Planning your bucket list destinations for 2026? Choosing the right time to travel can make the difference between a good trip and an unforgettable one.
From African safaris to tropical island escapes, here’s when to visit some of the world’s most incredible destinations, and when to avoid.
Best Time to Visit at a Glance
| Destination | Best Time | Why | Avoid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maldives | Nov–Apr | Dry season, calm seas | May–Oct (rain, humidity) |
| Mauritius | May–Nov | Cooler, drier weather | Jan–Mar (hot, humid, cyclone risk) |
| Tanzania & Zanzibar | Jun–Oct, Dec–Feb | Peak safari + beach conditions | Apr–May (heavy rain) |
| Canadian Rockies | Jun–Sept | Hiking, lakes at their best | Nov–Apr (winter unless skiing) |
| Okavango Delta | May–Sept | Flood season, excellent wildlife | Jan–Mar (hot, wetter conditions) |
| South Africa | May–Sept | Best wildlife spotting (dry) | Nov–Mar (hot, greener, less visible wildlife) |
Best Time to Visit the Maldives for Sunshine and Calm Seas
- Best time to visit: November to April
- Why: Dry season, calm seas, and excellent snorkelling visibility
- Avoid: May to October (higher chance of rain and humidity)
💡 Insider tip:
Prices peak between December and February. Travelling in November or late April often offers similar weather with better value.
👉 See our team’s bucket list destinations for 2026 (link to your first blog)
For more travel inspiration, visit Visit Maldives.
Best Time to Visit Mauritius for Beaches, Culture and Adventure
- Best time to visit: May to November
- Why: Cooler, drier weather — ideal for exploring and outdoor activities
- Consider: January to March can be hotter, more humid, with a higher chance of tropical storms
💡 Insider tip:
If you want to combine beach time with hiking and exploring, the cooler months are far more comfortable.
Best Time to Visit Tanzania Safari and Zanzibar
- Best safari time: June to October
- Best beach time: June to October and December to February
- Avoid: April to May (heavy rains across both regions)
💡 Insider tip:
For the Great Migration river crossings, aim for July to September in the northern Serengeti — one of the most dramatic wildlife experiences in the world.
👉 See why this made our bucket list destinations for 2026
Best Time to Visit the Canadian Rockies
- Summer (June–September): Best for hiking and seeing the famous turquoise lakes
- Winter (December–March): Ideal for skiing and snowy landscapes
💡 Insider tip:
Lake Louise and Moraine Lake only show their iconic turquoise colour in summer — in winter, they’re frozen and equally beautiful in a completely different way.
Best Time to Visit the Okavango Delta, Botswana
- Best time to visit: May to September
- Why: Seasonal floodwaters attract large concentrations of wildlife
💡 Insider tip:
The flood arrives during Botswana’s dry season, meaning animals gather around water — making wildlife sightings easier and more frequent.
Best Time to Visit South Africa for Safari
- Best wildlife viewing: May to September (dry season)
- Best scenery: November to March (lush, green landscapes)
💡 Insider tip:
The dry season is best for spotting animals, but the green season offers fewer crowds and incredible photography opportunities.
For more ideas and guidance, explore South African Tourism.
When to Travel Each Month (Quick Guide)
- January–March: Mauritius and South Africa (warmer, greener landscapes)
- April–May: Shoulder season — fewer crowds, but some rain
- June–September: Peak safari season and best time for the Canadian Rockies
- October–December: Ideal for Maldives and Zanzibar
Why Travel Timing Matters (And Why It’s Worth Being Covered)
Choosing the right time to travel isn’t just about weather — it can impact your entire experience.
- Weather disruptions such as monsoons or tropical storms
- Flight delays during peak travel seasons
- Higher cancellation costs for once-in-a-lifetime trips
When you’re planning something special, it’s worth making sure you’re covered — so you can focus on the experience, not the unexpected.
FAQs: Best Time to Visit These Destinations
When is the cheapest time to travel?
Shoulder seasons (April–May and October–November) often offer the best mix of value, good weather, and fewer crowds.
Is it worth travelling in the rainy season?
In some destinations, yes — you’ll often find lower prices, fewer tourists, and greener landscapes.
When is the best time for safari?
Generally during the dry season (May–October), when animals gather around water sources and are easier to spot.
