Where is Hot in August? 7 Best Destinations to Add to Your List
By
Phoebe Tatham
on
6th August 2025
From South Africa to Peru, here are the best destinations to add to your list for an extra dose of sunshine this August.
August in the UK is hit and miss at the best of times. While it’s a beguiling time of the year thanks to the onset of autumn, (think ripening blackberries and harvest hoards) bouts of uninterrupted sunshine are few and far between.
If you’re craving an extra dose of solar bliss, there are multiple destinations across the globe that promise unrivalled sunshine and warmth. From the safari heartland of South Africa to the spiritual slopes of Peru, here’s where to travel in August.
South Africa
South Africa begins to bloom during August as it slowly teeters into Spring. While temperatures aren’t baking, visitors can still expect sunny, dry weather with cooler coastal areas reaching highs of 18°C and northern areas reaching balmy highs of 22°C. Head to Namaqualand to admire kaleidoscopic carpets of wildflowers, or visit Kruger National Park for a chance to catch a glimpse of the Big 5. August also marks the peak of whale-watching season in the Western Cape. Between June and December each year, majestic Southern Right and Humpback whales can be spotted along the south coast from Cape Town to Mossel Bay.
Discover The Sybarite’s South African safari experience here.
Peru
Peru’s dry season falls between May and October, making August a wonderful time of year to visit. Characterised by sunny spells and blue skies, there’s no better time to explore the country’s coastal areas, explore the Amazon rainforest (temperatures average 28°C) or go hiking in the Andes (temperatures average 11°C). Intrepid visitors might look to visit the ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu or hike the Inca Trail complete with dreamlike vistas, including snow-capped peaks, cloud forests and lush greenery. For a slice of city action, visitors can also head to Lima for the Feast of Santa Rosa de Lima which falls on the 30 August.
Discover The Sybarite’s Inca Trail experience here.
Mexico
While rain showers are more frequent in Mexico during August, sunshine and warm weather are still pretty much guaranteed. The coast is typically hot and humid, while Mexico City is more moderate with average temperatures ranging from 20 to 25°C. August is renowned for being peak surf season, with the vibrant Mexican Riviera, including spots such as Puerto Escondido, quickly becoming a hotspot for those in pursuit of the best swells. It’s also a great time to visit for wildlife enthusiasts. During the summer months, Whale sharks congregate in the waters between Isla Mujeres and Isla Holbox, allowing visitors the chance to get up close and personal with the world’s largest fish.
Weather-wise, August in Bali is sunny and hot (average temperatures of 27°C), without being overly humid. Given that it falls right in the middle of its dry season, it’s nonetheless peak season, with visitors flocking to the archipelago’s crystalline beaches. To avoid the throng of tourists, head to Ubud which is usually less crowded. In terms of things to see and do, August’s dry weather permits an array of activities including swimming, surfing, snorkelling, diving and hiking. For something more magical, head to the annual Bali Kite Festival to see the skies transform into a palette of rainbow colours.
Discover The Sybarite’s Bali family experience here.
Italy
Europe is ripe for exploration during August, with plenty of destinations promising a heady mix of glorious sunshine (temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C), culture and culinary delights. Italy is typically a failsafe option, with an abundance of cities and rural spots offering something for everyone. Culture vultures might look to visit Florence and Rome in all their honeycomb-hued glory, while travellers in pursuit of stunning scenery would do well to explore the Dolomites, Lake Como and the uber-chic Italian Riviera.
Discover The Sybarite’s private journey through Italy here.
Morocco
If you’re yearning for some seriously unapologetic heat, Morocco should be added to your list. For a slice of city action, look no further than Marrakech which is located at the foot of the Atlas Mountains and boasts average high temperatures of 38°C. Highlights include the labyrinth-like medina market and The Majorelle Garden - a one-hectare botanical haven splashed with shades of electric blue and canary yellow. Not quite sure if you can hack the August heat? Escape west and enjoy the refreshing coastal breezes of Essaouria and Agadir.
Discover The Sybarite’s Marrakech experience here.
Portugal
Summer can get seriously hot in Portugal, with average August temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C. If golden beaches and sizzling temperatures are high on the agenda, then the Algarve and southern Portugal should top the list. Highlights include surfing hotspots like Sagres, and charming towns such as Tavira. For those in search of cooler climes, Porto and northern Portugal are wonderfully warm without the stickiness. The Minho region in particular is a verdant paradise awash with mountainous slopes and terraced vineyards, while Comporta, located on the west coast, boasts beautiful beaches, rice paddies and canals.
Discover The Sybarite’s Portuguese Comporta retreat here.
A grassy approach to glassed doors, up a short flight of concrete steps. Large double windows, edged by sleek frames and divided by flanks of brown brick.
