Where to travel in August

One of the most impressive sights when spotting Great White sharks is watching them breach – this is when they throw their entire bodies out the water while attacking their prey. Visit False Bay or head to Gansbaai, about 2.5 hours from Cape Town, to see them in action. This time of year also coincides with the whale season along the Western Cape.

Although Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands are a year-round destination, at this time of year the waters are both cooler and calmer which creates better conditions for diving and snorkelling. This is also a great time to see the Galapagos Albatross nesting on Espanola Island, or head to South Plaza to see some sea lion pups.

The world’s largest wetlands area, the Pantanal is one of the best areas in South America for wildlife encounters. Chances of spotting animals, including the beautiful jaguar, are highest during the dry season and there are some great experiences on offer here where you can go out with experienced trackers in search of these majestic animals.

The charming towns of Hue and Hoi An are best explored during the dry season when the weather is hot and sunny, giving you the perfect backdrop against which to explore these towns with their melting pot of cultural influences, romantic architecture and delicious cuisine, as well as the pristine white beaches nearby.

In the middle of Fiji‘s dry season, it’s less humid and temperatures are a bit cooler (usually ranging from 19-29 degrees C) so outdoor activities are more pleasant. Try snorkelling and surfing, or just let your worries wash away as you sun on the beach.

For winter sports fans who just can’t get enough, New Zealand’s South Island is just one big winter playground from June to August. Queenstown in particular is a hive of activity during the winter months with several ski slopes nearby, and even a heli-ski option for real adrenaline junkies.

April to November is the perfect time to travel to the island paradise of Sumba, when the weather will be at its best during dry season. Immerse yourself in the island’s remarkable traditional culture, explore the pristine island environment of rainforest, rice paddies, waterfall pools and perfect beaches.

Enjoy the glorious Italian summer sunshine in Puglia‘s gorgeous countryside, picnicking in olive groves, sipping on local wine, learning to make the region’s classic orecchiette pasta, visiting mozzarella farms and munching your way around the region’s finest products.

The climate here is more akin to the south of England (i.e. temperamental, experiencing rain year-round and even in the height of summer) but July is when it’s likely to be at it’s sunniest and most clement, giving you the perfect opportunity to explore the region’s gothic cathedrals, imposing cliffs and gentle rolling hills, golden with crops in spring and summer (and so perfect for cycling or walking).