The Kimberly, Australia | Photo Credit: Hugh Brown
From whispering encounters with Beluga whales in Manitoba to dancing with skeletons in Oaxaca's Dia de los Muertos. From diving alongside sea turtles and whale sharks in Australia's Ningaloo Reef to witnessing the spectacle of the Kimberly, each month offers an opportunity to have one of the greatest trips of your life. This is a year for swimming with the majestic Mantas, cruising the fjords in British Columbia, and getting up close with Polar Bears in Svalbard.
As January nears its end, it's the perfect time to hop onto making plans for the coming months. But we haven't completely left January out of the calendar. We have the perfect place in mind to kickstart your travel plans for 2025, yes already because this destination requires meticulous year-long planning.
Read through the end to find out which destination is it!
February
Migration of Grey Whales and Monarch Butterflies in Mexico
Mexico in February explodes with two epic migration shows, drawing nature lovers from around the globe. On the Pacific coast, the gentle giants of the sea, the Grey Whales, return to the warm lagoons of Baja California to nurture their young ones. Meanwhile, in the highlands of Michoacán, millions of Monarch Butterflies flutter through the Oyamel forests, creating a breathtaking spectacle of orange and black. Witnessing the migrations of the Grey Whales and Monarch Butterflies is a humbling experience, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for the diversity and resilience of life on Earth.
March
Swim with Orcas in Norway + Northern Lights
Head to the fjords of Northern Norway in March to witness large shoals of migrating herring, attracting Orcas and whales for a thrilling aquatic encounter. Those willing to brave extremely cold temperatures and choppy seas will open themselves to remarkable wildlife interactions like no other. As night falls, enjoy the mesmerizing Northern Lights illuminating the Arctic sky. Bask in the emerald green, and purple streaks of dancing lights that paint the canvas of the night, creating an unforgettable experience.
April
Ningaloo and The Kimberly in Australia
Indulge in the beauty of Ningaloo and Kimberly in Australia, where you can swim with gentle whale sharks and enthral yourself in the stunning Australian bush for an unparalleled nature experience. Snorkel alongside the world's largest fish, encounter playful dolphins, and hike through ancient gorges in the heart of the outback. Hike to the edge of Windjana Gorge, peering into its ancient depths and spotting prehistoric rock paintings. Take a helicopter tour, soaring over vast gorges and waterfalls and take guided bush walks for the ultimate nature experience.
May
Visit Svalbard to see Polar Bears
Explore the Arctic wonderland of Svalbard in May, a prime time to witness the majestic Polar Bears in their natural habitat. May offers some of the best chances to witness these incredible creatures, as they emerge from their winter dens and roam the thawing sea ice in search of prey. Led by experienced guides, you can venture out on safe and ethical wildlife viewing expeditions, ensuring responsible observation of these endangered giants.
June
Swim with Mantas in Hanifaru Bay
Delve into the crystal-clear waters of Hanifaru Bay in June for an extraordinary opportunity to swim with magnificent mantas. Hundreds of manta rays, with their wingspan as wide as small aeroplanes, glide effortlessly through the plankton-rich waters of Hanifaru Bay. It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim alongside these magnificent creatures who are also known as the undisputed lords of the Maldivian reefs. Observe their intricate feeding patterns, marvel at their acrobatic flips and turns, and witness their intelligence as they glide past with an aura of serenity.
July
Get up close with Belugas in Manitoba
Journey to Cunningham Inlet near Somerset Island, Manitoba, in July, where Belugas gather to mate. Experience the unique chance to observe these gentle giants up close along the shores. Thousands of these remarkable creatures gather for their annual mating and socializing ritual, transforming the usually serene waters into a vibrant scene of playful splashes and melodic chirps. Kayak amidst the pods, feeling the spray of their playful antics and listening to their communication. Walk along the shores, catching glimpses of them breaching gracefully in the distance. Bring yourself to full consciousness focussing on not only the sights but also the sounds of this unique phenomenon.
August
Experience the iconic Palio Di Siena
Experience the rich cultural tradition of the Palio Di Siena in August, a famous horse race that weaves through the heart of the historic town of Siena in Tuscany. The Palio Di Siena is a primal spectacle, with ten bareback riders urging their steeds through the narrow, winding streets of the Piazza del Campo. Each rider represents one of Siena's 17 contrade, ancient city districts with fierce rivalries and centuries-old traditions. The race is a blur of hooves, silks, and adrenaline, a test of both horse and rider, as they navigate sharp corners and jostle for position amidst the roaring crowds. Taste the local delicacies, from freshly baked bread to rich pici pasta, all washed down with robust Tuscan wines.
September
Cruise the Fjords of British Columbia by Superyacht
Embark on a luxurious adventure through the fjords of British Columbia in September. Aboard a superyacht, and witness the breathtaking wildlife, including orcas, whales, and the elusive spirit bear, in one of the world's most pristine ecosystems. Witness cascading waterfalls plunge into glacial lakes spot playful dolphins frolicking alongside the boat, and marvel at the elusive spirit bear emerging from the dense forest. Kayak through untouched coves, paddleboard amidst mirror-like fjords, and hike through ancient rainforests teeming with life. Learn the art of salmon fishing from local experts, delve into the fascinating history of First Nations communities, and discover hidden gem towns nestled along the coastline.
October
Dia De Los Muertos in Oaxaca
Celebrate the vibrant Dia De Los Muertos in Oaxaca during October, an immersive cultural experience filled with colourful traditions and festivities. Private altars, ofrendas, adorned with marigolds, sugar skulls, and the deceased's favourite belongings, bloom at every corner. The air vibrates with the rhythm of mariachi bands, blending with the rhythmic thump of giant puppets and the melancholic wail of Oaxacan music. Oaxaca's iconic markets brim with the vibrant paraphernalia of the festival. Sugar skulls in every imaginable colour, incense smoke curling from elaborate ceramic copaleros, and hand-painted alebrijes, fantastical creatures symbolizing the duality of life and death, line the stalls.
November
Celebrate Dev Diwali in Varanasi
Experience the spiritual and illuminating Dev Diwali festival in Varanasi in November. Imagine thousands of flickering diyas, and earthen lamps, gently bobbing along the sacred river. The darkness melts away, painted gold by the dancing flames, transforming the Ganges into a celestial waterway. Each lamp carries a prayer, a hope whispered to the heavens, reflected in the water's stillness. Witness this ritual unfold and feel the collective devotion emanating from the ghats, washing over you like a holy tide. Make sure you Participate in the Ganga aarti, the ceremonial offering of lamps, feel the power of the collective prayer and soak in the profound wisdom emanating from this ancient city.
December
Dive into the Last Paradise: Raja Ampat
Conclude your year-long adventure with a breathtaking finale in Raja Ampat with PureLuxe Private Journeys.
Raja Ampat is a jewel of the Indonesian archipelago renowned for its unparalleled marine biodiversity and stunning coral reefs. It boasts the title of the "Coral Triangle's Crown Jewel," and for good reason. Its crystal-clear waters teem with over 1,500 species of fish, 540 types of coral, and 700 varieties of molluscs. Dive amongst vibrant coral gardens teeming with clownfish, butterflyfish, and angelfish, or encounter majestic manta rays gliding gracefully through the currents.
January 2025
Antarctica for the Best Weather
Antarctica in January sheds its winter cloak of darkness and emerges in the light of its brief summer. This is the peak season, a time when temperatures nudge above freezing, unveiling a world of icy wonder and vibrant life. So, pack your sense of adventure and prepare to be awestruck by the magic of this continent. Witness towering icebergs calving from glaciers, penguin colonies and their frenzied dives for krills, and seals basking on the shores. As the ice floes loosen their grip, Antarctica's waters teem with majestic marine life. Humpback whales breach and frolic giving you the opportunity of a responsible whale-watching expedition and marvel at these giants of the deep.
Which destination are you in the mood to explore in 2024? Tell us in the comments. Book your holidays with us to get exclusive offers from top-of-the-line hotels and resorts, offbeat itineraries and much more. Contact Us for more information.
From secluded beach-y escapes to exclusive, one-of-a-kind adventures, this round-up of destinations for Next Month, Next Season & Next Year will ignite your wanderlust like never before.