October offers incredible travel opportunities, from African safaris to colourful cultural festivals. Discover classic destinations, hidden gems, and shoulder-season escapes in this month’s travel guide.
Alexandra
Marketing Intern
Published on
03 Jan 2025
Updated on
14 Jan 2025
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Introduction
October is a transitional month in many parts of the world, making it an ideal time to travel. Whether you’re looking for classic destinations with perfect weather, off-the-beaten-track adventures, or shoulder-season gems, there are plenty of options for every type of traveller. Below is a guide to the best places to visit in October, divided into Classic, Off-Beaten Track, and Shoulder Season destinations.
October is one of the best months to explore the iconic treasures of Egypt. Temperatures have dropped into the delightfully mild 20s Celsius, providing perfect conditions for outdoor exploration without battling intense heat or humidity. This month is considered the start of Egypt's second shoulder season, meaning tourist crowds have thinned out considerably since the busy summer months. This makes October an ideal time to experience major attractions like the Pyramids of Giza, Luxor's ancient temples, and the Egyptian Museum in relative tranquillity before winter's arrival.
Imagine standing before the majestic Great Pyramid of Giza, feeling the weight of history as you gaze upon one of the last remaining wonders of the ancient world. In Luxor, explore the Valley of the Kings, where the tombs of pharaohs such as Tutankhamun are tucked away in the hills. The ancient temples of Karnak and Hatshepsut offer a glimpse into Egypt’s rich spiritual heritage.
Sailing the Nile River on a traditional felucca or a luxurious cruise is an experience not to be missed. October is prime season for multi-day Nile River cruises, where you can enjoy the serene beauty of the river and visit important historical sites along the way. For those seeking adventure, desert safaris or camping under the stars provide unforgettable experiences without sweltering temperatures.
For diving enthusiasts, the Red Sea resorts in Sharm El Sheikh or Hurghada offer vibrant underwater worlds teeming with coral reefs and marine life. With fewer tourists and cooler weather, October provides a comfortable setting to explore both ancient and modern Egypt.
Japan in October is a dream for lovers of nature and culture. The autumn foliage begins to paint landscapes in stunning shades of red, orange, and yellow, especially in places like Kyoto, where the scenery becomes a lively tapestry of colours. It’s a magical time to explore traditional temples and gardens, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of the changing seasons.
In Tokyo, the Meiji Shrine holds the Meiji Jingu Festival, featuring traditional performances that celebrate the shrine’s dedication to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. This festival showcases a variety of cultural activities, including music and dance, providing a unique glimpse into Japan’s rich heritage. Additionally, Oktoberfest celebrations are popular in major cities, offering a taste of German culture through food, beer, and lively festivities.
The pleasant climate in October makes it perfect for hiking and outdoor adventures, whether it’s traversing the scenic trails of the Japanese Alps or enjoying leisurely walks through the historic streets of Kyoto. With fewer tourists compared to the summer months, October provides an ideal backdrop for exploring Japan’s natural wonders and cultural landscape.
For sun-seekers, Mauritius offers unique beaches, turquoise waters, and luxurious resorts in October. As one of the most dreamlike destinations in the Indian Ocean, this island paradise is perfect for relaxation and adventure alike.
The weather in October is pleasantly warm, ideal for soaking up the sun on the beaches of Belle Mare or Flic en Flac. With clear waters, it’s a fantastic time for diving, snorkelling, or simply relaxing on the beach. Explore the underwater world at the Blue Bay Marine Park, where you can encounter colourful coral reefs and a variety of marine life.
Mauritius also boasts a rich blend of cultures, reflected in its culinary offerings. Savour Creole cuisine, which features a mix of French, Indian, and African influences, in local restaurants or at beachside cafés. Don’t forget to try the island’s famous street food, such as dholl puri and gateau piment, for an authentic taste of local flavours.
In addition to beach activities, consider exploring the island’s interior. Visit the Black River Gorges National Park for hiking trails that reveal impressive views and endemic flora and fauna. A visit to the Chamarel Colored Earths, with its vibrant, multi-coloured sands, is also a must-see.
October marks the tail end of the Great Migration in Kenya's Masai Mara, making it a spectacular time for wildlife enthusiasts. A lot like August, this is a particularly good time to travel, with cool temperatures and little cloud cover bringing no rain. The migration is very much weather dependent, so game viewing and river crossings continue into September, especially as the herds cross back down heading south into the Serengeti. As this period approaches the end of the dry season, the bush becomes less dense, allowing for easier game spotting as animals gather around waterholes and rivers. While crowds begin to thin out, wildlife viewing remains exceptional, and the landscapes flourish after the rains. Whether you’re on a classic safari or hiking Mount Kenya, this is an unforgettable destination where you can expect to see plenty of other vehicles and tourists in contrast to the green season.
October is a fantastic time to explore Madagascar, with its diverse ecosystems and endemic species still in high season for good reason. There are lots of lemur offspring, and the flora is blossoming, creating a lively atmosphere as everything feels like it's in full bloom. Birds are still mating, showcasing their stunning plumage, and whales can still be spotted off the coast—albeit in smaller numbers. This splendid time of year also sees fewer tourists compared to September, making it an even more serene experience. Whether you visit Andasibe-Mantadia National Park to spot lemurs and chameleons or explore the Avenue of the Baobabs, October offers perfect conditions for adventure and wildlife observation.
Known for its spiritual and natural beauty, Bhutan is an incredible off-the-beaten-track destination in October. The country's commitment to preserving its culture and environment makes it a unique place to explore.
September in Bhutan marks the transition from summer to autumn, bringing milder and more comfortable weather than the preceding summer months. This month heralds the start of the best time for trekking, with high-altitude trails reopening for adventures such as the Snowman Trek and the Druk Path Trek. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot takins, red pandas, and various bird species in national parks. The season provides an enticing mix of outdoor activities, cultural richness, and picturesque autumn views. Experience the country’s traditional Tsechu festivals, which are filled with masked dances and vibrant costumes, adding to the rich cultural tapestry of this Himalayan kingdom.
October is a fantastic time to experience Zambia’s wild beauty, particularly in South Luangwa National Park, known for its renowned walking safaris that offer a close-up look at wildlife in its natural habitat. As October arrives, a definite change of seasons is noticeable, with days and nights becoming warmer and the threat of heavy rain looming on some days. Despite the sometimes oppressive heat, especially in the Zambezi Valley, this period is regarded by guides as the very best time for game viewing, particularly for predators who revel in the easy hunting conditions. The more remote bush camps in the core parks, as well as those in areas like North Luangwa and Kafue, are starting to wind down their operations with plans to close for the summer. Visitors to Kafue National Park can enjoy unique experiences, such as hot air balloon flights from selected camps in the Busanga Plains region. While water levels remain low at Victoria Falls, a wide range of activities are still available, ensuring that your visit to Zambia is filled with adventure and excitement.
October is the shoulder season in Namibia, making it a great time to experience the stark beauty of the Namib Desert and the towering dunes of Sossusvlei without the intense summer heat. The weather is pleasantly warm during the day, making outdoor activities enjoyable, while the nights can be quite cool, perfect for stargazing.
Explore the iconic red dunes of Sossusvlei, where the stunning views of the sunrise over the dunes are simply unforgettable. Hike up Dune 45 for a panoramic view of the landscape bathed in golden light. The stark contrast of the dunes against the bright blue sky creates a stunning backdrop for photography.
Namibia is also known for its wildlife. Etosha National Park is a must-visit, where you can embark on self-drive safaris to spot elephants, lions, and rhinos around the park’s saltpans. The unique landscape, filled with wildlife, offers endless opportunities for adventure.
In addition to wildlife and landscapes, consider exploring Namibia’s rich cultural heritage. Visit the Himba and San communities to learn about their traditions and ways of life. Engage in cultural exchanges that deepen your understanding of the diverse cultures that call Namibia home.
October is one of our favourite months to be in South Africa, particularly in Cape Town, where temperatures rise dramatically, and the city gears up for summer. Locals relish the last few weeks of having the city to themselves before autumn arrives. The Winelands are equally spectacular during this time, offering alfresco lunches beneath shady trees, followed by lazy afternoons by the swimming pool—a hugely popular pastime. This month marks the last reliable dry weather in Kruger National Park, making it ideal for exploration and safaris. Additionally, it’s the best time to venture into KwaZulu-Natal, where lively landscapes and wildlife await. All in all, October may be the best all-around month for visiting South Africa, although this is, of course, a matter of opinion. Whether you're hiking Table Mountain, indulging in world-class wines, or embarking on a safari, South Africa in October offers a diverse and enriching experience.
In conclusion, October offers a diverse range of travel opportunities, from classic destinations rich in culture and history to off-the-beaten-track adventures filled with unique experiences. Whether you choose to explore the wonders of Egypt, the vibrant landscapes of Japan, or the untouched beauty of Madagascar, each destination provides an unforgettable journey that caters to every traveller’s desires.
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