Where to go in October
A list of global destinations with good weather in October for travelers looking for alternatives to California.

If you are looking for where to go in October in California, consider that October is a shoulder season with cooling temperatures across the state. If you are open to international travel, October is an excellent month for dry weather in East Africa and mild conditions across parts of Europe.
- 1Simien Mountains National Park, EthiopiaExperienced hikers and wildlife enthusiasts.
- 2Ngorongoro Conservation Area, TanzaniaSafari goers wanting high density wildlife sightings.
- 3Zanzibar, TanzaniaTravelers wanting a mix of beaches and cultural history.
- 4Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, SpainArchitecture fans and art lovers.
- 5Millau Viaduct, FranceRoad trippers and engineering enthusiasts.
- 6Eiffel Tower, FranceFirst-time visitors to France.
- 7Serengeti National Park, TanzaniaThose tracking large mammal migrations.
- 8Angel Falls, VenezuelaAdventurous travelers looking for remote natural sites.
- 9Maasai Mara, KenyaWildlife photography enthusiasts.
- 10Tromsø, NorwayPeople hoping to see the northern lights.
This list focuses on locations that offer stable weather and manageable crowds during the month of October. We selected these spots based on seasonal trends to help you plan your travel.
High altitude trekking in Ethiopia
This park contains the highest points in Ethiopia, including Ras Dashan. It is a rugged landscape known for its deep valleys and sharp peaks. You can see unique animals here like the walia ibex and the gelada baboon. Birdwatchers often look for the bearded vulture with its massive wingspan. An unpaved road connects the park to the town of Debarq. October marks the start of the dry season, making it a good time for hiking.
These are partner links. If you book through one we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. It does not change which places we pick.
Prices and availability come from GetYourGuide. If you book through one of these we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
Wildlife viewing in a volcanic caldera
Located in Tanzania, this area is famous for its large volcanic caldera. It sits west of Arusha City and connects to the Serengeti. October is the end of the dry season here. Wildlife gathers around available water sources, which makes it easier to spot animals in the open grass. The area is managed by the Tanzanian government. It is a significant protected site for diverse African wildlife.
These are partner links. If you book through one we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. It does not change which places we pick.
Prices and availability come from GetYourGuide. If you book through one of these we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
Island life off the Tanzanian coast
Zanzibar consists of Unguja and Pemba islands. It is known for its spice production including cloves and nutmeg. Stone Town is the historic center and a UNESCO site. It reflects the island's long history as a trade hub. October weather remains dry and warm before the short rains arrive. It is a popular time for beach visits and exploring the historic alleys of the main city.
These are partner links. If you book through one we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. It does not change which places we pick.
Prices and availability come from GetYourGuide. If you book through one of these we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
Modern art in Northern Spain
Located in Bilbao, this museum is known for its architecture designed by Frank Gehry. It sits along the Nervion River. The museum opened in 1997. It hosts both permanent collections and traveling exhibits from international artists. October brings mild temperatures to Northern Spain. It is a quiet time to visit before the winter weather sets in.
These are partner links. If you book through one we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. It does not change which places we pick.
Prices and availability come from GetYourGuide. If you book through one of these we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
Engineering in the French countryside
This cable-stayed bridge spans the Tarn gorge in Southern France. It was completed in 2004 and stands 343 metres tall. The bridge is a major part of the A75 autoroute. It was designed to help traffic flow between Paris and the Mediterranean coast. October offers clear views of the valley. It is a good time for driving through the Aveyron department.
These are partner links. If you book through one we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. It does not change which places we pick.
Prices and availability come from GetYourGuide. If you book through one of these we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
A landmark in Paris
Built for the 1889 World's Fair, this wrought iron tower remains the most visited site in Paris. It stands on the Champ de Mars. Initially criticized by local artists, it is now the most recognizable structure in France. Millions of people visit it every year. October is a pleasant time to walk around the area as the summer heat fades. The lines for the elevators are generally shorter than in July or August.
These are partner links. If you book through one we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. It does not change which places we pick.
Prices and availability come from GetYourGuide. If you book through one of these we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
The great migration in Tanzania
This massive park covers over 14,000 square kilometers of savanna. It is home to a vast population of lions and other predators. The park is famous for the annual migration of wildebeest and zebra. They move across the plains in search of fresh grass. October is dry, which forces animals to congregate near water. This makes it a prime month for game drives.
These are partner links. If you book through one we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. It does not change which places we pick.
Prices and availability come from GetYourGuide. If you book through one of these we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
The world's tallest waterfall
Located in Canaima National Park, Venezuela, this waterfall drops 979 metres from the Auyán-tepui mountain. The water falls over the edge of a flat-topped mountain. It is a remote site that requires a boat trip and a hike to reach the base. October is part of the rainy season, which keeps the waterfall flowing strongly. During the dry season, the water can turn into a thin mist.
These are partner links. If you book through one we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. It does not change which places we pick.
Prices and availability come from GetYourGuide. If you book through one of these we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
Wildlife reserve in Kenya
Contiguous with the Serengeti, this reserve is named after the local Maasai people. The name means spotted, referring to the trees in the landscape. It is well known for populations of lions, leopards, and elephants. The Great Migration often passes through here. October is one of the better months for weather. It allows for easier navigation of the reserve roads compared to the wet months.
These are partner links. If you book through one we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. It does not change which places we pick.
Prices and availability come from GetYourGuide. If you book through one of these we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
Northern lights in Norway
Tromsø is located on the island of Tromsøya in Northern Norway. It is known for having a high concentration of old wooden houses. The city serves as a hub for regional festivals and arctic research. It is a base for those hoping to see the aurora borealis. October marks the beginning of the dark season. The days get shorter, which increases the chances of seeing the northern lights at night.
These are partner links. If you book through one we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. It does not change which places we pick.
Prices and availability come from GetYourGuide. If you book through one of these we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
These search Amazon. If you buy through one we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. It changes nothing about which places are on this site or what is said about them.
Choosing a destination depends on whether you want to focus on wildlife, culture, or landscapes. Research local weather trends for your specific dates before finalizing your plans.
Questions people ask
Is California good to visit in October?
Yes, October is a pleasant time to visit California. The summer heat has subsided, though coastal fog can still occur.
What is the weather like in California in October?
Temperatures are generally mild to warm across the state. It is a dry month, though forest fire risk can still be a concern.
Does it rain in October in Northern California?
October is generally dry in Northern California, though the rainy season typically begins toward the end of the month.
Are there crowds in California during October?
Crowds are generally lower in October compared to the summer months. Most schools are in session, making it a quieter time for travel.
Can I swim in the ocean in California in October?
The water temperature in California is cold year-round. While you can swim, most people find it too chilly without a wetsuit.
Hotel search by Trip.com. If you book through it we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
Been there?
If you have been to any of these, say what it was really like. What you write helps the next person more than anything we can write.







