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Best Places to Visit in March

Where to travel in March

Discover ten recommended destinations for March travel based on weather, crowds, and regional activities.

10 places4 min readUpdated 2 September 2026
Where to travel in March: 10 Best Places to Visit
The short answer

March is an excellent time to visit the Southern Hemisphere as summer settles into autumn, offering milder temperatures. It is also your final window for late winter activities in the far north before the spring thaw begins.

These ten destinations provide a mix of outdoor adventure and seasonal climate advantages. This list focuses on locations where the conditions in March support the primary activities people visit for.

1

Glacier exploration in Patagonia

The terminus of the Perito Moreno Glacier, in the Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina.
Photo: Fernando, CC BY-SA 4.0

The Perito Moreno Glacier is a massive ice formation in Los Glaciares National Park. In March, the summer crowds begin to thin, making it easier to navigate the walkways. You can observe the ice structure of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. The weather remains relatively stable compared to the peak summer months. Expect to spend at least one full day here to account for travel time from El Calafate. Note that wind speeds can be high even on sunny days, so pack layers.

Suits
Outdoor enthusiasts and photographers.
Worth knowing
The glacier is 80 kilometers from El Calafate, requiring a bus or car rental.
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2

Chilean mountain landscapes

Towers of Paine (upper) and Paine Horns (lower); both are part of Cordillera Paine, in Magallanes Region, the most southern one of Chile.
Photo: Karen Chan 16 y Miguel.v ( local | logs | global ) (originales), y Jorge Morales Piderit (montaje)., CC BY 4.0

Torres del Paine features mountains, lakes, and glaciers. March offers cooler temperatures and fewer hikers on the main trails than in January. The park transitions into autumn colors during this month. It is a good time to see the landscape change before the winter season begins. Most visitors stay in Puerto Natales. It takes about two hours to reach the park entrance from there.

Suits
Hikers and nature photographers.
Worth knowing
The park is remote and requires booking accommodation far in advance.
Planning Torres del Paine National Park?

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3

Arctic winter in Norway

Tromsø·Norway
Kvaløya. Tromsø. Norway.

Tromsø sits in Northern Norway and remains a hub for winter activities in March. The snow conditions are usually still solid for dog sledding and snowshoeing. Daylight hours increase significantly in March, which makes outdoor exploration easier than in midwinter. You still have a chance to see the northern lights on clear nights. The city center has many preserved wooden houses. You can walk through these areas easily. Be prepared for high costs regarding food and alcohol in Norway. The price of local services is often higher than in other European countries.

Suits
Winter sports and aurora seekers.
Worth knowing
March can still see heavy snowfall, so check local road conditions.
Planning Tromsø?

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4

Adventure sports in the south

Saint Peter's Anglican Church
Photo: Wildman NZ, CC BY-SA 4.0

Queenstown is located on the edge of Lake Wakatipu. March brings settled weather that is ideal for activities like bungee jumping, hiking, and boating. The water temperature is cooling down, but the air is usually warm. It is one of the more comfortable times to visit before the winter ski season. Many tourists visit for the adventure tourism scene. The town can feel crowded in the center during peak hours. Allow at least three days to experience the surrounding mountains and lake activities.

Suits
Thrill seekers and active travelers.
Worth knowing
Expect high prices for accommodation during the busy summer and autumn crossover.
Planning Queenstown, New Zealand?

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5

Coastal Mayan ruins

Tulum·Mexico
Tulum's Templo del Dios Viento (Temple of Wind God, left) and Castillo (castle, right)
Photo: Popo le Chien, CC BY-SA 3.0

Tulum features ruins on cliffs overlooking the Caribbean Sea. March provides warm, dry weather that is suited for exploring historical sites. The site is well preserved. You can see the structures that served as a port for the Mayan civilization. Since it is a popular destination, the site often gets crowded by midday. Arrive as soon as the gates open to avoid the tour bus groups. It is about a two-hour drive from Cancun airport.

Suits
History fans and beach goers.
Worth knowing
The main ruins area has limited shade, so bring sun protection.
Planning Tulum?

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6

New Zealand wilderness

Hollyford River in Fiordland National Park, South Island of New Zealand
Photo: Krzysztof Golik, CC BY-SA 4.0

Fiordland National Park covers a large area of the Southern Alps. March is a drier month than average in this region, which increases your chances of clear views. The park contains deep valleys and is home to unique native birds. It is part of a large World Heritage site. Access is mostly through Te Anau or Milford Sound. The winding roads require careful driving. Be aware that sandflies are common in the park, especially near the water. Bring repellent.

Suits
Wildlife observers and hikers.
Worth knowing
The park is massive, and most of it is inaccessible by road.
Planning Fiordland National Park?

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7

The capital of Finnish Lapland

Rovaniemi·Finland
Departure board of the Santa Express sleeper train to Rovaniemi
Photo: FrogsLegs71, CC BY-SA 3.0

Rovaniemi is located near the Arctic Circle. In March, the snow cover is still thick, providing a traditional winter environment. This is a major hub for visiting the local region. It is a functional city, not just a tourist village. You can engage in winter activities until the end of the month. It is quieter than the December holiday season. Expect cold temperatures. Pack thermal gear even if you think the sun feels warm.

Suits
Families and winter activity lovers.
Worth knowing
Public transport between remote areas can be infrequent.
Planning Rovaniemi?

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8

Geothermal and cultural site

Rotorua·New Zealand
Government Gardens in Rotorua, Bay of Plenty Region, North Island of New Zealand
Photo: Krzysztof Golik, CC BY-SA 4.0

Rotorua is located on the North Island of New Zealand. March provides warm weather for visiting the geothermal parks and mud pools. The city has deep roots in Māori culture. You can visit traditional settlements in the area. It is the 13th largest urban area in the country. The city is built around the lake. The geothermal activity produces a sulfur smell that lingers in the air. Many visitors find this noticeable when they first arrive.

Suits
Culture and nature enthusiasts.
Worth knowing
Many attractions charge separate entry fees, which can add up quickly.
Planning Rotorua?

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9

Coastal city in South Africa

Cape Town·South Africa
Vegan Lekker Nuggy Gatsby in restaurant Lekker Vegan, Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is the oldest city in South Africa. March is characterized by warm, dry days which are perfect for visiting Table Mountain and Cape Point. The city is set against a natural landscape. It is the legislative capital and a major cultural center. The central business district is the oldest urban area. It has many historical sites to view. Traffic can be heavy during morning and evening rush hours. Plan your movements outside of these times.

Suits
City explorers and mountain hikers.
Worth knowing
Water conservation is often necessary, so be mindful of your usage.
Planning Cape Town?

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10

Island resort in the Philippines

Boracay·Philippines
Empty Boracay White Beach during Tourist Break
Photo: Jhun Sacapano, CC BY-SA 4.0

Boracay is a small island known for its sand beaches. March is in the dry season, offering high levels of sunshine for swimming. The island is small and easy to navigate. It was originally home to the Ati people before tourism changed the landscape. The beaches are the primary draw for most visitors. It is a destination for relaxation. Getting there involves a flight to a nearby island and then a boat transfer. Factor this travel time into your itinerary.

Suits
Beach lovers and those seeking sun.
Worth knowing
The island has experienced heavy commercial development, which impacts the local environment.
Planning Boracay?

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What people wish they had broughtFor the places on this page

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Choosing where to travel in March depends on whether you prefer the final weeks of winter or the transition to autumn. Select your destination based on your tolerance for cold or heat to make the most of your trip.

Questions people ask


Is it safe to travel to the Philippines in March?

Yes, March is generally part of the dry season, making it a safe and popular time for island travel. Monitor local weather reports for any unexpected storms before you leave.

Do I need a visa for Norway?

Visa requirements depend on your country of citizenship. Check the official Norwegian immigration website to see if you qualify for a Schengen visa waiver.

What should I pack for Patagonia in March?

Pack multiple layers of clothing, including a windproof and waterproof outer shell. The weather in Patagonia changes rapidly regardless of the season.

Are the northern lights visible in March?

Yes, you can still see the northern lights in March in places like Tromsø. The increasing daylight hours make the viewing window shorter, but the activity levels remain high.

Is March an expensive time to fly?

Prices vary by destination. March is often a shoulder season for many locations, which can lead to cheaper flights than during the mid-summer or mid-winter holidays.

Somewhere to stay on this trip

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