The truth is, August is the peak season because certain places are at their best. There isn’t a better time to catch wildebeest thundering across Kenyan rivers, or enjoy Scandinavian landscapes. The Faroe Islands are actually navigable compared to other months. And while everyone else is elbowing each other in Santorini, a handful of destinations are with barely a tourist in sight.

We've picked 10 places to travel in August for the ultimate getaway. And when you're ready to book, Epic gets you up to 30% better rates than Booking.com for all of these destinations. Not a bad start for your holidays!

Why August is Still Worth Traveling

August pricing is high because the demand for holidays is huge during the last summer month. That's not going to change. If you're a family tied to school holidays, your travel window is quite narrow. So the question is not whether you should travel in August; it's where you should go to get the best experience possible.

Some destinations also only make sense in August like the Faroe Islands, Iceland or Scandinavia, with clear roads for long road-trips, while the wildebeest migration in Kenya's Masai Mara peaks with the final river crossings. If those are on your list, you don't have much choice on timing.

If you do have flexibility, Eastern Europe is worth a look. Albania, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria's Black Sea coast deliver the same sun and coastline as Croatia or Greece at just a fraction of the price.

1. Kenya (Masai Mara - Peak Migration)

If you've ever watched a nature documentary and thought, "I want to see that in real life," August in Kenya's Masai Mara is your answer. This is when the Great Migration reaches its climax, with over 1.5 million wildebeest, 200,000 zebras, and 500,000 gazelles crossing the crocodile-filled Mara River in one of nature's most jaw-dropping spectacles.

You cannot afford to miss the early morning game drives in the northern Masai Mara corridor, which is less crowded than the central zones, or a hot air balloon safari at dawn for otherworldly views. You can also visit a traditional manyatta to learn all about the nomadic heritage of the Maasai and engage in traditional dances as well as the making of the most stunning beadwork and other craftsmanship.

Please note that migration timing shifts year to year, so it is wise to book with an experienced safari operator and stay a step ahead. Book with Epic to choose from top hotels around the Masai Mara, enjoy up to 30% below market rates, and be in the right place at the right time. 

2. Faroe Islands

You might not yet have the Faroe Islands on your radar, but after reading this, they will be. This remote North Atlantic archipelago is one of the most visually dramatic places in Europe. From soaring sea cliffs with puffin colonies to villages from the Viking-age and waterfalls that drop straight into the ocean - Faroe Islands will take your breath away. And in August, it's actually accessible.

Outside the summer season, the Faroe Islands are battered by wind, rain, and fog. July and August are the only months when the weather opens up enough to explore properly. Don't miss Lake Sørvágsvatn, which has an optical illusion that makes it look like it floats above the ocean, Múlafossur waterfall tumbling from the village of Gásadalur into the sea, the medieval ruins at Kirkjubøur and boat trips around Vágar Island. 

You can fly into Vágar Airport from Copenhagen or Edinburgh, but the road network is quite small for reliable public transport. We recommend renting a car for an easier time getting around.

The Faroe Islands aren't cheap, accommodation is limited and books out fast in August. Secure your hotels in the Faroe Islands ahead with Epic for the best rates and prepare for the trip of your lifetime!

3. Albania (the Albanian Riviera)

If you're summering in Greece or Croatia in August, you're paying premium prices. Albania has the same turquoise water and excellent seafood, but at around 40-60% cheaper. The Albanian Riviera stretches for roughly 100km of coast, and towns like Himara, Dhermi, and Ksamil consistently rival any place you'd find further north in the Adriatic.

August brings on full Mediterranean heat, with average temperatures of 30-32°C and sea temperatures perfect for swimming. Visit Ksamil, near the Greek border, for some of the clearest water in the entire region and the best beach experience.

Make sure to also add the ancient ruins at Butrint National Park, the Blue Eye spring near Saranda, the UNESCO-listed hilltop city of Gjirokastë and the "city of a thousand windows" Berat to your itinerary. For a short city getaway, explore Tirana at the start or end of your trip to enjoy local history, colorful architecture and great food.

Secure flights to Tirana and the best hotels in the Albanian Riviera and get the worry out of the way so you can happily pack your swimsuits.

4. Scandinavia (Denmark and Sweden)

August in Copenhagen and Stockholm is exactly what summer is supposed to feel like. Copenhagen averages 22°C while Stockholm hits up to 23°C. Stockholm, sits on an archipelago of over 30,000 islands. You could hop-on-and-off between them by ferry, go on sightseeing boat rides, or book a sunset cruise to enjoy traditional Swedish cuisine while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

Visit Gamla Stan (otherwise known as a living museum) and see top historical attractions, including The Royal Palace, the Stockholm Cathedral, dating back to the 1200s, and home to the famous St. George and the Dragon sculpture. Don’t miss Djurgarden Island for a trip to the Viking Museum, the Vasa Museum that houses the 17th-century warship that sank on its maiden voyage, and the interactive ABBA Museum.

In Copenhagen, explore Nyhavn - the street with colourful townhouses along the canal. You should also visit the charming Tivoli Gardens, right in the city centre, and if you've got an extra day, take the train up to Helsingør to see Kronborg Castle, the actual castle Shakespeare based Hamlet on. 

Malmö is another top tourist destination where you get to enjoy various architectural and cultural scenes. It is nicknamed the City of Contrasts, and once you see the 190-meter Turning Torso skyscraper as well as Malmö Castle, the oldest preserved Renaissance castle in the Nordics, you’ll understand why.

When you're ready to plan your holiday, search Copenhagen hotels and Stockholm hotels, and book flights to Denmark and Sweden on Epic to unlock the best rates. 

5. Mexico (Oaxaca)

Skip the rain-soaked beach resorts in Mexico and head for the mountains instead. Oaxaca sits high in Mexico’s southern highlands at around 1,500 meters above sea level, so August feels surprisingly fresh and breezy, with daytime temperatures hovering around 25°C. You’ll get the occasional afternoon shower, but the skies usually clear by evening, just in time for sunset rooftop drinks and late-night food crawls.

Oaxaca feels like a completely different side of Mexico, with the colorful colonial streets, buzzing markets, rooftop bars, and some of the best food in the country. It is also home to the popular mole negro sauce, crispy tlayudas, and smoky mezcal straight from the source.

If you visit in late July or early August, you’ll catch the famous Guelaguetza festival. Expect vibrant traditional dances, live music, and huge celebrations that bring together Indigenous communities from across the state. Do not forget to explore the ancient hilltop ruins of Monte Albán, swim near the surreal petrified waterfalls at Hierve el Agua, and wander through Mitla with its intricate stone patterns. The artisan villages of Teotitlán del Valle and San Bartolo Coyotepec are also perfect for buying souvenirs, from handmade textiles to pottery.

August falls in Oaxaca’s low season outside festival dates. Book flights to Oaxaca and score the best hotels in Mexico even without a credit card. Start making reservations at the city’s most talked-about restaurants, and hit the ground partying!

6. Bulgaria (Black Sea Coast)

Ask most Europeans about Black Sea beach holidays and they'll draw a blank. That's good news for you. Bulgaria's Black Sea coast offers great beaches, warm water in August, and hotel prices 40-60% lower comparabled Mediterranean options.

Visit Varna city for a buzzing beachfront, good restaurants, and a world-class archaeological museum housing the Varna Gold Treasure, one of the oldest gold treasures ever discovered. Sozopol is a smaller and more atmospheric ancient town with wooden houses, narrow lanes, and excellent fresh seafood.

You can also add the old town of Nessebar, dramatic Cape Kaliakra on the coast, and Sofia (one of Europe's cheapest and most underrated capitals) to your list. Prices are prone to fluctuation, so book flights to Sofia and Black Sea Coast hotels in advance.

7. Colombia (Medellín and the Coffee Region)

Medellín, Colombia,  once one of the world's most dangerous cities, is now an exciting travel destination with excellent food and a thriving arts scene. And August is one of the best months to visit it.

Medellín stays around a perfect 25°C year-round, earning its nickname as the City of Eternal Spring. August brings some of the best weather for exploring both the city and Colombia’s stunning Coffee Region for the country’s most beautiful scenery.

You can ride the cable car for panoramic city views and explore Commune 13, famous for its vibrant street art, music, and lively atmosphere. Nearby, you climb the 742 steps up El Peñol rock for incredible views of surrounding lakes and islands. End your trip on a high with a couple of nights in Cartagena’s walled city.

Choosing the right neighborhood for your stay in Colombia can make all the difference in your trip. Book upscale hotels in El Poblado and enjoy access to cafes, world-class dining, and vibrant nightlife.

8. Japan (the Northern Island of Hokkaido)

While August in Tokyo is 33-35°C and extremely humid, August in Hokkaido is 22°C with cool mountain air and almost no crowds.

Hokkaido is Japan's agricultural heartland, and in late July to early August, the lavender fields at Farm Tomita in Furano turn the landscape impossibly purple. It's one of Japan's most photographed landscapes and for good reason. The region is also known as the home to Japan's finest and freshest seafood.

The nature enthusiasts cannot afford to miss the flower fields, the Blue Pond near Biei and the Shiretoko Peninsula UNESCO site where brown bears fish in streams. While the city-lovers can explore Hakodate's morning fish market and star-shaped Goryokaku fortress. Visit Sapporo, Hokkaido's capital, for great ramen, an unforgettable Beer Garden, and a relaxed city atmosphere.

Sold on Hokkaido, Japan? Book flights to Japan without the credit card and secure the best hotels in Hokkaido region with up to 30% below market rates, only on Epic.

9. Portugal (the Alentejo and Lisbon)

The Alentejo is Portugal at its most beautiful in August. Visit towns like Évora and Monsaraz, which have barely changed in centuries, and Comporta beach, Portugal's low-key luxury escape with wooden beach shacks and stunning views.

Don't miss out on Évora's Roman Temple and eerie Chapel of Bones. Visit the hilltop village of Monsaraz overlooking the vast Alqueva reservoir, and Arrábida Natural Park near Setúbal for hidden beaches with startlingly turquoise water. At night, explore the unique Alfama nightlife back in Lisbon, and enjoy live Fado, wine, and tapas.

Lock in the holiday of your life and book Portugal flights and hotels on Epic for the best travel deals.

10. Egypt (Cairo and the Red Sea)

August in Egypt sounds like a terrible idea. Cairo is extremely hot and most European tourists skip it, which is precisely why it makes this list! While the crowds stay further north, the Red Sea coast at Dahab and Sharm el-Sheikh receives less tourist traffic while offering enjoyable breezy weather, sunny beaches and excellent pricing due to low-season timing.

You can enjoy snorkelling and world-class diving at Dahab's Blue Hole and Canyon sites, which are among the most famous dive spots on earth. They are beginner-friendly at the surface and legendary for experienced divers at depth. The reefs around Sharm el-Sheikh are full of turtles, reef sharks, and colourful coral.

While at it, tour the Grand Egyptian Museum in Cairo to travel back in time and visit the Giza pyramids at dawn before the heat builds. Save the famous Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan for the cooler months. For an unforgettable outdoors experience, spend a night in the Sinai Desert under starry sky. 

This will definitely be a trip to remember! Book pyramid-view hotels in Cairo or luxury hotels in Sharm el-Sheikh and enjoy a peaceful, crowdless holiday.

How to Book Your August Trip with Epic

August is the busiest travel month and unfortunately the flight and hotel prices reflect it. And since there is no escaping that, you need to book early and book smart. 

Epic offers over 2 million properties across 190+ countries and flight and hotel prices that are up to 30% lower than the same offered at Booking.com or Expedia. Pay with over 200 cryptocurrencies alongside the classical credit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay options. ​​Did we also mention that you receive up to 8% cashback in XRP on all eligible travel bookings? This brings the peak August prices to much more manageable levels.

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Didn’t find the destination that fits you? Explore these top 12 places to visit in August for extra travel inspiration. Make your August 2026 unforgettable while at the same time giving your wallet a break.

FAQs

Where is it not too busy in August? 

The destinations on this list specifically pick places where August crowds are manageable. The Faroe Islands, Albania's Riviera, Bulgaria's Black Sea coast, and Hokkaido in Japan are all far less crowded than Western European hotspots in August. Colombia and Oaxaca, Mexico, are off-season as well. If avoiding crowds is entirely the goal, Hokkaido, the Faroe Islands, and Bulgaria are your best bets.

Where is affordable in August? 

Albania, Bulgaria, and Oaxaca (Mexico) are the standout budget options on this list. Albania and Bulgaria offer Mediterranean-quality beaches at 40-60% better prices than Greece or Croatia. Oaxaca is cheap year-round, and August is actually the low season there. Egypt is counterintuitively affordable in August because most European tourists skip it to avoid the heat.

What are the best August holiday destinations in Europe? 

For something different from the usual suspects: Albania's Riviera is the best-value European beach destination in August. Bulgaria's Black Sea coast is excellent and hugely underrated. The Faroe Islands are spectacular and uncrowded. For city breaks, Copenhagen and Stockholm are in full swing in August. Portugal's Alentejo is also beautiful and relaxed in a way the Algarve just isn't in August.

Where is it not too hot in August? 

Hokkaido in Japan (22°C), Oaxaca in Mexico (25°C at altitude), Medellín in Colombia (25°C year-round), Scandinavia (22–23°C), and the Faroe Islands (13–15°C) are all comfortable in August. The Faroe Islands and Scandinavia are actually refreshingly cool. If you want guaranteed mild temperatures, these five are your safest options.

What are the best beach destinations in August? 

Albania's Ksamil and Dhermi beaches, Bulgaria's Black Sea coast around Sozopol and Varna, Egypt's Red Sea at Dahab, and Portugal's Comporta and Arrábida are all excellent August beach picks. Albania and Bulgaria offer the warmest, clearest seawater at the lowest prices. Egypt's Red Sea is the best option for diving and snorkeling. Portugal's Comporta is the most stylish and low-key beach escape on the list.

Is August a good time for a safari in Kenya? 

August is arguably the best time for a safari in Kenya. The wildebeest migration peaks in August, with the most dramatic Mara River crossings of the year happening throughout the month. The Masai Mara's big five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino) are also easily spotted during the dry season. August is peak pricing for safari lodges, though, so book early, and use an experienced operator who tracks herd movements.

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