Top 6 Destinations for an Unforgettable August Getaway
August is a prime time for travel, with dynamic festivals, wildlife migrations, and outdoor adventures captivating visitors worldwide. From tango rhythms in Argentina to epic wildlife spectacles in Africa, these six destinations offer unparalleled experiences.
Buenos Aires

Experience the passion of the Tango Festival and World Cup (Aug. 8-21) in Buenos Aires, the heart of tango culture. Enjoy free concerts, workshops, lessons, and more. The highlight is the Mundial de Tango, a premier dance competition. Aspiring dancers can apply here for a chance to compete in the finals at Luna Park Stadium. For an intimate show, catch Hotel Faena’s Rojo Tango, where you can sip Malbec, savor beef tenderloin with truffled mashed potatoes, and spot celebrities like Bono or Katy Perry.
Svalbard
This Norwegian archipelago, midway between mainland Norway and the North Pole, is a hotspot for polar bears. August offers nearly continuous daylight and accessible melting pack ice, ideal for spotting these majestic creatures—adult males can weigh up to 2,000 lbs. Join a guided expedition cruise, such as Natural World Safaris’ 11-day Arctic expedition, for safe encounters with polar bears, walruses, reindeer, and whales.
Tanzania
Witness the Great Migration, where 1.5 million wildebeest cross the Mara River—a highlight best viewed in August. Stay at the award-winning Asilia Sayari Camp for prime access. Opt for 4x4 game drives or thrilling hot air balloon safaris over the Serengeti. Extend your adventure with a climb up Mount Kilimanjaro, favored in August for its dry, clear weather.
Minneapolis

Catch the high-energy Summer X Games (Aug. 1-4), featuring world-class BMX and skateboarding, with performances by Diplo, Wu-Tang Clan, and Incubus. The XIP Experience pass includes behind-the-scenes tours, athlete meet-and-greets, and drinks. Nearby, unwind at Hotel Emery, with its midcentury glamour. Dine at rooftop Giulia on negronis and chef Josh Hedquist’s blueberry panna cotta. Explore Minnesota Fringe (Aug. 1-11) for 130 diverse shows, or attend the iconic Minnesota State Fair (Aug. 22–Sep. 2), celebrating 160 years with foods on sticks, new attractions like the Minnesota Corn Fairstalk and Zero Gravity ride, and innovative 2019 menu items.
Whitehorse
Challenge stereotypes of Canadian cuisine at the Yukon Culinary Festival (Aug. 1-4), showcasing bison, arctic char, and elk. Highlights include the Feasting and Foraging event with alfresco chef demonstrations, Yukon beers, and cocktails. Enjoy a welcome party at the renovated MacBride Museum, a '50s-themed event on the S.S. Klondike, and demos at Fireweed Market. August is also ideal for a four-day canoe trip on the Yukon River from Whitehorse to Little Salmon Village, passing historic gold rush sites and wildlife like moose, beavers, and bald eagles.
Mustang
Nepal’s remote Mustang District, once the Kingdom of Lo, stuns with Himalayan beauty. Visit during the Yartung Festival (Aug. 15-18), featuring high-speed horse races, traditional chhaang-fueled dances, and songs in Muktinath—a sacred site for Buddhists and Hindus. Explore the ancient Vishnu temple, drawing thousands of pilgrims annually.



