Where to Travel in July to Avoid Crowds: Top Ideas

Yearning for an escape from the ordinary? Discover secluded havens and untamed landscapes in our guide to underrated destinations. From the tranquil beaches of Mozambique to the charming villages of Folegandros, Greece, we unveil hidden gems across the globe. Explore the colonial charm of Trancoso, Brazil, or the rugged beauty of Utah’s Capitol Reef National Park. Seek solitude in Montana’s Badlands, or witness the Northern Lights in Coldfoot, Alaska. Dive into history at Hovenweep National Monument, or hike amidst Arizona’s stunning Superstition Mountains. Explore the unique wildlife of California’s Channel Islands or marvel at the dark skies of Great Basin National Park. Uncover your next adventure and embark on a journey off the beaten path. Read on to ignite your wanderlust and discover your perfect escape.

Important information

• Mozambique offers both safari adventures and pristine beaches, with Quirimbas National Park and Bazaruto Archipelago as highlights.
• Folegandros, a Greek island in the Cyclades, provides a tranquil escape with traditional villages and scenic hikes.
• Capitol Reef National Park in Utah features breathtaking canyons, trails, and ancient petroglyphs, ideal for solitude seekers.
• Great Basin National Park is excellent for stargazing and wilderness exploration, with minimal light pollution and diverse hiking trails.
• Channel Islands National Park off the California coast offers unique wildlife viewing and diverse ecosystems across five islands.

Underrated Destinations Off the Beaten Path

Mozambique, East Africa: Safari Experience and Natural Beauty

Escape the crowds and discover the untamed beauty of Mozambique. This East African gem offers a unique safari adventure with diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. Experience the thrill of a true African safari in Mozambique.

Santa Margherita Ligure, Italy: Coastal Charm without the Crowds

Escape the hustle and bustle and discover the enchanting Santa Margherita Ligure. This Italian coastal gem boasts picturesque views and stunning architecture. Relax by the sea and enjoy a true retreat.

Folegandros, Greece: Quiet Cyclades Island in the Aegean Sea

Folegandros, a serene Greek isle nestled in the Aegean Sea within the Cyclades, offers a tranquil escape. Unspoiled beaches and charming villages await, making it an ideal alternative to more bustling Greek islands. Seeking peace and quiet? Folegandros delivers.

Trancoso, Brazil: Discover Colonial Cities and Wilderness

Experience the magic of Trancoso, Brazil. Discover the rich history found in its colonial architecture and immerse yourself in thrilling wilderness adventures. It’s the perfect blend of culture and nature.

Quiet Destinations for Solitude Seekers

Capitol Reef National Park, Utah: Escape the Crowds

Escape the July crowds and discover the tranquility of Capitol Reef National Park in Utah. This hidden gem offers stunning geological formations and peaceful hikes, perfect for those seeking solitude. While July’s heat requires careful planning, bringing plenty of water and hiking during cooler times allows you to fully enjoy the park’s breathtaking trails. For example, you can hike early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday sun. Staying hydrated is key, so be sure to carry plenty of water with you on your hikes. Consider exploring the park’s scenic drives, such as the Capitol Reef Scenic Drive, for a comfortable way to appreciate the landscape.

Montana Badlands: Striking Landscapes and Solitude

Discover the quiet beauty of Montana’s badlands, a strikingly desolate yet unique landscape. It’s perfect for solitude and exploring unusual geological formations.

Coldfoot, Alaska: Experience Remote Spaces and Adventure

Coldfoot, Alaska, a remote village and adventurer’s haven, is a gateway to vast wilderness where travelers discover true solitude and explore untouched landscapes. The surrounding area offers a unique experience.

Hovenweep National Monument: Explore Little-Visited Archaeological Sites

Hovenweep National Monument protects remarkably preserved Ancestral Puebloan villages, built between 1200 and 1300 CE. These structures, including towers, pueblos, and cliff dwellings, offer a glimpse into the ingenuity of their inhabitants. The monument’s remote location provides a peaceful experience, perfect for solitude and a deeper connection with history.

Superstition Mountains, Arizona: Perfect Hiking Escape

Discover the serene beauty and solitude of Arizona’s Superstition Mountains. Far from the throngs of crowded national parks, these trails offer a peaceful escape with stunning vistas and diverse landscapes. Experience a true Arizona adventure.

Explore Less-Visited National Parks

Channel Islands National Park, California: Rugged Landscapes and Unique Wildlife

Channel Islands National Park, located off the Southern California coast, comprises five unique islands: Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel, and Santa Barbara. These islands boast diverse landscapes, ranging from dramatic cliffs and sea caves to pristine sandy beaches and verdant meadows. This unique ecosystem provides a haven for remarkable wildlife, such as the island fox, island scrub-jay, and California brown pelican. Visitors can explore the islands through various activities, including kayaking, hiking, and wildlife viewing, immersing themselves in the park’s serene ambiance. This secluded sanctuary offers a rejuvenating escape and an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts.

Great Basin National Park: Stargazing and Wilderness Exploration

Escape to Great Basin National Park, a stargazer’s paradise with incredibly dark skies, remote location, and high elevation. Minimal light pollution makes it perfect for breathtaking celestial views. Explore diverse landscapes with hiking trails ranging from leisurely strolls to challenging climbs. Discover ancient bristlecone pine forests and the fascinating Lehman Caves.