The Best Places to Visit in March

Iguazu Falls sits on the border of Argentina and Brazil. The massive river system creates powerful cascades that are most impressive after the rainy season. March offers a buffer period where the heavy summer rains have subsided but the water volume remains high. The surrounding jungle trails are accessible and less muddy than in early summer. Most of the falls are located on the Argentine side. You need a full day to walk the different circuits of the park.

Ranthambore National Park is a large reserve in India known for its tiger population. The park is centered around the historic Ranthambore Fort. March is a prime time for sightings because the vegetation dries out. Animals congregate near the remaining water sources, making them easier to spot from a vehicle. Day temperatures start to climb during this month. Be prepared for dusty conditions during the open-air jeep safaris.

The Petronas Towers are 88-storey structures that define the Kuala Lumpur skyline. They remain the tallest twin skyscrapers in the world. March is a relatively dry period in Kuala Lumpur. Clear skies allow for better visibility from the skybridge and the observation deck. Expect lines for the elevators even with a pre-booked ticket. It is a modern urban landmark rather than a historical site.

The Sydney Opera House is a performing arts center located on the foreshore of Sydney Harbour. It is a recognized work of 20th-century architecture. March brings mild temperatures and fewer tourists compared to the January school holiday period. You can walk around the exterior and take tours of the interior concert halls. Performance schedules vary throughout the month. Check the official calendar before arrival to ensure an event is happening during your visit.

The Phi Phi Islands are a group of islands in Thailand. Ko Phi Phi Don is the main island where most people stay. March is the tail end of the dry season. The sea remains calm, which makes boat travel to smaller islands like Ko Phi Phi Le safer and more comfortable. Be aware that this is a popular destination. Beach areas can feel crowded during the day when boat tours arrive from Phuket.

Lake Baikal is located in southern Siberia and holds the title of the deepest freshwater lake in the world. It contains a significant portion of the planet's surface fresh water. In March, the lake is still frozen. This is the only time you can walk or drive on the thick ice to see the unique patterns and bubbles trapped underneath. Temperatures are well below freezing. You need specialized winter gear to spend any significant amount of time on the ice.

Salar de Uyuni is a vast salt flat in the Andes Mountains of Bolivia. It sits at a high elevation of over 3,600 meters. March is the end of the rainy season. A thin layer of water often sits on top of the salt crust, creating a mirror effect that reflects the sky perfectly. This is a remote area with basic facilities. You will likely travel in a 4x4 vehicle with a guide for several days across the flats.

The Moai are large stone figures carved by the Rapa Nui people on Easter Island. Many remain at the Rano Raraku quarry, while others stand on stone platforms around the coast. March offers pleasant weather for hiking between the different statue sites. It is a shoulder season, so flight prices to the island are sometimes lower than in mid-summer. Getting to the island requires a long flight from mainland Chile. It is not a destination for a short weekend trip.

The Burj Khalifa stands at over 800 meters in Dubai. It is a mixed-use skyscraper that serves as the centerpiece of the city. March avoids the extreme heat of the summer months. It is possible to walk around the exterior areas and visit the base of the tower without suffering from excessive heat. Tickets for the observation levels are expensive. The higher the level you choose, the more you will pay for the experience.

Palawan is an archipelagic province known for its long coastline and limestone formations. It acts as a major gateway for island exploration. March provides reliable sunshine and dry weather. This is ideal for island hopping tours and visiting the Underground River in Puerto Princesa. Travel between islands is done by boat. Schedules can change quickly based on local wind conditions.