5 Destinations To Visit During Shoulder Season

From my experience, clients often find themselves faced with a delightful dilemma: when is the best time to embark on their next adventure?

Let me tell you a secret – shoulder season is a well-kept secret among experienced travelers. While peak season offers vibrant atmospheres and ideal weather conditions, shoulder season is the sweet spot where you can enjoy the best of both worlds – pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

In this blog post, I want to help you plan your next destination by giving you some of the best destinations to travel to during shoulder season, where you can soak in the beauty of the world without the hustle and bustle.

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto, a city rich in culture, history, and natural beauty, is an ideal destination from late spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to November). During these months, cherry blossoms and colorful fall foliage grace the landscape, creating a breathtaking backdrop for exploring temples, shrines, and traditional tea houses. You’ll also find fewer tourists, allowing you to savor the tranquil ambiance and appreciate Kyoto’s true essence.

Patagonia, Argentina

If you’re an adventurer at heart, Patagonia is an excellent choice for shoulder season travel. Spring (September to November) and fall (March to May) offer milder temperatures and fewer tourists. Whether you’re hiking in Torres del Paine National Park or exploring the wild landscapes of Tierra del Fuego, you’ll have more space to connect with nature and experience the region’s rugged beauty.

Santorini, Greece

Santorini, with its iconic blue-domed churches and stunning sunsets, is a dream destination for many. However, it can get overcrowded and overwhelming during the summer months. For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting during late spring (May and June) or early autumn (September and October). During this time, the weather is still warm and pleasant, but the crowds have thinned out, giving you an opportunity to explore charming villages, indulge in local cuisine, and enjoy the breathtaking views without the hustle of peak season.

Botswana

Botswana, known for its pristine wilderness and remarkable wildlife, is a year-round safari destination. However, the dry season, from April to October, is the shoulder season when the weather is cool and dry, making it easier to spot animals gathering around waterholes. If you’d like to beat the crowds and take advantage of more favorable rates, I recommend going on your safari adventure in Chobe National Park, Okavango Delta, and Moremi Game Reserve during this period.

Iceland

Iceland is a land of dramatic landscapes, from cascading waterfalls to geothermal wonders. Late summer (August) and early autumn (September) are perfect times to visit. During these months, you can enjoy milder weather, longer daylight hours, and fewer tourists – perfect for exploring the Golden Circle, hiking in the highlands, and witnessing the Northern Lights.

Shoulder season travel offers a fantastic opportunity to explore some of the world’s most stunning destinations with fewer crowds and pleasant weather. Whether you’re seeking cultural experiences in Kyoto, relaxation in Santorini, adventure in Patagonia, or wildlife encounters in Botswana, these destinations shine during the shoulder seasons.

So what are you waiting for? Let me help you plan the trip of your lifetime during this sweet spot of the year. Take the first step by filling out the Trip Design form!