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Where to go in October 2026?

28/01/2024  |  updated: 04/02/2026
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Planning a holiday in October 2026?

It’s no easy task planning a dream holiday, whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation or a bit of both.

We’ve put together 10 holiday destinations that are wonderful during the chilly British autumn months.

Where do you dream of travelling to?

See also where to travel to in November and December.

1. Australia – Enjoy the spring sunshine Down Under

Flowers bloom at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia

October marks the beginning of spring in Australia, with lots of sunny days and nature budding forth everywhere.

From the iconic Sydney Opera House and the Great Ocean Road in Melbourne to Brisbane further up the coast. Australia has plenty to offer in the way of experiences, with the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation in October.

Check out our tours to Australia below:
Australia
The Best of Australia

Discover Australia’s amazing contrasts. From the country’s two largest cities Melbourne and Sydney to the red desert and Uluru. Round off in tropical Cairns and visit the Great Barrier Reef or the world’s oldest rainforest.

... 15 days From £%s
Australia
Highlights of Australia with Sydney, Uluru and Cairns

The absolute classic Australia tour with city experiences in Sydney, a visit to Uluru in the red heart of Australia, and tropical Cairns with the possibility of experiencing the Great Barrier Reef and the world’s oldest rainforest.

... 12 days From £%s
Australia
The Australian Coast from Brisbane to Sydney & Melbourne

Discover Australia’s 3 largest cities, Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne. Spice up the tour with excursions and get right up close to nature, culture and history while making the most of the city comforts.

... 13 days From £%s
Australia
Darwin, Sydney and Cairns

Travel to Australia in your summer holiday. The climate in the northern part of the country is perfect, with warm days, cool nights and low humidity. In Sydney, you may be lucky enough to see some whales!

... 14 days From £%s
Australia
The Grand Tour of Australia

The grand tour is for those wishing to see it all in one go! It offers a whole host of experiences – and plenty of freedom to put your own mark on the tour to make it just the way you want it.

... 22 days From £%s
Australia
Singapore & the Best of Australia

Look forward to making a stop in fabulous Singapore, before continuing to the amazing contrasts of Australia. Melbourne, Sydney and the red desert await you Down Under, before the tour rounds off in tropical Cairns.

... 19 days From £%s
Australia
Singapore & Highlights of Australia

Start out with a couple of days in the vibrant metropolis of Singapore before the tour continues Down Under. Look forward to beautiful Sydney, a visit to Uluru in the red heart of Australia, and tropical Cairns. Option to extend the tour to include a beach holiday or national park experiences.

... 16 days From £%s
Australia
The Best of Australia with self-drive on the Great Ocean Road

Come on a self-drive adventure along one of the world’s most scenic stretches of coastline, the Great Ocean Road. Experience the country’s two largest cities, Melbourne and Sydney, the endless red desert with Uluru, and round off with relaxation in tropical surroundings in Cairns.

... 19 days From £%s
Australia
Self-drive on Australia’s east coast

Discover Sydney and Brisbane followed by a self-drive tour on Australia’s east coast. Look forward to sights such as the world’s largest sand island, K’gari, the scenic Whitsunday Islands National Park and the beach resort of Port Douglas.

... 21 days From £%s
New Zealand
Highlights of New Zealand & Australia

Your adventure begins in New Zealand, immersing you in Maori culture, geothermal wonders, mountain lakes, and glaciers, before continuing on to Australia. Here, you’ll experience the vibrant city of Sydney, the striking red outback at Uluru, and finish your journey in tropical Cairns.

... 26 days From £%s

2. South Africa – Spectacular safari in Kruger National Park

Two elephants stand by a waterhole in the dry season in Kruger National Park

South Africa’s seasons are the opposite way around to ours, and it’s spring in October here, too.

The country’s main attraction, Kruger National Park, is dry after a long spell without rain, but that’s good for you because the animals like to gather where there’s water. Combine your safari adventure with a trip to Cape Town, where the weather is pleasant and the landscapes are carpeted in wild flowers, or combine a safari with the paradise beaches of Mauritius for the ultimate in relaxation.

Check out our tours to South Africa here
South Africa
Safari in South Africa

Stay at a pleasant 4* star lodge close to Kruger National Park. Experience the fantastic animal life on a safari in the park and get a safari experience for life.

... 10 days From £%s
South Africa
Safari in South Africa & beach holiday in Mauritius

Explore South Africa’s nature and animal life on your safari tour from your pleasant lodge up close to Kruger National Park and relax on the exotic beaches of Mauritius.

... 15 days From £%s
South Africa
Kruger safari, Cape Town & Victoria Falls

Is this your first trip to southern Africa? Enjoy a taste of safari life before heading on to Cape Town’s big city experiences. Rinse off the travel dust under Victoria Falls.

... 14 days From £%s
South Africa
Safari in South Africa & Cape Town

Experience the exciting and rich animal life on a safari tour in South Africa’s renowned Kruger National Park. Join a bushwalk, see the Panorama Trail and finish your tour in beautiful Cape Town.

... 14 days From £%s
South Africa
Safari in South Africa & Victoria Falls

First you experience South Africa’s beautiful nature and animal life from your lodge, which is close to Kruger National Park. Finish your tour with one of the world’s most spectacular waterfalls.

... 13 days From £%s
Botswana
Victoria Falls, Botswana & Cape Town

Waterfall, safari and city. Discover the three highlights of southern Africa in one tour: the mighty Victoria Falls, the Chobe National Park in Botswana and the wonderful metropolis of Cape Town.

... 13 days From £%s
South Africa
Malaria-free safari in South Africa & Cape Town

Forget about malaria pills on the Eastern Cape and enjoy an “all inclusive” safari experience, bushwalk and visit to a local village. End your tour with a city break in beautiful Cape Town.

... 11 days From £%s
South Africa
Kruger safari, Cape Town & the Garden Route

Three South African gems on one tour: breathtaking safari in Kruger National Park, days on your own in beautiful Cape Town and a guided tour on one of the world’s most scenic stretches of coastline, the Garden Route.

... 16 days From £%s
Madagascar
Safari in South Africa & lemurs in Madagascar

The well known meets the lesser known. Discover South Africa’s famous Kruger National Park before continuing to exotic Madagascar, where you will explore its history and go on the lookout for lemurs.

... 12 days From £%s

3. China – Experience the autumn colours in Beijing

Autumn colours at the Great Wall in Beijing

October paints China in a canvas of autumn colours.

Discover Beijing’s historical sights, including the Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China, in warm weather with mild temperatures. Eat your way through the authentic Chinese cuisine and find out why it is so popular around the world. October is a beautiful month to visit the “Middle Kingdom”.

Check out our tours to China below
China
Highlights of China

This holiday takes you to the absolute highlights of China: the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, the Terracotta Army and the picturesque landscapes of Yangshuo. You round off the tour in fascinating Shanghai.

... 14 days From £%s
China
Beijing, Xi’an & Shanghai

Do you dream of experiencing China but have limited time available? Then this shorter tour is perfect for you. You will visit three unique UNESCO World Heritage sites and Shanghai’s crazy contrasts.

... 11 days From £%s
China
The Best of China

Why not go all-in when it comes to experiences in China? 8 unique UNESCO sites, poetic landscapes, clumsy pandas and world-class urban life await you. Let us show you the best of China!

... 19 days From £%s

4. Peru – Explore the ancient wonders of Cusco

Indigenous woman walking along an Inca wall in Cusco in October

If you dream of experiencing the impressive Machu Picchu and immersing yourself in the ancient history of the Incas, October is an excellent month to do so. The weather is mild, the landscapes are breathtaking, and October provides the perfect conditions for an unforgettable journey through the archaeological wonders of Peru.

October also marks the end of the dry season in Peru, and it’s pretty much your last chance if you’re looking to walk the fantastic Inca Trail this year.

Check out our tours to Peru below:
Peru
Highlights of Peru

Highlights abound on this tour, with visits to Cusco, the ancient Inca ruins of Machu Picchu, the breathtaking Andes Mountains, the vibrant communities around Lake Titicaca, and the charming colonial cities of Lima and Arequipa.

... 14 days From £%s
Peru
In the footsteps of the Incas

Experience the enchanting charm of Peru from the vibrant capital and coastal city of Lima to the ancient capital of the Incas, Cusco, and let yourself be captivated by the magic of Machu Picchu.

... 11 days From £%s
Peru
Tour of Peru, including the Amazon

Discover the world’s largest rainforest with its unique nature and fascinating wildlife, combined with Peru’s other highlights: Machu Picchu, Cusco, Lake Titicaca, Colca Canyon, Arequipa and Lima.

... 16 days From £%s
Peru
Peru, including Inca Trail

Lace up your hiking boots and walk the legendary 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The tour also takes you to Lima, Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca and the ancient capital of the Incas, Cusco.

... 16 days From £%s
Peru
Peru & Ecuador with island hopping in Galapagos

Wonderful experiences await in Peru & Ecuador, with visits to the old Inca capital Cusco, the Inca ruins Machu Picchu, Ecuador’s capital Quito and the fairytale Galapagos Islands with their indescribable wildlife.

... 17 days From £%s
Peru
Peru, including 2-day Inca Trail trek

Take a 2-day Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu through the fairy tale landscape of the Andes. You will also discover the Inca capital, Cusco, as well as Lima, Arequipa, Colca Canyon and Lake Titicaca.

... 14 days From £%s
Peru
Peru, including Salkantay Trek

Experience the Andes on a stunning trek to Salkantay mountain ending at Machu Picchu. You will also visit Lima, Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca and the ancient capital of the Incas, Cusco.

... 16 days From £%s
Peru
Ballestas, Nazca & Inca culture

Join us on a captivating journey through Peru, where you’ll see the mystical Nazca Lines, encounter wildlife at the Ballestas Islands, marvel at the dramatic depths of Colca Canyon, visit indigenous communities on Lake Titicaca, and explore the Inca ruins of Machu Picchu.

... 16 days From £%s

5. Japan – Koyo, the autumn counterpart to the cherry blossom

Autumn colours at a temple in Kyoto, Japan

Where spring is famous for Sakura, the pink cherry blossom, October brings its own magical transformation to Japan.

The autumn leaves paint the landscapes in shades of red, yellow and brown – a phenomenon known as Koyo. Explore Tokyo’s bustling streets, visit Kyoto’s historic temples and indulge in traditional Japanese cuisine.

Check out our tours to Japan below:
Japan
Highlights of Japan

On this tour to Japan’s main island, you’ll experience a carefully selected collection of the country’s most remarkable highlights. Japan offers everything from sacred temples and magnificent Japanese gardens to fascinating culture and vibrant cities.

... 13 days From £%s
Japan
Japan’s Heart and Brain

Experience the essence of Japan short and sweet with the most important cultural cities: Tokyo and Kyoto. The contrasts between the ultra-modern and the old traditions truly amazes most people.

... 10 days From £%s
Japan
Kyoto & Tokyo

Gain a unique insight into Japan’s many faces with visits to two of the country’s most fascinating cities, where Kyoto’s timeless traditions meet Tokyo’s modern rhythm.

... 10 days From £%s
Japan
The Japanese Alps & Tokyo

Discover Japan’s cultural heritage on a tour through the breathtaking landscapes of the Japanese Alps. Follow in the footsteps of the samurai along the Nakasendo route, savour sake in the peaceful mountain town of Takayama, and round off your journey in vibrant Tokyo.

... 13 days From £%s
Japan
Japan’s nature and cities

Look forward to the vibrant metropolises of Kyoto and Tokyo, and experience Japan’s natural beauty in full bloom among the mountains surrounding the Yamadera Temple and in Hakone National Park.

... 13 days From £%s
Japan
The Grand Tour of Japan

Embark on a magnificent tour through Japan’s many facets, unfolding like chapters in a living story. From sacred temples and breathtaking mountain landscapes to historic castles and vibrant metropolises.

... 18 days From £%s
Japan
Traditional & modern Japan

From the strongholds of the past to the metropolises of today. A tour that reveals the traditional and modern sides of Japan in perfect harmony.

... 14 days From £%s

6. Botswana – Safari magic in the Delta

Woman sailing in a boat in the Okavango Delta in Botswana

If you’re looking to enjoy a unique safari experience, go to Botswana in October.

October is the end of the dry season, and, paradoxically, it’s during the dry season that there is most water in the Okavango Delta, where the wildlife congregates to drink. Experience the incredible birdlife on a boat safari and witness the spectacular natural scenes that unfold. October is your chance to explore Botswana’s untamed wilderness at its very best.

Check out our tours to Botswana below:
Botswana
Botswana & Victoria Falls

Go on safari at of the world’s best safari destinations. Overnight stay at a comfortable tent camp in the heart of the Okavango Delta, see the many elephants of Chobe, and shower off that travel dust at the mighty Victoria Falls.

... 13 days From £%s
Botswana
Victoria Falls, Botswana & Cape Town

Waterfall, safari and city. Discover the three highlights of southern Africa in one tour: the mighty Victoria Falls, the Chobe National Park in Botswana and the wonderful metropolis of Cape Town.

... 13 days From £%s

7. Argentina – dance your way through the many colours of October

Jacaranda trees in bloom in Buenos Aires, Argentina

From the buzzing urban scene of Buenos Aires to the sun-drenched vineyards of Mendoza, the mild spring weather sets the stage for exploring some of Argentina’s famous cities.

Dance your way through Buenos Aires’ historic districts, treat yourself to world-class food, and immerse yourself in the passionate rhythms of tango culture. When the jacaranda trees bloom, the streets come alive with purple hues, adding an extra layer of charm to your Argentinian adventure.

Check out our tours to Argentina here
Chile
Argentina & Chile: Glaciers, Lake District & Capitals

Discover the exciting capitals of Argentina and Chile combined with the breathtaking scenery of the Perito Moreno Glacier and cosy Bariloche, surrounded by lakes and snow-capped mountains.

... 15 days From £%s
Argentina
Buenos Aires, Iguazú & Rio de Janeiro

On this tour, you will experience three of South America’s absolute highlights: Argentina’s beautiful capital Buenos Aires, the impressive Iguazú Falls and amazing Rio de Janeiro.

... 13 days From £%s
Argentina
Highlights of Argentina

Enjoy unforgettable experiences in Argentina with colourful Buenos Aires, the wildlife of Península Valdés and the breathtaking scenery of the Perito Moreno Glacier and Iguazú Falls.

... 13 days From £%s
Argentina
Argentina: Andes & Iguazú

Experience atmospheric Buenos Aires, the colourful Andes mountains and the Salinas Grandes salt flat at Salta as well as the stunning Iguazú Falls in the heart of the lush rainforest.

... 12 days From £%s
Chile
Chile & Argentina: Andes, Wine & Iguazú

Look forward to experiencing the modern capitals of Chile and Argentina, the majestic Andes Mountains, the scenery of the Iguazú Falls, and taste Argentina’s amazing wines in Mendoza and Salta.

... 14 days From £%s

8. Singapore – the city-state that impresses all year round

Colourful Little India in Singapore

Dynamic Singapore is a melting pot of cultures with plenty of green spaces in the otherwise hyper-modern city.

October offers pleasant weather, perfect for exploring Singapore’s charming districts, such as Chinatown, Little India and Kampong Glam, as well as iconic landmarks such as Gardens by the Bay. Immerse yourself in Singapore’s multicultural scene, taste local delicacies and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere that makes Singapore a year-round gem.

See all our tours to Singapore below:
Australia
Singapore & Highlights of Australia

Start out with a couple of days in the vibrant metropolis of Singapore before the tour continues Down Under. Look forward to beautiful Sydney, a visit to Uluru in the red heart of Australia, and tropical Cairns. Option to extend the tour to include a beach holiday or national park experiences.

... 16 days From £%s
Australia
Singapore & the Best of Australia

Look forward to making a stop in fabulous Singapore, before continuing to the amazing contrasts of Australia. Melbourne, Sydney and the red desert await you Down Under, before the tour rounds off in tropical Cairns.

... 19 days From £%s

9. Kenya – the grand finale of the Great Migration

Wildebeest jumping over the Mara River in Kenya

October is the last chance of the year to experience the famous crossing of the Great Migration at the Mara River on the Kenya-Tanzania border. This unique natural event is a must-see if you’re in Kenya during this period.

October is at the end of the dry season, which means that the landscape is dry, but on the other hand the animals gather around the waterholes that are there, making it easy to spot the interesting wildlife.

Why not combine your safari in Kenya with unique Zanzibar, which is excellent for a beach holiday in October? Look forward to Zanzibar’s unique beaches with white sand and the clearest of turquoise water.

Check out our tours to Kenya below:
Kenya
Beach holiday in Mombasa & safari in 3 national parks

Combine your relaxing beach holiday in Mombasa with a safari where you experience the gorgeous nature and fantastic animal life of three national parks, Amboseli, Tsavo East and Tsavo West.

... 14 days From £%s
Kenya
Safari in Samburu, Nakuru & Masai Mara

Experience the ‘special five’ in Samburu, spot rhinos at Nakuru, and enjoy a classic Kenyan safari in the Masai Mara. A tour filled with breathtaking scenery and diverse national parks.

... 9 days From £%s
Tanzania
Safari in Kenya & Tanzania

Serengeti & Masai Mara: Visit two of the world’s best safari destinations on one tour. You travel from Kenya to Tanzania – and back, from where you can choose to extend your tour with a beach holiday.

... 12 days From £%s
Kenya
Safari in Masai Mara, Lake Naivasha & Amboseli

The classic tour featuring the very best highlights – from the remote plains of the Masai Mara, through the lush Great Rift Valley, to the elephants of Amboseli with views of Kilimanjaro.

... 9 days From £%s
Kenya
Safari in Kenya & beach holiday in Mauritius

Go on safari in Kenya with views of Kilimanjaro and a good chance of experiencing the Big Five – and discover Mauritius’s wild nature and chalk-white sandy beaches.

... 15 days From £%s
Kenya
Safari in Kenya & Gorilla Tracking in Uganda

From Kenya’s vibrant capital, Nairobi, to safaris in Amboseli National Park with views of Kilimanjaro. Continue to Uganda, where you’ll go trekking in the rainforest in search of mountain gorillas. 

... 12 days From £%s
Kenya
Nairobi, Tsavo National Park & beach holiday by Mombasa

Join us on a legendary train journey from Kenya’s vibrant capital, Nairobi, to the red elephants of the country’s largest national park, Tsavo. After a few days of safari, the train journey continues towards the stunning Kenyan coast. 

... 12 days From £%s
Kenya
Safari in Amboseli National Park & beach holiday by Mombasa

Savour the tastes of Nairobi before embarking on a safari in Amboseli National Park with views of Kilimanjaro. Enjoy a relaxing train journey en route to a beach holiday by Mombasa. City life, safari, and a beach holiday all in one trip. 

... 11 days From £%s

10. Brazil – Samba, sunshine and sandy beaches

Sunny day at Lopes Mendes in Brazil

In October, it’s the dry season in large parts of Brazil, which means you can experience the country’s magnificent sights without too much rain.

Explore the mysterious Amazon jungle, stroll through the historic district of Salvador, experience the Brazilian magic of Rio de Janeiro, and relax on the sun-kissed beaches of Ilha Grande. Are you ready to let the samba rhythms lead you through the fascinating experiences that Brazil has to offer?

Check out our tours to Brazil below:
Brazil
Highlights of Brazil

Join us on a fantastic tour around colourful Brazil. Experience Rio de Janeiro, Iguazú Falls, the Amazon Rainforest’s unique ecosystem, and Salvador with its lively Afro-Brazilian culture and atmosphere.

... 15 days From £%s
Brazil
A Touch of Brazil

Enjoy a taste of what Brazil has to offer with a visit to Rio de Janeiro, the beautiful colonial gem, Paraty, and the cosy, unspoilt island of Ilha grande, where beautiful paradise beaches await you.

... 11 days From £%s
Brazil
Rio, Iguazú & beach holiday on Ilha Grande

Experience the world’s largest waterfall at Iguazú, the vibrant metropolis of Rio, colonial history in Paraty, and conclude your tour with relaxation on the beautiful island of Ilha Grande.

... 14 days From £%s
Argentina
Buenos Aires, Iguazú & Rio de Janeiro

On this tour, you will experience three of South America’s absolute highlights: Argentina’s beautiful capital Buenos Aires, the impressive Iguazú Falls and amazing Rio de Janeiro.

... 13 days From £%s
Brazil
Nature & Wildlife of Brazil

Enjoy world-class nature and animal experiences in the Pantanal wetlands. Swim in Bonito’s clear rivers and experience the impressive Iguazú Falls. The tour rounds off in magical Rio de Janeiro.

... 14 days From £%s

Which destinations are best in October?

Ready for new autumn adventures in sunny surroundings? October brings pleasant temperatures, lush landscapes, and plenty of opportunities for culture, nature, and relaxation.

Whether you’re dreaming of a safari holiday in Africa, island hopping in Asia, or a colourful tour of Latin America, October is an ideal month for an unforgettable autumn holiday.

Need a hand finding exactly the tour that matches what you’re after? Our travel specialists are ready to help you on your way.

TourCompass – From tourist to traveller