September stands as a globally recognized shoulder season, celebrated as one of the most opportune months for travel. As the European summer gracefully transitions into the hues of autumn, the Southern Hemisphere awakens to the melodies of spring. Days remain generously long, bathed in ample sunlight, occasionally punctuated by refreshing rain showers and gentle breezes that offer a welcome respite on warm hiking trails.
Embrace the serenity of fewer crowds, reduced wait times, and more appealing prices.
The significant advantage of September travel lies in the departure of summer crowds that typically throng Europe and Africa, particularly during July and August. The intense heat, which can often render adventurous pursuits uncomfortable, also diminishes in sun-drenched locales. This is the essence of shoulder season travel—exploring destinations before the peak summer tourism surge, as seen in adventure hotspots like New Zealand, and just as bustling destinations such as Croatia, Italy, and Spain conclude their high seasons.
Ricardo Fahrig, an expert in Albanian tourism, aptly noted, “Locals are more relaxed due to reduced pressure.” While his observation was specific to the Albanian Riviera, it holds broader relevance. “With fewer visitors, you almost have the place to yourself. Waiting times decrease, and prices are more favorable. I believe this offers a more authentic experience, allowing you to connect more with local residents rather than just fellow tourists.”
Imagine travel that’s more affordable, less crowded, and brimming with opportunities for genuine cultural immersion.
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Generally, September is an excellent month for travel across the globe, irrespective of your chosen location. Especially if you are equipped with suitable waterproof gear and are comfortable with occasional light rain. In this guide, we present a curated selection of destinations worldwide that exemplify the unique advantages of September travel. However, if your dream destination isn’t listed, don’t be discouraged; chances are, it too offers a delightful experience in September.
Here’s our curated guide to the best places to travel in September – a month perfectly tailored for the discerning traveler.
1. Discover the Albanian Riviera, Albania
Albanian Riviera Coastline
Season: Summer/Autumn
- Temperature: High of 27°C (81°F), Low of 15°C (59°F) (Dhërmi)
- Time zone: GMT+2
- Currency: Albanian Lek
- Best for: Combining coastal and mountain adventures
Given our introductory quote from Albanian trekking authority Ricardo Fahrig, it’s fitting to commence in his homeland. Albania is an ideal destination for sun-seekers, boasting stunning beaches and a coastline that faces Corfu across the Ionian Sea. This region offers world-class beauty at an accessible price point. However, the summer months have brought increasing levels of tourism.
The optimal way to appreciate the Albanian coast’s beauty is to venture off the beaten path and explore its hiking trails, particularly during the shoulder season, once the peak tourist influx subsides. Envision serene trails meandering through olive groves, past intriguing ghost towns, alongside pristine white sand beaches, and offering expansive ocean and mountain vistas. Ricardo Fahrig emphasizes, “In summer, you predominantly witness the superficial glamour of a beach resort. Here, you experience the authentic essence without the overwhelming crowds.”
How to get there? Tirana International Airport, the closest international gateway, is approximately 75 miles (121km) from the Albanian Riviera. The Riviera is accessible via a four-hour bus journey from Tirana.
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Coastal Hiking Trail in Albania
2. Explore the Dalmatian Coast, Croatia
Dalmatian Coast, Croatia
Season: Summer/Autumn
- Temperature: High of 25°C (77°F), Low of 16°C (61°F)
- Time zone: GMT+2
- Currency: Euro
- Best for: Ideal paddling conditions
The Dalmatian Coast, a historically significant region in western Croatia, borders the Adriatic Sea’s eastern edge. This lengthy, narrow coast is largely defined by the Dinaric Alps and is dotted with 79 islands and around 500 islets just offshore, creating a haven for adventure. Notable cities along the coast include Split, Zadar, Šibenik, and Dubrovnik. Dubrovnik, in particular, sees peak tourist activity in the summer, partly due to its Game of Thrones fame.
However, visiting the Dalmatian Coast in September, especially for paddling enthusiasts, offers a serene experience to explore its breathtaking coastline and historic cities. The sea remains invitingly warm for swimming.
How to get there? Split or Dubrovnik International Airports are the most convenient gateways to the Dalmatian Coast, depending on your specific destination along the coastline.
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Sea Kayaking in Croatia
3. Trek Sardinia, Italy
Sardinia Coastline
Season: Summer/Autumn
- Temperature: High of 27°C (81°F), Low of 18°C (64°F)
- Time zone: GMT+2
- Currency: Euro
- Best for: A challenging adventure in a stunning setting
While Sardinia is often associated with all-inclusive resorts and relaxed beach vacations, a deeper exploration reveals the demanding Selvaggio Blu trail. This 25-mile (40km) trek features a significant 4,200m (13,779ft) of vertical ascent, five abseils, and two via ferratas, rightfully earning its title as Italy’s most challenging trek. The Selvaggio Blu is exceptionally beautiful yet physically and mentally demanding, with technical climbs and descents. It’s ill-advised to attempt this trek in July or August due to excessive heat and crowds. September offers a far more suitable window.
How to get there? Cagliari Elmas Airport is the primary international airport serving the island of Sardinia.
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Trekking Selvaggio Blu Trail
4. Hike Picos de Europa, Spain
Ruta del Cares Hike, Picos de Europa
Season: Summer/Autumn
- Temperature: High of 23°C (73°F), Low of 14°C (57°F)
- Time zone: GMT+2
- Currency: Euro
- Best for: Experiencing a less-known facet of Spain
Nestled in Northern Spain, the Picos de Europa are a compact yet impressive mountain range and national park. Historically favored by rock climbers, this area has recently gained recognition in the broader adventure community. Its landscape features canyons, rivers, forests, and rugged peaks, making it ideal for diverse adventure activities.
Visiting Picos de Europa in September offers pleasant weather, although Northern Spain is generally cooler and wetter than the south. Daylight hours are still ample, and even popular trails like Ruta del Cares are less crowded, mostly frequented by locals.
How to get there? Several airports serve Picos de Europa. Santander and Asturias Airports are approximately 90 minutes by car, while Bilbao Airport is about an hour further.
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Hut-to-Hut Trekking in Picos de Europa
5. Adventure in the Cairngorms, Scotland
Braeriach Mountain, Cairngorms
Season: Summer/Autumn
- Temperature: High of 15°C (59°F), Low of 4°C (39°F) (Aviemore)
- Time zone: GMT+1
- Currency: British Pound
- Best for: A quintessential Highland adventure
The Cairngorms represent the adventurous heart of Scotland. This national park offers a wide array of activities, from rafting and kayaking on the River Spey to mountain biking on dedicated trails and hiking to the summit of Ben Macdui, the UK’s second-highest peak at 1,309m (4,296ft).
September is an ideal time for hiking in Scotland. While the weather can be somewhat unpredictable, it’s generally more favorable than the peak summer months. Trails are significantly less crowded in September compared to July or August. Another substantial benefit of September hiking is fewer midges.
As autumn approaches in the Cairngorms, the landscape begins to transform with red and yellow hues. Campers may also experience the sounds of rutting stags. Mushroom foraging is another autumnal activity, though caution is advised regarding identification.
How to get there? Aviemore train station provides excellent rail connections across the UK. Aberdeen and Inverness are the nearest airports, with Edinburgh and Glasgow also viable options.
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Join a small group adventure, hiking and canoeing from the Cairngorms to the North Sea, via the rapids of the River Spey. Led by expert, local guides.
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Summit to Sea Expedition, Scotland
6. Wildlife Watching in the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
Marine Iguana, Galapagos Islands
Season: Dry season
- Temperature: High of 27°C (81°F), Low of 19°C (66°F)
- Time zone: GMT-5
- Currency: US Dollar
- Best for: Exceptional marine wildlife encounters
The Galapagos Islands are a year-round haven for wildlife enthusiasts. According to Henry Sisa, a guide based in Quito, wildlife sightings are abundant even without specific activities. While famous for giant tortoises, September is particularly rewarding for marine wildlife observation. It’s the coolest and driest month, bringing nutrient-rich cold water currents to the surface. This attracts whales and dolphins, increasing your chances of spotting them. Snorkeling in September might also bring encounters with playful sea lion pups. The flourishing marine life also draws numerous bird species, including Albatross chicks.
How to get there? The Galapagos Islands are accessed via Ecuador. Most visitors fly from Quito, Ecuador’s capital, to Baltra Island in the Galapagos. The flight itself offers stunning views.
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Island Hopping, Galapagos
7. Visit Machu Picchu, Peru
Humantay Lake, Peru
Season: Dry season
- Temperature: High of 9°C (48°F), Low of -3°C (27°F)
- Time zone: GMT-5
- Currency: Peruvian Sol
- Best for: Avoiding peak season crowds at an iconic site
Machu Picchu, the legendary ancient Incan citadel nestled amongst mountain peaks, is renowned for its historical significance but also for its crowds.
Visiting Machu Picchu in September, during the shoulder season, means experiencing fewer crowds while enjoying similar weather conditions to the peak season. Although the Inca Trail remains busy year-round, consider the Salkantay Trek as an alternative, or for a more challenging experience, the trek to Choquequirao first.
How to get there? Cusco, the gateway to Machu Picchu, is accessible from Lima, Peru’s capital. From Lima, you can fly to Jorge Chavez Airport or take an overnight bus.
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Machu Picchu, Peru
8. Hike the Drakensberg Mountains, South Africa
Chain Ladders, Drakensberg Mountains
Season: Winter/Spring
- Temperature: High of 20°C (68°F), Low of 7°C (45°F)
- Time zone: GMT+2
- Currency: South African Rand
- Best for: A demanding African adventure
The Drakensberg Mountains are a spectacular natural barrier, forming a great green wall between South Africa and Lesotho. Hiking trails here are known for being serious and demanding, with some higher sections accessible only via chain ladders.
September, along with October, presents an ideal balance in the Drakensberg. Spring brings vibrant greenery and colorful flora. Birdlife is active, rainfall remains low, and it’s before the summer thunderstorms arrive.
How to get there? King Shaka International Airport in Durban or O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg are the best airports for accessing the Drakensberg.
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Hiking Drakensberg, South Africa
9. Climb Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Mount Kilimanjaro Peak
Season: Dry season
- Temperature: High of 29°C (84°F), Low of 17°C (63°F)
- Time zone: GMT+3
- Currency: Tanzanian Shilling
- Best for: Summiting a major peak
The allure of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak (5,895m/19,340ft), is undeniable. It’s a world-renowned mountain and the highest on the continent. Adding to its appeal, the surrounding region is home to iconic wildlife, including Amboseli National Park, located just 30 miles away, teeming with lions, elephants, cheetahs, and more. Why choose September for this adventure?
Opting for a Kilimanjaro climb in September increases your chances of a successful summit. Temperatures are cooler, and rainfall is less likely. September also sees fewer crowds compared to the busier months of July and August.
How to get there? Kilimanjaro Airport serves Moshi, Marangu, and Arusha. Alternatively, you can fly into Nairobi or Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam.
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Kilimanjaro Milky Way
10. Trek the Atlas Mountains, Morocco
Atlas Mountains, Morocco
Season: Summer/Autumn
- Temperature: High of 32°C (90°F), Low of 18°C (64°F)
- Time zone: GMT+1
- Currency: Moroccan Dirham
- Best for: A substantial weekend adventure
The Atlas Mountains are a hiker’s paradise. Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa at 4,167m (13,665ft), is a particular highlight. The ascent of Toubkal typically takes two days, including an overnight stay at a high-altitude refuge. Seasons significantly influence the Toubkal climb. January and February ascents involve hiking through snow, a rewarding challenge for experienced hikers.
The prime hiking season extends from April to September. In September, Toubkal’s summit may still have a dusting of snow, offering a visually striking contrast. Be aware that outside of summer, Morocco can get cold, especially at higher elevations, so pack accordingly.
How to get there? Marrakech Airport is the primary entry point for most travelers visiting the Atlas Mountains.
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Mount Toubkal Summit
11. Safari in Etosha National Park, Namibia
Watering Hole, Etosha National Park
Season: Dry season
- Temperature: High of 35°C (95°F), Low of 14°C (57°F)
- Time zone: GMT+2
- Currency: Namibian Dollar
- Best for: Prime wildlife viewing
Etosha National Park is synonymous with exceptional wildlife viewing and safari experiences. It’s a haven for lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, cheetahs, hyenas, rhinos, zebras, and numerous other species. The park is particularly known for its significant black rhinoceros population. September falls within the prime dry season for wildlife viewing. Watering holes become congregation points for animals, guaranteeing superb wildlife sightings. Be prepared for heat, however, as temperatures can exceed 30°C (86°F).
How to get there? Windhoek International Airport serves as the primary gateway to adventures in Namibia.
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Namibia Botswana Safari
12. Relax in Mauritius
Mauritius Aerial View
Season: Winter/Spring
- Temperature: High of 24°C (75°F), Low of 18°C (64°F)
- Time zone: GMT+4
- Currency: Mauritian Rupee
- Best for: Combining volcanic landscapes with coastal elegance
Mauritius, situated in the Indian Ocean, approximately 500 miles east of Madagascar, is a destination of unique beauty.
Coral reefs encircle the island, framing white sand beaches and a volcanic interior. Lush greenery extends through Black River Gorges National Park, while basalt peaks rise dramatically above the coastline. Offshore, sperm whales and dolphins can be spotted, and rainbow-colored sand dunes await exploration along the shores. September in Mauritius is appealing because it’s among the drier months, marking the end of winter with increasing daylight and awakening wildlife.
How to get there? Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport is the primary airport serving international flights to Mauritius.
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Mauritius Island Adventure
13. Walk the Kumano Kodo, Japan
Nachi Falls, Japan
Season: Summer/Autumn
- Temperature: High of 29°C (84°F), Low of 21°C (70°F) (Osaka)
- Time zone: GMT+4
- Currency: Japanese Yen
- Best for: Immersing oneself in autumnal forests
The Kumano Kodo is a 190-mile (370km) network of ancient pilgrimage trails, comprising five interconnected routes across the mountainous Kii Peninsula south of Osaka. These trails have been walked for over a millennium and continue to be popular today. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site, sharing this distinction with only the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. Walking the Kumano Kodo in September means avoiding the summer crowds and experiencing the forests as they begin to display autumnal colors.
September also avoids the peak heat and humidity typical of summer on the trail, making it a more comfortable time to hike.
How to get there? Japan’s efficient rail service extends to the Kii Peninsula. Kansai International Airport, located just outside Osaka, is the nearest international airport.
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Kumano Kodo Hiking, Japan
14. Explore Bali, Indonesia
Rice Terraces, Bali
Season: Dry season
- Temperature: High of 31°C (88°F), Low of 22°C (72°F)
- Time zone: GMT+8
- Currency: Indonesian Rupiah
- Best for: A sunny coast-to-coast adventure
Bali, once a beacon for wanderlust, has faced challenges recently, particularly with overtourism in certain areas. However, Bali is larger and more diverse than many realize. Venturing away from the crowded spots reveals tranquil landscapes, lush nature, and stunning coastlines that define its unique charm.
Consider exploring Bali via a 100km coast-to-coast walk, which avoids tourist hotspots. Benny Onor, a local tourism expert, emphasizes, “Bali is much more than Kuta. This route showcases Bali’s diverse landscapes—dense jungles, rice fields, plantations, waterfalls, and mountains. In many parts of this trail, tourists are rare.”
September is ideal due to hot, sunny weather and minimal rainfall, perfect for sun-seekers.
How to get there? Ngurah Rai International Airport serves as Bali’s international airport.
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Coast to Coast Bali Trek
15. Discover Sarawak, Borneo (Malaysia)
Rhinoceros Hornbill, Borneo
Season: Dry/Wet season
- Temperature: High of 33°C (91°F), Low of 22°C (72°F) (Borneo)
- Time zone: GMT+8
- Currency: Malaysian Ringgit
- Best for: Rainforest wildlife spotting
Borneo, the world’s third-largest island, boasts ancient rainforests, extensive wetlands, mountains exceeding 4,000m, and white sandy beaches, all teeming with diverse wildlife, much of which is endemic. Divided between Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei, the Malaysian side, comprising Sabah and Sarawak, is most visited. While Sabah is known for rainforests and rivers, Sarawak offers vast national parks with fewer tourists and the vibrant city of Kuching.
September in Borneo presents slightly unpredictable weather, with a mix of sun and rain. However, the rain revitalizes the rainforest, creating ideal conditions for spotting wildlife, including orangutans, pygmy elephants, hornbills, gibbons, and colorful frogs.
How to get there? Kuching International Airport in Borneo is the gateway to exploring Sarawak.
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Borneo Jungle Adventure
16. Escape to the Tian Shan Mountains, Kyrgyzstan
Tian Shan Mountains, Kyrgyzstan
Season: Summer/Autumn
- Temperature: High of 8°C (46°F), Low of -4°C (25°F)
- Time zone: GMT+6
- Currency: Kyrgyzstani Som
- Best for: A genuine escape into wilderness
Kyrgyzstan evokes images of vast wilderness and towering mountains—specifically, the Tian Shan Mountains. This is one of Central Asia’s most breathtaking mountain ranges. Visitors can trek the 3,800m (12,467ft) Jukku Pass, discover shimmering mountain lakes, and encounter traditional eagle hunters.
Autumn, from September to November, brings the clearest skies and lower river levels, revealing a distinctive turquoise blue in the waters. Higher passes like Jukku Pass might be dusted with snow, while village farms display vibrant fall colors.
How to get there? Manas International Airport in Bishkek is the most common entry point to Kyrgyzstan.
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Tian Shan Trekking, Kyrgyzstan
17. Hike the Jordan Trail, Jordan
Jordan Trail Rock Formations
Season: Summer/Autumn
- Temperature: High of 28°C (82°F), Low of 14°C (57°F) (Petra)
- Time zone: GMT+3
- Currency: Jordanian Dinar
- Best for: Exploring ancient sites in a novel way
The Jordan Trail, a 420-mile (675km) route, spans from Umm Qais in northern Jordan to Aqaba on the Red Sea in the south. It passes through Amman, the ancient city of Petra, and the Wadi Rum desert, characterized by red and orange sands and sandstone monoliths.
Created to broaden tourism benefits beyond Petra, the trail supports local communities. Ayman Abd Alkareem, a founder, notes, “Many living near Petra don’t benefit from tourism. These trails help distribute those benefits.”
September offers warm, manageable weather, avoiding the intense summer heat, and fewer crowds. “These trails extend the tourist season,” Ayman adds.
How to get there? Amman, Jordan’s capital, and its airport serve as the gateway to the Jordan Trail.
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Cycling Jordan Trail
18. Trek the Himalayas, Nepal
Ama Dablam, Himalayas
Season: Summer/Autumn
- Temperature: High of 17°C (63°F), Low of 7°C (45°F) (Lukla)
- Time zone: GMT+5:45
- Currency: Nepalese Rupee
- Best for: A comprehensive Himalayan experience
Nepal is a must-visit for mountain lovers, home to the Himalayas, Mount Everest, and other towering peaks. Trek to Everest Base Camp from Lukla, explore the Annapurna Circuit, or challenge yourself on Mera Peak, one of the highest trekking peaks accessible without technical climbing gear.
September is peak trekking season in Nepal, offering ideal weather, reliable travel conditions, and a vibrant atmosphere in places like Namche Bazaar, bustling with fellow hikers.
How to get there? Kathmandu is your initial destination. For the Everest Base Camp trek, fly to Tenzing-Hillary Airport in Lukla.
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Mera Peak Climb, Nepal
19. Paradise Found in Cao Bang, Vietnam
Ban Gioc Waterfall, Vietnam
Season: Summer/Autumn
- Temperature: High of 30°C (86°F), Low of 22°C (72°F)
- Time zone: GMT+7
- Currency: Vietnam Dong
- Best for: Discovering paradise in September
Cao Bang, a captivating province in Northern Vietnam, is rich in attractions, most notably Ban Gioc Waterfall, the fourth-largest globally, reminiscent of a scene from an adventure movie leading to a lost city. Water cascades across multiple levels into stunning lagoons, surrounded by lush greenery. September, the low season here, allows for exploring the falls without crowds. Increased rainfall ensures full, spectacular waterfalls, and the surrounding waters are inviting for a refreshing swim in the warm autumn air.
How to get there? Fly to Hanoi, then take a five-hour bus to Cao Bang.
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Join a small group of adventurers to explore a wild corner of Southeast Asia, on this remote trek in Vietnam’s far north. Led by local, expert guides.
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Image alt text: Lush landscape surrounding Ban Gioc Falls, ideal for trekking in Northern Vietnam.
20. Explore Te Araroa, New Zealand
Rai River Swing Bridge, New Zealand
Season: Winter/Spring
- Temperature: High of 17°C (63°F), Low of 9°C (48°F) (Auckland)
- Time zone: GMT+12
- Currency: New Zealand Dollar
- Best for: Experiencing New Zealand on one epic trail
Te Araroa is New Zealand’s comprehensive trail, encompassing the entire country on foot. Spanning 1,864 miles (3,000km) from Cape Reinga to Bluff, completing the entire trail takes months.
For a shorter segment immersion, September is perfect, as spring awakens nature with vibrant scents and waterfalls surge with snowmelt. The Alexandra Blossom Festival in September celebrates cherry blossoms, while native flora like totara, beech, and Giant Kauri trees, and colorful wildflowers bloom across the landscape.
How to get there? Fly to Auckland, then to Kerikeri or Kaitaia, and finally take a tourist bus to Cape Reinga.
[Coast to Coast Expedition across New Zealand | Much Better Adventures
Join a small group of active adventurers for the challenge of a lifetime, hiking, biking and rafting your way across the staggering landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island.
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New Zealand Coast to Coast Expedition
Inspired? Browse all of our trips and tours with departures in September today!
Stay safe out there: Our guides are well-researched, short summaries, designed to inspire but not for navigational purposes. While we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee completeness. Outdoor activities come with serious risk, and individuals must take full personal responsibility for their own safety. Much Better Adventures, and the authors, disclaim any liability arising directly or indirectly from the use of the information from this article.
