Here is the perfect curated list of destinations to travel to month by month.
I’ve taken the liberty of taking the stress out of planning where you should travel to next. I frequently get asked what my recommendations for travel are for X month, so I figured why not make a blog about it.
Every month brings a new adventure and trust me no matter what destinations you pick or the month you decide to travel you are in for some amazing life changing experiences.
Here are some of my favorite travel destinations that I traveled to and my month to month recommendations.
This post is all about where to travel, a month by month guide.
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Travel Destinations by Month
January: Maldives
What better way to start the year off then in the Maldives, a destination that caters to rest and relaxation.
Your days consist of eating amazing food, swimming in crystal clear blue water, picnics on sandbanks, walks on the beach, sunset swims, spa days and of course lounging on a hammock doing absolutely nothing.
Booking an all inclusive resort is highly recommended, this allows you to enjoy as many drinks, snacks, activities and room service as you want and not have to worry about the tab building up.
I highly recommend the resort that we stayed at, I would go back in a heart beat. It was everything I ever dreamed of Maldives being. It included so much like unlimited top shelf drinks, snacks, 2 spa days each, water activities, restock of mini bar twice a day, butler service, transportation to the resort and the most amazing dining experiences ever, I especially loved their underwater restaurant.
Maldives is an absolute dream and I promise this place will give you the reboot you need and deserve.
I recommend spending at least 6 full days in the Maldives. No you will not get bored, I promise you won’t want to leave.
February: New Zealand
If you love pristine and untouched nature, New Zealand is calling your name. Filled with beautiful hikes, lakes, mountains, fiords and national parks, this country is without a doubt one of our favorite travel destinations.
Did you know that 1/3 of New Zealand is a protected National Park or Reserve. Unbelievable right?
Experience one of the most amazing day hikes Tongariro Alpine Crossing located at Tongariro National Park. Taking a cruise through Milford Sound at Fiordland National Park will have you feeling like you entered another planet and don’t forget to visit Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in New Zealand.
Make sure to visit both the North and South Island. The South Island gets all the lime light but trust me don’t miss out on the North Island there are some very epic excursions like white water rafting down the largest rafted waterfall in the world, caving with glow worms and enjoying a delicious banquet dinner at Hobbiton.
Do yourself a huge favor and rent a camper van, I truly believe this is the best way to see New Zealand and dedicate at least 14 days to exploring these marvelous islands.
March: India
Oh India. Now let me start by saying if you are completely new to traveling I recommend heading to Sri Lanka instead. Here me out, although India is a must for any traveler, it’s a hard place to travel to.
Constant nosies, smells and abundance of people might overwhelm a new traveler. Just being real here.
India is not a vacation it’s and experience and one that will forever and always be ingrained in your soul for ever and ever. The colors, the food, architecture and culture are unlike anything you’ll ever experience. We’ve been to 50 countries and nothing compares to the feelings we felt in India.
Visiting Taj Mahal was one of the few places that has ever exceeded our expectations, it’s hyped for a reason. You can also experience your very own jungle book moment as you cruise through the backwaters of Kerala in the famous Kerala houseboat. One of our most favorite travel moments to date.
Did you know that you can go on a safari in India? Ranthambore National Park is home to the endangered Bengal Tiger and witnessing these beautiful animals in the wild will leave you completely speechless.
I could go on and on about how much there’s to do in India and because the size of this country I recommend at least 18 days to really enjoy the different regions in India.
*tip: do it like the locals and stick to a vegetarian diet. You’re tummy will thank you.
April: Peru
If you love to stay busy then Peru is going to be a dream trip. We did so much while we visited Peru. The busiest month of travel on our 10 month trip. There is just so much to do.
Spend time fishing piranhas for lunch in the Amazon Rainforest, hiking the Andes mountains on your way to one of the 7 New Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu, discover the Nazca Lines from above, dune buggy your way through the Huacachina desert, experience poor mans Galapagos, spend the night suspended 1200 feet above the ground and enjoy the mouth waterig culinary scene in the coastal city of Lima.
If you love ceviche you are going to love Peruvian ceviche it’s AMAZING and no trip is complete without trying one of their delicious Pisco Sours. Don’t leave Peru without trying these two things.
Make sure to dedicate at least 2 days in Cusco to acclimate to the high elevation. The city of Cusco sits at 11,152 feet and many visitors experience altitude sickness. Whatever you do don’t book hikes or excursions that require strenuous physical activity on your first two days in Cusco, just take this time to get to know the city. Take it slow.
Spend at least 14 days in Peru, with 14 days you will be constantly on the move but it will be totally worth it.
may: Zion and Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
The start of hiking season in the US begin and there is no better parks to start the season then at Zion and Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah.
If you have the time I 100% recommend combing these two National Parks on the same trip.
Zion National Park is home to several famous hikes like The Narrows, Angels Landing and Subway Trails. Some of which need permits so make sure to acquire those beforehand. I would dedicate at least 2 days at Zion but 4 is best, don’t forget to hike Observation Point.
Must hikes at Bryce Canyon National Park are Navajo Loop and Queens Garden Loop Trail, Peekaboo Loop Trail and Fairyland Loop Trail. Dedicate one day but if you wish to explore a couple hikes I would stay 2 days.
If you plan to visit several National Parks within a year I would purchase a National Parks Pass. It’s only $80 and will pay for itself on your third visit to any National Park.
june: Croatia
One of my favorite European summer destinations without a doubt is Croatia. This beautiful underrated country is filled with gorgeous coastal towns, fresh seafood and not to mention the most delicious wine.
The perfect itinerary would include exploring Plitviče Lakes National Park, Krka National Park, Istria Peninsula, one of the islands like Korcula and of course the famous Dubrovnik.
One thing I do want to mention is that we found the Croatian people to be stand offish, not all, we did meet a couple very sweet Croatians but for the most part they were a little rude. The scenery and delicious cuisine though makes up for it.
I believe the best way to get the most out of your time in Croatia is to rent a car. Start at one end and finish at the other. It doesn’t matter which way you start.
14 days is the perfect amount of time to explore Croatia.
July: Iceland
Writing this list is no easy task because I seriously want to say okay this is my favorite country to like literally so many of these, but in this case Iceland is one our top 5 travel destinations.
Iceland is OUT OF THIS WORLD stunning. A literal dream! Never had I been to a country where everyday just keeps presenting you with more and more beauty, that’s Iceland, a real show off.
What I love about Iceland is how much freedom you have to wander around at pretty much anytime of the day. Coming during the summer will give you around 19 plus hours of daylight which means you can explore so much of Iceland at any given time and if you plan it right can have many spots to yourself.
Iceland is full of waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, wildlife, hot springs, deep canyons and landscapes that will have you constantly charging your camera battery.
A camper style adventure is an absolute must in Iceland and because of the amount of daylight you get in the summertime doing a full Iceland tour can be done in 10-14 days. I always like spending more time than less, but it’s totally doable in 10 days.
august: Tanzania
A trip to Tanzania will change you. I mean your day consists of viewing wildlife in their natural element, how could life get any better. An African Safari is unlike anything you’ll ever do in your entire life!
Watch lions stock their prey, witness the wildebeest migration, elephants enjoying an evening drink from a waterhole right outside your hotel room, being in the presence of the endangered black rhino and if you’re in for and even bigger adventure, climbing the tallest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro.
Did I mention Tanzania has beautiful beaches? I’m telling you Tanzania is such a unique country and the Tanzanian people, my goodness their smile is infectious.
An 8 day safari gives you a good chance at having successful game drives and checking the Big 5 off your list, an additional 6-8 days if you plan to reach the roof of Africa and if you’re adding Zanzibar for some rest and relaxation and additional 4 days is needed.
September: Germany
Our recent trip to Germany left us wanting to move there. Between the people and the beautiful towns we felt our 3 weeks in Germany came and went in a flash.
Complete honesty time, Germany was never high on either of our travel list and only booked the trip to go to Octoberfest with friends, and let me tell you we were shocked! Germany is GORGEOUS and I can not get over how nice Germans were to us. Now all we talk about is how we can move there, not joking we loved it.
Visiting in September means an obligatory visit to Octoberfest and although we had low expectations for this festival because we had heard and read nightmares stories from tourist I am happy to report that this was not our experience. We had the most amazing time and would absolutely recommend experiencing this festival at least once in your life.
We continued our journey through Germany and were so happy with our decision to rent a car, we had the freedom to drive to as many towns as we pleased and can I say German towns are stunning. They look like they are straight out of a Disney movie.
Spend your time exploring castles, palaces, museums, cathedrals, visiting wineries, biergartens, national parks, city parks, and famous city landmarks.
We explored Germany over 3 weeks and found this to be a great amount time to explore all the towns we wanted without feeling rushed.
October: Turkey
Are you ready to witness one of the most insane sunrise moments of your life? Make your way to Cappadocia where more than 150 balloons fly simultaneously over Göreme Valley presenting you with one of the most memorable sunrises you’ll ever see.
The moonscaped region of Cappadocia is filled with dreamy fairy chimneys and a chance to fly over and witness towering boulders of otherworldly beauty from a hot air ballon.
A stop in Istanbul, one of our favorite cities, is also a must. While in Istanbul you get a chance to experience two continents in one day, Europe and Asia. It’s really cool to see how different the two areas are from one another.
I would love to go back to Turkey and experience a bit more of the country. When we went we were a bit pressed for time and were only able to stay for 10 days. This was a bit rushed and because of that I would suggest spending at least 14 days in Turkey.
november: Japan
Out of the 41 countries we have visited we have only been to 1 country multiple times and that is Japan. Actually going back in February for the third time. We love Japan!
Japan is a foodie paradise and good food can be found everywhere! No matter what restaurant you decide to try I can almost guarantee it’s going to be delicious. Sushi, Sashimi, Yakatori, Ramen, Tonkatsu, Okonomiyaki, Curry Rice, Onigiri, Gyoza, Takoyaki, Karaage, Yakiniku, Shabushabu, it’s all amazing try it all!
Japaneses food, culture, cleanliness and public transportation is ridiculous, in a very good way.
Can you believe that one day me and Mathew were walking around Kyoto and I saw an elderly man cleaning up a sidewalk……with tweezers!!! I’m telling you Japanese people hold cleanliness to a whole different level and I whole heartedly love it.
If you plan on taking public transportation, which we highly recommend as they have one of the best public transpiration systems, make sure to always be on time. If you are even 30 seconds late chances are your train has already departed. When you need to exit make sure to be at the door before the train stops, if you wait for the train to stop and then proceed to exit you will miss your exit. Japanese public transportation is prompt, reliable and extremely punctual.
Autumn is the perfect time to see all the beautiful fall foliage surrounding the gardens and temples. Spring is also a popular time to visit for cherry blossom season.
Don’t spend any less then 14 days in Japan, you can’t do this amazing country justice in less then that. In an ideal situation Japan is best explored in 4 weeks.
December: Argentina
If you’ve been following us for awhile on IG you know what we’re about to say right? We have said it so many times that Argentina is our absolute favorite country right now. It’s numero 1!!
The landscapes of Argentina are so surreal and so diverse, lakes, jagged mountain peaks, red rock formations, desert landscapes, and lets not forget the glorious Iguazu Falls that lays within a lush subtropical rainforest.
One word, PATAGONIA. It’s home to some of the most surreal days hikes you’ll ever do especially if you decide to visit and hike Perito Moreno Glacier!
Let me wipe the drool off my face real quick….the steak oh my goodness the steak!! Oh did I mention the wine, chefs kiss times a million!
Any amount of time in Argentina will not be enough, we spent 5 weeks in Argentina and Mathew and I were so sad when we boarded our flight out to Chile. I know most people don’t haver the amount time off so at the very least spend 3 weeks in Argentina, yes if you only have two weeks you can totally make that work but you will definitely be back for a second trip. You’ve been warned.
But Wait, There’s More:
- The Ultimate Argentina Itinerary
- The Ultimate 4 Day El Chalten Hiking Guide
- Buenos Aires Itinerary: 5 Days of Food, Culture & Tango
- Must-See Places to Visit in Patagonia: Your Ultimate Itinerary
That wraps up this post Where to Travel -A Month by Month Guide.
travel resources
Here you can find all the travel site links that we personally use and recommend.
ACCOMMODATION: We find the best deals with BOOKING.COM. The more you book the better the perks like free breakfast with your stay, room upgrades and even higher discounted room rates.
CAR RENTALS: We have always used RentalCars.com and find them to have the best deals, customer service and selection of locations.
FLIGHTS: Our go too for booking flights has always been SKYSCANNER. We always find the best prices on this site.
TOURS/EXCURSIONS: GET YOUR GUIDE and VIATOR are two very reputable sites with easy and hassle free bookings.
TRAVEL INSURANCE: It’s so important to travel with insurance and for this we use World Nomads or Safety Wing.
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