Where to go in February

Langkawi: for tropical drama

The island of Langkawi in Malaysia feels almost mythical. Rainforest that has existed for millions of years tumbles towards turquoise water. Eagles glide overhead, boats bob lazily offshore and the pace of life encourages you to reset your brain to a gentler rhythm. It is as photogenic as travel magazines claim, yet it still feels wonderfully untamed in places. Expect steamy jungle adventures, fabulous boat days, and sunsets that make everyone fall suddenly quiet. February brings blue skies and dry days.

The Datai Langkawi goes all in on its rainforest location, with naturalists, marine experts and adventures that make you feel part of the landscape rather than a spectator. The spa uses ingredients rooted in local traditions and meals range from Thai to French to wood-fired comfort, with cocktails ready the moment curiosity becomes hunger. Four Seasons Langkawi brings its polished, beachy charm with sweeping villas, a mighty pool, ocean-facing views and restaurants that hop happily between global cuisines, always with Malaysian character front and centre.

Riviera Maya: for a jungle-meets-sea experience

Mexico’s Riviera Maya brings drama in the best possible way. One direction gives you jungle and wildlife, the other delivers the Caribbean Sea in electric turquoise. Ancient Mayan sites sit within easy reach, cenotes glitter beneath the surface and the food scene makes you want to book a return trip before you have even finished your first taco. February arrives with warm, reliable weather and that sweet balance of adventure and lazy holiday pleasure.

Maroma by Belmond feels distinctly Mexican in spirit, with wildlife strolling through the grounds, art everywhere you turn and food that proudly celebrates regional flavours. Days can switch between cenotes, spa time and exploring Mayan history. Etéreo by Auberge is all airy walkways, lush greenery and Caribbean views that have you constantly reaching for your camera. Art, design, calm pools, sea air and restorative spa moments come together in one hard-to-resist package.

Maldives: for sun and snorkelling

The Maldives is pure February happiness. The islands look unreal, the sea is every shade of blue a paint chart could muster and life quickly shrinks to sun, snorkelling, sleep and repeat. Marine life swishes around coral reefs, sand feels like powdered sugar and the sheer calm of the place is therapeutic in itself. It is also prime weather, so you can spend entire days plotting nothing more complex than your next swim.

Niyama Private Islands is wonderfully playful, from surfing and brilliant kids’ adventures to dining in tree tops and even under the sea. There are water sports galore, dolphins on the horizon and activities for anyone who refuses to be bored. JOALI Maldives takes a more artistic route, treating the entire island as a gallery. Sculptures, installations and design-led villas make everyday moments unexpectedly beautiful, with private pools, thoughtful service and restaurants that turn dinner into an event.

Rwanda: for wildlife encounters

Rwanda delivers one of travel’s great emotional punches. Mountains layered in mist, forests whispering with life and the thrill of seeing gorillas in their natural habitat make it feel incredibly special. February is a wonderful time to be here, with clear conditions and landscapes in deep cinematic green. It is the sort of journey that stays with you, not just for the wildlife, but for the beauty, pride and warmth that define the country today.

One&Only Gorilla’s Nest places you right among towering trees near Volcanoes National Park, where the setting feels almost unreal and rooms give you comfort with a strong sense of place. Firelight evenings, local craft details and that morning anticipation before trekking create genuine magic. Down south, One&Only Nyungwe House edges an ancient forest and tea plantation. Expect guided nature walks, primate spotting, crackling fires, views that stretch forever and spa rituals that make you float through the day.

Kyoto: for slow sightseeing

Kyoto in February is calm, crisp and refreshingly easy to navigate. Visitor numbers drop, temperatures are cool rather than biting and popular sights feel far more manageable. It is a good time for temple hopping, neighbourhood walks and long meals without queues, especially as seasonal food shines during this period. If you want Japan at a slower pace, February quietly delivers.

Six Senses Kyoto sits within easy reach of major sights but keeps a peaceful feel throughout. Design references Japanese folklore and classical literature in a subtle, contemporary way. Rooms echo traditional ryokan layouts with modern comforts and views over gardens or shrine grounds. The spa is a highlight, offering a welcome reset after busy days out. Dining centres on seasonal produce, while Nine Tails serves inventive cocktails in a relaxed, grown-up setting.

Oman: for desert sun

Oman in February offers reliable warmth without the extreme heat found later in the year. Days are ideal for coastal walks, swimming, hiking and boat trips, with evenings still comfortable outdoors. The landscape shifts quickly from beaches to mountains to desert, keeping days varied without long travel times. It feels accessible yet still relatively under the radar, making it a strong choice for travellers wanting something different without too much effort.

Jumeirah Muscat Bay occupies its own stretch of sand close to the capital, with a focus on outdoor activity, water sports and gentle adventure. Six Senses Zighy Bay sits further north in a dramatic setting between mountains and sea. Getting there is part of the experience, arriving by boat or paragliding. Villas are private and spacious, each with a pool, while the spa, dining options and beach encourage staying put.

Iceland: for northern lights

Snow-dusted scenery, otherworldly light and the possibility of northern lights give Iceland a real sense of theatre in February. Reykjavik keeps things lively with great food, music and design, while the countryside delivers waterfalls, glaciers and wide-open views that make you stop mid-sentence. It is cold, yes, but deeply invigorating, and winter adds a special edge that summer simply cannot replicate.

The Reykjavik EDITION adds a confident, urban option to the city’s hotel scene. Interiors lean modern with Icelandic materials and artwork, while the restaurant champions local ingredients. Bars draw a mixed crowd, giving the hotel real energy at night. Eleven Deplar Farm is the opposite experience, set deep in the Troll Peninsula. Formerly a farm, it now offers skiing, outdoor pursuits, a geothermal pool, a well-equipped spa and excellent food in a strikingly remote setting.