As a general rule, Latin America’s seasons are the opposite of North America’s meaning during the spring vacation period in the Northern Hemisphere, it will be fall in Latin America. This is by no means a disadvantage as with clearer skies, milder temperatures, fewer travelers and greater availability of accommodation, you will be able to get the most out of your time spent in Latin America. From relaxing on the quieter beaches of Rio de Janeiro to soaking up the brilliant deep blue, cloudless sky above Machu Picchu, discover the best destinations to spend your spring break in Latin America.
♦ Peaceful beaches of Rio de Janeiro
Traveling to Rio de Janeiro during spring break coincides with fall in Brazil’s marvelous city. It is a beautiful time to explore Rio de Janeiro with less humidity and cooler temperatures than summer. You’ll still be able to enjoy the pristine golden beaches of Rio de Janeiro with average temperatures in April, May and June around 80°F. There is almost no rain and you’ll be able to sprawl out at Copacabana as the post-summer and Carnival crowds begin to thin out. With more accommodation options available, visiting Rio de Janeiro during the spring vacation is perfect for exploring the city, sunbathing on Copacabana or Ipanema beaches or enjoying Rio’s Botanical Garden.
♦ Explore the culture of Buenos Aires
After the sweltering summer months, fall in Buenos Aires brings pleasant daytime temperatures in the 60s and 70s. The spring break period is one of the best times to visit Buenos Aires with not only in terms of weather but most of the cultural events take place during these months. Fall in Buenos Aires sees the arrival of Argentina’s Fashion Week in March, the International Independent Movie Festival in April and the Buenos Aires International Book Fair from April to May, recognized as one of the top 5 literary expos in the world. During these shoulder seasons, you’ll be able to experience the exciting cultural heartbeat of Buenos Aires as well as bask in the crystal clear Arctic air pushing off the tropical haze from the north.
♦ Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Rather than the traditional spring, summer, fall and winter seasons, Machu Picchu has a wet and dry season. The dry season runs from May to September with the wet season between October and April. Both the wet and dry seasons have their advantages however the shoulder months of April, May and June are arguably the best times to go. With fewer people traveling during these months, you can really enjoy and soak up the peace and serenity of the Inca Citadel. The beauty of Machu Picchu is at its finest with the surrounding landscape being cloaked in green, cloud free and deep blue skies. Providing a happy medium between the wet and dry season, the climate is not as hot and there is less rainfall during this period providing more comfortable conditions to hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
♦ Spot wildlife in the Nicoya Peninsula
Similarly to Machu Picchu, the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica features a wet and dry season. The dry season begins at the end of November and runs until May, dousing this stunning region in beautiful sunlight. Although during the dry season the trees lose their leaves, visiting the Nicoya Peninsula during the spring break vacation means that wildlife viewing becomes that much easier. With this obvious attraction and the Costa Rican ‘summer’ period, the dry season is one of the best times to visit the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. Soon after Easter, the green season begins with the first precipitation falling. The beginning of this season, towards the end of May is ideal if you want to see the landscape draped in verdant greens as well as enjoy this quieter period.
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