Best Places to Visit in January
Choosing the perfect January destination can feel overwhelming for some customers, but finding the ideal getaway has been made easy. By entering holiday preferences into our bespoke destination search engine, the best destinations for the season can be matched.
For those seeking inspiration, we’ve rounded up a selection of incredible January spots. New Zealand’s summer sunshine provides the perfect escape, while Dubai’s comfortably warm winter offers a mix of dazzling skylines and desert adventures. Meanwhile, Cuba’s dry season sets the stage for an immersive experience filled with vibrant culture and lively music.
| Best places to visit in January | ||
|
Destination |
Av. High Temp |
Rainy Days |
| Koh Samui | 27º | 10 |
| New Zealand | 24º | 6 |
| Oman | 25º | 1 |
| Cape Town | 29º | 3 |
| Sri Lanka | 31º | 3 |
| Riviera Maya | 27º | 6 |
| Jamaica | 28º | 12 |
| Dubai | 23º | 6 |
| Panama | 32º | 6 |
| Cuba | 27º | 7 |
Koh Samui
- Temperature: 27º
- Daylight hours: 11
- Rainy days: 10
- Flight Time: 13-15 hours
In January, Koh Samui offers a tropical retreat with warm, sun-filled days and ideal beach conditions. The golden sands of Chaweng and Lamai provide the perfect setting for relaxation, while the island’s lush jungles and serene waterfalls, such as Na Muang, invite exploration. Cultural highlights like Wat Plai Laem and the Big Buddha offer moments of tranquility, while local festivals bring a lively touch to the season. Whether indulging in fresh Thai cuisine, unwinding in a luxury resort, or setting out on a boat trip to nearby islands, Koh Samui delivers an unforgettable start to the year.
New Zealand
- Temperature: 24º
- Daylight hours: 15
- Rainy days: 6
- Flight Time: 26 hours
A trip to New Zealand is perfect during the summer, with long, sunny days and mild temperatures that make exploring the country’s diverse landscapes a breeze. From hiking the rugged terrains of Fiordland National Park to relaxing on the beautiful beaches of the North Island, there’s something for every type of traveller. This time of year is also ideal for outdoor activities like bungee jumping, kayaking, and wildlife spotting, with lush surroundings in full bloom. New Zealand’s cities, like Auckland and Wellington, come alive with festivals and local events, adding a lively touch to any adventure.
Oman
- Temperature: 25º
- Daylight hours: 11
- Rainy days: 1
- Flight Time: 7 hours
Oman is at its best when the heat is more manageable, allowing for comfortable exploration of its breathtaking landscapes. The golden dunes of the Wahiba Sands invite desert adventures, from camel trekking to dune bashing, while the fjord-like scenery of the Musandam Peninsula is perfect for a dhow cruise through turquoise waters. In the mountains of Jebel Akhdar, terraced villages and rose gardens create stunning vistas, and the coastal city of Muscat blends rich history with bustling souks and grand architecture. It’s also an excellent time to visit historic forts, wander through traditional markets, and experience Omani hospitality at its finest.
Cape Town
- Temperature: 29º
- Daylight hours: 14
- Rainy days: 3
- Flight Time: 11 hours 30 mins
Cape Town shines when the days are warm, the skies are clear, and outdoor adventures are at their best. Table Mountain offers breathtaking hikes or a scenic cable car ride, while the beaches of Camps Bay and Clifton are perfect for soaking up the sun. It’s also the ideal season for exploring the Cape Winelands, where vineyard tours and tastings take place against a backdrop of rolling hills. Along the Cape Peninsula, scenic drives lead to dramatic coastlines and encounters with the famous penguins at Boulders Beach. The city’s vibrant food and cultural scene comes alive, with open-air markets, seaside dining, and buzzing nightlife.
Sri Lanka
- Temperature: 31º
- Daylight hours: 12
- Rainy days: 3
- Flight Time: 10 hours 45 mins
Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage make it an unforgettable destination for exploration. Ancient cities like Sigiriya, with its iconic rock fortress, and Polonnaruwa, home to intricately carved ruins, transport visitors through centuries of history. A scenic train ride through the misty highlands unveils rolling tea plantations and waterfalls, while Yala National Park offers thrilling safaris with the chance to spot leopards and elephants. Galle’s colonial charm and vibrant markets contrast beautifully with the island’s golden beaches, perfect for unwinding after a day of discovery. With pleasant weather and lush scenery, it’s an ideal time to explore.
Riviera Maya
- Temperature: 27º
- Daylight hours: 11
- Rainy days: 6
- Flight Time: 10 hours 30 mins
January in Riviera Maya is an ideal time for unwinding on pristine beaches and enjoying an all-inclusive retreat. The region’s stunning coastlines, including Playa del Carmen and Tulum, are lined with soft white sands and crystal-clear waters, where sunbathing and swimming can be enjoyed. All-inclusive resorts ensure a seamless holiday experience, with gourmet dining, beachside cocktails, and a variety of activities provided—from snorkelling in cenotes to relaxing by luxurious pools. Beyond the beaches, Mayan ruins such as Chichen Itza can be explored, and day trips to Isla Cozumel offer further adventure. With warm weather and world-class amenities, a laid-back yet immersive getaway is guaranteed.
Jamaica
- Temperature: 28º
- Daylight hours: 11
- Rainy days: 12
- Flight Time: 10 hours
January brings the perfect excuse to escape to Jamaica, where sunshine, warm Caribbean waters, and a lively island vibe await. The beaches, from Negril’s Seven Mile Beach to Montego Bay’s Doctor’s Cave, are at their best, inviting lazy days by the sea or thrilling water sports. In Ocho Rios, Dunn’s River Falls offers an unforgettable climb through cascading waters, while the Blue Mountains provide scenic trails and world-renowned coffee. Kingston’s reggae culture pulses through the streets, with live music and vibrant nightlife. With island-wide celebrations and perfect conditions for outdoor adventures, it’s an ideal time to experience Jamaica’s irresistible energy.
Dubai
- Temperature: 23º
- Daylight hours: 11
- Rainy days: 6
- Flight Time: 7 hours
Golden sunshine and clear blue skies make January one of the best times to experience Dubai at its finest. With temperatures comfortably warm but not overwhelming, it’s the perfect season for exploring the city’s futuristic skyline, wandering through the historic Al Fahidi district, or enjoying a sunset dhow cruise along Dubai Creek. The world-famous shopping festival takes over, bringing incredible deals, dazzling entertainment, and fireworks displays. Out in the desert, cool evenings make for magical overnight glamping experiences beneath the stars, while the city’s beaches and rooftop lounges are alive with visitors savouring the best of winter in the UAE.
Panama
- Temperature: 32º
- Daylight hours: 12
- Rainy days: 6
- Flight Time: 12-14 hours
Panama is a fantastic destination for those eager to explore both natural beauty and rich history. The dry season makes this the perfect time to trek through the lush rainforests of Darien National Park or hike to the summit of Volcán Barú, where you can see both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. A visit to the iconic Panama Canal is a must – experience the awe of watching massive ships pass through the locks or embark on a thrilling cruise along the waterway. Beyond the Canal, Panama City’s Casco Viejo offers cobbled streets lined with colonial architecture, while the San Blas Islands invite tranquil days by the sea.
Cuba
- Temperature: 27º
- Daylight hours: 11
- Rainy days: 7
- Flight Time: 9 hours 45 mins
Cuba’s captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it an incredible place to explore. Havana’s atmospheric streets brim with colonial architecture, vintage cars, and the rhythms of live salsa spilling from colourful bars. Beyond the capital, the lush Viñales Valley offers dramatic limestone hills and tobacco farms where hand-rolled cigars are crafted using traditional methods. Trinidad’s cobbled streets and pastel-hued buildings evoke a bygone era, while Santiago de Cuba pulses with Afro-Cuban beats and revolutionary history. The white-sand beaches of Cayo Santa María and Varadero provide the perfect contrast to days spent uncovering the island’s vibrant soul.
Still Can’t Find The Perfect Place For Your Customers To Visit In January?
Struggling to help your customers decide on the best places to holiday in January? We’re here to help! Tweaking the travel dates can unlock a whole range of amazing destinations. Use the links below to explore top spots for other months of the year. Or, if you’d prefer a more tailored suggestion, check out our destination finder at the top of the page!