October is a beautiful time of year around the world. Autumn settles in the Northern Hemisphere and spring temperatures beckon in the Southern Hemisphere. October signals exciting things – autumn brings beautiful foliage landscapes to Europe and North America, while spring is the time for blossoming flowers in Africa, Asia and South America. We’ve highlighted some of the best places to visit in October, worldwide!
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Autumn in Georgia is a beautiful spectacle for travellers and locals to this Eurasian destination. Georgia is made up of vast valleys, mountains and sea. The summer heat decreases as temperatures hover around 20°C in Tbilisi.
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Take a dip in the Sulfur Baths
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Visit Bateti Lake in Kodmani
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Help harvest wine in Kakheti
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Trek the Caucasian Mountains
October is the best time to visit France as there are fewer tourists, lower prices and moderate temperatures. The autumn colours are at their best during the shoulder season. Harvest season in France’s wine region is in full swing this time of year.
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Do the Zombie Walk in Paris
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Attend the Beer Festival in Bordeaux
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See the incredible architecture in Lyon
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Cool temperatures of 16°C
Situated in Southeast Europe, Bulgaria is an exotic destination brimming with an exciting nightlife and eclectic art. Take in its mountain ranges, beaches and historic towns without the hassle of crowds. During October, Bulgaria is one of Europe’s cheapest destinations to explore.
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Spend a day in Sofia's parks
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Explore the ancient city of Nessebar
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Visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Sofia
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Average temperatures between 11°C and 17°C
The chances of seeing the Northern Lights increase during October with less daylight hours. This bucketlist destination offers surreal natural landscapes adorned with beautiful colours in autumn. Don’t forget to taste the interesting food!
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Explore the hot springs and natural pools
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Check out the Golden Circle
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Enjoy the museums in Reykjavik
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Pack your boots and beanie for an icy 5-7°C
Germany – Oktoberfest
The world’s largest and most well-known beer festival originates in Munich. The annual beer and folk festival runs for 18 days and welcomes more than six million people from around the world. Oktoberfest gives a glimpse into Bavarian culture. The festival incorporates a variety of beer, music, scrumptious local cuisine, fun rides and a fantastic atmosphere. The world’s largest and most well-known beer festival originates in Munich. The annual beer and folk festival runs for 18 days and welcomes more than six million people from around the world. Oktoberfest gives a glimpse into Bavarian culture. The festival incorporates a variety of beer, music, scrumptious local cuisine, fun rides and a fantastic atmosphere.
A cool 14°C
Late September to first weekend of October
Munich
Italy – Eurochocolate
Eurochocolate is a festival entirely dedicated to chocolate, and is a century-old tradition in Perugia. At this sought-after chocolate event, attendees get to indulge in tastings, cooking shows and chocolate art displays. Perugia’s historic centre is encapsulated by chocolate stalls, street performances, and gigantic chocolate sculptures. The festival takes places over nine days and draws approximately one million tourists and Italian natives yearly.
Average high of 19°C
Mid to late October
Perugia
France – Nuit Blanche
White Night, or Paris Nuit Blanche, is an annual art festival in Paris which sees museums, private and public art galleries, city halls, cinemas and other cultural institutions open to the public until the early hours of the morning. The city comes alive with art installations, themed social gatherings, parades, live performances and other cultural activities.
16°C daily temperatures
First Saturday in October
Paris
Greece
The weather is still fairly mild in October with average sea temperatures hovering around 23°C. In October, you get to explore the warm waters with less crowds and cheaper prices throughout your stay in Greece. Crete, Naxos and Mykonos have some of the best beaches along the Greek Islands. Balos is an exotic Cretan beach with Caribbean-like water. One of the most famous Greek beaches is Matala Beach in Heraklion, its shore is adorned with golden sand and bamboo umbrellas.
Turkey
Home to 7,200 km of coastline, Turkey is blessed with calm, crystalline waters. During the October shoulder season, Turkey’s beaches manage to reach a balmy 24°C. October is the last month to truly enjoy the sun and vivid blue waters of the Mediterranean and Turkish Aegean beaches. Head to Ölüdeniz for its turquoise sea and bustling beach. Antalya, a major tourist hotspot, has plenty of beaches that range from tourist beaches to historic ruins. Phaselis and Çirali beach will spoil you with serene sights.
Croatia
In Croatia, autumn is considered ‘late summer’ with its glorious weather in the month of October. The average sea temperature is around 20°C which is great for a trip to its incredible beaches. Split’s beaches will do you good as you retreat from the city life. Bačvice is a popular beach, home to the cultural beach game, picigin. Dubrovnik’s beaches mostly attract a local crowd and sunbathers. Banje Beach is great for children, while adventurous Copacabana is ideal for jet skis, canoes and boat rides.
Tourists flock to the Southern African country for its incredible wildlife viewing. Visit in October, when it’s sunny and there is virtually no rain. Explore the desert landscapes, indigenous history and lovely beaches. Prepare for Namibia’s unique enchantment!
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Sandboard down the dunes in Walvis Bay
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Meet the Himba people
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Explore Etosha National Park
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A hot 29°C
Swaziland can be visited year-round. However, tourists flock to this destination from October because of its rolling green landscapes and lovely sunny weather. Swaziland is a visual treat during this vibrant month. Get ready for adrenaline-pumping activities.
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Go on a wildlife safari
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Visit Shewula Mountain Camp
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Go white water rafting
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A lovely 23°C
This landlocked African country is home to many incredible sites and people. With its game parks, friendly locals and historical ruins, Zimbabwe is a rewarding travel destination. Make visiting Victoria Falls a priority.
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Explore the Great Zimbabwe Ruins
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Visit the national parks
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Taste the local cuisine
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Average temperature of 23°C
Ghana is considered one of the best places to visit in October. Immerse yourself in the Ghanaian culture - meet tribal chiefs and celebrate with colourful festivals. Witness the charms of the beautiful people of Ghana and its tropical landscapes.
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Visit the Cape Coast Castle
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Shop at Kejetia Market
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Taste delicious West African cuisine
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A sizzling 30°C with low rainfall
This archipelago is abundant with soulful rhythm. Retreat from everyday bustling city life and unwind here. This two-island nation boasts some magnificent landscapes. Visit in October to see the gigantic and mesmerising humpback whales.
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Trail walk in Obo National Park
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Learn about the local culture
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Go swimming at the beautiful beaches
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Welcoming temperatures of 24-29°C
Early October is the best time for game viewing in Uganda’s savannah parks. It’s the start of the shoulder season, which means lower prices and more lodge availability. In addition to your October safari, visit Murchison Falls and the charming town, Jinja.
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Explore Igongo Cultural Centre
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Go gorilla trekking
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See the tea plantations
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An enjoyable 27°C
South Africa – Rocking the Daisies
Thousands of locals and travellers make their way to the West Coast town of Darling in October, every year, for the Rocking the Daisies music festival. It is one of the biggest outdoor festivals in South Africa and boasts some of the best international and local acts. Attendees get to enjoy live and electronic acts, with over three stages delivering diverse music. Previous acts include Mac Miller, Desmond and the Tutus, The Kooks and Hugh Masekela. Camp out at the beautiful Cloof Wine Estate while dancing to your heart’s content. There are also amazing food and craft stalls to discover.
A lovely 20°C
Early October
Cape Town
Morocco – Erfoud Date Festival
The Erfoud Date Festival is held over three days, and celebrates the harvest of more than a million date palms in Erfoud. The locals celebrate with traditional music, dancing and colourful processions. The celebrations include a fashion parade through the streets of the quiet little town and the crowning of the ‘Date Queen’.
A cool 21°C
Early October
Erfoud
Uganda – Kampala City Festival
This cultural festival brings many visitors to Kampala in October. It is considered the biggest street party in East Africa. The city comes alive with incredible sights, vibrant sounds and lively rhythms. Kampala City Festival is a combination of dancing, live music and a national dress competition.
Average temperatures between 17°C and 22°C
First week of October
Kampala
Namibia
As the dry season comes to an end, head to the coast and enjoy the beaches of Swakopmund and Walvis Bay. Hop on a cruise and see the incredible marine life. Ocean safaris will introduce you to whales and bottle-nosed dolphins. Sea temperatures are between 13°C and 15°C so it’s best to wear a wetsuit if you’re going scuba diving.
Kenya
Kenya is home to many stunning beaches and, quite frankly, has some of the best beaches in the world! With an exquisite coastline, there are an array of beaches and seaside resorts to choose from. This tropical paradise will cater to all your beach holiday requirements. Diani Beach is the most popular beach and is ideal for water sports or a chilled swim. Head to Nyali for a day of calm and relaxation. Expect sea temperatures of above 20°C throughout Kenya in October.
Madagascar
The island nation is home to incredible hidden gems and pristine white-sand beaches. Nosy Be, located off the northwest coast of Madagascar, is the ideal destination for snorkelling and scuba diving. Take in the amazing sights of the beautiful sands that are as white as snow. With lovely temperatures of 32°C and little rain, October is the ideal time to visit Madagascar’s beaches. Take advantage of beautiful 25°C sea temperatures along Madagascar’s coast.
Although autumn arrives in late October, South Korea’s weather is usually dry and sunny. Attend the Kimchi Festival, held at the end of October, when the best of the Gwangju region’s kimchi-makers assemble to display their creations.
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Go hiking in the national parks
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Attend the night markets
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Go to the Busan Fireworks Festival
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A cool 18°C
Immerse yourself in the mystical and spiritual world of Nepal. With awe-inspiring mountains and breathtaking monasteries, this Himalayan state will impress you far beyond your imagination. October is the best month for mountain trekking.
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Visit the temples of Kathmandu
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Go paragliding in Pokhara
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Go shopping in Patan
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Try mountain yoga in Pokhara
Get a taste of old Arabia in Oman. Its beautiful landscapes and cultural traditions along its streets offer an escape back in time. The bustling souks, stunning architecture and natural attractions make Oman a must-visit destination.
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Explore Muscat's ancient history
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Visit Nizwa Fort
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Go canyoning at Wadi Ash Shab
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Prepare for a scorching 35°C
This Southeast Asian country is the perfect destination for the curious traveller. Buddhism is witnessed throughout the everyday life of the locals. It is the ideal place for those who want to unwind amidst Laos’ natural beauty.
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Visit the charming town of Luang Prabang
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Check out Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre
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Taste authentic Laotian street food
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Enjoy warm temperatures reaching 30°C
Mongolia is blessed with about 250 sunny days throughout the year. October is a great time to visit Mongolia, especially the Gobi Desert. This interesting nation is home to the world’s last surviving nomadic cultures. Go trekking for the best views!
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Check out Ulaanbaatar’s nightlife
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Taste Mongolian cuisine
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Learn about the country’s history
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Pack warm clothing for an average of 8°C
Vietnam is a land of immense beauty and diverse cultures. Its landscapes, people and history make it a destination worth seeing. Hanoi is a pleasant 21°C, while Ho Chi Minh warms up to 31°C. Encounter both village and island life in Vietnam!
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Do a food tour
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Cruise along the Mekong Delta
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Hike up Mount Fansipan in Sapa
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29°C daytime temperatures
China - National Day in China
This patriotic holiday is celebrated with concerts and fireworks. It is celebrated on 1 October to celebrate the founding of the People’s Republic of China. Large-scale activities are held nationwide. The holiday marks the start of Golden Week, when people go travelling around the country. The national day festivities take place in mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau.
Temperatures peak at 19°C
1 October
Mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau
India – Diwali
Diwali, the Hindu ‘festival of lights’ is one of the most popular Hindu festivals in India. The festival sees millions attend to witness firework displays and offer prayers. Devotees decorate their homes with candles and colourful lights. Diwali is celebrated over five days, by Hindus, Sikhs and Jains across the world. Indian sweet dishes and treats are made and shared during Diwali. If you haven’t experienced the tastes, sounds and colours of Diwali, India is the place to do so!
A scorching 31°C
Varies according to Hindu calendar
All across India
Thailand – Phuket Vegetarian Festival
This nine-day Taoist celebration takes place on the island of Phuket. The festival attracts many spectators due to its unusual religious rituals that take place. Fire walking and razor blade ladder climbing are just some of the spectacles that you can encounter during the street processions of Phuket Town. The festival begins with a lantern pole-raising ceremony and closes with devotees crossing the bridge of purification.
Day temperatures reach 30°C
Varies according to lunar calendar
Phuket
Fiji
The South Pacific destination, Fiji, has over a thousand beaches! The soft, white-sand beaches provide a playground for all your island dreams. Beyond the shore are technicolour hard coral gardens waiting to be explored. October is shoulder season, which means there are less crowds. Water temperatures are a consistent 20°C throughout the year - great for a dip to cool off. Go diving and snorkelling in the beautiful waters of Mantaray Island.
Maldives
Made up of almost 2,000 small islands, pristine beaches and turquoise lagoons, the Maldives is the ultimate tropical paradise. Head to Hammerhead Point to see hammerhead sharks, mantas and other incredible marine life. If you’re more interested in soaking up the sun, consider island resorts along Veligandu and Meeru islands. Sea temperatures in October warm up to over 20°C and above.
Indonesia
October provides the ideal weather for island hopping, snorkelling and beach relaxation. With warm sand between your toes, the sound of crashing waves, and a refreshing drink in hand, Indonesia’s beaches will prove to be all you’ve ever dreamed of. Derawan Beach in East Kalimantan has incredible snorkelling and diving locations with stunning coral reefs and seagrass beds. The Banyak Islands are a surfer’s paradise with world-class waves! Sea temperatures reach up to 28°C.
There really is no bad time to visit Mexico. However, October is considered the best time to head to Mexico’s beach resorts. October has cooler weather and fewer crowds. The month is also abuzz with festivals in Guanajuatoand Guadalajara.
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Do a walking tour in Mexico City
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Head to the beaches in Cancún
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Visit the ancient sites
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A perfect 23°C for Mexican beach days
The island is a lovely destination filled with natural beauty and incredible beaches. Drink straight out of a coconut for the authentic island experience. The city is alive with great soca and calypso music where you can enjoy the rhythms of Barbados.
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Explore Harrison’s Cave
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Go on an island safari
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Check out the baobab at Queen’s Park
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Warm temperatures reaching 29 °C
St. Lucia is a year-round holiday destination with less visitors during October. Head out to sea and discover parrotfish, dramatic coral walls and more. Be sure to check out the vibrant street parties too.
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Explore Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens
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Enjoy a rejuvenating day at a spa
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Sail along the coast
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Enjoy summer temperatures of around 31°C
United States – Halloween
Halloween is a world-renowned American festival. Americans dress up in fun costumes and host parties. Children walk door-to-door, screaming “trick or treat” in hope of filling their baskets with candy. Some of the best cities to celebrate Halloween are New Orleans (one of the spookiest cities in America) and Salem, Massachusetts, because of the 1692 Salem witch trials – when almost 20 women and men were found guilty of practicing witchcraft. Orlando’s theme parks are also adorned with scary and spine-tingling decorations and thrilling activities.
A comfortable 21°C
31 October
Throughout the United States
Canada - Jasper Dark Sky Festival
The annual Dark Sky Festival is held over two weekends in October. Head to Jasper, Alberta to celebrate the fact that the National Park of Jasper is a Dark Sky Preserve. You’ll get incredible views of the night sky. The aim of the festival is to encourage people to take the time to look up at the night sky and marvel at the natural beauty. You can look forward to science exhibits, giant telescopes, educational talks, guest speakers and more to keep you entertained throughout the 10-day festival.
Moderate high of 15°C
Mid to late October
Alberta
Mexico - Fiestas de Octubre
Visitors can enjoy 21 days of a large-scale fun-fair. Fiestas de Octubre aims to promote culture and tourism. Head to Guadalajara and take in all the fun that awaits in the city as it brightens with colour and music. Each year there is a different theme such as ‘Myths and Legends’, ‘Mexican Traditions’, and ‘Magical Towns of Jalisco’. The fair begins with a parade and continues with programmes, including art shows and music concerts.
Temperatures reach 28°C
The entire month of October
Guadalajara
Bahamas
Enjoy the warm turquoise waters and soft, powdery sands at some of the Bahamas’ most beautiful beaches. With average water temperatures of 26°C you are in for a beach retreat like no other. Beaches worth checking out include Pink Sand Beach, Pleasure Island, and Sugar Beach. The Bahamas provides the ultimate paradise experience. Head out for a snorkel and see dolphins, parrotfish and snappers. Have an authentic Bahamian drinking experience and sit down at one of the beach bars for a Sky Juice or Rum Punch.
Grenada
Some of Grenada’s best beaches are considered to be in the southwestern part of the island. Grande Anse is the most popular beach and has many accommodation options. Morne Rouge Beach is known for its clear and calm waters and it is perfect for snorkelling. For more surreal views, head to Sauteurs Beach. Sea temperatures reach around 29°C in October.
Costa Rica
Take a break from the bustling cities and head to the beaches of Costa Rica surrounded by breathtaking rainforests teeming with natural diversity. With average sea temperatures between 25°C and 28°C, beaches like Tamarindo Beach, Conchal Beach and Manuel Antonio Beach should definitely be visited. Whether you’re interested in surfing, swimming or snorkelling, Costa Rica’s beaches have it all.
October is a great time to visit Bolivia as the sapphire skies accompany the dry weather. You can hike and climb the beautiful Bolivian landscapes to your heart’s content. There are so many magical activities to pursue in cities like La Paz.
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Dare to cycle the breathtaking Death Road
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Explore the historical streets of Santa Cruz
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Ride the world’s highest cable car in La Paz
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Mild temperatures reach a comfortable 24°C
October is amongst Suriname’s warmest months. The tiny country is almost entirely covered by jungle with the most beautiful landscapes to explore. This lush destination is a combination of tropical rainforests and roaring rivers.
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Explore the inner city of Paramaribo
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Head to Brownsberg Nature Reserve
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Taste the diverse flavours of Suriname’s cuisine
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A sizzling, but enjoyable 33°C
Colombia sees a relatively tranquil time in October. With dispersed summer crowds, you’ll get to enjoy destinations like the Amazonas Department which is great for wildlife viewing. Head to the Chocó Department for whale-watching season.
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Check out Caño Cristales
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Explore Medellin’s art scene
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Taste aromatic Colombian coffee
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Comfortable 20°C daytime temperatures
Venezuela is truly a beautiful destination, all political turmoil aside. Bear witness to its exquisite natural landscapes. October is a good time to visit as the full, flowing rivers make for wonderful boat cruising. Soak up the Venezuelan culture!
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Taste Venezuela’s unique fruit
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Hike up the Avila Mountain trail
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Visit Mount Roraima
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Warm temperatures reaching 27°C
Colombia - San Pacho Festival
San Pacho Festival is considered to be one of Colombia’s most wild and raucous festivals. It takes place in Quibdo, the capital of the Pacific region of Chocó. The event is listed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list and it is an expression of the wonderful Afro-Colombian culture. The locals celebrate with music, dancing, religious processions, partying and colourful garments. Enjoy the pulsating rumba rhythms moving through the streets.
An inviting 30°C
Late September to early October
Quibdo
Ecuador - Cacería del Zorro
The city of Ibarra celebrates its founding with a day-long celebration in October. The celebration involves costumed Zorro impersonators and horse riders. The Cacería del Zorro is like a fox hunt, with the Zorro impersonator wearing a fake fox trail. Hundreds of men, women and children take part in the chase. The festival begins with the horse parade and proceeds with horse riders attempting to make it down steep hills. They then make their way to the lakeside race track. This fun festival sees locals come out in support of the day’s festivities.
An inviting 28°C
6 October
Ibarra
Brazil - Cirio de Nazare
The Cirio de Nazare festival honours Our Lady of Nazareth. This religious festival is held on the second Sunday of October each year in Belém. The festival takes place along the Amazon River and is one of the world’s largest celebrations honouring Our Lady of Nazareth. More than one million people head to the city to participate in a procession.
A toasty 32°C
Early October
Belém
Suriname
Temperatures rarely stray from an average of 26°C. Head to Matapica Beach which forms part of the wild, uninhabited Atlantic coastline where you can spot turtles. White Beach has snow-white sand lined with Caribbean huts and palm trees. This idyllic setting is a welcoming space to relax and swim. Average sea temperatures in October are a warm 28°C.
Venezuela
Venezuela is home to several beautiful and inviting beaches. Margarita Island is a winner amongst most tourists. It is known as the Pearl of the Caribbean and is the ideal beach for windsurfing. Playa Colorada is another favourite and is part of Mochima National Park which means there is plenty to see and do. Enjoy the lovely water temperatures which hover at around 28°C.
When travelling, remember to book 3 months in advance to get the best deals.
Book in July to get great discounts on your October trip!
Not ready to travel in October? Book your trip in October and travel in January to get the best deals.