Where to go in September?

Is September the month for your next travel adventure?

Unsure where to travel in September?

There are numerous fantastic places to visit in September. Here’s our top 10 selection.

Was it not September you were looking for? Then also see where to travel in August or October.

Indonesia – Dry season in the world’s largest archipelago

September is the dry season in Indonesia, meaning low humidity and very little rain. This makes the month perfect for experiencing one or more of the archipelago’s fascinating and diverse islands, for example, through island hopping.

In Bali, a firm favourite for many in Indonesia, the abundant sunshine offers ample opportunity to explore the island’s natural beauty, for instance, in Munduk’s lush highlands, Ubud’s stunning mountain landscapes, or Sanur’s golden sandy beaches.

If you dream of plenty of beach holidays in September, both Gili Trawangan and Lombok are excellent choices. The dry season ensures plenty of sunshine, and conditions are optimal for diving and snorkelling due to high visibility in the sea.

If you’re eager to explore Indonesia’s unparalleled nature, you could, for example, visit Java or Sumatra. The dry weather makes September perfect for hiking or other outdoor activities, such as witnessing the sunrise over Mount Bromo on Java or trekking in Gunung Leuser National Park in search of the rainforest’s endangered orangutans.

3 reasons to visit Indonesia in September:

• Sunny and warm weather during the dry season.
• A good time for a beach holiday, for example, on the Gili Islands or Lombok.
• Ideal conditions for hiking and outdoor activities, such as on Java or Sumatra.

Argentina and Chile – Springtime landscapes

September marks the start of spring in Argentina and Chile.

In Argentina, temperatures are generally mild, for example, in Buenos Aires, while in the northern parts of the country where the impressive Iguazú Falls are located, it can be warm. In Chile, it’s similarly warm around the capital, Santiago.

Spring is noticeable not just in the temperatures but also in the landscapes. Both in Buenos Aires and Santiago, the streets bloom with jacaranda trees in beautiful shades of purple.

Although it can still be chilly in Patagonia, spanning both southern Chile and Argentina, temperatures begin to rise slowly, with milder weather and less wind than what you might experience later in the year. With warm clothing in your backpack, September becomes an enchanting month to explore iconic national parks like Torres del Paine and Los Glaciares, where glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and turquoise lakes await.

In addition, Chile celebrates its Independence Day, Fiestas Patrias, on September 18th. The day is marked with vibrant festivities, music, and folk dances in parks and public squares.

3  reasons to visit Argentina and Chile in September:

• Milder, warm temperatures as the spring months progress.
• Blooming jacaranda trees in the capitals, creating a magical atmosphere.
• Spectacular natural experiences in the national parks of Patagonia.

South Africa – Safari, coastlines, and whales

If you dream of experiencing the diversity of South Africa, September is a great time to travel.

September falls towards the end of the dry season in Kruger National Park. With months without rain, both vegetation and water reserves are sparse. This means animals gather around the remaining waterholes, and along with the less dense landscape, animals become easier to spot.

In Cape Town, September heralds the beginning of spring. This means dry weather and colourful landscapes that bloom with wildflowers along the coast. The mild spring weather makes it a fantastic time to visit the city and explore its many exciting attractions, such as a trip to the summit of the picturesque Table Mountain or a visit to the renowned wine region surrounding Cape Town.

September is also an excellent time for whale watching in South Africa. Along the coast at Hermanus, south of Cape Town, there’s a great chance of spotting whales in September. You can also experience the Hermanus Whale Festival, which annually celebrates the arrival of the whales in September with art exhibitions, food markets, and educational talks on environmental protection and whale conservation. In 2025, the festival takes place from September 26th-28th.

3 reasons to visit South Africa in September:

• The dry season creates excellent safari conditions in Kruger National Park.
• Opportunity to witness whales up close along the coast at Hermanus.
• Ideal time to experience Cape Town’s blooming landscapes.

Australia – Spring flowers and national parks

Australia also welcomes the start of spring in September.

For most of the country, spring brings sunny days and cool nights. Australia’s landscapes begin to burst into bloom, and you can spot wildflowers in various locations across the country.

Spring temperatures can be relatively warm in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. This time of year is perfect for engaging in numerous outdoor activities, such as exploring national parks like the Blue Mountains or discovering Sydney’s other fascinating attractions.

In Australia’s tropical north, where Darwin and Cairns are located, it’s the dry season. The temperatures are pleasant, and the humidity is low, allowing you to fully enjoy the region’s stunning national parks and natural attractions, such as the Great Barrier Reef, Kakadu National Park, and Daintree Rainforest.

If you dream of ending your Australian adventure with a relaxing beach holiday, Port Douglas is the perfect destination. Located north of Cairns, you’ll experience northern Australia’s tropical climate and have the opportunity to lounge on a beautiful white sand beach.

3 reasons to visit Australia in September:

• Spring weather with sunshine, ideal for exploring Sydney’s outdoor attractions.
• Blooming landscapes.
• Dry season in the tropical north, perfect for national parks, the Great Barrier Reef, or a beach holiday in Port Douglas.

Brazil – Nature’s Adventure Awaits

September marks the beginning of spring in Brazil, bringing mild temperatures and dry weather across much of the country.

In the Pantanal, the world’s largest wetland, September falls in the dry season, where you can expect less rain than in the coming months. The weather is warm, and the nights are mild. Wildlife in the Pantanal is active year-round, but September is particularly good for bird and reptile enthusiasts.

In Rio de Janeiro, the weather is sunny and warm, though evenings might be cooler. It’s an ideal time to visit, especially for outdoor activities such as hiking or sightseeing. You can, for example, experience a trip to Sugarloaf Mountain, a leisurely walk or cycling through the city’s bustling neighbourhoods, or excursions into the surrounding nature, such as in Tijuca National Park or Pedra Bonita.

Ilha Grande, just a few hours’ travel from Rio, is a tropical gem boasting lush mountains and secluded beaches perfect for a Brazilian beach holiday. In September, the weather is dry and clear, and the island is less crowded than during the high season—ideal if you wish to trek through the rainforest, sail to hidden bays, or simply enjoy tranquillity with views of the turquoise sea.

3 reasons to visit Brazil in September:

• Dry season and sunny weather in most of the country.
• Ideal time to explore Brazil’s nature and wildlife, such as in the Pantanal or Rio de Janeiro.
• Opportunity for a beach holiday on Ilha Grande.

Kenya – The Big Five on the agenda

September is peak safari season in Kenya – and for good reason.

It is one of the months when you can witness the great wildebeest migration – a spectacular event where millions of wildebeests and zebras dramatically cross the Mara River at great risk.

This month marks the end of Kenya’s long dry season, and after many months of almost no rain, the savannah landscapes are bare and dry. This makes it easier to spot animals, as they find it harder to hide in the vegetation. It’s a benefit when on safari, and there’s a good chance of spotting one or more of the ‘Big Five’ in Masai Mara, Amboseli, or Tsavo National Park.

If you dream of combining safari with relaxation, the Kenyan coast is ideal. Here, you’ll find Diani Beach, which is delightful in September. Both sea and air temperatures are warm – perfect for enjoying days by the water. And if you’re yearning for more animal experiences in Kenya, you can also go on a snorkelling trip to explore marine wildlife.

3 reasons to visit Kenya in September:

• Dry season, providing better opportunities to spot animals.
• Chance to witness the Mara River crossing during the great migration.
• A good time to combine safari with a beach holiday on Kenya’s coast.

Peru – Mountain landscapes and rainforest

September is one of the best months to visit Peru.

The weather is dry and mild, and there are fewer visitors at the country’s major attractions after the peak season.

September is ideal for trekking to Machu Picchu via the historic Inca Trail, where mountainous landscapes reveal their beauty with many clear sunny days and dry paths. September is also one of the best months to visit Machu Picchu itself, as the dry season offers the best chances for clear views and sunshine over the breathtaking monument.

The Amazon Rainforest is also a fantastic destination in September. Generally, it rains heavily in the rainforest year-round, but September is among the months with the least rain. This makes it a great time to explore the lush nature and its many fascinating inhabitants, such as snakes, monkeys, caimans, and parrots.

3 reasons to visit Peru in September:

• Fewer travellers than in the peak season.
• Ideal weather conditions for trekking the Inca Trail and visiting Machu Picchu.
• Less rain in the Amazon Rainforest.

USA – From cities to scenic landscapes

The USA is a brilliant destination to visit in September, when you can experience the late summer ambiance across much of the country.

The weather is typically sunny and pleasant, and the crowds of the high season begin to taper off, offering fewer visitors at major attractions and sights such as New York City or San Francisco.

In national parks like Yosemite and the Grand Canyon, September is an excellent time to witness the majesty of nature. The intense heat of summer has waned, yet it remains dry and warm, creating perfect conditions for spending hours outdoors and experiencing the glacier-carved mountains, vast rivers, and rock formations the parks have to offer.

September also brings delightful weather for exploring some of the USA’s iconic cities, like New York City or Boston, where the summer heat is replaced by more agreeable temperatures. In urban green oases and parks, such as Central Park, the trees slowly change colour, cloaking the cityscape in hues of orange and red.

3 reasons to visit the USA in September:

• Warm and sunny weather.
• Ideal time to visit national parks like Yosemite or the Grand Canyon.
• Comfortable temperatures for a city break.

Madagascar – Wild whales and lively lemurs

September falls within Madagascar’s ‘cool’, dry season, making it a fantastic month to visit this large, diverse island renowned for its unique wildlife and dramatic landscapes.

The weather is generally dry with little rain during this season, providing excellent conditions for embarking on a safari in Madagascar to explore nature and wildlife, for instance, in Andasibe-Mantadia or Ranomafana.

You can hardly think of Madagascar without the whimsical lemurs, and in September, there are plenty of opportunities to meet these famous island inhabitants. Many lemurs begin having their young in September, so with a bit of luck, you might spot baby lemurs in some of the island’s many national parks.

Whale season is also ongoing in Madagascar in September, where you might spot whales directly from the coast at Sainte Marie, Nosy Be, and Anakao as they come to Madagascar’s warm ocean currents to breed.

3 reasons to visit Madagascar in September

• Dry season with very little rain.
• Great time to see endemic lemurs, who notably have their young in September.
• Whale season provides the chance to spot whales directly from the coast.

Ecuador – Nature’s contrasts

September is an excellent month to explore Ecuador’s diversity—from the lofty Andes to the unique ecosystems of the Galápagos Islands.

In the Andes region, it’s dry season is September, and the weather is clear and dry. It’s the perfect time to visit the capital, Quito, which offers colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and local charm.

The dry weather also creates ideal conditions for experiencing the region’s fascinating nature, such as Cotopaxi National Park or the crater lake Quilotoa. In September, there are great chances of clear weather with stunning views over the beautiful landscapes.

On the Galápagos Islands, September falls in the cooler, dry season. This means sunny, yet cooler and more comfortable weather than in the rainy season when it can become very hot. You can experience the unique wildlife of the Galápagos Islands year-round, but in September, you can also see playful sea lion pups or penguins courting their prospective mates around Bartolome.

3 reasons to visit Ecuador in September:

• Dry and clear weather in the Andes.
• A great time for outdoor activities, such as visiting Cotopaxi or Quilotoa.
• Pleasant weather on the Galápagos Islands during the cooler, dry season.

What are the best destinations in September?

Whether you dream of coming face-to-face with the Big Five in Kenya, island hopping in Indonesia, or witnessing spring bloom in Latin America, September is the perfect month for an adventure.

With pleasant temperatures, vibrant festivals, and magnificent natural experiences, September offers unforgettable tours across the world.

Still unsure where to travel in September? Our experienced travel specialists are ready to guide you towards the tour that best suits your travel dreams in September.

TourCompass – From tourist to traveller