So you’ve bought some trip days in January and also you’re questioning the place to spend them. Whether you’re craving a winter wonderland or tropical bliss, these are 10 finest locations to go to in January world wide:
1. Montréal, Canada
Montréal is the second largest metropolis in Canada, positioned within the French-speaking province of Québec. It’s like a style of Europe with out leaving North America, because the French affect performs an necessary function within the character of the town. Some buildings even date again to the 1600s!
Besides its distinctive historical past and tradition, Montréal has a enjoyable, hip spirit, with greater than 100 festivals all year long — a lot of which fall within the month of January — plus numerous museums, tons of superior avenue artwork, and stay music galore.
Gorgeous landmarks and a thriving meals scene will be certain that you’ll have a lot to discover in between winter actions like ice skating and snowboarding via the town’s large park. Montréal is considered one of my favourite wintertime locations, and January is prime time to go to.
2. South Africa
Nicknamed “the Rainbow Nation,” South Africa is house to pleasant folks, numerous landscapes, and tons of journey. North American winter is South African summer season, so January means each good climate and low crowds, because the locals’ summer season break is often already over by then. I like to recommend road-tripping from the crimson canyons of the Karoo and the wildlife of Golden Gate Highlands National Park to the rolling inexperienced hills of the Wild Coast and the colourful metropolis of Cape Town. South Africa has a lot that’s simply ready to be explored!
3. Uganda
If you’re dreaming of gorilla trekking, there are solely three locations on the earth the place you’ll be able to: Uganda, Rwanda, and a few elements of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In Uganda, you are able to do it in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which is price a go to even for those who aren’t going for the gorillas. Learn all the pieces you want to find out about gorilla trekking in Uganda right here.
So, why January? Uganda is on the equator, so there are only a few instances of 12 months that don’t see heavy rains — however January is considered one of them. As it’s the driest month of the 12 months, it’s the perfect alternative to discover Bwindi, Akkra, or anyplace else in Uganda.
4. California Deserts
Did you recognize that 25% of the state of California is desert? January makes for the best time to discover areas like Death Valley, the Alabama Hills, Joshua Tree, and the Mojave, since a drop in temperatures within the winter signifies that they’ll really be loved in the course of the day! (Not to say: the Eastern Sierras coated in snow are an exquisite sight!)
If you’re up for an journey, observe my California deserts street journey, and also you’ll see cool rock formations just like the one pictured, wind caves, lava tubes, and a few wonderful starry skies, in addition to get pleasure from awe-inspiring hikes. Keep in thoughts, although, that even the desert can get very chilly at evening.
5. Patagonia
If you’ve seen me discuss Patagonia earlier than, it’s as a result of I lead BMTM Women’s Adventure Tours there! January would make a good time to go to, as a result of it’s proper in the course of Chilean/Argentinian summer season. Although that is excessive season, the big variety of actions accessible signifies that you’ll nonetheless be capable to take full benefit of the area, maybe probably the most beautiful in all of South America! Hike, trek, camp, and rock-climb to your coronary heart’s content material. Read the good Patagonia itinerary right here.
6. Peru
Peru is a kind of nations that often makes it to the highest of backpackers’ lists for its unbelievable surroundings, culturally wealthy cities, and unbelievable archeological websites. This South American gem is filled with journey, and it’s ready for you this January. You can count on loads of sunshine this time of 12 months, as this month kicks off the dry season. Considering you’ll wish to spend most of your time open air, exploring locations like Machu Picchu, Cusco, Huacachina, Rainbow Mountain, and the Peruvian Amazon, the solar is a welcome reward. Start planning your Peru itinerary right here.
7. Aruba
Dreaming of a tropical island paradise to flee to this winter? Look no additional than Aruba. There’s so much to like about this small island nation, however let’s begin with the picturesque seashores. From the turquoise waves of Eagle Beach to the pink namesake birds of Flamingo Beach, you’ll have your decide of the place you wish to spend your days on the sand.
January is in the course of Aruba’s dry season, and although it’s a well-liked time to go to, it’s a lot quieter than December. So for those who’re planning a solo journey this January, Aruba is a superb selection. Find out why right here. Don’t miss out on this full Aruba information both.
8. Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos
Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos every have their very own distinctive character, however collectively, the trio make for an incredible Southeast Asia journey. With January proper in the course of the dry season and the winter holidays behind you, you must have good climate, and the crowds shouldn’t be large. Spend anyplace from a number of days to a month or extra exploring the waterfalls of Thailand, the caves and mountains of Laos, and the jungle and temples of Cambodia. You’ll discover that each Laos and Cambodia are much less crowded and touristy than Thailand, however every brings one thing completely different to the desk, so that they’re all price visiting!
9. Philippines
January is the optimum time for island-hopping within the Philippines, as a result of it’s the center of dry season and there’s loads of heat sunshine. From Coron to El Nido and lots of different idyllic islands, you’ll discover a few of the bluest waters. If you’re into diving, the Philippines has superb situations this month, and it’s additionally the start of whale shark season. Start planning your Philippines itinerary right here.
10. Vietnam
Vietnam has lengthy been a backpacker’s paradise due to its cultural richness, beautiful landscapes, scrumptious meals, and low costs. Chances are, this unbelievable nation is already in your bucket listing, however have you ever thought of visiting in January?
There are a few the reason why that’s the perfect time. First of all, the climate is improbable; it’s the dry season, so you’ll be able to count on heat and sunny days with out as a lot humidity because the wet season. January can be when Vietnam’s most vital celebration occurs, the Lunar New Year or Tết Nguyên Đán. This vibrant vacation runs for a few week, with extravagant events and avenue festivals all through the nation. You’re in for a deal with if you go to in January, little doubt.
Find extra concepts on how one can spend your time in Vietnam right here.
11. Singapore
Any time of 12 months is an efficient time to drop in on Singapore. Its jaw-dropping structure and trendy facilities are a sight to see, and the meals scene is without doubt one of the finest on the earth. January is particularly superb, as a result of the town hosts the legendary Singapore Art Week. Plus, this 12 months (2023) Chinese New Year falls on January 22, that means the town will likely be in full celebration mode all month lengthy.
If you’re turned off by Singapore’s fame of being an costly vacation spot, take a look at these 10 free issues to do there. You can even discover a native’s information to Singapore right here.
12. South Island, New Zealand
January is the heights of summer season in New Zealand, making it simply the correct time to discover. If you’re dying to get open air throughout wintertime within the Northern Hemisphere, the South Island is without doubt one of the finest locations to take action. It provides some spectacular hikes, beautiful blue lakes, and a rugged shoreline match for a postcard.
Since January sees a few of the finest climate of the 12 months, be certain to plan your journey nicely upfront to keep away from value spikes. Start planning your South Island itinerary right here.
13. Oahu, Hawai’i
If winter wonderlands aren’t your jam this January, think about embarking on a tropical escape to Oahu. Since December is without doubt one of the rainiest months on the island, a January go to means you’ll be capable to see extra considerable waterfalls. Some of the perfect are Manoa, Lulumahu, and Aihualama. January can be peak browsing season on Oahu, so it’s the right time to take a surf lesson.
Perhaps one of many greatest perks of all is the decrease costs, because it’s off-season this time of 12 months, so you’ll be able to rating a deal on lodging and flights. Considering how a lot there may be to do on Oahu, these financial savings imply you’ll have extra to spend on actions.
14. Mammoth Lakes, California
Mammoth Lakes is extra than simply an idyllic snowboarding vacation spot for keen snow lovers. This space of California excessive up within the mountains has some breathtaking sights that tackle a magical essence within the winter. Snow-capped peaks, glowing bushes, and steam rising up from scorching springs create a shocking environment that’s at its finest in January.
From exploring the Hot Creek Geological Site to driving a gondola up Mammoth Mountain, there’s a lot to do in Mammoth Lakes within the wintertime. Sure, you may wish to hit the slopes, however that’s simply the tip of the iceberg right here.
15. Lake Tahoe, California
If you thought California was all about sunshine and seashores, assume once more. Lake Tahoe is a dream in January, with freshly fallen snow and loads of wintry bliss. As it’s probably the greatest locations within the US to ski, Lake Tahoe has some very good selections on the subject of resorts. One of the perfect is Heavenly Mountain Resort, which has slopes for rookies or superior skiers.
There are different stellar actions to get pleasure from, like snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and sleigh driving. If that will get you excited to go to this January, take a look at this listing of wintry actions in Lake Tahoe.
16. Nevada
There’s a lot extra to Nevada than the Las Vegas Strip. If you haven’t explored the Battle Born State, think about doing so this January. Most of Nevada is roofed in desert and lots of elements are just too scorching to get pleasure from within the hotter months, so January’s cooler temperatures make it the best time for locations like Death Valley, Red Rock Canyon State Park, and Valley of Fire State Park, all of that are a day journey from Las Vegas.
Nevada’s desert landscapes and rock formations are beautiful any time of 12 months, however in January, you will have the possibility to see them with a fragile blanket of snow, which makes for an much more spectacular sight. Consider taking a street journey via Nevada, utilizing this listing of issues to do as your information.
17. Big Bend National Park, Texas
Let’s face it: Texas doesn’t ever actually get that chilly within the winter. January is its coldest month, however temperatures not often dip under 40 levels.
The state’s Big Bend National Park is maybe probably the most underrated within the nation. Even throughout excessive season, from February to April, the crowds are sparse in comparison with extra common parks like Yosemite, Yellowstone, or the Great Smoky Mountains. Visiting Big Bend National Park in January means you’ll discover loads of solitude and people quintessentially Texan, wide-open areas. January can be prime time for stargazing in West Texas, so reap the benefits of these clear skies to absorb the unbelievable nighttime views.
18. The Bahamas
When it involves apparent island getaways, few locations come to thoughts as shortly because the Bahamas. There are greater than 700 islands and cays to select from, however my favourite is Staniel Cay. This tiny island is a part of the Exumas, a series most well-known for its swimming pigs. Not solely are you able to hang around with these light animals, however you can too swim with nurse sharks.
If that is on the prime of your listing of the place to go in January, don’t miss out on this listing of issues to do within the Bahamas so you’ll be able to amp up your itinerary.
19. The Maldives
January is the final word time to go to the Maldives, due to optimum climate situations that amplify its magnificence. At this time of 12 months, you’ll have ample alternatives to snorkel, dive, and take a look at the blue whales that migrate right here. Although you received’t be the one traveler with the brilliant concept to go to the Maldives throughout this month (it’s excessive season, in any case), the attractive climate is price it. If you’re turned off by the upper costs on lodging and flights, although, you will discover different methods to save cash in your journey to the Maldives right here.
20. Zipolite, Mexico
Home to Mexico’s solely legally nude seashore, Zipolite is without doubt one of the most unusual seashore locations within the nation. It’s additionally my favourite seashore within the state of Oaxaca, due to the large swaths of sand and completely surfable waves.
Zipolite can be probably the most laid-back coastal cities, and the hype hasn’t caught on but. Even throughout excessive season in January, it nonetheless stays comparatively quiet in comparison with different Mexican seashores. This month sees little rain, too, so you’ll be able to guess on having fun with the nice and cozy sunshine when you relax on the seashore.
Find out what else there may be to do in Zipolite right here.
21. Baja California, Mexico
If you’re dying for a heat and sunny street journey this January, look no additional than Baja California in Mexico. Known for its large expanses of soppy, sandy seashores and dramatic, rocky cliffs, Baja is a welcome escape from chilly, cloudy winter climate.
Though many vacationers follow Cabo San Lucas and La Paz, there are many different hidden gems, just like the Santa Rita scorching springs and Santiago. Since January is peak season for tourism right here, discovering these “secret” locations looks like a deal with.
Find out how one can get probably the most out of your Baja California street journey right here.
22. Dominical, Costa Rica
Choosing the finest seashore in Costa Rica isn’t any simple feat, however my favourite goes to Dominical on the Pacific coast. This chill city is correct between two uber-popular locations: Manuel Antonio and Uvita. I like the easy-breezy vibe right here and watching surfers within the distance whereas I relaxed on shore.
January is the optimum time to go to Dominical, as there’s considerable sunshine and little rain. Sure, it’s excessive season in Costa Rica this time of 12 months, however it doesn’t get as crowded in Dominical as in different, extra common seashore cities.
23. Scotland
Every January on Scotland’s Shetland Islands, 12 fire-focused festivals happen in the course of the Up Helly Aa celebration. This spectacle of fiery torches and mystical parades is nothing wanting spectacular, attracting guests from everywhere in the United Kingdom and past to bear witness to one of many longest-standing traditions within the nation. This is the best January journey for vacationers who love being immersed in a unique tradition.
24. Budapest, Hungary
There are a variety of perks to touring Europe in January: the low season signifies that costs are the bottom they’ll be all 12 months, vacationers are few and much between, and a blanket of the white stuff makes all the pieces appear like a snow globe. Budapest, particularly, makes for probably the greatest January locations due to its abundance of indoor actions. You may spend weeks on finish exploring its greater than 200 museums, in addition to castles, elaborate church buildings, and different landmarks.
If you care to enterprise outdoors, go ice skating on the large frozen lake within the metropolis park and — maybe the good exercise on this listing — benefit from the nice variety of thermal baths! Even although temperatures will likely be within the 30s Fahrenheit with a number of clouds, you received’t see a lot rain and snow, and the Old World allure of this stunning metropolis is nicely price carrying an enormous coat for!
25. Finnish Lapland
The area of Lapland within the northernmost a part of Finland is maybe the closest you could possibly ever get to a winter wonderland. Not solely does the beautiful snowy panorama appear like a scene out of a Hallmark Christmas film, it permits for some distinctive adventures, like snowmobiling, dogsledding, and even a experience in a reindeer-drawn carriage. January is the right time of 12 months to remain in an ice resort, check out a sauna, and search for the northern lights in Lapland!
26. Germany
Although January is the coldest, darkest month of the 12 months all through Germany, it’s nonetheless a improbable time to go to. The Christmas season has handed, so in January you’ll be able to snag a deal on lodging, because it’s the off-season for tourism. The nation additionally has a magical high quality within the winter, with snow-dusted castles and glittering icy forests. It’s additionally an incredible probability to go snowboarding or snowboarding on the Zugspitze, Belchen, and Harz Mountains.
Find extra concepts for how one can have an epic winter journey in Germany right here. Staying in Berlin? Find the finest winter actions in Berlin right here.
27. The Dolomites, Italy
Looking for a European ski paradise? You’ll discover it within the Dolomites. Though not as common because the close by Swiss Alps, this vary is a favourite amongst powder fanatics due to the optimum snowboarding and snowboarding situations in the course of the month of January, in addition to the jaw-dropping surroundings.
To get probably the most out of your journey, I recommend beginning your journey in Venice and taking the extremely scenic Great Dolomites Road to get there. You can select from dozens of wonderful ski resorts, with a collective whole of round 1,200 kilometers of runs. One of the top-rated resorts is Alta Badia, which is appropriate for skiers and snowboarders of all ranges.
28. Park City, Utah
If you’re in any respect aware of Park City, it’s most likely since you’ve heard that it’s Ski and Snowboard Central. Well, the rumors are true: Park City makes a improbable vacation spot for winter sports activities. That’s not all this cool mountain city has to supply, although: from a bustling foods and drinks scene to a quaint downtown with an abundance of retailers and galleries, it’s onerous to get bored right here.
Perhaps probably the most distinctive factor to do is take a look at Utah Olympic Park, house to the 2002 Winter Olympics. There, you’ll be able to go bobsledding at greater than 70 miles per hour and even experience a tube down one of many ski jumps! Now that’s an journey you’ll be able to’t have anyplace else, which is why Park City is without doubt one of the finest locations in January.
If you wish to develop your journey, think about making it a cease on an extended street journey via Utah. From the crimson rock arches close to Moab to the hoodoos in Bryce Canyon, you’re positive to have an epic journey.
29. Sydney, Australia
If you wish to witness probably the most epic New Year’s celebrations on the earth, head to Sydney, Australia. Aussies are literally among the many first to ring within the new 12 months due to the nation’s place on the globe, which suggests celebrating right here is further particular. Not solely that, however it’s summertime Down Under, that means you’ll get to benefit from the fireworks show with out shivering within the chilly, such as you may within the Northern Hemisphere.
30. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
As probably the most lavish locations on the earth, Dubai is a superb decide for those who’re searching for luxurious this January. Since this desert oasis is heat one year of the 12 months, why not get pleasure from a dose of warmth and sunshine? Many vacationers love Dubai for its impeccable shows of recent structure, world-class museums and galleries, and considerable meals and nightlife scene.
If you’re questioning if Dubai is appropriate for a solo journey this January, take a look at this information for feminine vacationers. You can even discover the finest issues to do in Dubai right here.
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What locations are in your listing of the perfect locations to go to in January?