3. Rwanda
Do you dream of trekking with the famous mountain gorillas of East Africa? Make it happen with a trip to Rwanda this June–the start of the landlocked country’s long dry season. Low rainfall makes the hiking conditions quite a bit easier than at other times of year. Plus, you’ll face a much lower risk of malaria.
Humans share all but about one percent of their DNA with gorillas. You’ll feel an intense connection to these gentle giants once you get up close to the mountain gorillas at Volcanoes National Park – the top tourist attraction in Rwanda. It has about 600 gorillas, of which 18 families have been habituated to people. To see them, you’ll need to plunk down $1,500 on one of the few daily trekking permits. Then, you’ll connect with a guide who will take you on a four- to eight-hour hike through bamboo forests and swamps to spend a precious hour with the gorillas.
4. Acadia National Park, Maine
July and August may draw more visitors to Acadia National Park, but June is regarded as the best time of year for in-the-know travelers to explore this magnificent part of Maine. This month brings about absolutely perfect hiking weather: highs around 71 degrees Fahrenheit, lows dropping to around 50 degrees Fahrenheit, and little rain. It gives tourists the chance to see the emerald-green forests and cobalt-blue waters at their very best.
If you’re up for a challenge, plan to climb the park’s tallest peak, Cadillac Mountain. The strenuous South Ridge Trail is about seven miles round trip, and offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, Bar Harbor, and small clusters of islands. Start early to get there for sunrise, or consider heading out in the late afternoon for an awesome sunset vista.
Another dramatic spot to see in Acadia National Park is Thunder Hole. An underwater cave contains a pocket of air that collides with incoming waves, creating a boisterous roar. Water shoots high into the sky, creating a dazzling sight.
