The depths of winter make for the heights of sightseeing in many destinations that are usually overcrowded: Think U.S. national parks and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It’s also a prime time for extreme climates on either end of the spectrum, from the Middle East to Antarctica.
Yellowstone National Park
In February, Yellowstone is a winter wonderland with limited visitors. Take advantage of this excellent opportunity to see wildlife—elk, bison, even wolves—and to cross-country ski, snowshoe, and ride in snowmobiles or heated snow coaches.
Hot spring landscape of Yellowstone National Park
Nevis & St. Kitts
Though February is high season in the Caribbean (since it’s sunny and dry there, and often the opposite back home), Nevis sees far fewer crowds than many other islands; in fact, it’s almost like stepping into the Caribbean of 20 years ago, with a couple of stoplights, a laid-back way of life, and a handful of high-end accommodations. While the neighboring island of St. Kitts has a number of mega hotels, the portion of it closest to Nevis—Christophe Harbor—is another crowd-free luxury haven, home to the new Park Hyatt St. Kitts and a stretch of government-protected land.
Golf course at Four Seasons Nevis
Nicaragua
In the first half of the month, the country is lush and green, there is no rain, and the breezes keep temperatures in the high 80s during the day.
To learn more about Nicaragua click here.
Mombacho Lake
Panama
January and February have the best weather, with less humidity and a cool breeze in the mornings and afternoons. The sun goes down a bit earlier, but the sunset is amazing.
Panama
Venice
In 2023, Carnevale will take place in February: Fat Thursday falls on February 16, and festivities wind down on Shrove Tuesday, February 21. All that is sumptuous and extravagant about Venice is kicked up several notches during this period of elaborate celebrations marked by Baroque costumes, masked balls, sinful sweets, and general bacchanalian overindulgence.
To learn more about Venice click here.
Carnevale
Iceland
February is one of the darkest months of the year in Iceland, bettering your chances of seeing the spectacular display of the Northern Lights. Winters can be harsh and unpredictable, and some activities will be unavailable, but the dramatic snowy scenery—not to mention the extra time that locals have available for visitors—can make this a particularly satisfying time to visit.
To learn more about Iceland click here.
A snowy scene in Iceland
Myanmar
February is the coolest month of the year in this tropical country—and one of the drier ones as well—making it a delightful time to explore Myanmar. Revel in the kaleidoscope of festivals on tap, including the Mahamuni Pagoda Festival in Mandalay, the Pindaya Cave Festival in Pindaya (near Inle), the Kayik Khauk Pagoda Festival across the river from Yangon, as well as others in off-the-beaten-track corners of the country.
To learn more about Myanmar click here.
Pagoda festival, Inle Lake
Mumbai
We love to visit during the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, held every February, when the city is packed with events, exhibitions, and huge art installations.
To learn more about Mumbai click here.
Victoria Terminus, Mumbai
Israel
In February Israel is virtually empty of tourists, so you have unfettered access to almost all of the sites without waiting in lines. If you are looking for the best rooms in the best hotels and the best tour guides—all at fabulous prices—this is the time to go. Temperatures are mild, in the 50s and 60s for the most part, and although you will have some rain, the scenery makes it feel like springtime in Vermont or Switzerland: green hills, colorful wildflowers, snowcapped peaks, and flowing streams and rivers.
To learn more about Israel click here.
Baha’i Gardens, Haifa
Abu Dhabi
February is one of the cooler months of the year for Abu Dhabi, with highs in the 70s and lows in the 50s; plus, rates are at the lower end of the scale for the emirate.
To learn more about United Arab Emirates click here.
Crossing the Empty Quarters desert
Botswana
Prices are as much as 40 percent cheaper in February than during peak season, and the vegetation is lush and green from the rains. The periodic thunderstorms that roll through often provide beautiful rainbows, which form a great backdrop for your photos. Plus, many of the wildlife have babies—zebra, wildebeest, antelope—and the predators tend to be more prolific with the greater availability of prey. This is also a time when migratory birds in full breeding plumage are in residence; their coloring is just exquisite.
To learn more about Botswana click here.
Elephant tussle in Botswana
Antarctica Cruises
By February the sea ice has melted, allowing for longer voyages and prime whale-watching when the humpbacks surface and feed. These shorter autumn days also allow glimpses of the Aurora Australis, or Southern Lights. What’s more, the icebergs have been beautifully sculpted by summer winds—reflecting the sun’s rays like giant crystal chandeliers—and special offers often come available for these late-season departures.
Zodiac cruise