The 7 Best Places to Go in August 2026

While Europe experiences the height of summer, other destinations around the world offer comfortable conditions for Alpine hiking, wildlife encounters and tropical beach escapes without the crowds. Whether you’re looking to experience a classic summer getaway or something completely off the beaten track, we’ve got you covered. Here are the best places to visit in August 2026.

Where Should You Visit This August?

1. Maasai Mara – Kenya

Average Temperature in August: 25℃

Closest Major International Airport: Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO)

One of the most iconic national parks in the world, Kenya’s Maasai Mara delivers on a year-round basis. However, if you had to choose the best time of year to visit, then August is the winner.

The world-famous Great Migration takes place during August, when millions of wildebeest, zebra and antelope make the treacherous journey from Tanzania’s Serengeti to Kenya’s Maasai Mara.

By August, the Maasai Mara experiences its dry season, making it one of the best times for wildlife spotting in the region. The huge numbers of herbivores attract predators including lions, leopards and crocodiles – best viewed at the infamous Mara River crossing – while other species such as elephants, buffalo, rhinos, giraffes and hippos are easier to see thanks to the vast open plains with their short grasses.

For wildlife lovers, few destinations can rival the Maasai Mara at this time of year.

2. Trincomalee – Sri Lanka

Average Temperature in August: 33℃

Closest Major International Airport: Colombo Bandaranaike Airport (CMB)

Many people make the same mistake and presume that August in Sri Lanka should be avoided as it's the height of the monsoon season, and while this is partially true, the northeastern coast of Sri Lanka – where Trincomalee is located – basks in sunshine, with calm seas and ideal beach conditions.

Trincomalee’s gorgeous beaches and crystal-clear waters make snorkelling and swimming excellent pastimes, while August is also one of the best times of year for wildlife encounters.

During August, blue whales migrate past the beaches of eastern Sri Lanka, so numerous boat trips from Trincomalee run on a daily basis to give you the once-in-a-lifetime experience to see the largest creature that has ever lived on Earth in person.

With fewer crowds than many other Asian destinations, and without the worry of monsoons and hurricanes, Trincomalee is a perfect destination for a family holiday this August.

3. Stirling – Scotland

Average Temperature in August: 18℃

Closest Major International Airport: Edinburgh Airport (EDI)

Scotland truly comes alive in August, and while most people flock to the nation’s capital, Edinburgh, nearby Stirling offers a much quieter alternative, with just as much stunning scenery (arguably more) and history.

Stirling is easily accessible from Edinburgh Airport. Simply hire a car and make the short drive – around an hour – from the airport to Stirling and experience a truly authentic Scottish experience.

August in Stirling features events such as the iconic Highland Games (15th) and their colourful Pride event (29th), while there are also several monuments to Scottish heroes such as William Wallace and Robert the Bruce, as well as the iconic 12th-century Stirling Castle, making it a perfect and safe city for all types of travellers.

In addition, due to Stirling’s geographic location on the edge of the Scottish Highlands and its proximity to the Trossachs National Park and the world-famous Kelpies, there is also plenty to do around the city if you have access to a car.

4. Interlaken – Switzerland

Average Temperature in August: 23℃

Closest Major International Airport: Zürich Airport (ZRH)

If ever there was a country that looks beautiful no matter what time of year you visit, it’s got to be Switzerland – and Interlaken is no exception.

Lush greenery dominates the mountainous landscape, and the pleasant temperatures make hiking in the Bernese Oberland comfortable rather than a chore. And with stunning views around every corner, what better way to explore this incredible region than on foot?

If you opt to fly into Zürich and hire a car to make the 135km drive to Interlaken, you’ll also be treated to one of Europe’s most scenic drives, bypassing Alpine meadows, snow-capped mountain peaks, bright blue lakes and more, making every kilometre worth it.

Once in Interlaken, as well as Alpine hiking, you can also take part in more adrenaline-fuelled sports, such as paragliding and canyoning. Or, if you’re more relaxation-inclined, there is a range of gorgeous spa hotels in the area, with some of the best views in Europe.

5. Ksamil – Albania

Average Temperature in August: 29℃

Closest Major International Airport: Corfu Airport (CFU)

If you want all the advantages of a European beach holiday in August without the huge crowds, then Ksamil along the Albanian Riviera is the answer to your conundrum.

Often called the ‘Maldives of Europe’, this stunning  Albanian beachside town offers crystal-clear waters and white sands – something more akin to Southeast Asia rather than Southeast Europe.

Interestingly, you can easily visit two countries in one go when visiting Ksamil: fly into Corfu Airport in Greece and take the short ferry (around 30-70 minutes) to Sarandë in Albania, which is just a 20-25 minute journey from Ksamil.

If you hire a car from here, you can expect to see numerous stunning sights along the way: Butrint National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a hire car also allows you to explore other hidden beaches and coves along the Albanian Riviera.

For a European beach holiday with excellent weather and minimal crowds, Ksamil is a must.

6. Bishkek – Kyrgyzstan

Average Temperature in August: 28℃

Closest Major International Airport: Manas International Airport (BSZ)

For travellers who really want to go off the beaten track and don’t just want a standard beach holiday, where better to visit than the country which is furthest from any ocean on Earth?

Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, is one of the most unique and interesting cities in the world, and with minimal tourists, you can expect a truly authentic Kyrgyz experience here.

August is peak harvest season in the region, and the city’s traditional bazaars are buzzing and filled with fresh fruits such as watermelons and apricots.

Ala Archa National Park is just a short drive from the city, where you can see the colourful meadows in full bloom, next to stunning Alpine lakes which look like they’re from a painting they’re that beautiful. 

Thanks to its proximity to the Tian Shen mountain range, you can easily escape the city and, within a 45-minute drive, feel the temperature drop by 10-15℃. Enjoy a traditional Kyrgyz experience by staying in a yurt up in the mountains and taking in some of the most spectacular views of the Milky Way while stargazing at night.

7. The Northern Pantanal – Brazil

Average Temperature in August: 32℃

Closest Major International Airport: Marechal Rondon International Airport (CGB)

Despite technically being a wetland, Brazil’s Northern Pantanal experiences its dry season in August, making it one of the best times to see some of the region’s most iconic wildlife.

As water levels fall, numerous species gather around remaining swamps and rivers, making it easy to spot usually elusive wildlife such as capybaras, giant otters, caimans, jaguars and hundreds of species of birds.

Many visitors base themselves around Porto Jofre, where boat safaris along the river offer some of the best chances to see wild jaguars anywhere on Earth.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a keen photographer, or just someone who wants an unforgettable travel experience, a trip to the Northern Pantanal in August is a truly incredible alternative to the Amazon, without the pouring rain.

Note: 2026 temperature information taken from AccuWeather.