Top August Wildlife Destinations: Masai Mara, Tonga, Madagascar & Iceland

Experience unparalleled wildlife spectacles in August, from dramatic wildebeest migrations across Kenya's Masai Mara to singing humpback whales in Tonga, Iceland's vast lava fields, and Madagascar's extraordinary biodiversity. Discover four exceptional destinations showcasing nature at its most magnificent.

Watch the Great Wildebeest Migration in Kenya's Masai Mara

As hundreds of thousands of wildebeest converge on the Mara River, the scene intensifies: a massive bottleneck forms before they plunge into the water en masse, splashing frantically while evading crocodiles. This is the peak of the Great Migration, involving around 1.5 million blue wildebeest, accompanied by zebras and Thomson's gazelles. It typically reaches Masai Mara National Reserve in August, offering prime opportunities to witness thrilling crossings—and the predators that follow.

• Trip planner: Fly into one of the reserve's airstrips or drive from Nairobi. Opt for lodges and camps in the west and northwest, near the Mara and Talek rivers, for optimal viewing.
• Need to know: Private conservancies north or east of the Mara provide more exclusive experiences. Alternatively, visit Tanzania's northern Serengeti near the Grumeti River (typically June crossings). Timings can vary.
• Other months: Apr–Jun: northwest migration; Jul–Sep: Masai Mara; Oct: Mara grazing; Nov–Mar: southern Serengeti for grazing and calving.

Swim with Humpback Whales in Tonga

Tonga draws adventurers year-round: surfers chasing 10ft (3m) swells, anglers targeting blue marlin, and beach lovers exploring its 170+ islands. But August falls within the prime humpback whale season (July–September), as these giants migrate from Antarctica to calve in Tonga's warm waters—one of the world's few spots for ethical swimming encounters with them.

Choose reputable operators to avoid disturbing mothers and calves. The seas teem with manta rays, dolphins, sea turtles, and vibrant marine life, ideal for snorkeling and diving. Kayak atolls, explore ancient trilithons and royal tombs at Mu'a, and connect with friendly locals.

• Trip planner: Fly into Nuku'alofa from Auckland, Fiji, or Sydney, with ample connections.
• Need to know: Humpback whales calve here July–September.
• Other months: Apr–Nov: drier; Dec–Mar: wettest.

Discover Madagascar's Unique Wildlife in Cool, Dry August

Known as the 'Great Red Island,' Madagascar boasts an astonishing array of endemic species: playful lemurs, dancing sifakas, colorful birds, elusive aye-ayes, chameleons, fossas, and giraffe-necked weevils. August's cool, dry weather is ideal for exploring spiny forests, tsingy rock formations, and pristine beaches.

Spot migrating humpback whales off Île Sainte-Marie, and possibly witness famadihana (bone-turning) ceremonies honoring ancestors.

• Trip planner: Covering Madagascar's France-sized expanse requires 2+ weeks and domestic flights due to rough roads. A classic itinerary from Antananarivo (Tana) includes Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, Berenty Reserve, Ifaty beaches, Isalo National Park, and Ranomafana rainforest.
• Need to know: Highlands can be chilly; August is peak season—book early.
• Other months: Apr–Oct: cool and dry; Nov–Mar: wet.

Explore Iceland's Rugged Interior Highlands

Iceland's interior, once used by NASA to simulate lunar training, is a barren, volcanic wonderland of lava fields, craters, and stark rockscapes. Harsh most of the year, August offers the best—and often only—window for access via highland routes.

Superjeep tours or rugged 4WDs navigate historic paths like Kjölur (with bridges and summer buses). Highlights include Víti's turquoise hot-spring lake in Askja caldera, Herdubreid ('Queen of the Desert'), and Kverkfjöll ice caves. Hardy hikers will revel in the remoteness.

• Trip planner: Fly to Reykjavík, rent a robust 4WD, and pack supplies—services are scarce. Kjölur is the easiest route.
• Need to know: Mountain huts fill fast in summer.
• Other months: Jul–Aug: main access; May–Jun/Sep: milder coastal areas; Oct–Apr: cold, dark, northern lights possible.

Seeking more August travel ideas? Explore the best spots for relaxation.

Article first published June 2017, updated June 2019.