Where to travel in February
Looking for places to visit in February that will banish the blues of those long winter months? Searching for group trips that aren’t centred around St Valentine’s Day hearts and flowers? Then you have come to the right place!
For instance, below you can find travel options that can help you escape the cold with a trip to the sunny and beguiling country of India. A place where the food, people and culture are bound to warm your heart. Then there is the fabulous country of Tanzania which combines exotic white sand beaches with bucketlist safari adventures.
Of course, these are not the only warm locations with sunny weather you can visit as part of a small group or on an expertly curated tailor-made break. Just keep reading to find all of our ten best options for February travel below.
India
Our first answer to the question of where to travel in February is India. With the majority of the country being free of downpours in the dry season, February is the perfect month to explore India. Indeed, by travelling in February you’ll skip the Monsoon season entirely. But be warned it's still pretty hot, especially in the South, and can reach temperatures of over 30C in popular and stunning locations like Kerala!
February travellers get to experience India's intoxicating sights and sounds for a reasonable price too, as it's not yet peak tourism season. This means it's an ideal time to see world-class monuments like the Taj Mahal in Agra and the historic Ellora Caves in Maharashtra as the crowds should be at a manageable level.
If you are lucky enough to find yourself in Mumbai during February then be sure to check out the dates of the Elephanta Festival, held at the Elephanta Caves, dedicated to Shiva the Hindu God of destruction. It's an event that showcases some of the best classical Indian music and dance in the world!
Oman
There is no doubt that February is one of the best times to visit the Middle Eastern country of Oman. The reason is that this otherwise hot and arid country takes on an almost Mediterranean climate during this time, making it ideal for those unused to or unwilling to suffer the heat.
The clement weather makes February in Oman the ideal time for hiking to areas of stunning natural beauty such as the Wadi Ash Shab National Park in the Al Sharqiyah region. It’s an azure blue network of rivers and pools surrounded by high canyons, a relaxing setting in which to swim. You’ll even find a hidden waterfall located inside one of the many caves in the area. Just don’t forget your waterproof hiking shoes!
If you are visiting in February you won’t want to miss the glorious gold and blue columns of the official state residence of the sultan Al Alam Palace in Muscat either. Located in a waterfront position on the harbour of Old Muscat, you are free to spend your time there strolling around the vast open squares in the palace grounds or enjoying the cool marble interiors designed in a contemporary Islamic style.
Mexico
If you’re looking for some winter sun then Mexico is a great destination in February because you can expect clear skies and long sunny days closing in at around 27C!
Known for its scrumptious street food, February - which is right in the middle of the dry seasons - is the perfect time to take a food tour or two like the ones that run in Mexico City and cover not only the best street food stalls but introduce you to the people that make the food, and give you lessons on how to cook traditional dishes such as carnitas, mole and warm chicharrón!
February is also the ideal time to travel to the Yucatan region and experience the historical and cultural delights of the Mayan ruins that dot the country such as Chichén Itzá. After all, it's the coolest (relative to the rest of the year) and driest these northern areas get, making it a lot easier to hike and explore at altitude. Although, if you’re looking for some summer sun and some ‘beach life’ then Tijuana in Baja California, just across the border from the US is a well-known seaside and party city!
Tanzania
In February, as well as the rest of the year, the best words to describe the climate in Tanzania are hot and rainy! That’s because you can expect temperatures around the high-20s into the mid-30s all year round. Rainfall tends to stay high all year too, but the good news is that in February you’ll only need to deal with the typical predictable tropical rainfall and not the full-on rainy season which doesn’t begin until March.
If you visit the East African country of Tanzania during February there are plenty of things you will not want to miss including feeling the fine hot sand of a Zanzibar beach between your toes.
If you find yourself on the beautiful and exotic island of Zanzibar, be sure to catch the amazing and world-renowned Sauti Za Busara Festival which happens in February. There you can experience a wide range of both traditional and contemporary African and Swahili music.
Aside from Zanzibar, most visitors to Tanzania are also sure to make time for a trip to the wide open spaces of the breathtaking Serengeti. These sprawling grasslands are home to a huge variety of wildlife from elephants, wildebeests, water buffalo, and of course prides of roaming lions, which makes the best way to experience them by organised safari.
Nicaragua
With the warm Caribbean Sea on one side and the cooler Pacific Ocean on the other, Honduras above, and Costa Rica below, the Central American nation of Nicaragua is another great choice for this time of year. Primarily the reason for this is that February is part of Nicaragua’s dry season, which makes it a popular time for tourists to visit. Therefore, if you are hoping for some summer sun and beach fun you can expect the climate to be the ideal mix of sunshine and heat.
However, the gorgeous Pacific or Caribbean beaches are certainly not the only thing that draws visitors to this diverse and rich country. Indeed, February is also well suited for those wishing to experience both the many cultural and natural sites that Nicaragua has to offer. Be sure to use the cooler, dryer weather to check out the stunning Spanish colonial Cathedral-Basilica of the
Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Leon, which opened in 1814. The geologists and daredevils will not want to miss the Masaya Volcano located only 20 Km from the capital city of Managua. Still active and often churning out great plumes of smoke with the glowing lava visible, it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will stay with you forever.
Egypt
With highs of 26C Egypt in February offers plenty of sun, while also being cooler and less humid than in the summer months. While you’ll find the climate is comfortable enough to explore the many ancient sites Egypt has to offer such as the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, you may even need a jumper or jacket for the evening to keep off the chill!
The Great Pyramids are not the only historic sites you’ll want to visit during your February trip to Egypt though. Be sure to use the cooler climate to explore the Luxor temple in the south of the country, an ancient site erected by Rameses II. It's particularly beautiful when lit up with an ethereal glow by night! Then there is the unforgettable Philae Temple also located in the south on Agilkia Island in the Nile. You can only access this temple, dedicated to goddess Isis, over the water by boat, and the wonderful contrast of ancient architecture brought to light with contemporary light shows is one you won’t forget in a hurry.
Uzbekistan
If you are looking for a warm and friendly location to travel to in February then the Central Asia nation of Uzbekistan is another strong option. Here you can expect a warm welcome from the Uzbek people who are well known for their hospitality. The weather you can expect in February isn’t quite as warm as the people though. But the much lower temperatures compared to the summer months make it an ideal time for those wishing to explore the country on foot.
Luckily, the sparkling mosaics in Bukhara shine just as brightly in February as they do in July, and the mosques and mausoleums of Samarkand are much easier to explore when the temperature isn’t soaring to over 35C.
Extend your break from February into March to ensure you catch the Navrus Festival when the Uzbek people celebrate the beginning of spring with great vigour. Expect to sample a communally made sweet paste known as Sumalak, which is quite delicious.
Jordan
February is a great time to visit the Middle Eastern country of Jordan because the temperatures drop to a pleasant 10 to 15C while the weather remains sunny and bright. Combining these makes it much less difficult and sweaty to get around and explore all the iconic sites.
Talking of iconic sites you absolutely will not want to miss the world-famous Petra, or Rose City as it is also known. Hewn from the rosy-coloured stone in the area, Petra is carved directly into the pink rock and holds many treasures from beautiful temples to tombs.
Around 123 miles north of Petra, you’ll find another of Jordan’s most famous sites - The Dead Sea. Named for its high salt and mineral content that prevents any animal or plant life from thriving in its waters, be sure to experience the strange feel of floating on the surface as the salty waters effortlessly hold you up.
Laos
Another great place to visit in February is Laos. This is because whether you’re looking to explore the isolated communities of Khamu and Ikhos where villagers live in traditional wooden houses, or you want to sample the delights of the local cuisine such as Khao Piak Sen and Laab, February is the perfect month to visit as it's just at the end of the cool season.
February is also the time when two of Laos' most famous and popular festivals occur. The first of these is known as the Elephant Festival, dedicated to the national animal of Laos where you can enjoy processions and plenty of dancing.
Also in February is the Boun Ma Kha Bu Saar or Magha Puja festival. This happens during the full moon and celebrates a historical event when over 1000 monks were said to have received the original teachings of Siddartha Gottama - Buddha himself. Expect lots of candles, processions, and chanting during Magha Puja, as well as food offerings given to the monks. Indeed, the very name of the event (Magha Puja) actually translates to “grilled rice/bread festival."
Saudi Arabia
Keen explorers looking for a memorable February must venture to Saudi Arabia, the mysterious desert kingdom. Cities like Riyadh, Jeddah and coastal areas are milder in the winter when the scorching heat subsides, and the climate becomes more temperate.
Saudi Arabia’s best adventure opportunities lie in its untamed desert wilderness. Outdoor enthusiasts must head to the red sand dunes near Riyadh and the Empty Quarter for camping, star-gazing and camel trekking. These vast deserts are empty, making them a recreational playground for those looking to test their mettle.
Saudi Arabia is also an ancient kingdom with many historical sites to explore. Travellers regularly head to the ancient Nabatean city of Al-Ula and the UNESCO World Heritage site at Madain Saleh. Here, guides provide historical details of how these impressive sites came into existence.
The country is proud of its food culture and keen to share it with visitors. Top dishes include Kabsa, a collection of spiced meats and Mandi, a local beef and rice dish.
India
Our first answer to the question of where to travel in February is India. With the majority of the country being free of downpours in the dry season, February is the perfect month to explore India. Indeed, by travelling in February you’ll skip the Monsoon season entirely. But be warned it's still pretty hot, especially in the South, and can reach temperatures of over 30C in popular and stunning locations like Kerala!
February travellers get to experience India's intoxicating sights and sounds for a reasonable price too, as it's not yet peak tourism season. This means it's an ideal time to see world-class monuments like the Taj Mahal in Agra and the historic Ellora Caves in Maharashtra as the crowds should be at a manageable level.
If you are lucky enough to find yourself in Mumbai during February then be sure to check out the dates of the Elephanta Festival, held at the Elephanta Caves, dedicated to Shiva the Hindu God of destruction. It's an event that showcases some of the best classical Indian music and dance in the world!
Oman
There is no doubt that February is one of the best times to visit the Middle Eastern country of Oman. The reason is that this otherwise hot and arid country takes on an almost Mediterranean climate during this time, making it ideal for those unused to or unwilling to suffer the heat.
The clement weather makes February in Oman the ideal time for hiking to areas of stunning natural beauty such as the Wadi Ash Shab National Park in the Al Sharqiyah region. It’s an azure blue network of rivers and pools surrounded by high canyons, a relaxing setting in which to swim. You’ll even find a hidden waterfall located inside one of the many caves in the area. Just don’t forget your waterproof hiking shoes!
If you are visiting in February you won’t want to miss the glorious gold and blue columns of the official state residence of the sultan Al Alam Palace in Muscat either. Located in a waterfront position on the harbour of Old Muscat, you are free to spend your time there strolling around the vast open squares in the palace grounds or enjoying the cool marble interiors designed in a contemporary Islamic style.
Mexico
If you’re looking for some winter sun then Mexico is a great destination in February because you can expect clear skies and long sunny days closing in at around 27C!
Known for its scrumptious street food, February - which is right in the middle of the dry seasons - is the perfect time to take a food tour or two like the ones that run in Mexico City and cover not only the best street food stalls but introduce you to the people that make the food, and give you lessons on how to cook traditional dishes such as carnitas, mole and warm chicharrón!
February is also the ideal time to travel to the Yucatan region and experience the historical and cultural delights of the Mayan ruins that dot the country such as Chichén Itzá. After all, it's the coolest (relative to the rest of the year) and driest these northern areas get, making it a lot easier to hike and explore at altitude. Although, if you’re looking for some summer sun and some ‘beach life’ then Tijuana in Baja California, just across the border from the US is a well-known seaside and party city!
Tanzania
In February, as well as the rest of the year, the best words to describe the climate in Tanzania are hot and rainy! That’s because you can expect temperatures around the high-20s into the mid-30s all year round. Rainfall tends to stay high all year too, but the good news is that in February you’ll only need to deal with the typical predictable tropical rainfall and not the full-on rainy season which doesn’t begin until March.
If you visit the East African country of Tanzania during February there are plenty of things you will not want to miss including feeling the fine hot sand of a Zanzibar beach between your toes.
If you find yourself on the beautiful and exotic island of Zanzibar, be sure to catch the amazing and world-renowned Sauti Za Busara Festival which happens in February. There you can experience a wide range of both traditional and contemporary African and Swahili music.
Aside from Zanzibar, most visitors to Tanzania are also sure to make time for a trip to the wide open spaces of the breathtaking Serengeti. These sprawling grasslands are home to a huge variety of wildlife from elephants, wildebeests, water buffalo, and of course prides of roaming lions, which makes the best way to experience them by organised safari.
Nicaragua
With the warm Caribbean Sea on one side and the cooler Pacific Ocean on the other, Honduras above, and Costa Rica below, the Central American nation of Nicaragua is another great choice for this time of year. Primarily the reason for this is that February is part of Nicaragua’s dry season, which makes it a popular time for tourists to visit. Therefore, if you are hoping for some summer sun and beach fun you can expect the climate to be the ideal mix of sunshine and heat.
However, the gorgeous Pacific or Caribbean beaches are certainly not the only thing that draws visitors to this diverse and rich country. Indeed, February is also well suited for those wishing to experience both the many cultural and natural sites that Nicaragua has to offer. Be sure to use the cooler, dryer weather to check out the stunning Spanish colonial Cathedral-Basilica of the
Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Leon, which opened in 1814. The geologists and daredevils will not want to miss the Masaya Volcano located only 20 Km from the capital city of Managua. Still active and often churning out great plumes of smoke with the glowing lava visible, it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will stay with you forever.
Egypt
With highs of 26C Egypt in February offers plenty of sun, while also being cooler and less humid than in the summer months. While you’ll find the climate is comfortable enough to explore the many ancient sites Egypt has to offer such as the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, you may even need a jumper or jacket for the evening to keep off the chill!
The Great Pyramids are not the only historic sites you’ll want to visit during your February trip to Egypt though. Be sure to use the cooler climate to explore the Luxor temple in the south of the country, an ancient site erected by Rameses II. It's particularly beautiful when lit up with an ethereal glow by night! Then there is the unforgettable Philae Temple also located in the south on Agilkia Island in the Nile. You can only access this temple, dedicated to goddess Isis, over the water by boat, and the wonderful contrast of ancient architecture brought to light with contemporary light shows is one you won’t forget in a hurry.
Uzbekistan
If you are looking for a warm and friendly location to travel to in February then the Central Asia nation of Uzbekistan is another strong option. Here you can expect a warm welcome from the Uzbek people who are well known for their hospitality. The weather you can expect in February isn’t quite as warm as the people though. But the much lower temperatures compared to the summer months make it an ideal time for those wishing to explore the country on foot.
Luckily, the sparkling mosaics in Bukhara shine just as brightly in February as they do in July, and the mosques and mausoleums of Samarkand are much easier to explore when the temperature isn’t soaring to over 35C.
Extend your break from February into March to ensure you catch the Navrus Festival when the Uzbek people celebrate the beginning of spring with great vigour. Expect to sample a communally made sweet paste known as Sumalak, which is quite delicious.
Jordan
February is a great time to visit the Middle Eastern country of Jordan because the temperatures drop to a pleasant 10 to 15C while the weather remains sunny and bright. Combining these makes it much less difficult and sweaty to get around and explore all the iconic sites.
Talking of iconic sites you absolutely will not want to miss the world-famous Petra, or Rose City as it is also known. Hewn from the rosy-coloured stone in the area, Petra is carved directly into the pink rock and holds many treasures from beautiful temples to tombs.
Around 123 miles north of Petra, you’ll find another of Jordan’s most famous sites - The Dead Sea. Named for its high salt and mineral content that prevents any animal or plant life from thriving in its waters, be sure to experience the strange feel of floating on the surface as the salty waters effortlessly hold you up.
Laos
Another great place to visit in February is Laos. This is because whether you’re looking to explore the isolated communities of Khamu and Ikhos where villagers live in traditional wooden houses, or you want to sample the delights of the local cuisine such as Khao Piak Sen and Laab, February is the perfect month to visit as it's just at the end of the cool season.
February is also the time when two of Laos' most famous and popular festivals occur. The first of these is known as the Elephant Festival, dedicated to the national animal of Laos where you can enjoy processions and plenty of dancing.
Also in February is the Boun Ma Kha Bu Saar or Magha Puja festival. This happens during the full moon and celebrates a historical event when over 1000 monks were said to have received the original teachings of Siddartha Gottama - Buddha himself. Expect lots of candles, processions, and chanting during Magha Puja, as well as food offerings given to the monks. Indeed, the very name of the event (Magha Puja) actually translates to “grilled rice/bread festival."
Saudi Arabia
Keen explorers looking for a memorable February must venture to Saudi Arabia, the mysterious desert kingdom. Cities like Riyadh, Jeddah and coastal areas are milder in the winter when the scorching heat subsides, and the climate becomes more temperate.
Saudi Arabia’s best adventure opportunities lie in its untamed desert wilderness. Outdoor enthusiasts must head to the red sand dunes near Riyadh and the Empty Quarter for camping, star-gazing and camel trekking. These vast deserts are empty, making them a recreational playground for those looking to test their mettle.
Saudi Arabia is also an ancient kingdom with many historical sites to explore. Travellers regularly head to the ancient Nabatean city of Al-Ula and the UNESCO World Heritage site at Madain Saleh. Here, guides provide historical details of how these impressive sites came into existence.
The country is proud of its food culture and keen to share it with visitors. Top dishes include Kabsa, a collection of spiced meats and Mandi, a local beef and rice dish.