Where to travel in October

September and October are the best times to dive with whale sharks and manta rays in the dreamy blue waters around the Seychelles. It is also the time that the critically endangered hawksbill turtle and endangered green turtle come to some beaches to nest.

It is cool at night in Bhutan during October, but daytime temperatures are very pleasant. Hiking is one of the most popular activities this time of year as is visiting the dzongs which looks particularly beautiful against a brilliant blue sky. There are also festivals happening – be sure to check dates.

The weather in the UK can still be mild at the beginning of the month, and by the end of October you’ll be treated to beautiful colours as the trees turn to rusty red and burnt orange.

Climbing on your mind? Take your fall vacation to new heights. This is your last chance to trek the epic Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain.

There are more festivals in Myanmar in October and November than any other time of year. This includes the Elephant Dance festival outside of Mandalay, the Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda festival in Inle, and the Taunggyyii Baloon festival. What’s more, the beaches all usually open on 1 October, so look to get there early if you want to be the first one basking in the sunshine.

October and November are the most popular months to make the trek up to Base Camp, with April coming in close behind. Temperatures are warm during the day and there’s minimal rainfall to slow you down. This is also a great time to catch Tihaar, the festival of lights, Nepal’s second biggest festival. It falls between October and November, lasting for five days.

Indian festivals are famous throughout the world, and with good reason. Diwali, the festival of light, is one of the most famous, and is usually celebrated from mid October into November (though the date changes every year). This is a wonderful time to be in northern India – though as with all good celebrations, it can get quite noisy!

Spring in Torres del Paine, which runs from mid September to November, is cool and wet but sees plants come back to life and wildlife and proliferate. Spend your time hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking through this incredible terrain, watching out for wildlife and spectacular photo opportunities as you go.

This time of year is cooler and less intense in Italy‘s vibrant cities, making it a wonderful time to visit Rome‘s beautiful galleries and fascinating historical sites. Take advantage of lower prices and fewer crowds, not to mention the grape and olive harvests.

If you just want to escape from the dreary grey skies of fall, hit the pristine shores of Mauritius for the last month of their dry, hot season and revel in the idyllic beaches and perfect blue waters.