August is one of the best months to travel to see nature and wildlife. As summer comes to an end in the Northern Hemisphere and dry seasons settle in different parts of the Southern Hemisphere, many places have beautiful landscapes, lots of wildlife activity, and perfect weather. August is a great time to get back in touch with nature in some of the most beautiful places on Earth, whether you want to hike in the Alps, go on a safari, visit remote islands, or explore lush rainforests.
In this complete guide to the best nature spots in August, we look at places that have been around for a long time and are full of wildlife, stunning scenery, and unforgettable experiences.
1. The United States of America
For: Big wild places, glaciers, and grizzly bears
August is one of the best months to see Alaska’s wild frontiers. During this time, the state’s national parks, Denali, Kenai Fjords, and Katmai, are full of wildlife and natural drama.
Why August?
- Salmon runs are in full swing, and brown bears are coming to Katmai’s Brooks Falls to see them.
- The long days make it possible to go on longer hikes and see glaciers.
The best things to do:
- Watching bears in Katmai
- Hiking the Harding Icefield Trail in Kenai Fjords
- Looking for moose and caribou in Denali National Park
A good tip that will never go out of style:
Choose a small-group wilderness tour. This will help you have more close encounters with wildlife while leaving less of an impact on the environment.
2. The Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
For: Unique biodiversity and strange landscapes
August is the Galápagos’ cool and dry season, which means the seas are calm and it’s a great time to see wildlife.
Why in August?
- Sea lions have babies
- Seabird activity is at its highest
- Marine life thrives in waters full of nutrients
Top things to do:
- Snorkeling with green sea turtles
- Walking among blue-footed boobies
- Watching marine iguanas sunbathe on volcanic shores
Timeless Tip:
Use liveaboard yachts to get to remote islands and lessen the impact of people on fragile ecosystems.
3. Canada: Banff and Jasper National Parks
For: Beautiful mountains and turquoise glacial lakes
In August, the Rockies in Canada are in full bloom, with wildflowers covering the meadows and trails that are easy to get to.
Why August?
This is the best time to hike in the Alps because there isn’t much snow and the weather is mild.
The best things to do:
- Hike to Lake Agnes Tea House
- Paddle Lake Louise
- Drive the Icefields Parkway between Banff and Jasper
A timeless tip:
To get more in touch with nature, stay in eco-lodges or camp in designated areas.
4. Tanzania’s Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater
For: The Great Migration and traditional African safaris
August is one of the best months of the year to see wildlife in Northern Tanzania.
Why August?
This is the dry season at its worst. Animals flock to water sources, and the Great Migration is in full swing in the Northern Serengeti.
Top things to do:
- Watch animals cross the Mara River
- See predators stalking their prey
- Visit the Ngorongoro Crater, where black rhinos and flamingos live
Timeless Tip:
Choose safari companies that are owned by locals and give back to the communities around them to help protect the environment.
5. Iceland
For: Volcanoes, waterfalls, and animals in the Arctic
Iceland’s weather is known for being unpredictable, but the first few days of August are the warmest and have almost 24 hours of daylight.
Why in August?
- There are still puffins nesting
- Whales are everywhere
- All the roads inside are open
The best things to do:
- See the Gullfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls
- Hike in Landmannalaugar
- Go whale watching from Húsavík
A tip that will never go out of style:
Iceland’s delicate ecosystems need to be respected. Stay on trails and don’t bother mosses or nesting birds.
6. Pantanal, Brazil
For: Seeing jaguars and the best wildlife viewing in South America
The Pantanal is one of the most wildlife-rich ecosystems on Earth, but it often gets less attention than the Amazon. August is when it really shines.
What is the reason for August?
During the dry season, animals gather around water sources that are getting smaller, which makes it easier to see jaguars.
Best Things to Do:
While boating through the wetlands, look for caimans, capybaras, and hyacinth macaws.
Timeless Tip:
Book a stay at a wildlife-focused lodge that supports conservation and responsible ecotourism to travel in a way that is good for the environment.
7. Italy’s Dolomites
For: Alpine meadows, rocky peaks, and nature that is always changing
In August, the Dolomites are a cool break from the heat of Italy’s cities. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a dream come true for people who love the outdoors.
Why in August?
The weather is clear, the alpine flowers are in bloom, and the trails are open to everyone, making it a great place to hike.
The best things to do:
- Hike the Alta Via routes
- Climb via ferrata routes
- Stay in traditional rifugios (mountain huts)
Timeless Tip:
To avoid crowds during the holidays, travel in the middle of the week and earlier in August.
8. Borneo (Malaysian side)
For: Orangutans, old rainforests, and a lot of different kinds of plants and animals
Borneo has rain all year, but August is one of the drier months, which makes it easier to explore the jungle.
Why August?
There is less rain, which makes it easier to see orangutans, and the sea is great for diving.
The best things to do:
- Go to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center
- Explore Danum Valley
- Dive in Sipadan’s coral reefs
Timeless Tip:
Think about going on trips with groups that help protect rainforests and care for sick animals.
9. Namibia
For: Great desert scenery and exciting safaris
The landscapes in Namibia are as stunning as the animals. August is the best time to see game because the skies are clear and the weather is nice.
Why August?
Waterholes are very important in the dry season because they attract elephants, lions, and rhinos that people can see up close.
Some of the best things to do:
- Go on a safari in Etosha National Park
- See the sand dunes in Sossusvlei
- Look at the stars in the Namib Desert
Timeless Tip:
Drive yourself around to get a more personal and immersive feel for the land.
10. The Islands of Faroe
For: Seabirds, cliffs, and the raw beauty of the North Atlantic
The Faroes are one of the last wild archipelagos in Europe. They are between Iceland and Norway. August is the best month for good weather and birds.
Why in August?
- The grass is green
- The puffins are out and about
- The hiking trails are open
The best things to do:
- Hike to the Sørvágsvatn lake illusion
- See puffins on Mykines
- Explore the tall sea cliffs of Vestmanna
Timeless Tip:
The Faroese have a delicate relationship with nature, so follow the rules and be careful.
11. Madagascar
For: Lemurs, chameleons, and unique biodiversity
August is a great time to learn about Madagascar’s unique ecosystems, which you can’t find anywhere else on Earth.
Why in August?
It’s easier to hike through rainforests and see rare animals in the cooler, drier months.
The best things to do:
- See lemurs at Andasibe-Mantadia
- Hike in Isalo National Park
- Check out the baobab forests in the west
Timeless Tip:
Only go with certified nature guides who know how fragile Madagascar’s habitats are.
12. The United States’ Yellowstone and Grand Teton
For: Famous landscapes and lots of animals
The geothermal wonders and wildlife of Yellowstone are a must-see in August, when access is at its best.
Why in August?
- There are a lot of bison, elk, and bears in the park
- All of the roads and trails are open
The best things to do:
- Watch Old Faithful erupt
- Hike the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone
- Float the Snake River near Grand Teton
Timeless Tip:
To avoid the crowds and enjoy nature at its quietest, go out early or stay late.
Things to Think About When Traveling to Nature in August
- Be Ready for the Weather: Even in drier places, the weather can change quickly, so bring layers, rain gear, and sun protection.
- Ethics for wildlife: Stay away from animals, don’t feed them, and never change their natural behavior.
- Support Local: Pick local guides and businesses that care about the environment and culture. This way, your trip will help communities and conservation efforts.
- Off-Peak Exploration: August is the busiest month in many places, but going to less popular parks or going a little earlier or later in the month can make your trip better.
- Eco-Friendly Habits: Bring gear that can be used more than once, stay away from single-use plastics, and be careful where you walk.
Why August is a Great Month for Traveling in Nature
- Things that happen in the seasons: August is a time of year when many important natural events happen, like the Great Migration in Africa and salmon runs in Alaska.
- Access and Comfort: Most trails, lodges, and parks are open and working, which makes things easier.
- Good times to take pictures: Clear skies, active wildlife, and colorful landscapes are great for photography and videography.
- Educational Value: Going to protected parks and reserves when there is a lot of natural activity is a great way to learn about ecosystems and how to protect them.
Last Thoughts
The best nature places to visit in August are the ones that let you see the most wild places on Earth, like the savannas of Africa, the icefields of North America, and the reefs of the Pacific. These trips are more than just vacations; they are chances to see the beauty of the Earth, learn more about the environment, and make a difference by traveling in a responsible way.
The memories you make in August will last long after summer is over, whether you’re watching polar bears catch salmon, hiking to turquoise lakes in the Alps, or snorkeling with sea turtles in volcanic archipelagos.
🧭 Ready to Plan Your August Nature Adventure?
Research permits early, travel with eco-conscious providers, and aim to leave no trace—because the wild beauty you explore deserves to stay wild for generations to come.
