News Article

What to Book Now for Autumn & Winter Travel

3 June 2026

While we never want to wish the year away, if you haven’t already planned your autumn or winter getaway, now is the time to do so. Many of our clients are already looking ahead to 2027, but there is still excellent availability for late 2026 across Africa, the Indian Ocean and beyond.

From thrilling safaris and cultural discoveries to idyllic beach retreats, we round up the best destinations to visit each month throughout the remainder of the year.

September

Tanzania

September is one of the best months to visit Tanzania, combining excellent wildlife viewing and fewer crowds with comfortable temperatures and clear skies. It is the tail end of The Great Migration in the northern Serengeti at this time, which can offer a chance to witness dramatic river crossings, while game viewing remains exceptional throughout the country's other renowned parks, including Ruaha and Nyerere. Beyond the safari experience, Tanzania pairs beautifully with a stay on Zanzibar's idyllic beaches, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation within a single journey.

Tanzania

Zambia

The temperatures will be starting to climb, but September falls just before the rainy season, so vegetation remains thinner, making it one of the best months for walking safaris in South Luangwa. For those looking to enjoy game drives rather than walking safaris, you will still be rewarded with a high number of wildlife concentrated around rivers and waterholes. You should note that water levels at Victoria Falls will also be low and therefore not as dramatic as at other times of the year. 

Zambia

October

Botswana

Widely considered one of the finest safari months of the year, October offers exceptional game viewing as wildlife congregates around the remaining water sources before the rains arrive. The Okavango Delta and Chobe are alive with activity, from large elephant herds and predator sightings to unforgettable mokoro excursions through the waterways.

Botswana

Japan

Autumn is one of the most rewarding times to visit Japan, with comfortable temperatures and the first hints of the country's famous autumn colours beginning to appear. It is an excellent season for combining vibrant cities such as Tokyo and Kyoto with time in the countryside, whether exploring mountain villages, hot spring retreats or historic temples.

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November

Sri Lanka

November marks the start of the season on Sri Lanka's south and west coasts, bringing sunshine, calmer seas and ideal conditions for beach stays. Beyond the coastline, the country offers an extraordinary diversity of experiences, from ancient temples and tea plantations to leopard safaris in Yala and wildlife-rich national parks.

Sri Lanka

Mauritius

Warm temperatures and relatively low humidity make November one of the most enjoyable times to visit Mauritius. While the island is renowned for its beautiful beaches and luxury resorts, this time is also a great time to explore, with volcanic landscapes, award-winning golf courses, botanical gardens, colourful markets and excellent hiking opportunities. 

Mauritius

December

South Africa

December brings long summer days and a vibrant atmosphere across South Africa's most celebrated regions. Cape Town is at its lively best, while the nearby Winelands invite leisurely afternoons spent enjoying acclaimed food and wine experiences, and there are fantastic wildlife sightings to be found across the country. 

South Africa

New Zealand

As summer begins in New Zealand its spectacular landscapes are in all their glory, from snow-capped peaks and fjords to golden beaches and rolling vineyards. The country's excellent road network makes it ideal for a self-drive adventure, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy everything from hiking and kayaking to wine tasting and wildlife encounters, all set against some of the world's most dramatic scenery.

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January

Kenya

January offers warm temperatures, excellent wildlife viewing and a quieter safari experience compared to the peak migration months. The open plains of the Maasai Mara are rich in resident game, while private conservancies provide opportunities for walking safaris, night drives and meaningful cultural encounters with local communities. Kenya also pairs beautifully with the Indian Ocean coast at this time of year, perfect for enjoying some relaxation alongisde safari. 

Kenya

Caribbean

January falls within the Caribbean's dry season, bringing warm temperatures, low humidity and plenty of sunshine. Beyond its idyllic beaches, the region offers exceptional sailing, diving and island-hopping opportunities, with each island offering its own distinct culture, cuisine and character. We would recommend travelling after the festive period for a more relaxed atmosphere, and better value, while still enjoying excellent conditions both on land and at sea.

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February

Saint Helena

February is one of the best times to visit Saint Helena, coinciding with the island's whale shark season when the gentle giants can often be seen in the surrounding waters. One of the world's most remote destinations, the island offers a fascinating blend of history, dramatic volcanic landscapes and unique endemic wildlife. 

Saint Helena

Australia

February is a wonderful time to explore many parts of Australia, particularly the southern regions where long summer days and warm temperatures create ideal conditions for sightseeing and outdoor adventures. South Australia, Victoria, Tasmania and Western Australia's Margaret River region are especially appealing at this time, offering world-class wine, exceptional food, beautiful beaches and spectacular coastal scenery. It is worth noting that the more tropical north, including parts of Queensland and the Northern Territory, experiences its wet season during this time. 

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FAQs

Why book a tailor-made holiday with a luxury travel specialist?

The best trips feel effortless, but behind every seamless journey is thoughtful planning and genuine expertise. A luxury travel specialist brings first-hand destination knowledge, trusted recommendations and personalised service to every itinerary, ensuring your holiday is shaped around you. From choosing the finest hotels and experiences to managing all the finer details, tailor-made travel allows you to make the most of your time away without the stress of organising it yourself.

What types of holidays do you specialise in?

Love To Explore specialises in thoughtfully crafted journeys designed entirely around each individual traveller. From slow, sun-drenched escapes on idyllic Indian Ocean islands to immersive, adventure-led safaris through the African wilderness, every trip is shaped by personal style and pace. While Africa and the Indian Ocean remain at the heart of what we do, our trusted network of local experts allows us to extend far beyond, opening the door to extraordinary destinations across the globe.

How far in advance should I book a holiday?

There is no single rule when it comes to booking your next escape, as every journey is completely bespoke. Whether you’re planning a special milestone trip years in advance or seeking a spontaneous last-minute escape, we can help shape it at any stage. That said, for the best choice of boutique lodges and the most sought-after properties, we recommend beginning the planning process around nine months to a year ahead, allowing the widest possible access to availability and experiences. For certain safari lodges and iconic seasonal moments, such as Japan’s cherry blossom season, we would advise planning up to two years in advance. 

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