33°C daytime temperatures
Every weekend in February
Suchitoto
The Bahamas
Water sports enthusiasts, head to Surfer’s Beach on the island of Eleuthera. Thanks to the lively South Atlantic Ocean, you can look forward to the best waves in February. Another charming stretch of coast is Gold Rock Beach, which is in the protected Lucayan National Park on Grand Bahama Island. It boasts a gorgeous white-sand beach that’s nearly as long as a football field at low tide! With wonderful temperatures of 25°C, you’ll be sure to have a great time in the Bahamas.
Costa Rica
You’ll find spectacular beaches in Costa Rica. One of the best is Manuel Antonio Beach, a coastal gem that borders the Manuel Antonio National Park. Besides providing a truly scenic setting, this beach also offers a coral seascape worth exploring. If you’re a surfing enthusiast or aspiring to ride the waves, make your way to Tamarindo, which has a reputation among surfers. With temperatures from 28-30°C, you’ll have excellent beach weather.
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico offers a number of beaches that will have you falling in love in February, due to temperatures around 30°C. There’s the charming coastal destination of Isla Verde, a wonderful tropical beach with a vibrant nightlife scene. The beaches at this city are considered to be among the best in the Caribbean. Then there is Condado in San Juan, offering an alluring beach resort experience with the buzzing city life a few steps away.
February is one of the best times to visit Brazil, especially Rio de Janeiro. Experience the party atmosphere, enjoy scenic tours, indulge yourself with the country’s stunning beaches and discover amazing historic ruins.
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Experience the charming scene at Lagoa de Jijoca
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Have fun with the family at Beto Carrero World
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Take amazing pictures at Iguazu Falls
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Temperatures range from 26-30°C across Brazil
Immerse yourself in the Latin American culture of Argentina. That’s where you’ll experience the world-famous tango, the locals’ love of soccer, taste delicious South American cuisine and discover awe-inspiring sights!
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Get amazing views in Los Glaciares National Park
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Enjoy an entertaining show at Teatro Colón
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Take a tour through the wineries and vineyards
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Put on extra sunblock for a warm 29°C
Discover the treasures of Colombia in February, including breath-taking landscapes, a mix of classical and modern architecture as well as a vibrant culture. With beautiful sun-filled days, have an adventure and experience the country’s hidden gems!
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Discover rich history in Cartagena’s Walled City
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Spot fascinating wildlife in Bosques de Cocora
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Find spectacular sights at Cano Cristales
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Temperatures average 29°C across the country
Visit the southern parts of Peru to get the best weather conditions during February. With outdoor weather still good, discover the country’s incredible natural scenery, fascinating ancient ruins and enjoy the sights and sounds of the cities.
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Explore the interesting Histórico de Cusco
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Admire the scenery at Circuito Magico del Agua
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Take a guided tour around the majestic El Misti
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The north averages 18°C, the south 27°C
Discover the magic and wonder of Suriname. Explore the country’s wealth of scenic nature reserves, take a tour though the capital, Paramaribo (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and even go on an adventure through the native villages!
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Enjoy beautiful sights at Peperpot Nature Park
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Discover interesting history at Fort Zeelandia
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Take pictures of majestic Suriname City Mosque
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Wear a hat and some sunblock for a warm 29°C
Witness the majesty of Mother Nature with a visit to Ecuador. This country gives you access to the breath-taking Galápagos Islands, picturesque beaches and historic architecture. Experience the nation’s diverse culture and you may fall in love!
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Go on a thrilling bike ride through Pro Bici
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Enjoy spectacular sights at Los Tuneles
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Cruise the Galápagos Islands
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The north averages 20°C, the south 30°C
Brazil – International Coffee Week
This intense celebration is one of the biggest in the world. In Rio de Janeiro, close to 600 street parties take place! The city hosts more than a million people during the carnival. Then there’s the parade, which features stunningly-designed floats and stylishly-costumed samba dancers from various samba schools performing. And that’s just one city! The carnival takes place throughout Brazil. Prepare for this exciting party and you’ll definitely look to experience this Brazilian celebration again in the future.
29°C daytime temperatures
5 days, starting Friday afternoon before Ash Wednesday
Brazil
Argentina - Fiesta Nacional de la Vendimia
The Mendoza grape harvest is the biggest wine celebration in Latin America. The festival at the end of the harvest brings thousands of visitors annually. It’s no surprise, since Mendoza is one of the eight wine capitals of the world. At the festival, join in the celebrations, which involve dancing, singing and wine tastings. Towards the latter part of the event, every wine region takes part in the Mendoza parade, where you can enjoy sights of floats and a Beauty Queen. There’s even an amazing light and sound show, presented by thousands of artists representing the passion of the vineyards.
30°C daytime temperatures
Late-February to mid-March
Mendoza
Chile – Valdivian Week
In February, Chileans celebrate the foundation of their most beautiful city, Valdivia, with a week-long festival. The centre of this party is the entertaining music and spectacular fireworks at the waterfront promenade at Plaza de la República. During the fireworks show, take in a beautiful sight as many stylishly decorated boats sail down the Calle-Calle River. Throughout the event, enjoy a variety of concerts and explore the diverse stalls where you can purchase various souvenirs.
24°C daytime temperatures
9-15 February
Valdivia
Chile
Chile boasts a 4,025-kilometre coastline that’s home to luxurious beaches and resorts. Among the best of them are those at Playa Negra and Playa Chinchorro. Play Negra is a family-friendly beach with calm waters, perfect for a swim. Playa Chinchorro, on the other hand, offers a more active beach experience, with volleyball games, a skateboard park and diving boards just a short distance inland from the beach. With temperatures between 25-29°C, you’ll have the ideal conditions to enjoy soaking up the sun at Chile’s beaches.
Uruguay
Uruguay has some of the most beautiful beaches in South America, catering to a wide range of travellers. The capital, Montevideo, has plenty of beaches, including Playa de los Pocitos, the prettiest of them all and a popular setting for water sport enthusiasts. If you want more seclusion, there’s the charming Playa Ramírez, perfect for families and suitable for wheelchairs. Thanks to temperatures of 28°C, look forward to beautiful beach weather in Uruguay.
Colombia
Colombia lives up to South America’s fame for alluring beaches. If you want to completely disconnect from the buzz of the urban scene, head to Capurganá. This area is close to the Panama border, and with no vehicles, you have a truly peaceful atmosphere. With crystal-clear waters and reefs keeping them calm, you have the perfect setting to go snorkelling. Added to that is the toasty 30°C temperature in February. Perfect beach weather awaits!