It’s not too soon to plan for June and we’re here to help you narrow down that bucket list.
June is a delightful time of year. It’s the start of summer in the northern hemisphere, it welcomes longer and sunnier days and offers a pleasant climate that’s ideal for adventure. Whether you’ve always wanted to see the quirky critters of the Galapagos Islands, experience Pride Month in the United States or sail the Mediterranean Sea, we’ll help you make it happen.
1. Galapagos Islands
Why go? Mild weather, fewer crowds, quirky wildlife
Temperature: 26ºC (78ºF) high, 20ºC (68ºF) low
Season: dry and cool
Stepping into the Galapagos is like stepping into a whole other planet. This other-worldly experience is even more majestic in June when crowds are low, vibes are high and you’re able to have quite the intimate experience with wildlife in a serene escape.
Don’t be fooled by the term ‘off-season’; June is the best time to go when you can reduce your impact on over-tourism, not worry about rain and maybe even see some migrating whales and dolphins skip by.
This is arguably the best time to hike due to the cooler and less humid weather. The highlands are lush and green, the water is its constant clear perfection, the weird and wild animals are happy to see you and you can experience everything this remote world has to offer under the guidance of an expert naturalist. Plus, the snorkelling is unparalleled.
2. Alberta, Canada
Why go? Beat the crowds to Lake Louise
Temperature: 22ºC (72ºF) high, 8ºC (47ºF) low
Season: summer
June in Canada means the summer season has started but is not yet in full swing. This is a brilliant time to go for many reasons but mostly because it means fewer crowds. (Yay!)
As the snow melts and the lakes and rivers thaw, long, warm days grant you the time and comfort of immersing yourself in the country’s great outdoors. If you’re taking a trip to Canada in June, we highly recommend seeing Lake Louise in its full glory when crowds haven’t started flocking quite yet. The air will be warm, the lake cool and maybe you even brave a chilly but refreshing dip in its oh-so-blue waters.
Add Banff National Park to the list, a dream destination for our fellow nature lovers where you can hike, bike and frolic on trails revealing the splendor of the Rockies. This is when Alberta’s grasslands come alive and offer the ideal time for thrill-seekers and those looking to escape into nature before peak tourist season takes over.
3. Croatia
Why go? Sailing in crystal clear waters, duh!
Temperature: 26ºC (80ºF) high, 18ºC (65ºF) low
Season: summer
The prime time to really experience Europe is when temps are warm, the sun is high and the queues are few.
If you want to take advantage of Croatia’s sparkling coast, island hop on a sailboat or cool off with the mist from the waterfalls, June will grant you these wishes and with fewer crowds than in the peak summer months.
Feeling adventurous? Hike through the lush national parks and take on the Velebit Mountain range, but don’t forget to visit the lively Old Town of Dubrovnik. Prowling the medieval cobblestone streets will make you feel like you stepped into a time machine.
Sunlight is plentiful, days are warm and sunny and nights bring a cool breeze as the sun sets on the Adriatic coast, which is just how summer should be.
4. Colombia
Why go? Caribbean coast, clubs and coffee
Temperature: 26ºC (78ºF) high, 20ºC (68ºF) low
Season: dry
Here’s a travel tip: Don’t underestimate Colombia.
Tourists often overlook South America’s vibrant gem, although we couldn’t tell you why. Known as one of the friendliest countries in the world, Colombia’s charm is in its thriving cultural scene, spicy nightlife, stunning national parks and of course, the coffee.
Feel the rush of hiking to the country’s tallest waterfalls in San Gil and unwind at off-track swimming holes tucked into jungles, guided by your local leader giving you the inside scoop away from the crowds. Dance the night away, laze in the sun on the Caribbean coast and kick off your summer in paradise.
Oh, and don’t forget to sip on some world-renowned coffee while you’re there.
5. Cusco, Peru
Why go? Great hiking conditions and the Festival of the Sun
Temperature: 29ºC (67ºF) high, 0.5ºC (33ºF) low
Season: dry
If you’re thinking about trekkin’, the dry season is arguably the best time to do it. Although, Cusco, Peru, offers way more than just a scenic hiking trail. We recommend a trip to Cusco in June to experience the vibrant Inti Raymi festival on June 24. This “Festival of the Sun” was once the most important celebration of the Inca Empire and is now a day filled with thousands of people flooding the historic centre of Cusco to honour the Inca legacy with actors, dancers and musicians performing in traditional clothing.
Cusco offers outdoor adventures mixed with relaxation, depending on your vibe. Whether you’re chilling or trekking, you’ll be surrounded by stunning mountain views. If you’re feeling up to it, you could even hike to one of the Seven Wonders of the World or just hop on a bus to get there.
Retrace the steps of the Inca to Machu Picchu, explore the floating reed islands of Uros on Lake Titicaca or visit the iconic Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain. With a local leader, you’ll discover both main attractions and lesser-known sites for a rich and immersive experience in Peru.
6. Italy
Why go? Sail the coast and unwind on Capri in stunning weather
Temperature: 26ºC (80ºF) high, 22ºC (72ºF) low
Season: summer
Picture: Freshly baked cornetti paired with a rich espresso overlooking the azure Mediterranean Sea as you leisurely stroll through charming coastal towns. This very scene could be your morning in June on the southern coast of Italy.
If that doesn’t sound picture-perfect enough, then hike and kayak along the dramatic cliffs of the Amalfi Coast and bask in a summer breeze on a boat ride to the island of Capri for a dip in its pristine waters.
Spend your afternoons paddling secluded beaches and savouring sunsets with a glass of local wine. Embrace the Italian lifestyle with fresh seafood, picturesque villages and ancient ruins at every turn.
Cap off your evenings with a cold glass of limoncello as you soak up the southern sunshine, perhaps with your toes dipped into the sea. Who wouldn’t want to spend their summer vacation sailing through this idyllic paradise?
7. United States
Why go? Vibrant cities come alive during Pride Month
Temperature: TBD
Season: summer
June is a fabulous time to explore the States, and you can’t go wrong with which state you choose to visit. The temperatures depend on where in the country you are, whether in the hot south or temperate north, but regardless of where you decide to go, it’ll be sunny, mild, warm and beautiful.
Kick off the summer season with an active adventure as you hike, bike and kayak through Alaska or brave Denali National Park. The sun that refuses to set will provide ample time to explore and get the most out of your trip, jam-packing your long days with adventure.
Or maybe you want to hit up the States’ bigger and more vibrant cities, like Atlanta, New Orleans, Asheville and Charleston. June is an extremely exciting time to visit the major cities in the U.S., as each spot comes to life, boasting authenticity and extra flare during Pride Month.
Not in tune with June?
Check out our recommendations on where to travel in April and July.
