Ok, we get it. Everyone loves summer. But we hate to break it, guys, but summer doesn’t last forever. Fall is coming (Game of Thrones, anyone?). And we think there’s more to fall than scary movies and pumpkin spice lattes.
September to January is an awesome time for travel at a handful of destinations – you can expect great weather, fewer crowds and some cool festivals to check out. So plan ahead and have an adventure to look forward to this fall.
This is our ultimate Fall travel guide.
1. Thailand
From the beachy south to the jungly north, Thailand is a paradise of chilled vibes, spicy curries and majestic elephants. And in September and October, it’s low season in Thailand so you can enjoy all that without the crowds and hiked-up prices. Come November until February, the rainy season ends and the cool season begins. Translation: more pleasant weather, less profusely sweating.
If you are dreaming of a gap year in Thailand, backpacking adventure or a beach break, Autumn really is a great time to go and there are so many things to do here, from volunteering with elephants to cookery courses.
Festival to check out:
Loy Krathong on November 15: To pay respect to the goddess of water, Thai people celebrate by releasing lotus-shaped rafts decorated with candles, incense and flowers onto the water. They also have a fireworks display at night.
Full Moon Party: Everyone has heard of this right? Well it really is something you need to experience! Search the Thailand full moon party dates today.
2. Mexico
Mexico is so much more than a winter escape. Colourful markets, sizzling street corn stalls, Mayan ruins – yep, Mexico’s not just a pretty face. In the fall, cultural celebrations take over cities with an infectious spirit. The rainy season begins to ease in October, and November is still quiet before the high season rush in December especially in destinations like Yucutan. When it comes to Mexico, you ain’t seen nothin’ yet.
Festivals to check out:
Fall equinox on September 22: During the Fall Equinox, thousands flock to Chichen Itza to see the shadow of a snake appear along the staircase of this impressive Mayan structure.
Day of the Dead on October 31-November 2: A celebration where people remember their lost loved ones by dressing in costume, dancing, visiting gravesites, and enjoying the parade in Mexico City.
Rated Article: How safe is bus travel in Mexico.
3. Peru
Peru is the land of Incan mysteries, Pisco sours and the Amazon jungle. It’s already an awesome place, but in the fall it has an awesome perk: prime trekking season. Trekking the Inca or the Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu is on a lot of bucket lists, so fall could be your time to shine. Seeing Machu Picchu is one of the highlights of Peru and something you must do once in your life.
Festival to check out:
Puno Week on November 1-7: Puno week celebrates the legendary Manco Cápac (the Inca believed to have surfaced from Lake Titicaca to found the Inca Empire) by dancing, drinking and wearing elaborate costumes.
4. India
There’s no doubt that India is a feast for the senses – fragrant spices, bustling cities, the freaking Taj Mahal(!). Whether you plan a backpacking adventure or plan to travel India by train there are a slew of cultural festivals happen in September and October, making the fall a great choice for an Indian adventure. Plus the weather is dry and moderate at this time. Win, win.
Festivals to check out:
Diwali on October 30: Arguably the most important Hindu festival, Diwali is a festival of light that spiritually signifies the victory of good over evil with firework displays, candles and sharing of sweets.
Navaratri on October 1-10: A 9-day festival of the Goddess Amba (Power) in nine different forms, which involves dancing, traditional outfits and Gujarati cuisine.
View India gap year programs or view our essential India packing list.
5. Nepal
With the mighty Himalayas, pristine lakes, monasteries and cute tea houses, Nepal is a place that feels like another world. And September to December is considered a great time for trekking in Nepal. So whether you want to tackle the stunning Annapurna Circuit or the classic Everest Basecamp, fall is calling your name. Plus, there’re a ton of cool festivals to check out then too.
Festivals to check out:
Dashain on October 2-16: The biggest festival of Nepal – a festival that unites Nepalese people from all over the world – celebrates the victory of good over evil, and involves flying kites, swinging on bamboo swings, playing cards and celebrating together in the streets of Kathmandu.
Tihar on October 27-31: A festival which praises and worships crows, ravens and dogs (yes, dogs!), where dogs wear garlands, candles are lit and fireworks light up the sky of Kathmandu.
Bonus: Morocco
Ok, we just had to mention Morocco for excellent fall travel too. The low season is in September and October, which means lower prices. The weather is milder than in the hot summer months. Plus you get to do all the fantastic things that Morocco has to offer: shop the markets of Marrakech, eat tagines, take a Saharan desert safari and drink mint tea to your heart’s content. Check out these Morocco safety tips for female travellers.
Ready to fall into a fall adventure? Search cheap flights, insurance and check out these amazing gap year adventure tours.