Introduction to October Walking Holidays
Whether you enjoy coastal walking or mountain hiking, October is a lovely time of year to go abroad. Whether you want to explore coastal paths, enjoy sea views, discover hidden coves or traverse rolling hills, trek to the highest peak and enjoy panoramic views, we've got the walking trip for you.
As the UK sees shorter days and frost creeping in, Southern Europe’s coast is pleasantly warm whilst snow has yet to fall on mountain peaks. Asia is another popular option in October, because it’s shoulder season with mild temperatures in hiking meccas such as the Himalayas.
With the non-stop pace of summer behind us and the festive season still a way off, October is the perfect opportunity to pause, reset, and enjoy a well-timed escape before the end of year rush.
Why's October a great time to go on a walking holiday?
- Pleasant weather
- Fewer crowds
- Beautiful autumn scenery
Popular October Walking Holiday Destinations
Crete's Western Villages
October is the perfect time to explore western Crete on foot at your own pace, with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, revealing the island’s raw beauty in all its glory. This self-guided walking holiday takes you through some of the island’s most stunning landscapes: dramatic gorges like Samaria, Imbros, and Anydri, fertile olive groves, across rugged mountain trails, and into charming remote villages where time seems to slow down.
Along the scenic trails, you have the opportunity to immerse yourself in unspoilt nature, experiencing the tranquility and untouched environments that make Crete unique. You’ll be rewarded with sweeping panoramic views across the Mediterranean Sea, the warm hospitality of local tavernas, and glimpses of Crete’s rich history carved into ancient ruins and timeless landscapes.
One of the highlights is Elafonisi Island, famed for its soft pink sands and crystal-clear waters - a tempting reward after a scenic coastal hike. Trails vary in terrain, from gentle walks on natural paths and gravel tracks to sections of loose rock, offering both challenge and adventure to seasoned hikers. With every step, Crete’s captivating blend of natural wonder and cultural heritage comes alive, making October an unforgettable month to immerse yourself in this island’s beauty.
Why Visit in October?
Autumn provides temperate daytime temperatures, cooler evenings and comfortable walking conditions. An added benefit is that you can also avoid the summer crowds!
Greece is famous for its culinary delights, and there are two regional festivities during October that you may want to incorporate as part of your holiday. Every third Sunday of October, the Chestnut Festival in Elos near Kissamos offers tastings, live music, traditional folk dancing, traditional dress and competitions. October also coincides with kazani, grape-distilling parties! As growers harvest their crops, you can attend parties at tavernas to learn more about the process and sample homegrown raki - although be warned, this isn't for the faint-hearted!
Thailand & Laos Discovery
This immersive walking holiday through northern Thailand and Laos offers a rare opportunity to explore the picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Indochina with like-minded people and maybe even make new friends. As you trek through misty mountains, vibrant forests, and rural villages, you’ll meet the hill tribe communities of the region, including the Palong people of Myanmar, known for their striking red garments. Each day brings a new adventure; whether it’s wandering through buzzing Thai markets, seeing diverse wildlife, hiking to hidden caves, or soaking in spectacular views from quiet mountain trails.
Crossing into Laos, the journey continues with a scenic longboat ride down the Mekong River and a peaceful Shompoo Cruise, unveiling more of the region’s natural beauty. You wander through traditional villages of the Khmu and Hmong tribes, visit the sacred Pak Ou Caves filled with ancient Buddha statues, and marvel at the turquoise waters of Kuang Si Waterfall. With its perfect mix of cultural encounters and stunning scenery, this multi-country trek is an unforgettable way to discover the heart and soul of northern Thailand and Laos, connecting deeply with the local culture and scenery. Similar to many regions in Europe where October brings fewer tourists and a more peaceful walking experience, this trip offers tranquility and immersion.
Why Visit in October?
With lower humidity, the cooler temperatures and reduced rainfall make October the ideal time to travel.
Each full moon of the eleventh lunar month sees devout Buddhists celebrate Awk Phansa which marks the end of Buddhist lent. Naga fireballs are perhaps a highlight for visitors, as large flames float high in the sky. This spectacle can be witnessed in Chiang Mai and along the Mekong River in Laos, and accommodation can be booked up far in advance, so we recommend securing your space early.
Nepal: Annapurna Sanctuary Lodge Trek
October is one of the best times to experience the magic of the Himalayas, thanks to the clear and dry weather that provides stunning panoramas throughout the journey. This unforgettable trek to the Annapurna Sanctuary is especially popular among walkers in October, and offers a perfect introduction to high-altitude hiking. Widely celebrated as one of the more accessible yet awe-inspiring walking routes in Nepal, this journey takes you through charming villages, lush terraced rice fields, and vibrant rhododendron and oak forests, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Annapurna range. With crisp autumn air and clear skies, each sunrise reveals towering peaks in stunning clarity, while star-filled nights add a touch of wonder to your time on the trail.
As you follow the path up the Modi Khola River, the landscapes shift from subtropical forests to tranquil bamboo groves, leading you to the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary - a natural amphitheatre surrounded by snowcapped giants. Known as the “Throne Room of the Mountain Gods”, this sacred space offers a powerful and humbling encounter with the Himalayas. With its striking beauty and spiritual atmosphere, October’s conditions make this trek a truly unforgettable walking holiday for mountain lovers, walkers, and adventurers alike.
Why Visit in October?
Crystal clear mornings, mild daytime temperatures and crisp evenings make for perfect trekking conditions at altitude, so that you can concentrate on the stunning views.
Other Walking Tour Options in October
This isn’t all we offer in October! There's a wide variety of walking tours available, whether you want to stay closer to home or browse our walking holiday destinations in Africa, Asia and the Americas.
Europe walking destinations in October:
- Albania
- Austria
- Azores
- Camino de Santiago
- Canary Islands
- Corfu
- Corsica
- Croatia
- Estonia
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Italy
- Latvia & Lithuania
- Madeira
- Malta
- Montenegro
- Portugal
- Sardinia
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Via Francigena
African walking destinations in October:
Americas walking destinations in October:
Asia walking destinations in October:
What to pack for an October walking holiday
Our expert team can provide you with recommendations on what to pack per destination, based on the season that you're travelling. Remember that packing layers is essential due to variable autumn weather. Waterproof clothing is also important to stay comfortable during your October walks in case of any rain showers, and we always recommend sturdy walking boots so that you're prepared for all terrain.
To start planning your perfect holiday, contact our team to get ready for your next adventure or browse all our walking holidays in October and in autumn.
