Guide & Tips
Where to go in August?
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It’s decided—this year you’ll be among the lucky ones taking a vacation in August. Good news: it’s the perfect time to take a break and recharge before the back-to-school season! Indeed, it’s nearly the end of summer and you want to make the pleasure last and perfect the tan you worked so hard to get. Enjoy naps in a hammock under the shade of a majestic baobab, breathtaking landscapes, and delicious dishes.
If you’re an adventurer at heart, ready to conquer the most beautiful volcanic peaks, or a lover of coral reefs, you’ll be spoiled for choice!
Corsair takes you to the ideal destinations to discover at the end of summer for a promise of escape. Let yourself be guided!
How to choose a destination for August?
There are countless fabulous destinations to visit in August. Choosing just one is no easy task! Our tip? Making a list of your wishes could help you see things more clearly.
For example, if you enjoy sea excursions, you can admire whales in Mayotte—an ideal destination with children, and the season is perfect for it! Meanwhile, for a couple’s trip, opt for the challenging hikes of Réunion, such as the Col du Taïbit, far from the hustle and bustle of beaches crowded with families.
So, all that’s left is to gather information on the final preparations before departure, and you’ll be ready to take off for an unforgettable vacation!
Which criteria should be considered to travel in August?
Seasonality
While August in mainland France means mild daytime temperatures and pleasant evenings, it’s not the same everywhere. In fact, the seasons are reversed: summer on the continent corresponds to winter in most destinations across the Atlantic.
Without taking seasonality into account, you risk finding yourself with your feet in the water, as in Guadeloupe, where it rains 22 days in the month. The chances of staying dry and coming back with a nice tan are rather slim! On the other hand, Mauritius enjoys ideal weather during this period: plenty of sunshine without the thermometer climbing too high!
Crowd levels
August is undoubtedly a very touristy period, marked by school holidays and the summer leave of certain companies. However, this factor should not alarm you.
In fact, high season can also mean a festive atmosphere and large crowds, such as during the Intercultural Festival of Mayotte (FIM), a colorful event featuring lively music from all over the world. Fun guaranteed!
That said, August is not always a busy tourist month. In some places, you might even enjoy peace and serenity. For example, did you know that in Réunion schoolchildren return to class 15 days before children in mainland France?
Departure conditions
Even though improvisation is often the promise of great discoveries, you shouldn’t overlook preparations in August, or you risk finding yourself in a difficult situation!
Packing your suitcase is important, but anticipating climate changes is even more essential! For example, on Réunion Island, while a bikini is perfect for the beaches of L’Ermitage, you’d better cover up to face the cooler temperatures on the Piton de la Fournaise.
Don’t forget to check the vaccinations that may be required, such as the yellow fever vaccine for Abidjan. Plan ahead! In August, doctors also take vacations!
Now that everything is ready, let’s take a quick look at the ideal destinations for the end of summer.
Mauritius, feet in the water
Mauritius, or Moris in Creole, is a perfect destination in August!
Rainfall is rather rare and the climate is pleasantly mild—characteristic of the austral winter in a tropical climate.
You can immerse yourself in 24°C waters, ideal for enjoying scuba diving, one of the island’s flagship activities. In the north, Trou aux Biches Beach is home to one of the must-visit diving spots. On the program: discovering the coral reef and a multitude of tropical fish decked out in their brightest colors—a feast for the eyes! Why not also take the opportunity to head nearby to Gabriel Islet and stroll among the volcanic coves? Seasoned walkers, follow the guide—there are plenty of discovery day tours offered in August.
Little by little, the wind rises and the sky fills with colorful sails! The Mauritius Attitude Freeride Challenge has arrived! This windsurfing and kitesurfing championship takes place every August—a week during which the world’s best riders compete against each other in a setting worthy of the most beautiful postcards.
Finally, for the pleasure of your taste buds, take part in the Rum Week! The best producers come to share their expertise through tastings. This sweet beverage, particularly popular on the island, should be consumed in moderation.
With our Train + Air package serving the largest provincial cities, the Mauritians are waiting for you!
Mayotte, close to nature
Come and discover Mayotte, which the locals call Maoré! Nestled between Africa and Madagascar, it’s a less touristy destination than its overseas counterparts. It can therefore boast a special tranquility for those who wish to visit. Its incredible lagoons rival those of Mauritius, and its beaches can compete with those of Réunion.
The island’s flagship activity is whale watching, from July to October. This is the time when they come to give birth in the lagoon. Note that departures are possible from the Mamoudzou pier. So, don’t forget to charge your camera! If you’re lucky, you might even spot some calves—a magical moment that both children and adults will remember!
In August, you can also attend the Intercultural Festival of Mayotte, held every year. It kicks off with a grand costumed parade and continues with reggae, rap, and M’godro concerts. For three days, dozens of artists from different backgrounds and destinations gather—Réunionnais, Malagasy, Kenyan, Mozambican, and Comorian. On your way back, stop to enjoy chicken wings called Mabawa. But beware of the poutou, a local chili pepper that spices up Mahoran dishes!
If you’ve made your choice, don’t wait any longer—book one of our trips with Corsair.
All our offers to travel in August
