Where to go in March

Our pick of the top destinations month by month

When it comes to March you’ve just about got over the January blues, but those itchy feet soon come creeping back in, so it must be time for a holiday again. Check out our suggestions for the best holiday destinations in March to give you some travel inspiration.

Rio de Janeiro

Best for summer parties

This exuberant city in Brazil is known for Copacabana and endless beaches, and with Carnival in March, this is the perfect place to party in the sun. Temperatures are in the high twenties, and Carnival, which takes place in the first week of March, is one of the biggest festivals in the world.

This is a celebration full of colour and life. You can expect to see parades with huge floats, vibrant costumes and a crowd of over two million people per day taking to the streets to celebrate in style. If you’ve been considering a trip to Brazil, Carnival really is an unmissable event.

Aside from the bustling beaches and nightlife, Rio de Janeiro is also full of culture and scenery. The Christ the Redeemer statue is possibly the most iconic symbol of Brazil and resides atop Corcovado Mountain, overlooking the city. The huge monument attracts millions of tourists each year to Rio, and is accessible via cog train, which also provides a beautiful scenic journey and breathtaking views from the highest peak. Alternatively, if you’re feeling particularly active, you can hike to the top and visit Tijuca National Park along the way.

The Galapagos Islands

Best for wildlife spotting

The Galapagos Islands are a group of volcanic islands in Ecuador, and these small islands are the perfect place for those looking to go off the beaten track to spot an array of wildlife.

North Seymour Island is home to huge colonies of birds including the blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds, and Black Turtle Cove is a strictly protected National Park that is home to numerous species of rare wildlife and plants. You can visit most of these islands by boat, but in most cases, all engines remain off to preserve the waters.

Those looking for a little more adventure can hike up Pinnacle Rock on Bartolomé, where you can take in the stunning surroundings and even swim in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the peak. Las Bachas is similar, offering a quiet and secluded beach where you can spot even more wildlife by snorkelling.

Other animals you can spot on the Galapagos Islands include sea lions, iguanas, penguins, and sea turtles.

The islands are located on the equator, so temperatures stay fairly consistent throughout the year. Waters are warm which makes it ideal for snorkelling, and temperatures range from the twenties to thirties, so hiking or sunbathing are both acceptable during the month of March.

New Zealand

Best for breathtaking scenery

March sees New Zealand enter its autumn season, so temperatures are mild but the scenery more beautiful than ever. The country is divided into the North Island and the South Island, and if you’ve got time, you can tour both to make sure you don’t miss a thing. If you don’t have a huge amount of time, here are a few highlights you might want to check out.

Adventure-seekers should not miss out a visit to Lake Taupo on the North Island. Not only is it the largest freshwater lake in New Zealand, but it’s also the perfect place for a range of activities including hiking up Taupo Volcano, exploring Huka Falls or witnessing the wild Aratiatia Rapids.

If you fancy something a little less action-packed, then an afternoon relaxing in the hot springs will allow you to soak up the impressive surroundings in peace.

Lord of the Rings fans will already know that New Zealand is home to the fictitious Hobbiton, located in Waikato on the South Island. It’s only a two-hour drive from Auckland, so superfans should make this a must-see when in the area. There are a range of tours available that allow you to step into Middle Earth and roam free amongst the green pastures of the Shire, then end your journey with a drink in the Green Dragon Inn.

Other major spots to check out include New Zealand’s wine region, Marlborough, where you can take part in wine tastings and tours of the local vineyards; perfect for a romantic and relaxing break. Alternatively, you can pick up the pace with a city break to Auckland or Christchurch where nature meets metropolis. Think shopping trips and drinks in the harbour on a super-yacht with a stunning view of the city’s skyline.

Ready to find out more or book your next trip? Give us a call – we’ll sort you out.

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