Squeeze in a trip just before the peak season months of July, August and September. Our pick of four destinations you might not neccesarilly have considered yet, for an adventurous, holiday of discovery this June.
Southern Tanzania and the Zanzibar Archipelago
For safari and beach
Still classed as shoulder season by many of the lodges in the national parks of Nyerere and Ruaha, by travelling in June you tend to get the best of both worlds - fantastic wildlife viewing and lower prices.
Visitor numbers are also markedly lower at this time of year on the picture postcard islands of the Zanzibar Archipelago, including the main island of Unguja (commonly referred to as just Zanzibar) and Pemba Island.
Our 9-night Remote Ruaha and Perfect Pemba example itinerary is the sort of trip that would be fantastic at this time of year.
Ruaha is known for its large populations of elephants, lions, leopards, and diverse birdlife, providing excellent opportunities for sightings and photography. The park's rugged landscapes, with its mix of baobab trees, rocky outcrops, and the winding Great Ruaha River, add to the scenic beauty and uniqueness of the experience. Additionally, June's dry weather means fewer insects, creating a more comfortable environment for visitors. If you're seeking an off-the-beaten-path safari experience, Ruaha in June offers adventure, serenity, and memorable encounters with wildlife.
We’d recommend at least 9 nights.
Trips start at £3,850 per person, excluding flights.
Ikuka Safari Camp
Andaman and Nicobar Islands
For castaways adventurers
Still largely flying under the radar, the sparkling, coral fringed Andaman and Nicobar Islands sit in the Bay of Bengal around 150km from Indonesia. Luxury hotels are starting to realise the potential here so we’d recommend nipping in while it still feels like a hidden, tropical paradise and choosing one of the smaller boutique options to get an authentic feel for the archipelago rather than one of the larger resorts. Visit in early to mid-June just before the monsoon rains hit at the end of the month, but without as many visitors as in peak season.
Jalakara offers just that, a seven-roomed hideaway on the tiny Havelock Island where everything is close by. Located in the heart of the island in a tangle of jungle, for those who make it this for, for it is not too easily accessible, they are rewarded with seclusion, a range of activities, a total digital detox and sea views. Spend your days perusing the colourful local market, on Radhanagar Beach (google it!), diving or snorkelling on thriving coral reefs, fishing or birdwatching from the lodge (including lots of endemics such as the andaman woodpigeon, andaman cuckoo dove, andaman scops owl, andaman boobook, andaman woodpecker, andaman drongo and andaman treepie.
We’d recommend at least 7 nights.
Trips start at £2,000 per person, excluding flights.
Jalakara
Peru
For culture
The dry season in Peru is generally between May and October and this is the most popular time to visit, due to the excellent conditions for the outdoor activities Peru is known for. June is still lush from the preceding rains but warm and sunny, with a crisp freshness at altitude. While it is a popular time to travel to Peru, by planning your trip for June you miss the peak season for visitors in July and August.
The hiking trails to visit Machu Picchu should be in good condition at this time of year and the weather conditions are very pleasant. From a photography point of view, the clear air and bright days make for the perfect opportunities to capture the beauty of the mountains, ruins and surrounding landscapes.
June is also the month of Inti Raymi, the Inca festival of the sun, which is celebrated on June 24 in Cusco. This is one of the largest and most famous festivals in Peru, with colorful ceremonies and events.
We’d recommend at least 10 nights.
Trips start at £4,200 per person, excluding flights.
Inti Raymi festival
Mauritius
For active relaxers
Visiting Mauritius in June is a delightful experience due to the island's pleasant winter season. The weather is typically mild and dry, with daytime temperatures hovering around 23 to 27 degrees Celsius (73 to 81 degrees Fahrenheit) with the evenings somewhat cooler.
Comfortable temperatures make it the perfect time of year for outdoor activities such as exploring the island's lush, mountainous landscapes, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. June is also outside of the peak tourist season, which means you can enjoy the island's attractions with fewer crowds. The south and east coasts, although wilder, can be windy at this time of year, so we’d recommend a dual centre holiday, staying here first to explore Black River Gorges National Park and the rainforests of the Chameral Mountains before migrating to the beachy north of the island to relax.
Additionally, Mauritius boasts a rich cultural heritage, with a blend of Indian, African, and French influences, which you can explore through its cuisine, local markets, and cultural festivals. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, Mauritius in June offers a serene and enjoyable escape.
We’d recommend at least 8 nights.
Trips starts at £2,850 per person, excluding flights.
Le Morne Brabant
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