February

February

Nature rehearses its most spectacular routines for those wise enough to catch the dress rehearsal. The Galápagos truly shines with marine life in abundance, while Sri Lanka pairs whale watching with leopard spotting. Southern Africa drapes itself in emerald, with dramatic thunderstorms creating theatrical backdrops for wildlife photography, perfect for those who prefer their natural wonders without the accompanying audience.

HIGHLIGHTS

Best places to visit in February

Sri Lanka

Southern and central Sri Lanka are idyllic in February. Galle, Tangalle and the southern coastal regions are warm and dry (and it’s a good season for whale spotting in Mirissa), and elephants and leopards roam freely in Yala National Park. Inland, the cultural triangle is warm and dry, perfect for exploring the ancient cities and verdant tea plantations. Add in a dose of fragrant, spicy food, and there isn’t a better time to visit Sri Lanka.

Tanzania

February in Tanzania is all about the great migration calving season in the southern Serengeti. Thousands of wildebeest give birth on the lush plains, attracting big cats and thrilling predator vs. prey drama. The sun is shining, the skies are clear, and the wildlife viewing is truly exceptional. It’s also a great month to combine a visit to the Serengeti with more safari time in the Ngorongoro Crater.

Ecuador

The Galápagos comes alive in February. Warm waters and sunny days make snorkelling and diving sensational, and there’s a good chance of spotting sea turtles nesting and sea lion pups learning to swim. The Amazon is also lush and teeming with life, and it’s still a lovely time to explore the colonial charms of Quito or even head to the cloud forests of Mindo.

Rwanda

February is a fantastic time to trek in the misty mountains of Volcanoes National Park in search of the world’s last wild mountain gorillas. The weather is relatively dry, the rainforest trails are more navigable and the chance of magical, clear sightings is high. Beyond the gorillas, it’s also a good time to explore the lush landscapes of Nyungwe Forest, spotting chimpanzees and colobus monkeys swinging amongst the trees.