when to go to australia
Australia is home to tropical, subtropical, desert and temperate climates. With this in mind, temperature and climate are important considerations when planning your trip, however in addition to weather it’s worth considering peak seasons, spectacular wildlife events and exciting festivals. These factors may also influence when decide to pack you bags and jet off to Australia.
Summer
December to February – high season
The summer is high season in Australia and it’s not hard to see why. The sun is shining, the temperatures soar as high as 37 degrees and the beaches are dazzling. Whether you’re a surfer, snorkeller or swimmer, or just enjoy a relaxing day on a boat, you can’t miss out on summer by the water.
The only exception here is the northern region, where it’s wet season. This is the low season in these areas because accessibility can sometimes be hindered. However full waterfalls in the rainforest at this time of year are spectacular.
Be aware that summer is the most expensive time to travel in Australia, with high demand increasing the price of flights and accommodation. The popularity means that it’s important to make bookings well in advance and stay organised, so you won’t miss out. If you are able, consider travelling in February when Australian children are back in school.
Autumn
March to May – shoulder season
Autumn is one of the best times to travel the entire country. The weather is cooling down from summer highs; and the north from Broome to Cairns experiences the dry season, offering perfect travel conditions. In particular in autumn, visitors between April and May can’t miss the rich red outback of the Red Centre as the days are sunny and the nights are warm.
International flights to Australia are more affordable in autumn compared to summer.
Winter
June to August – low season
Winters in Australia are cool and cloudy, but there’s still plenty of sunshine to enjoy as well, with highs in the north still hitting 30 degrees. This period is peak season in Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef region, with an abundance of sunshine and moderate temperatures to enjoy. Additionally, when the weather turns cold, there’s no better time to enjoy a wine and admire Australia’s beautiful vineyards.
A positive to travelling in the winter is that there are fewer tourists, cheaper a flights and you can get great deals on accommodation.
Spring
September to November – shoulder season
Spring is one of the best times to travel the entire country as the weather is warming up but not yet the scorching temperatures that can be seen in the summer. It is wildflower season, and blooms decorate the fields and gardens as flower festivals are held nationwide. It is also a great time to spot wildlife as babies begin to emerge from the pouch and explore the world on their own.
International flights to Australia are more affordable in the shoulder season compared to summer
Rest assured, Australia is an amazing place to visit any time of year – whether you’re after frosty fun and a Tasmanian winter or sunny safaris and a tropical Northern Territory summer you will find amazing experiences whichever time you choose to travel. We can arrange the perfect itinerary around the season you choose to visit.
Contact Destination Seekers to plan your Australia adventure
