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Where to Go on Holiday in September

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By Holly Wallis


September is the perfect time of year for a getaway, being just past the school holiday peak tourist season, so with price a little lower and crowds fewer. Whether you are looking for a sunny beach holiday, a sightseeing holiday in Europe with more moderate temperatures, or whether you are looking for an adventure in Southern Africa, Trailfinders have you covered. Here’s our guide to where to go on holiday in September.

Zanzibar

Located off the east coast of Tanzania, the archipelago of Zanzibar boasts incredible marine life, for those who enjoy snorkelling and diving, as well as a fascinating culture combining Swahili, Arab, Indian, and European influences. September is an optimal time of year for a holiday in Zanzibar, as it falls within its dry season and temperatures are warm. Stay in the north of Zanzibar for stretches of fine white powder sand, in Stone Town for your historical and cultural fix, or in the southeast for a tranquil and secluded retreat.


If looking to combine beach time in Zanzibar with something more wildlife focussed, September is also one of the prime months for going on a safari in Tanzania. With frequent flights between Arusha and Zanzibar, why not tag on some rejuvenating beach time in Zanzibar after your epic Tanzania safari escape?


For more inspiration, take a look at our Zanzibar page.


Wooden boat in crisp blue water, Zanzibar

Namibia

Home to the world’s oldest desert, Namib Desert, the second largest canyon in the world, Fish Canyon, and the famous salt and clay pans of Sossusvlei and Deadvlei, Namibia holidays are bound to impress the adventurous traveller. September falls within Namibia’s dry season and temperatures are warm, though milder in the evening, so still remember to pack a jacket.


Wildlife action in Namibia’s Etosha National Park can be easily observed during September as animals gather around watering holes, being its dry season. Additionally, with low and sparse vegetation in the park, larger mammals are easier to spot. As September is a popular time to visit, booking in advance is recommended to ensure you can join your preferred tour and/or there is availability at your chosen stays.


For more inspiration, take a look at our Namibia page.


 

Morning light on a dune, Deadvlei, Namibia

Seychelles

Seychelles holidays offer picture-perfect beaches with glistening soft white sand, lush forested peaks, colourful marine life and crystal clear waters. Each paradisiacal island has its own attractions and unique scenery, together providing the ultimate understated luxury getaway and opportunity for relaxed exploration. The Seychelle’s beaches are undeniably among the best in the world, and can be enjoyed from the steps of an array of stellar resorts and private island properties.


September is an ideal time to visit the Seychelles, as it falls within its ‘cool and dry’ season (May-September). During this period the weather is normally milder, with average temperatures ranging from 24°C to 30°C. Rainfall is low at this time of year and the Seychelles enjoys long hours of warm sunshine, making it a great time for outdoor activities, snorkelling and diving.


For more inspiration, take a look at our Seychelles page.


 

Tropical paradise beach, Mahé, Seychelles

Florence, Italy

On a holiday in Florence, discover the city’s bustling and picturesque piazzas, wander along the famous Ponte Vecchio bridge and enjoy mouthwatering, authentic Italian cuisine. Romantic Florence is located in the heart of Tuscany and the city boasts phenomenal Renaissance artwork masterpieces, including those by Botticelli and Da Vinci at the Uffizi Gallery and Michaelangelo’s renowned statue of David at the Accademia Gallery. With extraordinary fresco-decorated churches, opulent basilicas and Florence’s iconic Duomo cathedral, it is not surprising the city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.


Though still warm enough for a gelato, in September the weather starts to gently cool down, generally hovering around the low to mid 20°C - the ideal weather for a busy day of sightseeing. September also sees Florence’s oldest festival - Festa della Rificolona, dating back to the 17th Century. Look forward to a lively procession with pilgrims carrying large, colourful, papier-mâché lanterns through the streets, live music and food stands.on the evening of 7th September, the eve of the Nativity of the Madonna.


For more inspiration, why not check out our Florence holidays page.


 

Cityscape panorama of Arno river, towers and cathedrals of Florence Tuscany, Italy

California, USA

California holidays offer something for everyone. Perhaps opt for a road trip down the breathtaking coastline of the Pacific Coast Highway, or a family holiday to Anaheim’s Disneyland and Universal theme parks, or instead a tranquil escape to the beautiful winelands of Sonoma and Napa Valley. For outdoors enthusiasts, be sure to hit the trails of Yosemite National park and check out the incredible redwoods of Sequoia National Park.


Though much of California’s coastline maintains a pleasant temperature year-round, September is a prime time to visit California. With pleasant weather inland as well as on the coast, you can comfortably make the most of the Golden State’s great outdoors, looking out for some gorgeous foliage. For wine lovers, September sees wine harvest season, making it a great time of year for visiting the wine counties. San Francisco, while usually shrouded in fog during the summer, becomes clearer and sunnier in September, making it a great time of year to visit the region.


For more inspiration, why not check out our California holidays page.


 

The sunset in Yosemite National Park, California

Madeira

A holiday to Madeira in September means you can enjoy a perfect balance of warm, stable weather with daily temperatures hovering between 22 and 26 degrees Celcius. There are also fewer crowds as the peak school summer seasons winds down. You can also enjoy the annual Madeira Wine Festival, celebrating the island’s 400-year-old wine making tradition, involving street festivities in Funchal, live folklore experiences and interactive activities.


At this time of year, with warmer sea temperatures averaging around 24 degrees, you can comfortably take part in sea-based activities and enjoy visits to coastal areas like the Calheta and Machico beaches. Also be sure to check out Seixal – also referred to as 'Jamaica Beach' – known for its beautiful volcanic rock formations that create natural pools with a unique shape.


For more inspiration, take a look at our Madeira holidays page.


Aerial view of Madeira island. Land meets ocean in Seixal, Madeira, Portugal

For more inspiration, take a look at all of our holiday destinations pages.

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Written by Holly Wallis

Holly is a Web Content Supervisor in our Marketing Team, based in our Kensington head office.

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