I’ve spent years chasing the perfect trip at the perfect time, and August 2025 is shaping up to be a traveler’s dream. I’ve personally explored each of these 13 countries, and I can tell you…they’re at their absolute best this month. From all-night sunlight in Iceland to the thunder of wildebeest hooves in Kenya, August delivers experiences you can’t replicate any other time of year.
This list isn’t pulled from a brochure. It’s built from my own journeys…wandering through Japan’s summer festivals, hiking Scotland’s highlands between back-to-back cultural events, sipping wine in Slovenia’s sun-drenched vineyards, and watching whales breach off South Africa’s coast. These are the places where the weather, atmosphere, and local happenings all align to give you something amazing.
Top 13 Places to Visit in August
Trying to build the perfect August itinerary? Here’s a quick-hit list of the best countries to visit this month, based on firsthand experience. Whether you’re chasing wildlife in Kenya or fireworks in Japan, these spots are peaking right now. Tap to jump to your dream destination!
- Best for Summer Festivals: Japan
- Most Epic Natural Light Show: Iceland
- Top Wildlife Spectacle: Kenya
- Best for Island Hopping + History: Greece
- Top Cultural + Nature Combo: Brazil
- Best for Arts Lovers: Scotland
- Sunniest Euro Beach Escape: Portugal
- Most Underrated Island Vibes: Mexico (Isla Holbox)
- Top Alpine Getaway: France (French Alps)
- Best for Island-Hopping + Diving: Indonesia
- Top European Hidden Gem: Slovenia
- Coolest Winter-Flip Destination: Australia
- Best for Whales + Wildflowers: South Africa
Here’s how I’d do it: combine a northern hemisphere adventure (like Iceland or Slovenia) or plan out one big trip a year to the Southern Hemisphere to see places like South Africa and Australia. I’ve done them all…and August is when they shine brightest. Keep reading to map out the trip of a lifetime.
1. Japan
Japan in August is honestly pretty intense – but in the best way possible. Yeah, it’s hot and humid as hell (we’re talking 85-95°F in Tokyo and Osaka), but this is when the country goes absolutely wild with festivals and summer vibes that you can’t get any other time of year.
The Nebuta Matsuri in Aomori (August 2-7) is straight-up incredible – huge illuminated warrior floats parade through the streets while thousands of dancers in traditional gear go nuts around them. I got caught up in one of these parades last time I was there and honestly forgot how sweaty I was because the energy was so infectious. Tokyo‘s Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival lights up the entire sky, and the crowds are wild but worth it.
Here’s the thing about August in Japan – yes, you’ll be dealing with Obon holiday crowds (mid-August), and yes, hotels cost way more during this peak season. But you’re also getting festival season when the whole country feels electric. Mount Fuji climbing season is in full swing, and if you can handle the heat, the hiking in Hokkaido is actually amazing with temps in the comfortable 65-77°F range.
Pro tip I learned the hard way: pack serious sunscreen, bring a portable fan, and book everything way ahead of time. The JR Pass gets crazy busy during Obon, but honestly, experiencing Japan when it’s celebrating summer is pretty unforgettable. Just stay hydrated and embrace the chaos.
- Read next: Surreal Kyoto Experiences
2. Iceland
Iceland in August is when this place hits its sweet spot – you’re still getting those insanely long days (around 16 hours of daylight), the Highlands are actually accessible, and the weather’s as good as it gets in this beautifully unpredictable country.
I can’t lie, August is when everyone and their mom visits Iceland, so expect crowds at the Blue Lagoon and Golden Circle. But here’s what makes it worth it – you can finally get to places like Landmannalaugar without needing a monster truck, and the F-roads through the Highlands are open. These routes take you through landscapes that look like they’re from another planet.
The weather’s still totally Icelandic though – one minute you’re in shorts, the next you’re layering up because it’s 50°F and windy. I’ve learned to always pack waterproof everything and just roll with it. Reykjavik in August has this awesome energy with festivals like LÓA Festival (if it runs again) and the city actually feels warm-ish.
Midnight sun photography is incredible – that golden hour light lasts basically all day in early August. But honestly, by late August you start getting a few hours of actual darkness, which means northern lights might start appearing if you’re lucky. Accommodation costs are brutal in August, but if you can swing it, this is when Iceland shows you what it’s really made of.
3. Kenya
Kenya in August is the main event – this is when the Great Migration hits the Maasai Mara and it’s absolutely bananas. I’m talking over 1.5 million wildebeest plus hundreds of thousands of zebras making their dramatic river crossings while crocodiles wait below. It’s like nature’s most intense reality show.
The Mara River crossings usually happen from late July through August and into September, but here’s the thing – nobody knows exactly when. I’ve sat by riverbanks for hours waiting for animals to decide they’re ready to make the plunge. When it happens though, it’s pure chaos and adrenaline. Thousands of animals just suddenly decide to go for it, and you’re witnessing one of the planet’s most spectacular events.
August is peak safari season, so expect premium prices – we’re talking $300-800+ per person per day for decent safari packages. But honestly, if you’re going to do Kenya, this is when to do it. The weather’s perfect (dry season), game viewing is insane, and the Maasai people are celebrating the season too.
I learned to book safari camps way in advance – places like Entumoto and camps near the river fill up fast. Flying into the Mara airstrips beats the bumpy 5-6 hour drive from Nairobi, but both work. Just know that everyone’s going to be there, so patience is key when you’re jockeying for the best wildlife viewing spots.
- Read next: Best Airlines for Flights to Kenya
- You may also like: Ultimate Maasai Mara Guide
4. Greece
Greece in August is basically summer turned up to 11. Yeah, it’s hot (we’re talking 85-95°F), it’s crowded, and ferry tickets cost way more than in shoulder season. But honestly? This is when the Greek islands are absolutely electric.
Island hopping is at its peak right now – ferries run constantly between Santorini, Mykonos, Paros, and Naxos. I always start in Athens (the Acropolis is brutal in the heat but worth it early morning), then hit the islands. Santorini‘s sunsets are insanely crowded but still gorgeous, and Mykonos parties literally go all night. If you want something more chill, Naxos has better beaches and way fewer influencers.
The Aegean Sea is perfectly warm for swimming, and every beach bar and club is operating at full capacity. Athens gets crazy hot during the day, but the evening energy is incredible – rooftop bars, outdoor cinemas, and tavernas stay open late. August 15th is a major religious holiday (Dormition of the Virgin Mary), so expect everything to shut down but the celebrations are pretty cool to witness.
Pro tip: book accommodation months ahead or you’ll be paying through the nose. I’ve learned to hit the major sights super early (like 7 AM) before the crowds and heat get unbearable. Ferry schedules are reliable but book tickets in advance during August – everyone’s island hopping right now.
- Read next: Prettiest Places in the Mediterranean
- You may also like: Magical Crete Destinations
- For more reading: Amazing Experiences in Greece
5. Brazil
August in Brazil is winter time, but don’t let that fool you – this is actually one of the best times to visit. Rio de Janeiro sits around 70-75°F, which is perfect for hiking up Sugarloaf Mountain or exploring Copacabana without melting.
The Amazon is hitting dry season, which means way better wildlife spotting and trails you can actually walk on. I flew into Manaus and did a jungle lodge stay – saw pink dolphins, toucans, and had some of the most insane wildlife encounters of my life. The humidity’s still there, but it’s manageable compared to the wet season.
Iguazu Falls is absolutely ridiculous in August – the water flow is good, crowds are smaller than peak summer, and you can actually enjoy hiking around without being completely soaked in sweat. The Devil’s Throat walkway gives you that full-on thundering water experience, and honestly, it’s one of those sights that photos just can’t capture.
Winter festivals happen throughout August, and São Paulo‘s cultural scene is in full swing. Hotel prices are reasonable since it’s low season for Brazilian tourism, and domestic flights are cheaper. I’ve found August perfect for combining different regions – start in Rio, fly to the Amazon, then finish at Iguazu. Just pack layers because evenings can get surprisingly cool.
- Read next: Fun & Unique Things to Do in Argentina
6. Scotland
Scotland in August is when Edinburgh becomes the center of the universe. The Edinburgh Fringe Festival runs all month long and transforms the entire city into this massive, chaotic arts celebration. I’m talking over 3,000 shows happening simultaneously – comedy, theater, music, street performances, you name it.
The Royal Mile gets absolutely packed with performers and tourists, but that’s part of the magic. You’ll stumble into incredible shows in tiny venues, see world-class comedy in converted shipping containers, and watch street performers who are genuinely mind-blowing. I’ve discovered some of my favorite comedians just wandering around during Fringe.
Weather-wise, it’s actually decent for Scotland – temperatures around 60-65°F, and you get those long summer days where it doesn’t get dark until after 9 PM. Edinburgh Castle and Arthur’s Seat hike are way more enjoyable when you’re not dealing with freezing rain.
Accommodation during Fringe is absolutely insane though – book way ahead or expect to pay triple normal rates. I’ve learned to stay outside the city center and just deal with the commute. The Scottish Highlands are gorgeous in August if you want to escape the Edinburgh madness, and the weather’s perfect for hiking and exploring Loch Ness or the Isle of Skye.
7. Portugal
Portugal in August is peak summer madness, and honestly, it’s pretty awesome if you can handle the heat and crowds. The Algarve beaches are absolutely packed, but places like Lagos and Sagres still deliver those Instagram-worthy cliff views and perfect surf conditions.
Lisbon gets seriously hot (80-85°F), but the evening vibe is incredible. Those famous Tram 28 rides are touristy as hell but worth it early morning, and the Belém Tower area is beautiful at sunset. I always hit up Time Out Market for lunch when it’s too hot to wander around outside.
The Douro Valley wine region is harvesting grapes right now, so if you’re into wine tourism, this is your moment. Porto is slightly cooler and way less crowded than Lisbon, plus the port wine tours are fantastic. The Azores islands are having perfect weather – around 75°F with way fewer crowds than mainland Portugal.
Beach-wise, August is prime time – Praia da Marinha and Benagil Cave are gorgeous but expect to fight for parking and beach space. I’ve learned to hit the beaches super early or late afternoon. Pastéis de nata taste even better when you’re sweating your ass off, and the beach towns come alive at night with music and that laid-back Portuguese party vibe.
8. Mexico (Isla Holbox)
Isla Holbox in August is this hidden gem that most people sleeping on. While everyone’s hitting Cancún and Tulum, this car-free island off the Yucatán Peninsula is having perfect weather and way fewer crowds than the mainstream spots.
Whale shark season is in full swing from June through September, and swimming with these gentle giants is absolutely incredible. I booked a tour through one of the local operators and spent the morning snorkeling alongside 30-foot whale sharks – it’s one of those experiences that changes your perspective on nature.
The island itself is super chill – golf carts instead of cars, hammocks everywhere, and this laid-back vibe that makes you forget what day it is. Flamingo spotting is great right now, and the bioluminescent plankton shows up at night when you’re swimming, which is straight-up magical.
August weather is warm (around 85°F) but the sea breeze keeps it comfortable, and afternoon thunderstorms cool things down. I stayed in one of the beachfront cabanas and spent most days floating between hammocks and the crystal-clear water. The seafood is incredible – fresh lobster and fish caught that morning. Just know that ferry schedules can get wonky with weather, so build in some flexibility.
- Read next: Hidden Gems in Mexico
9. France (French Alps)
The French Alps in August are absolutely perfect if you want to escape the heat that’s crushing the rest of Europe. While places like Paris and Nice are sweltering, up in Chamonix and Annecy you’re looking at comfortable 70-75°F days and cool mountain air.
Lake Annecy is incredible right now – crystal clear water that’s perfect for swimming, surrounded by mountains that look like something out of a fairy tale. I rented a bike and cycled around the lake, stopping at little villages for lunch and wine. The water’s surprisingly warm for a mountain lake, and the vibe is way more chill than the French Riviera.
Hiking is incredible in August – all the trails are clear of snow, wildflowers are everywhere, and the Mont Blanc area offers everything from easy walks to serious mountaineering. Chamonix gets busy with outdoor enthusiasts, but there’s something awesome about being in a place where everyone’s psyched about hiking and climbing.
The food scene is amazing – we’re talking proper Savoyard cuisine with melted cheese, mountain wines, and hearty dishes that actually make sense when you’re spending days outdoors. Fondue tastes way better when you’ve earned it hiking all day. Cable cars run frequently to get you up the mountains, and the views are absolutely ridiculous.
- Read next: Epic Airbnbs in the French Riviera
10. Indonesia
Indonesia in August is dry season perfection. Bali weather is ideal right now – around 80°F with way less humidity than the wet season, and those afternoon rain showers that used to mess up beach plans are mostly gone.
Komodo National Park is incredible in August – clear skies, calm seas, and perfect conditions for diving with manta rays. I did a liveaboard trip and the underwater visibility was insane. The Komodo dragons are active, and hiking around the islands feels like you’re in Jurassic Park.
Java and Yogyakarta are having great weather for exploring Borobudur and Prambanan temples without melting. Jakarta is still hot but manageable, and domestic flights around the islands are running smoothly without weather delays.
Raja Ampat diving is at its peak – we’re talking some of the best marine biodiversity on the planet with perfect underwater conditions. The Bali Kite Festival happens in August, and watching those massive traditional kites fill the sky is pretty spectacular. Rice terraces in Ubud are gorgeous right now, and surf conditions on both the west and east coasts are solid. Just book accommodations ahead because August is peak season and everyone’s taking advantage of the perfect weather.
11. Slovenia
Slovenia in August is Europe’s best-kept secret, and honestly, I’m almost hesitant to share this because it’s still relatively undiscovered. Lake Bled is gorgeous but gets busy – I always recommend hiking up to Bled Castle early morning for those postcard views without the crowds.
Triglav National Park hiking is incredible right now – all trails are accessible, wildflowers are blooming, and the Soča River is this insane emerald green that doesn’t look real. Vipava Valley wine region is perfect for tastings, and the small family wineries feel way more authentic than crowded Tuscan spots.
Ljubljana is one of Europe’s most underrated capitals – compact enough to explore on foot, great food scene, and this youthful energy that makes it feel way cooler than bigger cities. The Ljubljana Castle funicular gives you amazing city views, and the riverside bars are perfect for evening drinks.
Postojna Cave stays cool year-round, which is perfect when it’s hot outside. Piran on the coast gives you that Mediterranean vibe without the crazy crowds of Croatia or Italy. Hotel prices are still reasonable compared to Western Europe, and English is widely spoken. I’ve found Slovenia perfect for active travelers who want beautiful nature without fighting massive tourist hordes.
- Read next: Amazing Hidden Gems in Europe
12. Australia
Australia in August is winter, but honestly, it’s winter like nowhere else. Sydney sits around 60-65°F, which is perfect for exploring the city without sweating through your clothes. Vivid Sydney (if it runs) transforms the city with incredible light installations that make the Opera House and Harbour Bridge look absolutely magical.
Whale watching season is in full swing along the east coast – humpback whales are migrating north, and boat tours from Sydney and Byron Bay are having incredible sightings. I did a tour from Circular Quay and saw whales breaching right near the harbor, which was pretty surreal.
Melbourne weather is typical Melbourne – unpredictable but mostly mild. The coffee scene is insane, and winter is actually perfect for exploring all those hidden laneways and rooftop bars without melting. Tasmania (if you’re willing to get really adventurous) has some of the cleanest air and most beautiful wilderness on Earth.
Skiing in the Australian Alps around Thredbo and Perisher is actually pretty decent – not exactly the French Alps, but fun for people who want to ski in August just because they can. Queensland up north is still warm enough for beach activities, and Cairns access to the Great Barrier Reef has great underwater visibility right now.
13. South Africa
South Africa in August is winter that doesn’t really feel like winter. Cape Town sits around 60-65°F, which is perfect for hiking Table Mountain without dying of heat exhaustion. The views from the top are incredible, and the cable car up is way less crowded than summer months.
Whale watching in Hermanus is absolutely epic right now – Southern Right Whales are calving close to shore, and you can literally watch them from the cliffs. The Hermanus Whale Festival celebrates these incredible animals, and boat tours get you close enough to see mothers with babies, which is pretty emotional.
Wildflower season in the Western Cape is mind-blowing – millions of flowers carpeting the landscape in colors that don’t seem real. The Namaqualand Flower Route requires some planning and maybe a rental car, but driving through fields of bright orange and purple flowers is one of those bucket-list experiences.
Safari in Kruger National Park is actually excellent in August – dry season means animals congregate around water sources, making game viewing easier. It’s cooler for those long game drives, and malaria risk is lower. Cape winelands around Stellenbosch are perfect for tastings, and winter is actually ideal for exploring Robben Island and other outdoor activities without the crushing summer heat.
