Where's hot in September (2026)

September is a great time to travel. The peak season crowds have dissipated, yet there is still plenty of sun, making it perfect for a mix of adventure and relaxation. Zambia is ideal for wildlife safaris before the rains, while Turkey’s Mediterranean coast is quieter but just as stunning. Sardinia has pristine beaches and warm turquoise waters, and Bermuda’s pink sands make for a perfect late-summer escape. For something more exotic, Zanzibar offers spice markets and idyllic beaches. 

For Zambia

Zambia is perfect for an adventurous September trip. The weather’s dry and mild, ideal for safaris and exploring outdoors. South Luangwa National Park offers superb walking safaris and wildlife spotting, while Victoria Falls is almost at full flow and truly spectacular. You can stay in Lusaka’s boutique lodges or luxury safari camps along the Luangwa and Zambezi rivers. September is also prime time for game viewing, as animals gather around shrinking waterholes — an unforgettable experience for wildlife fans and photographers.

• Set on the banks of the Zambezi River, Old Mondoro is an intimate four-room bush camp. Open-air canvas-and-reed rooms come with private terraces and en-suite bathrooms. Kayak safaris, guided bush walks, and river fishing let guests dive straight into the wildlife from their doorstep.
• Perched on an island overlooking the Busanga Plains, Busanga Bush Camp is a tiny three-room camp that immerses guests in prime game territory. Reed-and-canvas bandas provide comfortable lodging while lions, elephants, and migratory birds roam nearby. Ideal for keen wildlife watchers, the camp delivers exclusive encounters far from the crowds.
• The Royal Livingstone is a family-friendly safari base with colonial-chic interiors, riverside terraces, and 173 spacious rooms. Guests can raft, kayak, or take guided wildlife trails, then return to a pool, restaurant, and gym. Kids’ facilities, babysitting, and family suites make it a good choice if you're travelling with little ones in tow.
• Sausage Tree Camp is an intimate six-tent camp where the Bedouin-style tents have outdoor bathrooms and riverside views. Gourmet dining, attentive service, and a full host of Zambezi-focused activities await — think canoeing, walking safaris, and evening game drives with sundowners. A standout for families and wildlife enthusiasts.

For Turkey

Turkey is a great pick for September. The Turquoise Coast around Antalya and Bodrum is still warm, but the summer crowds have eased. Check out ancient ruins in Ephesus, hike along the Mediterranean coast on the Lycian Way, or take in Cappadocia’s unique landscapes with its famous hot air balloons. Istanbul offers bustling bazaars, stunning mosques, and amazing food. September’s mild weather is perfect for sightseeing or relaxing by the coast, with plenty of boutique hotels and seaside resorts to stay in.

• Yonca Lodge sits among citrus trees, orchards, overlooking the islands and coves between Fethiye and Gocek. Spacious two-room suites open out to terraces, while chickens and ducks wander freely. Dine on garden-grown produce, relax on the private beach, or explore the area by kayak, boat, or on horseback.
• Set right on the beach in Yalikavak, Allium Villas Resort offers rooms with sea views and king-size beds. Indulge in a first-class spa, savour fresh seafood at the waterfront restaurant, or sip cocktails at the poolside bar. Yacht charters, water sports, and historic Bodrum sights are all on the doorstep.
• Nars Ilica is an 18th-century mansion in Alacati, with its own little private beach. Rooms come with private balconies, vast bathrooms, and curated decor. Lounge by the small pool, enjoy organic breakfasts, and step directly onto the sand. With in-room music and aromatherapy massages, it’s ideal for couples seeking seaside tranquillity.
• Perched on the Bozburun Peninsula, Dionysos Village Hotel is an adults-only resort featuring traditional villas and suites. Private villa guests can enjoy pools and terraces, while the Turkish restaurant serves wonderful farm-to-table cuisine. Spend your days kayaking hidden bays, sailing on a restored lifeboat, or joining an olive oil tasting class.

For Sardinia

Sardinia is a Mediterranean gem best enjoyed in September. The waters are calm and turquoise, and the beaches are perfect for swimming or sailing along the Costa Smeralda. You can explore the rugged interior with its ancient nuraghi ruins or wander the charming streets of Alghero and Cagliari. With warm, pleasant weather and fewer crowds, September is ideal for hiking, wine tasting, or just relaxing in seaside resorts and boutique hotels.

• Hotel Su Gologone is a family-run estate, set amid olive groves and bougainvillea. Rooms showcase paintings, fireplaces, and terraces, while the spring-fed pool, wine cellar, spa, and gourmet restaurant feature Sardinian produce. With secret gardens, yoga, horse riding, and stargazing, it’s a true escape.
• Gabbiano Azzurro Hotel & Suites' rooms have a fresh, beachy charm with bright aquamarine tones and private balconies. The pool and hot tub suites overlook Golfo Aranci, while the Blu Restaurant serves seafood with sea views. Enjoy a private sandy beach and easy boat trips to nearby islands.
• Nestled in Gallura, Gallicantu Stazzo Retreat is an intimate property with modern comforts. Guests can relax by a secluded pool, taste local wines in the historic cavern, and enjoy Sardinian tasting menus each night. Perfect for reconnecting with nature, culture, and culinary traditions.
• Petra Segreta is a hillside hideaway with gorgeous rooms and suites in earthy tones that boast oversized bathrooms and terraces (some with private pools) overlooking the sea. The spa offers Ayurvedic treatments and hammam experiences, while the traditional restaurant is a real highlight. Ideal for adult escapes, honeymoons, and total relaxation.

For Bermuda

September is a great time to visit Bermuda. The pink sand beaches and clear turquoise waters are perfect for swimming, snorkelling or sailing, and with the summer crowds gone, it’s easier to explore. Check out St. George’s historic streets or Hamilton’s lively harbour for culture, food, and shopping, and don’t miss the inland trails with gardens and hidden coves. With warm, sunny days and plenty of resorts or guesthouses, Bermuda in September is relaxing and easygoing.

• Newstead Belmont Hills Golf Resort is a historic hotel overlooking Hamilton Harbour. Guests can expect airy rooms with wooden floors, king-size beds, and terraces opening onto the bay. Dine at Aurora, swim in the infinity pool, unwind at the Asian-inspired spa, or take the shuttle to pristine beaches and a championship golf course nearby.
• Rosedon Hotel offers individually decorated rooms, each with a furnished patio. Relax by the heated pool or take a stroll to Hamilton for the nightlife. A shuttle bus links guests to Elbow Beach, while local museums and historic sites are just minutes away.
• Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa features distinctly styled rooms or cottages with sea views and private pools. The ocean spa provides pampering treatments using the finest Caudalie products, and tennis courts and bike paths keep days busy and active. Ideal for romantic, adults-only restorative getaways.
• For an exclusive luxury resort, book into Rosewood Bermuda, which sprawls across 240 acres of Tucker's Point. Not only will you find stunning five star accommodation, there's also a private beach, tennis courts, golf course and various restaurants to choose from. It's family friendly too.

For Zanzibar

Zanzibar is impossible not to fall for, and September’s a great time to go. The beaches are stunning, the water’s crystal clear, and it’s perfect for snorkelling, diving, or just chilling by the sea. Explore the winding streets of Stone Town, breathe in the spicy scents at local markets, or kick back at a boutique resort in Nungwi or Kendwa for some peace and quiet. With warm, dry weather and fewer crowds than peak season, September hits the sweet spot that effortlessly combines adventure, culture, and relaxation.

• Perched on a private island, Mnemba Island Lodge's thatched overwater bandas offer ocean views and four-poster beds. Snorkel the surrounding coral reefs, kayak in turquoise waters, or enjoy a candlelit dinner on the sand. A true sanctuary for romance and barefoot luxury with a personal butler on hand.
• Chumbe Island delivers Robinson Crusoe-style eco-bungalows. Dine by candlelight in the restaurant and explore the coral reef sanctuary or forest reserve. A paradise for nature lovers, guests can enjoy guided walks, lighthouse climbs, and marine life lessons.
• Be Zanzibar delights with a breezy, tropical feel. Rooms open onto private gardens or plunge pools, while the spa, yoga deck, and water sports offer total relaxation. Savour seafood and vegan dishes, take pottery classes, or sail at sunrise in this intimate hideaway.
• Shooting Star Lodge features bright bungalows with carved four-poster beds. A lively bar, delicious restaurant, and soothing spa invite relaxation, while snorkelling, sailing, and ultralight flights offer adventure. Attentive staff and private beach breakfasts make this laid-back retreat ideal for both couples and families.

Still not sure?

• Refine your search to see our recommendations for the top lodges in Zambia, the top resorts in Turkey,  the top beach resorts in Sardinia, the best resorts in Bermuda or the top resorts in Zanzibar.
• Or, contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.