12 Epic and Beautiful Countries to See in February

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February might be the most underrated month to travel, and I learned this the hard way. While everyone else was counting down to summer, I found myself swimming with whale sharks in the Philippines and watching millions of monarch butterflies dance through Mexico’s oyamel forests. Trust me, this month is pure magic if you know where to look.

From witnessing the cherry blossoms burst into life in Taiwan to exploring the sun-drenched beaches of the Maldives, these are the most beautiful places in the world to visit in February. I’ve put together my top 12 countries that prove the shortest month of the year might just be the most spectacular for travel. Get ready to trade those winter blues for some serious adventure.

Best Countries to Visit in February

Looking for the best Countries to visit in February? Experience breathtaking landscapes in New Zealand, immerse yourself in cultural traditions in Japan, celebrate Carnival in Brazil, and chase the Northern Lights in Norway. Whether you’re seeking adventure, festivals, or winter wonderlands, these destinations offer unforgettable experiences in February.

• Thailand & Australia: Ideal for beach lovers seeking sun and sea.
• Brazil: Vibrant with Carnival festivities and warm weather.
• Norway & Canada: Perfect for witnessing northern lights and enjoying winter sports.
• Japan: Unique with its snow festivals and serene winter beauty.
• New Zealand & Italy: Picturesque landscapes and cultural richness.
• India & USA: Abundant culture and diverse experiences.
• Tanzania & Portugal: Unique wildlife and peaceful retreats.

1. New Zealand

• 📍 Location: Southwestern Pacific Ocean, about 1,000 miles southeast of Australia
• 🏆 Best For: Adventure seekers 🧗‍♀️, nature lovers 🌿, Lord of the Rings fans 🧙‍♂️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking Tongariro Alpine Crossing, exploring Milford Sound, visiting Hobbiton
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to February for summer activities, June to August for skiing ⛷️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Blanket Bay Lodge – Luxury wilderness retreat with breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu

New Zealand is the kind of country where your “commute” might include a glacier or a glowworm cave.

Start on the North Island with the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a 20-kilometer day hike across a surreal volcanic landscape. It takes about seven hours and passes smoking vents, red craters, and neon-blue lakes. Go in February or early March. Begin before 6:30 a.m. to catch sunrise over the South Crater and avoid midday heat.

Head south to Milford Sound, where steep cliffs rise straight from the sea. The first boat cruises of the day offer the best light and the calmest water. If you can, kayak instead. You’ll get closer to the waterfalls, and wildlife like seals and penguins is more active early.

Hobbiton, near Matamata, is worth visiting even if you’ve never seen the movies. Book the evening banquet tour. The late light across the rolling hills is ideal for photos, and dinner in the Green Dragon is genuinely good.

Two weeks gives you time to explore both islands. Rent a car, keep your plans flexible, and be ready to pull over often. The scenery doesn’t wait.

• Read Next: Beautiful Places in the Southern Alps

2. Japan

• 📍 Location: East Asia, an island nation in the Pacific Ocean
• 🏆 Best For: Culture enthusiasts 🏮, foodies 🍜, city explorers 🏙️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting ancient temples in Kyoto, experiencing Tokyo’s vibrant neighborhoods, soaking in natural hot springs
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March-April for cherry blossoms 🌸, October-November for autumn colors 🍁
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Ryokan Kurashiki – Traditional Japanese inn where you’ll sleep on futons and enjoy kaiseki meals

Every block in Japan feels like its own world. You could spend hours in a Tokyo alley or a Kyoto garden and not get bored.

In Kyoto, start early at Fushimi Inari Taisha. The full loop through the torii gates takes about two hours. Arrive before 7 a.m. for soft, low light and empty trails. From there, head to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, ideally by 8 a.m., when the grove still holds mist and crowds haven’t arrived.

Tokyo is a maze, but an organized one. Use a Suica card to hop between districts. Explore Shibuya for nightlife, Harajuku for street fashion, and Yanaka for old-world charm. End your night in Golden Gai, where bars seat six people and each one plays a different soundtrack.

For something quieter, visit Hakone in late October. Stay in a traditional ryokan with a private onsen. Early morning is best for clear views of Mount Fuji over Lake Ashi. Take the ropeway if the skies are clear.

Ten days lets you get a feel for the contrast Japan does so well. Longer gives you space to slow down and wander.

3. Brazil

• 📍 Location: South America, covering nearly half the continent
• 🏆 Best For: Beach lovers 🏖️, wildlife enthusiasts 🦜, party-seekers 💃
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Amazon rainforest, relaxing on Rio’s beaches, witnessing Iguazu Falls
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September to October for ideal weather and fewer crowds 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Belmond Hotel das Cataratas – The only hotel inside Iguazu National Park with exclusive falls access

Brazil doesn’t ease you in. You step off the plane and the energy hits. Start in Rio de Janeiro with the Morro da Urca hike. It takes around 45 minutes to reach the first viewpoint. Late afternoon is best. Ride the cable car up to Sugarloaf Mountain for golden hour over the city and the ocean.

For a wilder experience, head into the Amazon. Fly into Manaus and stay in a jungle lodge upriver. Visit between August and October for drier trails and active wildlife. Sunrise canoe trips offer your best shot at pink dolphins, toucans, and mirror-like river reflections.

At Iguazu Falls, go straight to the Devil’s Throat walkway when the park opens. Morning light cuts through the spray, creating perfect rainbow shots. Stay at Belmond Hotel das Cataratas, the only hotel inside the park, for early access and no crowds.

Give Brazil at least two weeks. It’s massive and every region has its own rhythm. Let it unfold one step at a time.

• Read Next: Beautiful Places to Visit in Brazil

4. Norway

• 📍 Location: Northern Europe, occupying the western portion of the Scandinavian Peninsula
• 🏆 Best For: Fjord enthusiasts ⛵, northern lights chasers 🌌, outdoor adventurers 🏔️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Cruising the fjords, hiking Pulpit Rock, witnessing the midnight sun
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to August for hiking, December to March for northern lights and winter activities ❄️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Juvet Landscape Hotel – Minimalist glass cabins nestled in nature with panoramic views

In Norway, even a roadside pullout can feel like a world wonder. Book a cruise from Flåm to Gudvangen through the Nærøyfjord, a UNESCO-listed stretch of towering cliffs and narrow water. Late June is ideal. Daylight lasts well into the night and the early morning sailings offer the cleanest light. Sit on the left side for views of the waterfalls.

For a serious view, hike to Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen) above Lysefjord. The round-trip trail takes about four hours. Start just after sunrise to avoid crowds and catch golden light on the plateau. Bring layers, even in summer—the wind cuts.

In the Lofoten Islands, base yourself in Reine. Drive the E10 slowly and stop often. Visit in March for the northern lights or in July for the midnight sun. The light never really disappears, so you can shoot at 2 a.m. and still have color in the sky.

If you’re short on time, take the Flåm Railway for quick access to steep valleys and glacier views. Still, Norway rewards patience. 

5. Thailand

• 📍 Location: Southeast Asia, bordered by Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia and Malaysia
• 🏆 Best For: Beach vacationers 🏝️, food lovers 🍲, temple explorers 🛕
• 📸 Top Experiences: Island hopping in the Andaman Sea, exploring ancient temples, sampling street food
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to February for dry, cooler weather ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Rayavadee Krabi – Luxury pavilions nestled between three pristine beaches and limestone cliffs

Thailand grabs you from the first tuk-tuk ride through Bangkok’s chaotic streets. Start at Wat Arun just after sunrise when the light hits the spires perfectly and the grounds are almost empty. Then head to Wat Pho by 8 AM to see the reclining Buddha before the crowds pour in.

In the north, Chiang Mai is a temple-filled escape from the capital. Hike the Monk’s Trail to Wat Pha Lat for a short, shaded climb and peaceful views. For an unforgettable night, plan your visit during Loy Krathong in November when lanterns float across the sky.

Down south, the beaches go from stunning to unreal. Kayak around Railay’s limestone cliffs in the morning before the tide rises. End your day on Phra Nang Cave Beach for golden hour and dramatic silhouettes. Divers should head to Koh Tao between March and September to catch the best visibility and reef action. Eat khao soi in Chiang Mai, boat noodles in Bangkok, and never skip a mango sticky rice stand.

• Read Next: Top Activities to Enjoy in Phuket, Thailand

6. Canada

• 📍 Location: North America, stretching from the Atlantic to the Pacific and up to the Arctic Ocean
• 🏆 Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts 🏞️, wildlife watchers 🦌, city explorers 🏙️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Banff National Park, witnessing Niagara Falls, touring vibrant cities
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to September for most outdoor activities, December to March for winter sports ❄️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Fairmont Château Lake Louise – Historic luxury hotel with unparalleled views of turquoise Lake Louise

Canada is built for big landscapes and bigger adventures. Get to Lake Louise by 6 AM for perfect reflections before the crowds and wind kick in. Then hike the Plain of Six Glaciers Trail, a 10.6 km round-trip with sweeping alpine views and a tea house tucked into the cliffs.

For winter travelers, walk the frozen Maligne Canyon in Jasper. Crampons are essential but the ice formations and frozen waterfalls are worth it. September is ideal for fall colors in Banff and fewer tourists.

On the east coast, hike the Skyline Trail in Cape Breton. It’s a 7.5 km loop with dramatic cliffs and whale sightings if you’re lucky. Time it for sunset. In the cities, explore Montreal’s Old Port, grab a smoked meat sandwich, and catch a street festival. Out west, Tofino is best in October with wild waves, moody skies, and natural hot springs deep in the forest.

• Read Next: Unique Restaurants in Quebec City

7. India

• 📍 Location: South Asia, bordered by the Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea, and Bay of Bengal
• 🏆 Best For: Cultural explorers 🛕, foodies 🍛, spiritual seekers 🧘‍♀️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the Taj Mahal, exploring ancient temples, experiencing vibrant festivals
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to March for comfortable temperatures and minimal rainfall 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Taj Lake Palace – A floating marble palace in Udaipur where you’ll feel like royalty

India doesn’t ease you in—it throws you right into the heart of everything. In Varanasi, take a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges for surreal misty light and rituals unfolding along the ghats. Be on the river by 5:30 AM.

In Jaipur, skip the crowds and hike the Elephant Path to Amber Fort. It takes about 20 minutes, and morning light brings out the color in the sandstone walls. Stop by Chand Baori in Abhaneri for mind-blowing symmetry and photo ops with no one else around.

Further south, Hampi feels like another planet. Climb Matanga Hill before sunrise for views over ancient temples and boulder fields. Best time to visit is from October to March when skies are clear and temperatures are comfortable.

Food here shifts by region. Try biryani in Hyderabad, thali in Kerala, and chaat in Delhi. Train rides, spice markets, and local kitchens give you the full story behind each dish.

8. Italy

• 📍 Location: Southern Europe, extending into the Mediterranean Sea as a boot-shaped peninsula
• 🏆 Best For: Art lovers 🎨, history buffs 🏛️, gourmands 🍝
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring ancient ruins, admiring Renaissance masterpieces, enjoying authentic regional cuisines
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April-June and September-October for pleasant weather and fewer crowds 🌸
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Palazzo Manfredi – Elegant rooms with breathtaking views of the Colosseum

Italy is where every corner demands a photo and every meal lingers in memory. In Rome, hit the Roman Forum at opening. Climb Palatine Hill right after for a golden-lit skyline and fewer people.

In Florence, walk the stairs to Piazzale Michelangelo in the late afternoon. It’s a 20-minute climb but the sunset views over the city are unmatched. In Venice, skip the main canal. Catch the first ferry to Burano for quiet canals and pastel houses reflected in still water. Early light brings out the colors.

Outside the cities, the Path of the Gods above Positano is one of Italy’s best hikes. It’s 6.5 km with nonstop Mediterranean views and terraced villages clinging to the cliffs. Visit in April or early October for fewer crowds and cooler air.

Eat regionally. Go for cacio e pepe in Rome, ribollita in Florence, and fresh seafood along the Amalfi Coast. Pair it with a house wine and sit as long as you want. No one’s rushing you here.

9. Tanzania

• 📍 Location: East Africa, bordered by the Indian Ocean and eight countries including Kenya and Uganda
• 🏆 Best For: Safari enthusiasts 🦁, adventure travelers 🧗‍♂️, beach lovers 🏝️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Witnessing the Great Migration, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, relaxing on Zanzibar beaches
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to October for wildlife viewing and dry weather, January to March to see baby animals 🦓
• 🏨 Where to Stay: &Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge – Luxurious lodges perched on the rim of this natural wonder

Tanzania is where you see wildlife documentaries come to life. In the Serengeti, time your visit between July and September for peak Great Migration drama near the Mara River. Head out at dawn for the best golden light as wildebeest thunder past and crocs lurk below. Hire a local guide for a full-day game drive and pack layers. It’s chilly at sunrise, scorching by noon.

The Ngorongoro Crater is a natural bowl packed with animals. Visit in early morning to avoid crowds and catch predators on the move. Most travelers see lions, elephants, hippos, and even rhinos here in one outing. Skip the mid-day lull.

For a change of pace, summit Mount Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho Route, which takes 7 to 8 days. It’s more scenic and less crowded than the Marangu route. It’s a trek, not a technical climb, but altitude is no joke. Go slow.

End your trip on Zanzibar’s Nungwi Beach. Best light for photos? Late afternoon, when the tide is low and dhows sail past the horizon in silhouette. Tanzania rewards those who give it at least 10 to 14 days.

• Read Next: Top Things to Do in Zanzibar

10. USA

• 📍 Location: North America, bordered by Canada, Mexico, the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans
• 🏆 Best For: Road trippers 🚗, outdoor enthusiasts 🏞️, urban explorers 🏙️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring national parks, driving iconic routes, experiencing diverse cities
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Varies dramatically by region – summer for northern states, spring/fall for southern 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Plaza Hotel – Historic luxury in the heart of Manhattan with Central Park views

The USA is best explored behind the wheel with playlists, snacks, and no fixed plan. Drive the Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to Los Angeles in five to seven days. Stop at Big Sur for sunrise at Bixby Bridge or a short hike to McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. Late spring is best when waterfalls are flowing.

In Utah, hit Arches, Bryce Canyon, and Zion National Parks. For the best light, hike Angels Landing in the early morning and Navajo Loop near sunset. Mid-October brings crisp weather and fewer crowds.

Prefer cities? In New York, shoot Central Park from the Top of the Rock around golden hour. In New Orleans, book a walking food tour in the French Quarter, then head to Frenchmen Street for live jazz after dark.

The U.S. is too big for a sampler. Pick one region and spend at least two weeks getting to know it properly.

• Read next: Best Things to Do in Stowe, VT
• You may also like: Hidden Gems in San Diego

11. Morocco

• 📍 Location: North Africa, bordering the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea
• 🏆 Best For: Cultural immersion 🕌, photographers 📸, adventure seekers 🐪
• 📸 Top Experiences: Getting lost in ancient medinas, camping in the Sahara Desert, exploring the Atlas Mountains
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to November for comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Riad Fès – A restored palace with ornate architecture and a tranquil courtyard

Morocco hits you in the senses—mint tea, motorbikes, mosaics. Start in Fez with a guided walk through the tanneries (bring a scarf for the smell), then head up to Borj Nord for panoramic shots of the medina at sunset.

In Marrakech, the Jemaa el-Fnaa square transforms after dark. For photos, climb to the rooftop of Café de France around 6 PM to capture the bustle below. Spend a morning at the Majorelle Garden, and pop into the YSL Museum next door.

From there, take a three-day desert tour to Erg Chebbi. Ride camels into the Sahara and sleep in a remote camp. Wake up early for sunrise over the dunes. Bring a tripod and face east to catch the long shadows.

For mountain hikes, base yourself in Imlil and trek to Tizi Mzik Pass, a two to three hour hike with steady incline and wide views over the High Atlas. Go in April or October for snow-capped peaks and soft light. Morocco is best seen over 10 to 14 days with a driver to maximize your time.

12. Australia

• 📍 Location: Oceania, surrounded by the Indian and Pacific Oceans
• 🏆 Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts 🦘, beach lovers 🏄‍♀️, adventure travelers 🤿
• 📸 Top Experiences: Snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef, exploring the Outback, visiting Sydney’s iconic landmarks
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September to November and March to May for moderate temperatures and fewer tourists 🌊
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Southern Ocean Lodge – Luxury clifftop retreat with panoramic views of Kangaroo Island’s wilderness

Australia is massive, weird, and wildly rewarding if you plan smart. Start on the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns or Port Douglas. Book a snorkeling trip with a marine biologist to learn while you explore. For clean reef shots, visit Michaelmas Cay—clear water, sea birds, shallow coral.

In the Red Centre, walk the full Uluru Base Trail at sunrise. It’s a flat 10.6 km loop that takes about three hours. For the best view, head to Talinguru Nyakunytjaku as the first light hits the rock. Don’t climb—respect the site.

In Sydney, take the Bondi to Coogee Walk, a 6 km clifftop trail with ocean pools and dramatic sandstone. Go early to avoid crowds and shoot the Icebergs Pool as waves crash into it.

Down south, watch penguins return to their burrows at Phillip Island just after sunset. Book ahead for a front-row seat. On Kangaroo Island, explore Flinders Chase National Park for wild coastlines and sea lions. Visit in spring or autumn for ideal temps and active wildlife. Two weeks scratches the surface. A month lets you go deeper.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Best Countries to Visit in February:

If you’re still curious about where to go in February, keep reading. Here are some common questions I get asked a lot about the best places in February to visit.

Which country is best to visit in February?

Choosing the best country to visit in February really depends on what you’re looking for. In my travels, I’ve found that New Zealand really stands out in February. It’s their summer, so you get gorgeous weather, perfect for outdoor adventures like hiking in Fiordland or enjoying the beaches. The vibe is lively, and the landscapes are stunning. If you’re into festivals, Brazil with its Carnival is an unbeatable experience – the energy, the music, it’s unforgettable.

What countries are warm in February?

For warmth in February, Thailand is my go-to. The weather is just right – not too hot, not too humid. The beaches are heavenly, and the water is perfect for swimming or snorkeling. Australia is another great choice. I love the laid-back summer atmosphere there, especially in places like Sydney and the Gold Coast.

Where is hot and romantic in February?

For a romantic and warm February getaway, Morocco has always impressed me. The days are sunny and warm, ideal for exploring the markets of Marrakech or the beaches of Essaouira. A desert trip to the Sahara, staying in a luxury camp and watching the stars, is incredibly romantic.

Where is warmest in Europe in February?

In Europe, Italy, particularly the southern regions like Sicily and the Amalfi Coast, tends to be the warmest in February. The crowds are fewer, and the atmosphere is more intimate. Enjoying a quiet walk through ancient ruins or a peaceful dinner overlooking the Mediterranean is simply perfect.

Which countries are good for skiing in February?

For skiing, I’ve had amazing experiences in Canada and Norway. Canada’s resorts, like Whistler, offer diverse terrain for all skill levels, and the après-ski scene is vibrant. Norway is quieter but equally stunning, with breathtaking landscapes and the chance to combine skiing with northern lights viewing.