Can’t stop daydreaming about suitcases, aeroplanes and far-flung destinations? Why not throw caution to the wind, and book a last-minute trip to one of these incredible destinations? They’re all at their best during July, which means you’ve got just enough time to plan an impromptu trip.
Take on the Canadian Rockies
Wild, rugged, and impossibly beautiful, the Canadian Rockies are the epitome of a North American adventure. There are so many ways to discover this incredible slice of wilderness, from self-drive road trips to organised group tours. Start in Calgary, where you can hit up the world-famous Stampede. The legendary rodeo serves up an infectiously fun atmosphere – just don’t forget to pack your cowboy hat! Then make a beeline for Banff, one of the most iconic mountain towns on the planet. Adventure is the order of the day, with activities for every fitness level. Ride mountain gondolas, spot grazing grizzly bears, hit the hiking trails, or simply stroll around the dazzling cobalt blue waters of Lake Louise. Don’t miss a drive along the awe-inspiring Icefields Parkway, where you come face to face with the immense Athabasca Glacier.
Amazing Africa
Every May, an estimated 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, antelope and topi make their way across Tanzania’s southern Serengeti. The journey is known as the world’s biggest animal migration, with the flock heading to the lush grasslands of Kenya’s Masai Mara Game Reserve. It’s a dangerous, relentless journey that involves crossing more than 800 kilometres of rivers, lakes and deadly lion country. And it all culminates in July with the spectacular Mara River crossings, which see swarms of wildebeest take to the crocodile infested waters. It’s David Attenborough documentaries, brought to life. If you’re a nature buff, there’s nothing quite like it!
Nature encounters in Borneo
While most of South East Asia is hit with monsoonal rains during July, Borneo stays surprisingly dry. This means that if you’re looking for an exotic destination that’s relatively close to home, Borneo is a fantastic choice. Start in the characterful city of Kuching, set along the banks of the Sarawak River. Visit orangutans at the Semenggoh Nature Reserve, then head to the Bako Peninsula for a day or two of wildlife watching. Accessible only by boat, the national park has a shipwrecked feel and is famous for its rare (and eerily humanlike) proboscis monkeys. Just be prepared to rough it, because park HQ isn’t exactly glamorous! After you’ve had your fix of beach life, take a propeller plane to Mulu National Park, home lush rainforests, ancient caves and more than three million bats. If you liked Planet Earth, you’ll love Mulu.
Do you have a go-to July destination? Maybe you’re in the midst of planning a trip? We’d love to hear about where you’re heading, so give us a shout in the comment section below and let us know where you’ll be this July.
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