Travelling is one of life’s greatest joys, but if you’ve ever found yourself in a sea of tourists, you know that sometimes the hustle and bustle can overshadow the beauty of a destination. If you’re looking to explore the world without the crowds, timing is everything. Have you considered travelling off-peak? Here's your guide to beating the crowds
Europe: Fall and Spring
Europe is a treasure trove of history, culture, and cuisine, but it can get quite busy, especially during the summer months. To dodge the throngs of tourists, aim for late fall (September to November) and early spring (March to May).
In fall, you’ll enjoy crisp air and beautiful autumn colours, particularly in places like the Balkans and Central Europe. Plus, many attractions are less crowded. Early spring (before Easter) you will find blossoms, flowers and milder weather, with fewer tourists in popular spots like Rome or the Greek Islands. Just be prepared for the occasional rain shower!
Southeast Asia: Onset of the Monsoon Season
Southeast Asia is a paradise for travellers, and peak tourist season typically runs from November to February. To experience countries like Thailand, Vietnam, or Cambodia without the crowds, consider travelling during the shoulder months of March and April. It will be hot and humid, but the crowds will be gone. You could also travel during the monsoon season from July to October, but especially towards the end of that time, in Vietnam, floods can be an issue.
India: pre and post monsoon
The monsoon in India lasts broadly from April through September. This makes the months of March and October good months to travel, especially in the north, before the main travel season of November to February. March sees the Holi festival in India.
Japan: either side of summer
Cherry blossom time (March, April) is peak travel time in Japan. Consider travelling either side of summer. October and November come with the striking red and gold hues of fall colours but without the crowds. May sees lush landscapes and wisteria in full bloom.
Central America: Onset of the Green Season
If you’re dreaming of exploring the vibrant cultures and stunning landscapes of Central America, consider visiting during the onset of the “green season,” March and April. This time of year sees fewer tourists in countries like Costa Rica and Guatemala.
While you may encounter some rain, you’ll have a better chance of finding solitude at popular spots like the Mayan ruins or the beaches. During the week leading up to Easter, which is busier, you may witness religious processions, streets carpeted in flowers and re-enactments of the walk to Calvary.
South America: avoid holidays
South America is vast and diverse, and to avoid the crowds, aim for the shoulder seasons as northern hemisphere holidays can get busy. Visiting Peru in April and May you will see lush landscapes and flowers in bloom, while September and October are also great months.
For Galapagos the adage is to avoid our school holidays (July, August, Christmas and Easter).
Patagonia has a much narrower travel season but November and March will help you avoid the crowds.
Australia and New Zealand: Late Autumn and Early Spring
If you’re looking to explore Australia and New Zealand, consider travelling during their late autumn (March to June) and early spring (September to November). The summer months (December to February) attract tourists seeking sun and surf, leading to crowded beaches and attractions.
During the shoulder seasons, you’ll experience pleasant weather and fewer tourists. It’s a perfect time for hiking, visiting national parks, and enjoying the unique wildlife without the summer rush.
Africa: Shoulder and Green Seasons
For wildlife experiences, the dry season is the best time to go on safari in Africa. However, popular locations like the Maasai Mara and Serengeti can get busy during northern hemisphere school holidays, and during times in places where the wildebeest migration is easily seen. Avoid the crowds by travelling in less busy times. For East Africa, January and February are excellent months to have a relatively quiet experience. In Southern Africa, the busy times coincide with local school holidays, but the dry season runs from April through October, making most of that period a good time to travel.
Getting granular
These are general guidelines by continent on how to avoid the crowds. There are of course many nuances and differences between countries in one region and even within countries. And that's where we come in. Contact me to find the best time for your chosen destination.
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