We all know fall brings stunning foliage, chilly nights and hot cider. However, what happens when we are over the leaf peeping, pumpkin picking and cool weather? These international destinations bring something different to the table during the autumn months:
The Galapagos Islands
Fall in the Galapagos Islands offers travelers a range of unique sightings and less crowds than the peak summer months. In early fall, travelers will delight in the increased dolphin and whale sightings near the Fernandina Island in the Bolivar Channel. While underwater, the strong Humboldt Current brings more nutrient rich water to the Galapagos, bringing the turtles, sea lions, penguins and more out to play. Additionally, lucky travelers can catch a glimpse of the giant Galapagos Turtle as it lays their eggs on Santa Cruz Island between June and December.
Quasar Expeditions offers unforgettable cruises on their small yachts the M/V Evolution and M/Y Grace, allowing guests to explore the more remote islands and landscapes travelers staying on land can't reach. Adventurers can explore new terrains every day, some even on the same island. Excursions on Bartolome, for example, include a trip to a white sandy beach, the famous Pinnacle Rock hike and a lava rock walk while seeing iguanas, sea lions, turtles and a variety of birds.
The Seychelles
October is one of the best months to visit the Seychelles thanks to the comfortable temperatures and island breeze. Fregate Island is one of the most revered hideaways in the Seychelles, offering the privacy and seclusion with 16 beautifully crafted villas throughout pristine nature. In addition to being a luxury resort, Fregate Island is a conservation sanctuary fully dedicated to sustainability. The island’s conservation staff restored the deteriorating population of the Seychelles Magpie Robin and now more than 200 live exclusively on Fregate Island. The resort invites their guests to participate in hands-on conservation projects such as assisting in turtle hatchlings, cultivating sea coral and others.
South Africa
The fall season in the USA happens to be the spring season for South Africa. In October and November the temperatures start to heat up throughout the country and temperatures often range between the 60 and 80 degrees range Fahrenheit, making it comfortable climate to be outdoors. While South Africa doesn’t have fall foliage or leaf peeping, this is the time when the Cape Floral Kingdom blooms with a new batch of flowering species, offering picturesque nature experiences. Fall is also shoulder season in South Africa, making it a great time to travel for lower rates and less crowds. Urban cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg or safari regions like the Kalahari are all excellent South African destinations to discover in the fall.
The ultimate hotel experiences in South Africa celebrating native culture and traditions are Ellerman House in Cape Town, The Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa in Johannesburg, and Tswalu Kalahari in Northern Cape. Ellerman House is an iconic hotel located in Cape Town showcasing the best in South African culture through art, wine, and food. The Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa is an 5-star, all-suite hotel emulating the essence of the city and country with a property that is a unique blend of rich, cultural history with contemporary touches throughout. Tswalu Kalahari is the largest privately-owned game reserve in South Africa with the highest standards of comfort, aesthetics, design and service and a world-class conservation initiative, where research is integrated into every part of the experience.
Singita Grumetti
A pillar of the Serengeti ecosystem, each summer hundreds of thousands of wildebeest and zebra undertake an annual migration across nearly 5,000 miles of the greater Serengeti ecosystem towards the 350,000 acre Grumeti Reserve, following the rain in search of better grazing lands across the Grumeti and Mara Rivers. In the fall, the herds return south
towards Grumeti Reserve offering guests a second chance to view the majestic migration.
Guests at the recently re-designed Singita Sabora Tented Camp have a front row seat to the migration and rich populations of wildlife who reside on the 350,000 acre Grumeti Reserve. Striking the perfect balance between the spirit of classic tented safaris and timeless modernity, Singita Sabora Tented Camp is located right on the Serengeti plains, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the camp’s unrivaled setting.
Niseko Village, Japan
Resting at the foot of Mount Niseko Annupuri, Niseko Village is considered one of the best places on Hokkaido to enjoy the mild fall days. Travelers can hike, bike, golf, explore the local market streets, and even raft down the Shiribetsu River to admire the changing surroundings. In terms of of accommodations, Hilton Niseko Village is a haven for travelers with an affinity for nature, especially during the fall. The property offers hot springs, an amazing culinary scene, access to extensive trails, and deep historical roots in the local culture all with amazing views of the colorful changing leaves.
Acapulco, Mexico
Hot all year round, Acapulco offers a warm getaway for those looking to switch it up in the fall. Acapulco offers plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy, including beaches, Mezcal tasting tours and a variety of culinary experiences.
After days of exploring Acapulco, travelers can relax at Villas Leo. Villas Leo features 11 bedrooms, an infinity pool with view of Acapulco Bay, outdoor straw huts, and a large outdoor bar. Additionally, the property is fully staffed with a house manager, concierge, chef, barman, waitress, housekeeper, driver, and gated security. The property is available for rent through luxury property and travel club, THIRDHOME.