Suppose you are looking for the perfect escape from the cold and dreary weather of the north.
In that case, the southern hemisphere has plenty of interesting, unique, and enjoyable vacation options that keep you nice and toasty in the warm summer sun.
So whether you are looking to cross world wonders off your bucket list, or take in the sights and sounds of local wildlife, pack your favourite chucks NZ and head south to these superb locations.
Peru
Peru is home to one of the official seven world wonders. Machu Picchu.
This man-made landmark in the mountains contains the remains of the Lost Incan City, natives of the area during ancient times.
Experts recommend you visit this spectacular place in the winter rather than the summer, as May through October is considered the dry season, meaning your journey and view won’t be ruined.
Despite this, temperatures comfortably sit in the 20s, making it the ideal time to see this iconic site.
Australia
Australia is a big country, and its sheer size offers plenty of different environments and weather systems to experience.
You can head to Barossa Valley in South Australia to experience the best wine and cheese the country has to offer while taking in the breathtaking views of wine country.
Alternatively, you can head to Australia’s third biggest island, fittingly called Kangaroo Island and take in the droves of wildlife that call this place home.
Or you can head to the sunshine coast and partake in surfing, which is practically a way of life for those lucky enough to live there.
New Zealand
If Australia isn’t to your liking, you can head slightly east and cross the Tasmin to New Zealand.
You have your pick from two islands when visiting this magical country. The North Island is the warmer of the two and is known for its beaches, hot springs, and surf culture.
You can also visit Hobbiton in Waikato for all the LOTR fans out there.
If you head to the bigger south island, you will feel a slight chill in the air but will find yourself surrounded by aches of spectacular farmland, vineyards, mountain ranges and beautiful ocean views.
Madagascar
Madagascar is situated just off the eastern coast of Southern Africa.
And while they may not sing and dance for you, this incredible island is home to over 100 species of Lemur.
There are plenty of opportunities to experience encounters with these adorable primates, so be sure to find your own King Julian.
Because of its location, take a little more time to pick the time of year you choose to visit.
It has a tropical summer climate and can be in the path of tropical storms that develop in the Indian ocean.
Additionally, anytime between April and December will be your best bet to beat the humidity.
South Africa
Cape Town, South Africa, is one of the more interesting places you can visit in the southern hemisphere and one of the cheapest for tourists. Situated along the country’s South West coast, it has the perfect mix of everything.
It doesn’t matter if you are after incredible mountains to hike, forests to wonder, or the choice of two different oceans, the warm Indian and chilly South Atlantic, to swim and surf in; this city has it all.
In addition, it is the only place in the world you can find the protected flora, Fynbos and Proteas, in their natural habitats.
Brazil
Rio de Janeiro is an attractive choice if you want to visit yet another world wonder and have one of the most uniquely Brazilian experiences of Ipanema Beach.
The iconic harbour is overlooked by Christ, The Redeemer, which was built in 1931.
You can also head down the beaches, which boast golden sands and waves perfect for swimming and surfing.
Ipanema beach, in particular, will offer you everything you need to feel like a complete local, from skimpy bikinis to beach vendors selling everything under the sun and spontaneous football matches.
Tanzania
If animals and wildlife are your passion, there will be nothing more jaw-dropping to witness than the great migration along the Serengeti of Tanzania.
Typically happening between July and November of every year, herds of wildebeests, gazelles, zebras and a variety of other land mammals are seen to migrate between Tanzania and Kenya.
This is considered to be the more popular time of year to visit.
Alternatively, you can head there during the summer months of December to February, when the grass is much shorter, but more importantly, it is calving season.
While this is a beautiful experience, keep in mind that nature is a never-ending cycle of life and death. Predators are usually quite close behind.
Ecuador
From December to May, the Galapagos Islands of Ecuador are buzzing with activity from tourists and wildlife alike. While summer is the rainiest time of year here, it is also the sunniest, with conditions ideal for snorkelling and scuba diving around these historic islands.
This is the mating season for shore birds and sea lions and nesting time for sea turtles. Wildflowers will steal the show along with the increase of animals as they bloom across the island between February and April.
