Best Places to Visit in February
As winter's chill blankets much of the Northern Hemisphere, February presents a golden opportunity to escape the cold and embark on thrilling adventures around the world. Whether you crave the enchanting dance of the Northern Lights in Norway, the wildlife wonders of Zimbabwe, or the lush rainforests of Borneo, our curated tours promise an unforgettable journey. For those yearning for tropical bliss, Costa Rica beckons with its vibrant biodiversity, while the historical treasures of Peru and the diverse landscapes of South-East Asia await exploration. Join us as we navigate through these extraordinary destinations, presenting highlights, insider tips, and the perfect winter tours to take you away from the mundane in February. Whether you're a winter sun enthusiast or someone eager to embrace the cold, let this guide inspire you to book your dream holiday and make February a month of extraordinary memories.
The adventure begins here
Norway
Friendly people and intriguing culture - all wrapped up in the most extraordinary landscapes - Norway is one of the best places to visit in February. If you’re looking for adventure but want to make sure you’re warm each evening, then this is the place for you. From light shows to sleigh rides, there’s no better place to truly embrace the winter spirit.
Recommended tour: Norway - Northern Lights & Arctic Adventure Break
Highlights of this tour:
Northern Lights Magic: Go in search of the Northern Lights at an Aurora Base Station, where the night sky comes alive with dancing hues of green and purple. It's a celestial spectacle that will leave you in awe.
Meet the Sami People: Immerse yourself in the indigenous, reindeer-herding Sami culture. Connect with these resilient people, learn about their traditions, and even try your hand at reindeer sledding.
Winter Warming in Tromsø: Experience a winter-warming welcome in Tromsø’s colourful bars, restaurants, and cafés. Indulge in local cuisine and beverages as you unwind after a day of thrilling adventures.
Top Tip: In Norway, they say there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes: so packing precisely for the harsh winter will be essential.
Zimbabwe
Escape winter to a place that will take your breath away: Victoria Falls. Zimbabwe is home to an impressive array of wildlife, from the famous ‘Big 5’ to all the other inhabitants that call Southern Africa home. Since the summer rains will have just come, this is the perfect time to see Victoria Falls at full capacity.
Recommended tour: On Safari in Victoria Falls
Highlights of this tour:
Sunset Cruise: Journey across the Zambezi River during a sunset cruise, witnessing the magic of the African sun setting over the horizon.
Chobe National Park: Venture into Chobe National Park on safari and spot elephants from a morning cruise along the Chobe River. A day filled with incredible wildlife encounters awaits.
Boma Dinner and Traditional Performance: Enjoy a special boma dinner and traditional performance by firelight, immersing yourself in the rich culture and flavours of Zimbabwe.
Top Tip: Victoria Falls is incredibly loud, so if noise is something you’re very sensitive to, you’ll want earplugs.
Borneo
A quieter time to visit Borneo as it’s right at the end of the rainy season, however at this time of year, it shouldn’t impact your travels. An immersive place to visit, where you can really forget about winter, it’s a destination that is bursting at the seams with native flora and fauna.
Recommended tour: Borneo's Orangutans and Rainforest Adventure
Highlights of this tour:
Wild Encounters: Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and Sun Bear Conservation Centre, getting up close and personal with these incredible creatures.
Natural remedies: Discover beautiful Kinabalu Park and the therapeutic Poring Hot Springs, surrounded by lush greenery and natural beauty.
Kinabatangan River: Embark on wildlife cruises on the Kinabatangan River and oxbow lakes, offering glimpses of Borneo's diverse fauna. Stay in a jungle lodge for a truly immersive experience.
Top Tip: You may be here for Chinese New Year, which means lots of festivities and celebrations!
Costa Rica
February is the peak time to visit Costa Rica, as it is at its driest and you will get the most sun (however since it’s a tropical country, you should expect rain at any time). Here, you will have unparalleled access to nature: literally wherever you turn you will come face to face with wildlife that you’ve only ever seen on nature documentaries. It’s more than just adventure though, this is the perfect month for relaxation, especially on the Caribbean coast.
Recommended tour: Costa Rica - Wildlife, Rainforest and Caribbean Beach
Highlights of this tour:
Up in the clouds: Embark on a guided walk through the enchanting Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, a haven for rare and exotic species.
Agriculture treasures: Stare in awe at the active Poás Volcano and visit a coffee plantation, learning about the rich coffee culture of Costa Rica.
A real sanctuary: Take to the river of the Caño Negro Wildlife Sanctuary, where diverse ecosystems come together to create a paradise for nature lovers.
Top Tip: Bug spray is a must! There are plenty of these critters around, day and night, so this is something you don’t want to forget.
Temples, Monuments & Colourful Sights
Peru
February is a wetter time of year to visit Peru, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still explore the wonders of this country (plus it means fewer crowds). The history of this country is really what makes it stand out, and with thousands of years of culture to witness, you’ll wish you had more time. February is the perfect time for people who want to challenge themselves, as it will deter most of the more casual travellers.
Recommended tour: Peru – Land of the Incas
Highlights of this tour:
Wonder of the World: Experience a narrow-gauge Vistadome train ride to Machu Picchu – the lost city of the Incas, a breathtaking journey through scenic landscapes.
Visit to Cusco: Explore Cusco – the remarkable Inca citadel, where ancient history comes to life amid impressive architecture.
Into the depths: Discover the awe-inspiring Colca Canyon, one of the world's deepest canyons, offering stunning views and opportunities for hiking.
Top Tip: Since it may be muddier than usual, a great pair of hiking boots is a must.
South-east Asia
Still wondering where to travel in February? Well, why not go to three places! Encompassing Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam (as well as other countries) February is the perfect time to visit South-East Asia. With each country, you will have a completely different cultural and natural experience, but unique flavours and people can be found in each. History and relaxation mix perfectly in this area - as well as some high-octane cities!
Recommended tour: Follow the Mekong
Highlights of this tour:
Ancient history: Enjoy two full days at Siem Reap, including a visit to the temples at Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Walking on water: Visit the floating markets at Damnoen Saduak and Cai Rang, experiencing the vibrant and bustling local life. Cruise across Tonlé Sap – South East Asia’s ‘Great Lake’.
Mind-boggling cities: Explore the rich history of South-East Asia in cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Phnom Penh, and Bangkok, each offering a unique cultural tapestry.
Top Tip: Make sure you vaccinate before visiting South-East Asia, as many of the tropical diseases can be especially nasty for those who haven’t grown up in the region.
Rhythms of the World
Memphis, USA
Memphis isn’t quite far south enough for winter sun, but there are plenty of exciting things to see inside, plus fewer tourists which means shorter wait times for some of the top attractions. For people who love music and history, this area of the world is jam-packed with talent from the past and present. Mix that with indulgent food and secret clubs and you’ll find yourself in heaven.
Recommended tour: Elvis Presley's Memphis, New Orleans & Nashville
Highlights of this tour:
A little less conversation Visit Elvis's hometown, Tupelo, Mississippi, and delve into the roots of the King of Rock 'n' Roll.
Beale Street Exploration: Wander down Beale Street in Memphis, the "home of the blues," where live music spills out onto the streets from vibrant clubs and bars.
Country capital: Discover Nashville, the world capital of country music, with its iconic music venues and rich musical heritage.
Top Tip: If you’re a fan of fish, you have to keep an eye out for Catfish, as it’s quite a delicacy here.
Argentina
February is the high season in Argentina - that means long days and beautiful weather, perfect for exploring the outdoors. From waterfalls to rainforests, with the excitement of some of the most beautiful South American cities in between, Argentina is truly a place for adventurers and one of the best places to travel in February to forget about winter.
Recommended tour: Brazil and Argentina
Highlights of this tour:
Fallin’ for you: Explore both the Brazilian and Argentinian sides of the UNESCO-listed Iguazú Falls National Park, a breathtaking spectacle of nature.
Praise be: Over in Brazil, discover the Christ the Redeemer statue, one of the Seven Wonders of the New World, with panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro.
As far as the eye can see: The chance to join an optional Gaucho excursion into the pampas grassland surrounding Buenos Aires, offering a glimpse into Argentina's cowboy culture.
Top Tip: Though the weather will be warm, we would still recommend good outdoor gear, including waterproof jackets.
Portugal
A colder time of year in Portugal, but no less beautiful - plus it’s not nearly as cold as it would get in the UK. This is the perfect time to see cultural highlights and explore the cafes, bars, and restaurants that Portugal is known for. You can also take the time to study the incredible tiles that Lisbon is known for.
Recommended tour: Lisbon, Seville & the Glorious Algarve
Highlights of this tour:
Nata too bad: Uncover the historical and architectural delights of the Portuguese capital, Lisbon, with its charming streets and historic landmarks.
Fiery and fabulous: Soak up the sights of Seville, the great City of Flamenco, where passion and culture come together in a vibrant display.
Into the woods: Join an optional excursion through the Algarve woodlands to Monchique, a serene escape into nature.
Top Tip:If you have the time, catch the old tram in Lisbon to the top of the hill to watch the sun set behind the city.
Whatever your preference, these tours promise unforgettable adventures, proving that February is indeed the perfect time to embark on a journey of a lifetime. So, pack your bags and let the February holidays be the beginning of your next great adventure.
