Superbloom: Where in the World to Catch Springtime’s Showiest Displays

From unique animals to archaeological attractions, bustling cities to rugged mountain ranges, there are countless reasons to travel the globe. And, honestly, we don’t think you need any reason at all to explore this big, beautiful world! After all, the adventure of visiting new destinations is addictive enough and one of the primary reasons we specialize in family travel.

Of course, thematic travel also holds a certain allure, especially for capturing spectacular natural events like a superbloom. Whether you wish to fly to another continent to walk among flowery fields or you’re looking to stick a little closer to home, here are some of the planet’s top spots for springtime blossom viewing.

South Africa’s Namaqualand

© Richard Brooksbank | Dreamstime

From August through October, South Africa’s Namaqualand transforms from an arid desert into an ocean of wildflowers. And each year, the blooms change, which means even locals never know precisely what they’re going to get.

One of the best ways to see the showy event is touring the Namaqualand Flower Route. During your adventure, explore thousands of plant species and colorful varieties of flowers. Experiencing Namaqua National Park and a Big 5 Safari make for the ultimate Africa family vacation.

America’s Death Valley National Park

The peak season for Death Valley National Park’s wildflower season is February through July. Of course, the number of flowers you’ll see depends on the precipitation the desert receives during the fall and winter months. Right now, experts remain uncertain what 2023 will bring. But fingers are crossed. If you’re lucky, you’ll witness the holy grail of superbloom events.

The extravagance takes place every decade or so, with great oceans of vibrant color painting the lower elevations. Check out the park’s Wildflower Seasons page for the latest updates on what the springtime sunshine will bring. And don’t forget to check out our tips for planning family national park vacations.

Mexico’s San Felipe

North America’s superbloom extravaganza often begins in San Felipe. Located in Mexico’s Baja California, San Felipe is a small town found in the Valley of the Giants. But it’s big on flowery beauty during the spring months. Depending on annual weather patterns, fields of small purple blooms burst to life, emitting a sweet fragrance.

The lavender hues are unforgettable against the background of the Sea of Cortez, where whale watching, snorkeling, and other ocean-based activities await. The best time to see the action is March before the flowers move up into the high desert. Of course, wildflowers are just the beginning when it comes to what to see and do in Baja with kids.

America’s Anza-Borrego State Park

© Garett Wood | Dreamstime

From mid-February through mid-May, California’s Anza-Borrego State Park comes to life with breathtaking blossoms. Flowers include desert lily, sand verbena, desert marigold, desert sunflower, desert five-spot, blooming cacti, Orcutt’s woody aster, and apricot mallow.

With so much abundance, you’ll scope out wildflowers during the warm weather months, even if the superbloom isn’t officially happening. But if your heart is set on seeing the real deal, you can keep tabs on California’s largest state park and what rangers expect this spring by bookmarking this page.

Chile’s Atacama Desert

The Atacama Desert in Chile is officially the driest place on earth, receiving less than one millimeter of precipitation annually. Yet, the ideal weather conditions can contribute to one of the best superblooms in the world.

Flowers deluge the Atacama roughly every five years, transforming coppery desert terrain into waves of yellow, white, and purple. All told, more than 200 species of plants call this desert home. As a result, the Atacama has earned the name Desierto Florido, which translates as “Flowering Desert.” Check out our Chile family vacation to the Atacama for more compelling travel ideas.

America’s Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve

© Mkopka | Dreamstime

Scientists agree that Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve is poised for a gaudy superbloom in spring 2023. At this point, the region has seen optimal fall and winter precipitation coupled with cold temperatures, which means the perfect storm for bountiful blooms.

California poppies are among the showiest and brightest flowers you can hope to see in the wild. Poppies typically start blooming in early March, and the season usually lasts from mid-February through May. Bookmark the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve website and check in regularly to time your trip for optimal viewing of the “Golden State” in bloom.

Best Places to See the Superbloom

Where to see a superbloom this spring? Let us help you find the best trip for your family. Enjoy one-of-a-kind experiences on your next family vacation as you chase colorful wildflowers in every hue imaginable. Along the way, enjoy one-of-a-kind accommodations that welcome families, meaningful cultural experiences, and endless kid-friendly adventures.

Ready to find out more? Let’s chat!