Is there a best time to travel the world? Sometimes!

Depending on your source of information, there are around 195 countries in the world today. Each country is well worth a visit however, some are better visited at certain times of the year.

When you travel the world you will often want to do it at the ‘best time’. But what is the best time of year to visit every country in the world? Well, in regards to this post, the best time to travel the world is all about travelling during the best weather conditions in the world. Having optimal weather will allow you to see and do everything you want to do.

As you will discover the best time to travel abroad is different in each country thanks the the Equator, Tropic of Capricorn and Tropic of Cancer. Depending on how close or far away from these parallels of latitude the country is, the weather is influenced by them.

In this post I am providing you with a rough overview of the best time to travel the world. It is divided in to two sections – a country/area weather condition guide and then a month by month guide. Can I say, this is just a guide. Even though there are specific months that are better for visiting different cities and countries, I cannot guarantee what the weather will be during your visit. If I could predict the weather I think I would be a very rich woman.

Though visiting a country during the best time to travel is appealing remember that you can visit anytime and that people live in these parts of the world and just accept what the weather is on a particular day. Without further ado, let’s break down the best time to travel the world for you!

What is the Best Season to Travel?

The best season to travel the world will depend on what you want to achieve during your holiday. If you want the best beach weather then the summer months will suit. But if you are planning a skiing holiday, you will want the snow that arrives during the coldest winter months. The weather can be the biggest factor in choosing where to holiday but so can events you want to see, the cost of airfares and accommodation and whether you mind of not seeing things when they are overcrowded.

If you are travelling on a working holiday visa or a digital nomad visa and plan to spend at least 1 – 2 years in a particular country, you will be exposed to every season. And you will discover whether you want to live through a particular season again or go to another country which has better weather.

Pros and Cons of Travelling the World During the Best Times

There are both pros and cons to consider when choosing the best time to travel the world.

Pros of Travelling the World During the Best Times

There are advantages to travelling the world during the ‘best times’ of the year. They include:

• Better weather conditions so you can do and see all the things you want to.
• Tourist attractions will be open – as some close during the colder months – particularly in Europe.
• More solo travellers travelling so you can meet similar minded travellers.
• If you are working abroad, more travel jobs in hospitality available to cater to the ‘best time’ crowds.

Cons of Travelling the World During the Best Times

There are disadvantages to travelling the world during the ‘best times’ of the year. They include:

• Travelling costs – flight and accommodation are more expensive during the high season.
• You will be faced with overcrowded tourist attractions.
• Cafes and restaurants will be packed and may up their prices.

Best Time To Travel Different Countries of the World

Please Note: The following best time to travel the world are based on my own experiences and research of travelling in these areas. They are a generalisation as weather can change on a daily basis. You may hear the phrase this is ‘unseasonal weather we are having’ many times as you travel. In my opinion, any time is a good time to travel the world.

Argentina/Chile

Summer time is from December to February while winter is during June to August. Summers can be very hot and humid so the best time to travel Argentina, Chile and other South American countries is during the winter months of June to October.

Australia

Australia is a huge country with different climates occurring at any particular time. Summer is from December to February while winter is from June to August. The northern parts of Australia (Queensland, Northern Territory and the top half of Western Australia) are best to visit during May to September as this is the dry season. The wet season is from November to March when it is hot and humid with a cyclone or two. The southern parts of Australia are best visited during the summer months however, you can still visit during the winter months but the weather can be very cold with snow falling in the New South Wales and Victorian ski areas. Many people do the big lap of Australia and chase the sun or if you have less time, see the Australian icons during a 1 month flying visit.

Bahamas

There is plenty of rain during summer, June to December when it is hurricane season. Winters are quite mild and sometimes cool so Spring and Fall are good times to visit the Bahamas to enjoy the warmth.

Bali/Indonesia

The ‘best time’ to visit Bali and other parts of Indonesia is during June to October when the weather is very nice with hot days and balmy nights. So if you want to spend your days on the beach and partying at night, these months are preferred to visit. The wet season is during November to April. Here’s how you could spend a week in Bali.

Bangladesh

Mostly hot and humid all year-round with heavy monsoon rains in the summer months of June to September.

Barbados

Generally warm and sunny year-round. The driest months are December to June with most rain falling from July to November during the hurricane season.

Brazil

Brazil is a large country with varying climates. Overall it has a tropical climate with the Amazon Basin being very hot and humid year-round. Rio de Janiero is hot and tropical with sunny summers (December to March) and mild winters (June to August).

Canada

On the whole, Canada has hot summers and harsh cold winters. Some say, winter lasts for 9 months of the year. The warmest time to visit Canada is between June to September (summer). If you are a snow enthusiast snowfalls can start in early October and finish in late April providing you with plenty of time to enjoy the snow. Many people get a Canada working holiday visa and get a job in the Canadian ski resorts. But for touring the country say on a 1 month Canada holiday, the warmer months would be best.

China/Hong Kong

China is such a huge country with weather conditions varying from one area to the next. The north has an extreme continental climate with harsh winters (December to March) with dry and sunny summers (May to August). There are two ‘best times’ to visit China and they are from April to May and September to October. It can be very cold in north China from November to March.

The best time to visit Hong Kong is April to May or October to November. It can be very hot and humid from June to August with possible typhoons in July to September.

Egypt

Egypt has hot summers (June to September) and mild winters. The best time to visit is May or October to November. Cairo is hot and sunny year-round as it has a desert climate with next to no rain.

Europe

Summer time in Europe is from June to August. Summers are cooler in the north and can get quite hot in the south. Winter is from December to March when it can be extremely cold with many countries experiencing snow. If you are a ski enthusiast this is the best time to visit as you will have a huge choice of ski areas to choose from. Spring and autumn are usually the wettest times in Northern Europe however, many people travel in these seasons as tourist attractions aren’t as crowded as during summer. Also, travel and accommodation can be cheaper. Travelling Europe during winter can be magical with all the Christmas lights, the roasting of chestnuts and sitting in warm coffee shops watching the world go by. Here’s my 1 month Central Europe itinerary you can undertake in any season.

Travelling can also be influenced by events – enjoy Oktoberfest in Germany

Hawaii

Although a state of the United States of America, the climate in Hawaii is very different from mainland America. The climate is tropical and warm year-round – great for spending a week in Hawaii or a month in Hawaii. The wettest months are December and January.

India

The ‘best time’ to visit India is during October to April before the monsoon season in late May to September. April to June can be extremely hot and uncomfortable for travelling. 

Japan

Japan has warm sunny springs, hot humid summers with cold winters with heavy snow in the Alps. The country is subject to earthquakes, monsoons, typhoons and tidal waves. The ‘best time’ to visit Japan is during April to June (Spring) and September to October (Autumn) unless you are snow enthusiast then the winter months (December to February) would be ideal. A lot of people time their visit to Japan for the cherry blossoms which start blooming late March into April. Many people arrive in Japan on a working holiday visa or specifically come to Teach English in Japan. To which, they stay a year or more and so live through every season.

Kenya & Central Africa

Tropical weather on the coast. Chilly evenings in the highlands. Rainy season is April to June.

Malaysia

Malaysia is hot and humid throughout the year with the wet season on the east coast from October to February and west coast from September to December.

Maldives

Tropical, hot and humid year-round. The summer months are October to May, which is the most popular time to visit. The South-west of the country experiences a lot of rain with some violent storms.

Mexico

Mexico is a large country with a number of climates. The north and north-west are dry while the far south is tropical with heavy rainfall. The wettest months are July to September. Some of the Mexican coast faces the Caribbean Sea making it great for a beach vacation. Cancun is one of the most popular destinations in Mexico for its beach side location and proximinity to exploring the Yucutan Peninsula to see Mayan ruins such as Chichen Itza. 

kicking back in Cancun during the best weather

Middle East

The Middle East is made up of a number of countries with varying weather. In general, it can be very hot during summer from June to August with hot days and cool evenings, typical desert weather. Winter is December to March when snow falls can occur in the mountains. Spring and Autumn are usually the best times to visit this region.

Nepal

July to October sees a warm monsoonal climate. Best time to go trekking is October and November after the monsoon season but February to April is also good.

New Zealand

New Zealand consists of two major islands with varying climate. The North Island has warm and humid summers (November to February) and cold winters (June to August). The South Island is cooler than the north and in winter many people like to visit the world-renowned ski areas. So you can go from warm weather on the North Island to snow on the South Island. 

The Pacific Islands

There are many islands in the Pacific. Mostly they have tropical weather where it is hot all year-round. The wettest months are November to April when it is hot, humid and stormy and you may see a cyclone or two. The Pacific island cruise season runs from October through to March/April.

Peru/Ecuador

Hot all year round in the jungles. Cooler in the mountains during the day but it can get very cold at night. The coastal dry season in Peru is December to March. The best trekking in Peru is during May to July.

Russian Federation

This huge land mass has large weather variations from sub-arctic in the north to hot, dry desert like to Mediterranean climates further south. The coldest months are November to March which sees a lot of cold weather and snow. Summer – June, July and August are often the hottest and best months to visit.

South Africa

South Africa is a large country with a diverse climate. The coast around Cape Town is temperate being wet and cold in winter and hot and sunny during the summer months (November to March). Johannesburg has dry, sunny, mild winters and warm and sunny summers. Best time to visit is October to January.

Thailand

Thailand is generally hot and humid throughout the year, particularly during the monsoon season from May to October. November to February is cooler and the best time to travel the north and west of the country. Ko Samui, a popular destination off the east coast is best from May to September.

United States of America

Summer is June to August and winter December to February. The country is so big and vast that it can be hot in one area and snowing in another. The northern states, those closer to Canada, such as Alaska is best visited between May and September when it is warmer however, if you like the snow winter may suit you better. Further south of the country the weather is hotter however there are some high mountain ranges that provide great skiing/boarding. With such diverse weather it can be snowing in New York on the East Coast and beach weather in Los Angeles on the West Coast, you can drive from one coast to the other and experience lots of different weather.

Criss cross the USA on Route 66 and experience lots of different weather + soda

Vietnam

South Vietnam has a dry season December to April with the hottest months being February to May. South Vietnam has the wettest season from June to August. North Vietnam has cold winters from November to April while the dry season is May to October when it can become quite hot.

Zimbabwe

Best time for game viewing is May to October. The wet season is November to March.

Best Time to Travel the World Each Month of the Year

December/January/February – Winter Season in the Northern Hemisphere and Summer Season in the Southern Hemisphere

Best places to travel to in the month of December

December is time to embrace the festive season, with cozy winter wonderlands or perfect tropical warmth.

Best countries to visit in December for cold weather: Scandinavia, Canada, most of Europe particularly Germany for the wonderful Christmas markets. Lapland to see Father Christmas. Get the Christmas vibe in London. Go ice skating in New York’s Central Park. And ring in the new year enjoying fireworks in one of the biggest cities in the world – the Big Apple or perhaps Sydney!

Best countries to visit in January for warm weather: Australia, New Zealand, Antarctica, South Africa, South America and some of Asia.

December is a magical time for travel

Best places to travel to in the month of January

January is a great time of year to explore the world. You will be in the midst of winter in the northern hemisphere being great for cold weather activities like skiing. And the summer hemisphere will be in the grips of summer with hot days, perfect for the beach. Though some countries may have wet weather during this time.

Countries to visit in January for cold weather: Scandinavia, Canada, most of Europe. If you love skiing and spending time indoors by a roaring fire these countries offer you many opportunities to do so.

Best countries to visit in January for warm weather: Spend your time outdoors enjoying beaches and hikes in Australia (southern states), New Zealand, South Africa, South America and some of Asia. This is a great time to visit Antarctica to get up close and personal to the local animals without the harsh conditions.

Best places to travel to in the month of February

Similar to January, February has options for any kind of traveler to explore the world. Still in the grips of cold weather will be the northern hemisphere countries and the warmth is still in the Southern Hemisphere.

Best countries to visit in February for cold weather: Scandinavian countries, North America and most of Europe.

Best countries to visit in February for warm weather: Australia (southern states), New Zealand, Antacrtica, South Africa, South America and some of Asia. Also Caribbean countries and islands in Maldives and Mauritius.

March/April/May – Spring season in the Northern Hemisphere and Autumn (Fall) in the Southern Hemisphere.

Best places to travel to in the month of March

March sees the beginning of the new season. Spring in the northern hemisphere and Autumn or fall in the Southern Hemisphere. Often considered shoulder season when it comes to airfares, you could get a bargain here if you choose to travel now.

Best countries to visit in March for cold weather: Japan – late March to see the cherry blossoms. And now is the time to think about a visit to the Himalayas (best between March and November).

Best countries to visit in March for warm weather: South American countries, Asian countries such as Vietnam and India before it becomes too hot. Also Malaysia, Cambodia and Vietnam before the rainy season. Mexico is also a good bet to enjoy the warmth.

Are the cherry blossoms in Japan on your mind!

Best places to travel to in the month of April

April sees the snow melting in the northern hemisphere and crisp mornings in the Southern Hemisphere countries.

Best countries to visit in April for cold weather: Japan as the cherry blossoms are still blooming. Canada, Scandinavia and the high mountains of Europe – get some great last minute ski deals.

Best countries to visit in April for warm weather: Australia, Maldives, Argentina, Cuba, Bali, Vietnam, Cambodia and Botswana. Head to Thailand for the 13th April for the Thai New Year.

Best places to travel to in the month of May

May means summer is almost here in the Northern Hemisphere and winter is almost here in the Southern Hemisphere.

Best countries to visit in May for cold weather: South Africa, Australia and many Asian countries including India and Sri Lanka before they become too hot!

Best countries to visit in April for warm weather: Europe is heating up but it is good to visit as the crowds of summer haven’t arrived yet! It is shoulder season and you may get a good deal – UK, Italy, Greece, Spain, Portugal, Croatia, France, Austria and Slovenia. Enjoy the midnight sun in Finland and other Scandinavian countries.

June/July/August – Summer season in the Northern Hemisphere and Winter season in the Southern Hemisphere

Best places to travel to in the month of June

June is a great month in the Northern Hemisphere to get out and about and enjoy the warmer weather. While in the Southern Hemisphere countries, depending on the country you could still be enjoying beach weather or skiing in the high country.

Best countries to visit in June for cold weather: Peru, New Zealand and Australia have great ski seasons beginning.

Best countries to visit in June for warm weather: Plenty of warm weather for discovering Europe, UK, Canada, USA, Pacific islands and a lot of Asia. Great time to tackle Peru’s Inca Trail before it gets too cold. Plenty of hiking and mountain biking to enjoy in the Canadian and European mountains.

Best places to travel to in the month of July

It is the height of summer or the peak of winter in July.

Best countries to visit in July for cold weather: South America, New Zealand and Australia have great ski seasons beginning.

Best countries to visit in July for warm weather: Plenty of warm weather for discovering Europe, UK, Canada, USA, Pacific islands and a lot of Asia. Best time to enjoy the midnight sun in Finland, Iceland and Sweden. Enjoy 4th of July celebrations in the good ol’ USA. Or experience Nelson Mandela Day (18th July) in South Africa.

Best places to travel to in the month of August

August is a great month in which to witness the end of summer or the edge of winter, depending on your mood.

Iceland becomes a dream for hiking in nature. Scotland emerges as a wonderland of Gothic architecture. Botswana features luxury and wildlife along the Okavango Delta.

From the treasures of Ecuador to the wilds of South Africa, marching elephants in Zimbabwe to thriving vineyards of Germany, August gives you a new perspective on the ways you can view and experience the world.

Best countries to visit in August for cold weather: Australia and New Zealand for great skiing before the ice melts

Best countries to visit in August for warm weather: Europe though it is very hot at this time of year, UK, USA, Canada and some Asian countries. Check out the wildebeest thundering across the Masai Mara.

September/October/November – Autumn (Fall) season in the Northern Hemisphere and Spring in the Southern Hemisphere

Best places to travel to in the month of September

September brings a change of seasons with leaves beginning to fall while pretty spring flowers bloom in others.

Best countries to visit in September for cold weather: Iceland for the Northern Lights.

Best countries to visit in September for warm weather: Mediterranean countries plus many European events happening including Oktoberfest kicking off in Germany. Wonderful time to be snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef, Queensland, Australia.

See the Northern Lights

Best places to travel to in the month of October

Spring is really kicking in in the Southern Hemisphere while Autumn is cooling the north.

Best countries to visit in October for cold weather:  Italy. Japan. Nepal

Best countries to visit in October for warm weather: Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti and other Pacific Islands.

Best places to travel to in the month of November

Best countries to visit in November for cold weather: European countries are cooling down and are quiet before the hustle and bustle of Christmas in December. Canada is gearing up for the snow season.

Best countries to visit in November for warm weather: Australia and many Asian countries are warming up and are enjoyable before the heat of summer. Good time to go to Antarctica and on the other side of the world Dubai is heating up.

Best time to Move Abroad to Live and Work Abroad

I’m not sure there is a best time to do this. As you will be living abroad for an extended period of time you will encounter most, if not all, the seasons of that country. Each season having their own characteristics. Some positive and some negative. But that is part of travel.

Get Ready for Your Overseas Adventure

The information in this post has been reproduced from my travel guide Ready, Set, Go – Travel. It will help you prepare for your international trip abroad, whether that be a holiday for a week or two, moving abroad to be an expat in another country or living and working abroad as a digital nomad or on a working holiday. Prepare for your overseas adventure with a copy from my bookstore.

Prepare for the Best Time to Travel the World Now!

Now it’s up to you. Where will you travel to and will it be the best time to travel the world? Whenever you decide, it should be the best time for you.