The best places to visit in February

Is the winter weather getting you down? Don’t panic! There’s a whole world out there to explore, and if you’re looking for hot destinations in February, we’ve got some real gems for you. From tropical rainforests to white sandy beaches, here are some great places that will soon help you forget all about the winter blues.

Brazil

The exact dates of Carnival change each year, depending on when Easter falls, but it’s usually during February. That makes Brazil top of the list when it comes to the best destinations to visit in February. Nothing will cheer you up like shaking a tailfeather to a samba rhythm! You don’t even need to go to Rio de Janeiro to enjoy the Brazilian Carnival. While that’s where you’ll find the most famous party in Brazil, each city and town has its own version. Experienced Carnival connoisseurs often steer clear of Rio altogether, heading to less-crowded places like Bahia or Recife for a wild week of non-stop partying.

February is also the height of the Brazilian summer, so if you’re looking for fun in the sun, you’re in luck. You can decide how you want to spend your days: basking on a white sand beach, taking a thrilling trek into the Amazon rainforest, or just relaxing in a bar with a caipirinha in your hand and a game of football on the TV. Whatever you choose, it’s hard to beat Brazil when it comes to warm countries in February.

This 13-day group trip is a great way to see Brazil. It’s a huge country, so allow yourself a full two weeks to explore. You’ll get your samba on at the Rio Carnival before heading to the spectacular Iguazú Falls, considered to be one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Picture-perfect beaches and spectacular sunsets are waiting for you!

Colombia

Colombia is a land of contrasts, and that’s why it makes our list of the best places to visit in February. This country has something for everyone, from the world’s tallest palm trees to dizzying mountains. You can spend your time in the modern, high-altitude metropolis of Bogotá or head to the coast of Cartagena, where beautiful old colonial buildings are waiting to be explored. Wherever you turn, there’s something new to marvel at, whether it’s some majestic nature, stunning architecture, or just some delicious freshly-made arepas.

This is one of the best places to go in February for adventurous travellers. After years of crime and social problems, Colombia is now one of the most vibrant, thriving countries in Latin America. Its beauty might even come as a surprise while you explore the white Caribbean beaches or the tropical paradise of Tayrona Park. Of course, you’ll also want to have plenty of time to immerse yourself in the culture. Shake your hips to infectious reggaeton beats or watch a traditional display of beautiful cumbia dancing.

Try a two-week tour of Colombia to see the highlights of this South American country. From enormous cities to heavenly nature, you’ll see it all as you explore Colombia from top to bottom.

Patagonia

You’ll need to bring a cosy jacket for this one. Although Argentina is firmly in the southern hemisphere, Patagonia is covered by snow for most of the year. In February, most of the white stuff has melted, but it’s still pretty chilly, with daytime highs of 17-20°C. That makes it the best February travel choice if you want to go hiking, as you’ll have the perfect weather for long days outdoors.

The landscape of Patagonia is a remarkable, windswept paradise. If you’re getting fed up with your daily life, then hop on a plane. Patagonia is surely one of the best places to visit in February to forget all about office politics, family drama and whatever else is happening back home. As you trek across glaciers and discover perfectly still blue lakes tucked away at high altitudes, you’ll barely even remember what was getting you down. Boss? What boss?

Watch out for the wildlife on your trek to Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city. Pumas, vicuñas and tiny deer all call this corner of South America home. Cutest of all are the penguins, and you’ll have the chance to waddle alongside them when you join us on this two-week trek through one of the most remote regions of the world.

Iceland

Not everyone is desperately seeking sunshine in the middle of winter. If you’d rather stay north of the equator and try something totally new, then head to Iceland. Here, you can enjoy one of the best trips in February of all — a chance to see the spectacular Northern Lights.

Okay, we can’t promise much vitamin D while you’re there. At the start of February, Iceland has just seven hours a day of sunlight. That gradually increases to ten hours by the end of the month, but it’s still pretty dark. Nevertheless, don’t forget your swimsuit — you’ll need it when you’re soaking up the atmosphere in one of the country’s natural hot springs. There’s nothing quite like relaxing in the mineral-rich, bright blue waters of a thermal pool, gazing out at the eeriness of the surrounding volcanic landscape.

You’ll also be able to spend time each day visiting waterfalls, dramatic cliffs and glaciers. If you’re a pop culture geek, this is the place to be. Just how many of these stunning landscapes do you recognise from TV series like Vikings or Game of Thrones?

Our travel coordinators will help you search for the Northern Lights on this fabulous winter getaway to Iceland, undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in February. Just make sure to wrap up warmly!

Sri Lanka

In Sri Lanka, the average daily temperature hovers around 28°C in February. The locals might well call it winter, but for the average sun-seeker, it’s just perfect for a break. The waters of the Indian Ocean are totally swimmable throughout the month, making this island nation one of our best sun destinations in February.

Sri Lanka is still a bit of a hidden gem, so head there before the tourist crowds turn it into the next Bali. You’ll find stunning, unspoiled nature to admire, including forests, where you’ll see wild elephants ambling along pristine white beaches. In February, those beaches offer far more than just sunbathing. This is the start of the turtle hatching season. If you’re lucky, you might well spot some newborn turtles rising up out of the sand and stumbling their way into the sea for the very first time. It’s the type of bucket list-topper that you’ll never forget.

On a trip to Sri Lanka, you’ll see some of the most beautiful natural sights on the planet. You’ll also have the chance to discover the richness of the local culture, visiting Buddhist temples and tiny fishing villages. It’s an action-packed adventure that easily earns Sri Lanka a spot on our list of the best places to visit in February.

Australia

If you’re craving vitamin D, then Australia is always a winner. February is summertime down under, so it’s one of the best times of year to really experience the Aussie way of life. Grab your wetsuit and throw another shrimp on the barbie because it’s time to discover the other side of the world!

Most of Australia is taken up by inhospitable deserts, but there’s plenty to keep you occupied along the lush, fertile coasts. We’ve put Oz on our list of great places to travel in February because it’s the perfect time of year for a coastal road trip. Hit the waves at the world-famous Bondi Beach, snap some selfies with the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and discover the richness of Australian wine country. With a glass of local Shiraz in hand, you’ll soon forget all about your worries. If you grew up watching Neighbours and dreaming of one day seeing the laid-back Aussie lifestyle for yourself, this is the place to go.

Of course, you’ll probably also want to take the chance to see some wildlife. Luckily, there are plenty of opportunities on this two-week adventure. You’ll need to watch closely to spot shy koalas, which tend to hide away in tall eucalyptus trees, but kangaroos are another matter. As you drive, you’re likely to see groups of them hopping alongside the road, offering a spot of companionship on your road trip. If you love nature, Australia really has to be one of the best places to visit in February!

Cuba

Havana, ooh na-na…you’ll have that infectious melody stuck in your head for weeks after a holiday to Cuba. Like Camila Cabello, you too might well end up leaving half of your heart in Havana. This charming, exotic destination is sure to please. With stunning old buildings from the colonial era, a unique and intriguing culture, and true unspoiled natural beauty, this island nation deserves a closer look.

A trip to Cuba can feel like a trip back in time. Walk the streets of Old Havana, checking out the classic cars and the vintage storefronts. You won’t miss the international chain stores as you explore the local boutiques. Head over to a cigar factory to see how the world-famous Cuban cigars are still rolled. You can even sample one yourself, doing your best Fidel Castro impersonation.

Salsa parties, perfect beaches and crystal-clear water are just a few of the attractions in Cuba. Go snorkelling and admire the gorgeous coral reefs, or head to the local museums and learn the unique history of this fascinating country. Join us for a 12-day tour of Cuba and discover one of the best places to visit in February.