The world is a large and beautiful place to explore — if you know where to go and when. In September, some countries are in the midst of a green season while others are deep in a drought; some have frigid temperatures just right for wintry sports while still more offer delightfully warm waters and sunny beaches.
Combining all these elements, and with special consideration of high and low seasons, here’s a list of 21 of the best places to travel in September across the globe.
Southeast Asia
1. Indonesia
In Sumatra, you can see the rare orangutan in jungles like Bukit Lawang; you can also see them in Borneo, but the viewing sites are much more touristy. On top of that, Sumatra is home to the beautiful Lake Toba, amazing diving sites, and majestic volcanos.
If this isn’t your thing, there’s plenty more to see and do in Indonesia: diving in Lombok, trying vegan food, relaxing on the islands, hiking, and visiting places less traveled.
Indonesia has rainy and dry seasons, and September is the end of the sunny and dry season in the western and central islands.
If you want to avoid some of the crowds, plan your trip for the end of September, when you’ll still get good weather. Here’s an ideal itinerary for seeing Indonesia in two weeks to two months.
2. Malaysia
Backpacking in Malaysia is a fantastic way to spend a vacation both on a budget (on the peninsula and Borneo) and as a solo female traveler.
There’s amazing hiking and diving (on Tioman Island, Perhentian Island, and Sipadan), plus Malaysia is known for its beautiful beaches and delicious food. Check out this itinerary when planning your trip.
The east and west coasts have opposite weather seasons (rainy and dry), and September is right on the cusp for both. The east coast will be transitioning to the rainy season and the west to dry, making it a relatively popular time to visit the country.
3. Singapore
Singapore is the place to be in Southeast Asia if you’re looking for a tiny but mighty city. There are free and cool things to do, interesting cocktail bars, and of course, food galore. In case you’re overwhelmed, we’ve got you covered with this local’s guide to Singapore.
September is a fun time to visit, because it’s one of the months during which most festivals take place. Think of the Singapore Food Festival, Singapore International Festival of Arts, and the Lantern Festival, for example.
In terms of weather, September is considered autumn, but expect it to be a little hot and humid, with occasional rainfall.
4. Vietnam
Vietnam is another one of the best destinations in September in Southeast Asia. Not only is Vietnam safe, but the country is also rich in history and full of beautiful landscapes.
From learning more about history in Ho Chi Minh City to trekking in SaPa and indulging in Vietnamese cuisine in Hanoi, “The Land of Blue Dragon” has something to offer to nearly every type of traveler.
What makes September the perfect month to visit is that there will be fewer crowds. In many parts of the country, this is the transition from the rainy season to the dry season, meaning that there will be less rainfall and that the temperatures will be pleasant.
Make sure to check out our backpacking Vietnam route and Vietnam packing list before you go.
North America
5. Belize
Belize is a beautiful country on the Caribbean Sea boasting jungles, beaches, caves, lagoons, and Mayan ruins. If you are a diving fanatic, the Great Blue Hole is one of the deepest on earth, full of colorful reef fish. Nearby are two coral walls that rank as one of the best diving opportunities in the world.
September is a quieter time, because it’s still the rainy hurricane season, but many people also consider it “the green season,” because the country is lush and gorgeous at this time. The weather is still quite nice, crowds are smaller, prices are lower, and it’s a time of festivities as Belize celebrates its independence.
6. Québec, Canada
Canada is a beautiful and safe place for solo female travelers, and Québec is no exception. In the fall, the province is absolutely breathtaking. One of the best ways to explore it is on a road trip to Gatineau, Montebello, the Laurentians, and Parc National du Mont-Tremblant. Not sure what all that entails? Here’s the perfect Québec road trip for a dreamy adventure.
If you love nature, September is the time to go to see the gorgeous foliage and breathe the fresh, crisp air. The temperatures are pleasant, and the crowds are small. Expect to do some apple, squash, and pumpkin picking!
7. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado, USA
If you’re planning a trip to the USA, put a national park on your list. A road trip through Rocky Mountain National Park would fit the bill, as your stops along the way would include snow-capped mountains, elks grazing in the meadows, waterfalls over rocky cliffs, and beautiful hikes. Here’s a guide to help you figure out where to go, where to stay, and things to do.
It’s autumn in Colorado in September, which means the leaves are changing and the air is brisk but not too cold. There are also fewer people, because most are waiting for ski season, which starts a bit later. So get ready to have some peaceful time to yourself in nature!
8. New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
New Orleans could very well be one of the best cities to explore in the United States as a solo female traveler. It’s one of the few places you can get a friendly blast of distinctive cultures and plenty of vegan cuisine. While here, you have to see the Bywater District, which is full of unique artworks and quaint restaurants, and then pick out at least three other amazing things to do.
September is still hurricane season in New Orleans, but they are easy to track and somewhat predictable. The weather is also pleasant (here’s our packing list), and there are plenty of fall festivals to enjoy!
Europe
9. Azores, Portugal
The Azores are islands in the middle of nowhere in the Atlantic, off the coast of Europe. They are volcanic, so instead of beaches, you’ll find natural pools and lush mountains. Check out Flores and São Miguel in particular.
The best time to visit the Azores in terms of weather is probably the summer, but it’s also really crowded then. If you go in September, however, you’ll get slightly cooler weather with gradually increasing rain as the autumn season progresses.
Here’s how to get around the Azores, the dreamiest places to stay, and an ultimate packing list to get the most out of your trip!
10. Venice, Italy
Italy is a delightful place to vacation. You may discover your inner foodie there, go on a camper van adventure, or climb the Dolomites. Venice is especially special in September. It is one of the most romantic cities in Europe, but don’t let that deter you as a solo female traveler. Here’s a list of ten amazing things to do in Venice.
It’s also one of the best places to travel in September, because many tourists will have left after the summer crush. The weather is still gorgeous though, so it’s the ideal place for a peaceful getaway in a beautiful and culturally rich part of the world.
11. Berlin, Germany
Germany is a safe place for a solo female traveler, and Berlin will keep you entertained for your entire stay. You’ve got to check out Kreuzberg, which is different from the rest of town thanks to its street art and alternative scene, and also underground Berlin. (Here’s an ultimate guide to Berlin with things to do and see and places to eat.)
Another nice thing to do is to take a road trip from Berlin. There are plenty of amazing things to do in the fall in Germany, after all.
Temperatures start cooling down in September, which makes it a comfortable time to explore the city. There will be more locals than tourists, so if you’re interested in experiencing the more authentic side of Berlin, plan your trip for the fall.
12. Greece
Greece is a popular vacation destination because of its baby-blue waters, delicious food, and affordability compared to anywhere else on the euro. Go island-hopping on a sailboat (here’s how to rent a boat in Greece). Santorini is a popular spot, and worth it for the breathtaking views.
Things start to cool down in September, but the waters are still warm. Overall, it’s a wonderful time to visit the country, which becomes somewhat less crowded as kids go back to school and some tourists go back home. (But many popular landmarks and ruins will still be bustling with visitors.)
Africa
13. South Africa
There are plenty of good reasons to visit South Africa, including the biodiversity you’ll experience as you explore different parts of the country. The diversity and history you’ll find by talking to residents and experiencing their homes and culture are second to none. South Africa is also a great place for a road trip, hiking and trekking, and also wine-tasting.
Because there are so many differing climates in South Africa, it can be hard to see most of the country with enjoyable weather everywhere. September, though, is a rare month when you can see a good bit of it under pleasant conditions. It’s also the dry season, and wild game will be roaming about.
14. Tofo, Mozambique
Tofo in Mozambique is the place to go if you want gorgeous ocean views and beaches without the touristy crowds. It’s a paradise you never knew existed, where you can even swim with whales. It’s also a safe place to travel solo, but because it’s less touristy, you’ll need to do your research on how to travel throughout the country.
The shorelines can be pretty windy in September, making the water very choppy. But the breeze cuts the heat, so you can easily enjoy the 80-degree weather and warm waters. It won’t be rainy either.
South America
15. Bariloche, Argentina
Bariloche is known as the gateway city to Patagonia. It has really tasty chocolate and excellent microbreweries, but the town can feel pretty touristy. If you’re looking for nature (which is extremely likely if you’re considering a trip to Argentina, especially if you want to hike or ski), then here are some beautiful things to do in nature around Bariloche.
It’s cold in Bariloche in September. June-October is the winter, so gear up for epic snowboarding or skiing, and other cold-weather sports and activities.
16. Amazon, Peru
Half of Peru is covered by the Amazon rainforest, and if that’s not reason enough to go, then maybe the wildlife viewing opportunities are! You’ll get to see pink river dolphins, sloths, and piranhas, and zip-line through the canopy. Here’s everything you need to know before you go to Peru, and a taste of what you might experience if you do.
September is a great time for wildlife viewing. It’s still the dry season, so the animals are out and about, looking for water. There will be fewer mosquitoes, and it’ll be easier to trek through the rainforest because the ground won’t be so soggy.
17. San Pedro de Atacama Desert, Chile
If you’re dreaming of the ideal camper van adventure with spectacularly clear night skies and amazing canyons, lakes, and landmarks, then plan a trip to San Pedro de Atacama Desert in Chile. Pack a blanket for the chilly nights, and plenty of water, and settle in at your favorite spot to gaze up at what could be one of the clearest night skies in the world.
September is a shoulder-season month, so there will be fewer tourists, but the conditions will still be great for observing the Milky Way. Expect days to be in the mid-80s Fahrenheit and nights to be as cold as 38 degrees.
East Asia
18. Tokyo, Japan
Welcome to the Land of the Rising Sun, another one of the best places to travel in September. Japan is a large nation, and its unique culture has persisted over the centuries, contributing to advanced technology and delicious cuisine.
Not sure where to begin? Here’s a simple four-day itinerary, a packing list, and ideas on things to do (like the Teamlab Planets Experience or dining at an all-female restaurant).
You’ll get the best of summer and autumn if you visit Tokyo in September. (Tokyo is also a great place for a solo female traveler). The weather will be in the 70s Fahrenheit, and a festival or market is going on almost every single day throughout the month. If it rains — which it might — there are plenty of indoor activities, such as experiencing a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, relaxing in a hot spring, or visiting museums.
19. Busan, South Korea
South Korea is a fun destination — think karaoke, K-pop concerts, fireworks, and nightlife. Here’s a complete list of things to do in South Korea, one of which is to visit Busan, where there’s plenty to do. It’s surrounded by the Yellow Sea and the Sea of Japan, so be sure to check out popular beaches, like Haeundae.
Busan is very lively during the summer when festivals abound, but September also has its fair share of events before the fall festivities come into full swing. If you’re trying to avoid the crowds while still getting a feel for the culture and experiencing wonderful weather, this month is a good time to go.
Oceania
20. South Island, New Zealand
On New Zealand‘s South Island, you’ll find gorgeous hikes, beautiful waters, iconic views, rugged coastlines, and friendly locals. It’s considered more beautiful than North Island, but even more so in September. Here’s a perfect South Island itinerary.
September is early spring and therefore chilly, so pack warmly. If you go in early September, you might even get to sneak some skiing or snowboarding into your trip. Temperatures will vary between the 40s and 60s Fahrenheit, but overall, the weather is pleasant and calm.
21. Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Bora Bora is known for its overwater bungalows, white-sand beaches, and stunning waters. If that’s not enough for you, then world-renowned diving, thriving wildlife, and beautiful people might push you past the tipping point. Here’s a list of things to do in Bora Bora and how much a trip will cost.
French Polynesia has a wet and dry season; the latter is the best time to go, including September, which is also part of whale season, making it doubly so. As if that’s not reason enough, the high season ends in August, so you’ll get lower prices and fewer crowds, with all the best weather for an amazing experience.
We get it: how can somebody possibly choose when there are so many incredible countries to visit in September?! We wouldn’t blame you if you wanted to put all these places on your list. But more than likely, you’ll have to pick just one.
Where do you think you’ll go?
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