15 Best Places to Travel in January

I’ve always thought January gets a bad rap. Sure, the holidays are over and the credit card bill just arrived, but here’s the thing: January is actually one of the best months to travel. If you decied to travel in January, you’ll find fewer crowds, better deals, and destinations at their absolute peak.

You might be craving a warm beach to thaw out from winter, or you want to lean into the cold with epic skiing and northern lights. January delivers both. These 15 destinations span every travel style and budget, ranging from luxury overwater bungalows to rugged Patagonian trails.

1. Tulum, Mexico

Tulum hits differently in January. The weather is perfect: low 80s, minimal humidity, and almost no rain. You get that dreamy Caribbean vibe without the sweltering heat or hurricane season anxiety.

The beachfront hotel zone is where you want to be. I’m talking about waking up to turquoise water and spending your morning in a beach club before anyone else arrives.

Top Tulum Hotel picks by vibe:

Most of these hotels have their own beach clubs, so you can lounge without fighting for space.

Hotel	Vibe	Price Range
Azulik	Eco-luxury, no electricity, treehouse vibes	$$$$
Nomade	Bohemian wellness retreat, great for solo travelers	$$$
Jashita Hotel	Intimate boutique, adults-only	$$$
Ahau Tulum	Budget-friendly beachfront, social atmosphere	$$

The Tulum ruins are literally perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean. Get there right when they open at 8 am to beat the tour buses. The site is small, so you can explore it in about an hour.

But don’t stop there. Coba is 45 minutes inland and way less crowded. You can actually climb the tallest pyramid in the Yucatan: 120 steps straight up. The view at the top is worth every burning quad muscle.

Cenote swimming

Cenotes are underground sinkholes filled with crystal-clear freshwater, and the Tulum area has some of the best.

Gran Cenote is the most popular for a reason. It’s stunning and great for snorkeling. Dos Ojos is perfect if you want to swim through connected caverns.

“Cenotes were sacred to the Mayan people, considered portals to the underworld. Swimming in them feels both peaceful and otherworldly.” — Local Tulum guide

For something more off-the-beaten-path, try Cenote Calavera. It’s a small opening where you jump in, and the tourist crowds stay away.

2. Park City, Utah

January in Park City means world-class skiing, film festival buzz, and that crisp mountain air that makes you feel alive. It’s only 35 minutes from Salt Lake City airport, which makes it surprisingly accessible.

Sundance runs mid to late January, and it completely transforms Park City. Even if you’re not a film industry insider, you can snag tickets to screenings and panel discussions. The energy on Main Street is electric with impromptu celebrity sightings, pop-up events, and parties spilling out of venues.

Best ski resorts in Park City

Park City Mountain Resort and Deer Valley are your two main options, and they’re both excellent. Park City Mountain is massive; it’s the largest ski resort in the US with terrain for every skill level. Deer Valley is more upscale and skier-only, so it’s less crowded and immaculately groomed.

• Park City Mountain: 7,300+ acres, night skiing, more budget-friendly
• Deer Valley: Luxury experience, exceptional service, no snowboarders
• Canyons Village: Connects to Park City Mountain, great for intermediates

January snow conditions are typically fantastic. You’re right in the heart of the season.

3. Dubai, UAE

Dubai in January is a completely different beast from summer Dubai. The temperature hovers around 75°F, which means you can actually enjoy being outside without melting.

Dubai Shopping Festival highlights

The Dubai Shopping Festival takes over the entire city in January. We’re talking massive discounts at Dubai Mall, Gold Souk, and every high-end boutique you can imagine. The deals are real. I’ve seen designer bags at 50% off.

But it goes beyond shopping. There are fireworks every night, concerts, raffle drawings with cars and gold bars as prizes, and food festivals. It’s overwhelming in the best way.

Best luxury hotels in Downtown Dubai

Downtown Dubai is where you want to base yourself. You’re walking distance away from Dubai Mall, the Burj Khalifa, and the fountain shows.

Armani Hotel	Inside Burj Khalifa, minimalist luxury
Address Downtown	Balconies overlooking the fountains
Rove Downtown	Boutique option, younger vibe, better prices
The Palace Downtown	Arabian architecture, views of Burj Khalifa and fountains
Vida Downtown	Modern design, rooftop pool, connected to Dubai Mall
Manzil Downtown	Stylish interiors, walking distance to Souk Al Bahar
Taj Dubai	Indian hospitality, spa, near DIFC financial district
SLS Dubai	Contemporary luxury, multiple dining venues, lively atmosphere

The fountain shows happen every 30 minutes in the evening, and they’re free. Watching them repeatedly never gets old if you have a hotel balcony view.

4. Patagonia, Argentina

January is summer in Patagonia, which means long daylight hours and the best hiking conditions of the year. This region is for adventurers who want dramatic landscapes and serious trail time.

El Chaltén is known as Argentina’s trekking capital, and it delivers. The trails are well-marked and accessible without a guide. Laguna de los Tres is the iconic hike: 8 hours round trip with a payoff view of Mount Fitz Roy that’ll make you forget your burning calves.

For something shorter, try Laguna Torre (6 hours) or Laguna Capri (2 hours). All these trails start right in town, so no driving is required.

Perito Moreno Glacier

Perito Moreno is one of the few glaciers in the world that’s actually advancing rather than retreating. You can walk on platforms that get you incredibly close to the ice wall, and every few minutes you’ll hear thunderous cracks as chunks calve off into the water below.

Take the boat tour that brings you right up to the glacier face. Ice trekking tours are also available if you want to actually walk on the glacier with crampons.

Lodging options in El Calafate

El Calafate is your base for visiting Perito Moreno Glacier. The town has options spanning from hostels to luxury lodges.

• Eolo: High-end estancia (ranch) with all-inclusive rates and horseback riding
• Xelena Hotel & Suites: Lakefront location with modern design
• Design Suites Calafate: Modern architecture, lake views, heated indoor pool
• Esplendor El Calafate: Boutique hotel with spa, walking distance to town center
• Los Cauquenes Resort: Upscale lakefront property, Patagonian cuisine restaurant
• Posada Los Alamos: Mid-range option, charming gardens, helpful staff
• Hostería Kau Yatun: Cozy inn, personalized service, quiet location
• America del Sur: Budget-friendly hostel with kitchen access

Book ahead for January since it’s the peak summer season down there.

5. Maldives

The Maldives in January is pure magic. Clear skies, calm seas, and visibility for diving that can reach 100 feet. It’s pricey, but if you’re going to splurge anywhere, this is it.

Best overwater bungalows in the Maldives

Overwater bungalows are the whole point of the Maldives. You want direct access to the ocean, glass floor panels to watch fish swim below your room, and an outdoor shower under the stars.

Most resorts are all-inclusive, which actually makes budgeting easier. Seaplane transfers depart directly from Malé airport.

You don’t need to be a certified diver to see incredible marine life here. House reefs at most resorts have manta rays, reef sharks, sea turtles, and tropical fish right off the dock.

For divers, the South Ari Atoll is famous for whale shark sightings. Fish Head (Mushimasmingili Thila) is one of the world’s top dive sites for encountering sharks.

6. Marrakech, Morocco

January in Marrakech means pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists clogging the souks. You’ll need a light jacket for evenings, but days are perfect for exploring.

Stay in a riad within the medina walls. These traditional Moroccan houses are built around interior courtyards, and they’re oases of calm amid the chaos of the souks. Many have rooftop terraces where you can have breakfast with views of the city.

• Riad Yasmine: Boutique feel, excellent breakfast, helpful staff
• La Sultana: Luxury option with a spa and pool
• Riad BE: Modern design, great for younger travelers
• Riad Kniza: Family-run, antique furnishings, authentic Moroccan hospitality
• El Fenn: Art-filled interiors, multiple terraces, celebrity favorite
• Les Jardins de la Medina: Larger property with gardens and swimming pool
• Riad Tarabel: Intimate five-room riad, personalized service
• Dar Darma: Budget-friendly, rooftop views, social atmosphere

The narrow medina streets are confusing, so don’t stress about getting lost. It’s part of the experience, and locals are usually happy to point you in the right direction.

The Atlas Mountains are less than an hour away, and they feel like a different world. Imlil village is the gateway to Mount Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak. You don’t have to summit to enjoy the area. Just walking through Berber villages and having mint tea with locals is worth the trip.

7. Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown in January is summer adventure heaven. The town sits on Lake Wakatipu with the Remarkables mountain range as a backdrop, and it’s basically an adult playground for outdoor activities.

Queenstown calls itself the adventure capital of the world, and the claim holds up. You can do everything here.

Milford Sound is a fjord that Rudyard Kipling called the eighth wonder of the world, and it lives up to the hype. The drive takes about 4 hours, but the scenery is so stunning that you’ll want to stop constantly.

Book a cruise once you’re there. It’s the only way to really see the fjord. Keep your eyes out for dolphins, seals, and penguins. The waterfalls are incredible, especially after rain.

8. Phuket, Thailand

Phuket in January means dry season, calm seas, and perfect beach weather. It’s one of the most affordable beach destinations on this list, and the food scene alone is worth the flight.

Phuket has dozens of beaches, each with its own vibe. Skip the overcrowded Patong unless you want nonstop nightlife.

• Kata Beach: Great for swimming and surfing, family-friendly
• Freedom Beach: Secluded, accessible only by boat
• Nai Harn Beach: Local favorite, less commercial
• Kamala Beach: Quieter than Patong, good restaurants nearby

Bring reef-safe sunscreen. The coral reefs here need protecting.

Island hopping

The Phi Phi Islands are the most famous day trip, but they’re also the most crowded. Maya Bay (seen in “The Beach”) is beautiful, but expect tour boats and Instagram crowds.

Consider these alternatives instead:

Island	Distance from Phuket	What’s special
James Bond Island	1.5 hours	Dramatic limestone karsts
Similan Islands	2 hours	Best snorkeling, pristine
Koh Yao Noi	1 hour	Quiet, authentic Thai island life

The Similan Islands require a liveaboard boat or very early morning departure, but the underwater visibility is unmatched.

Phuket night markets and street food

Phuket’s food scene is incredible and cheap. Phuket Old Town Weekend Market has the best variety: everything, including pad thai, fresh seafood, and mango sticky rice.

Try these local specialties:

• Moo hong (braised pork belly)
• Khanom jeen (rice noodles with curry)
• Fresh coconut ice cream in the shell

Bangla Road in Patong is where nightlife happens, but it’s touristy. For a more authentic experience, stick to the old town.

9. Iceland (Reykjavik Base)

Iceland in January is dark, cold, and absolutely stunning. You’re there for northern lights, winter landscapes, and the kind of adventure that requires thermal layers and waterproof everything.

January gives you long, dark nights perfect for aurora hunting. You need clear skies, which is never guaranteed in Iceland, but when it happens, it’s breathtaking.

The best spots to see Northern Lights near Reykjavik:

• Grotta Lighthouse: Easy access inside the city
• Thingvellir National Park: Dark sky area, also on the Golden Circle
• Seltjarnarnes Peninsula: Local favorite, less crowded

Reykjavik must-eat food

Icelandic food is having a moment, and Reykjavik has restaurants that range across traditional to cutting-edge Nordic cuisine.

Don’t miss:

• Hot dogs at Bæjarins Beztu: Locals swear by them
• Lamb soup at any café: Perfect winter comfort food
• Skyr: Icelandic yogurt, available everywhere
• Fresh fish: Try the fish and chips at Reykjavik Fish Restaurant

Coffee culture is huge here. Stop at Reykjavik Roasters for the best brew in the city.

10. Jaipur, India

January is the best month to visit Jaipur. The weather is cool and dry, perfect for exploring forts and palaces without melting. The city is vibrant, chaotic, and colorful in the best way.

Jaipur is called the Pink City because the old city buildings are painted terracotta pink. The palace architecture here is jaw-dropping.

Must-see palaces:

• City Palace: Still home to the royal family, stunning courtyards
• Hawa Mahal: The iconic “Palace of Winds” with 953 windows
• Jal Mahal: Water palace in the middle of Man Sagar Lake

Best heritage hotels in Pink City

Heritage hotels in Jaipur are converted palaces and havelis (mansions). Staying in one place is an experience in itself.

Rambagh Palace	Royal residence	Ultimate luxury, Taj property
Samode Haveli	Noble family mansion	Intimate, traditional
Alsisar Haveli	19th-century haveli	More affordable, still stunning
Raj Palace	18th-century palace	Opulent suites, museum-like interiors
Shahpura House	Noble family estate	Boutique luxury, family-run hospitality
Diggi Palace	Royal guesthouse	Mid-range, gardens, heritage charm
Narain Niwas Palace	Maharaja’s residence	Colonial architecture, peacocks roaming grounds
Samode Palace	Hilltop fortress palace

Even if you don’t stay there, book high tea at Rambagh Palace. The grounds and gardens are beautiful.

Amber Fort sits on a hilltop 20 minutes outside Jaipur, and it’s massive. The mirror-encrusted Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) is stunning. Thousands of tiny mirrors cover the walls and ceiling.

You can take an elephant ride up to the fort, but I’d skip it for ethical reasons. Walk up or take a jeep instead. The fort is less crowded in the early morning.

11. Banff, Canada

Banff in January is a winter wonderland. The town sits in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, and everything is covered in snow. It’s cold, but the scenery is worth layering up.

Lake Louise freezes over in winter, turning into a skating rink surrounded by mountains and the Fairmont Chateau. It’s one of the most photographed spots in Canada for good reason.

The Lake Louise Ski Resort is also here, with some of the best powder skiing in North America.

Best mountain lodges in Banff

Staying in Banff gives you access to the national park and the town’s restaurants and shops. Most lodges have fireplaces and mountain views.

• Fairmont Banff Springs: Castle-like hotel, historic and luxurious
• Moose Hotel & Suites: Modern, rooftop hot tubs, more affordable
• HI Banff Alpine Centre: Hostel option with private rooms available
• Rimrock Resort Hotel: Perched on Sulphur Mountain, stunning valley views
• Buffalo Mountain Lodge: Rustic log cabins, secluded forest setting
• Elk + Avenue Hotel: Boutique property, central location, modern alpine design
• Mount Royal Hotel: Heritage charm, downtown location, renovated rooms
• Banff Aspen Lodge: Mid-range, outdoor hot tub, close to gondola

Book everything well in advance for January. Banff is popular year-round.

Banff is home to elk, bighorn sheep, wolves, and grizzly bears (though bears are hibernating in January). You’ll most likely see elk wandering around the town of Banff itself. They’re everywhere.

12. Zanzibar, Tanzania

Zanzibar in January means white sand beaches, turquoise water, and spice-scented air. It’s the perfect add-on if you’re doing a safari in Tanzania or works as a standalone beach escape.

Nungwi is on the northern tip of the island and has some of the best beaches and resorts. The water here is swimmable at all tides, unlike the East Coast.

January is dry season, so you’ll have sunny beach days and calm seas perfect for water sports.

Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site with winding alleys, carved wooden doors, and centuries of Swahili, Arab, Persian, and European influence. Spend at least a day exploring before heading to the beaches.

Must-see spots:

• Forodhani Gardens night food market
• House of Wonders (Beit-al-Ajaib)
• Old Fort and its amphitheater
• Darajani Market for spices

Book a spice tour while you’re here. Zanzibar’s nickname is Spice Island for a reason.

The coral reefs around Zanzibar are stunning. Mnemba Atoll, off the northeast coast, is the best spot for snorkeling and diving. You’ll see sea turtles, dolphins, tropical fish, and sometimes whale sharks.

Chumbe Island is a marine sanctuary with pristine reefs and eco-lodges. Day trips include guided snorkeling and environmental education.

13. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo in January means crisp winter air, illuminations, and fewer tourists than cherry blossom season. The city is massive, but the train system makes everything accessible.

Tokyo goes all-out with winter light displays running through February. The illuminations are romantic, family-friendly, and free. Best illumination spots:

Tokyo Midtown	Starlight Garden	November through late February
Shibuya Blue Cave	Blue LED tunnel	November through December
Yomiuri Land	Jewellumination	October through February
Roppongi Hills	Winter lights	November through February

Pair the illuminations with a warm bowl of ramen for a full winter Tokyo experience afterward.

Best Tokyo neighborhoods for shopping

Tokyo shopping is next-level, and each neighborhood has its own specialty.

• Harajuku: Street fashion, vintage stores, Takeshita Street chaos
• Shibuya: Department stores, youth fashion, iconic crossing
• Ginza: Luxury brands, flagship stores, upscale shopping
• Nakameguro: Boutique shops, cafes, more relaxed vibe

Don Quijote (known as “Donki”) is a discount store that’s an experience itself. Six floors of organized chaos selling everything, including snacks, electronics, and costumes.

Day trip to Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji is about 2 hours away, and January gives you clear viewing conditions. You can’t climb the mountain in winter (it’s closed), but you can view it beautifully.

Best Mount Fuji viewing locations:

• Lake Kawaguchi for reflection photos
• Hakone for hot springs with Fuji views
• Chureito Pagoda for the iconic pagoda-and-Fuji shot

Book a guided tour to Mount Fuji or take the train and bus yourself. The journey is easy and well-signposted.

14. Sedona, Arizona

Sedona in January means mild temperatures, clear blue skies, and red rocks that glow in the winter light. It’s a small town with big natural beauty and a strong spiritual community.

Sedona’s hiking is accessible for all levels, and the red sandstone formations are stunning at every angle.

Top Red Rock trails by difficulty

• Devil’s Bridge (moderate, 4 miles): Most famous natural arch
• Cathedral Rock (hard, 1.5 miles): Steep scramble, incredible views
• Bell Rock (easy, 3.6 miles): Loop trail, family-friendly
• West Fork Trail (easy, 7 miles): Creek crossings, shaded canyon

January can be cool in the mornings, so bring layers. Afternoon temperatures typically range from the 50s to the 60s.

Vortex meditation sites in Sedona

Sedona is known for energy vortexes, spots where people claim to feel heightened spiritual energy. You can believe in that or not; these sites are peaceful and beautiful regardless.

1. Airport Mesa (easiest access, sunset views)
2. Cathedral Rock (most powerful according to believers)
3. Bell Rock (popular for meditation)
4. Boynton Canyon (remote, quieter)

Respect the land and other visitors. These are sacred sites to some people.

15. Costa Rica (Multiple Regions)

Costa Rica in January is dry season on the Pacific side, which means perfect beach weather and excellent wildlife viewing. The country is small enough to visit multiple regions in one trip.

Manuel Antonio National Park combines pristine beaches with rainforest trails. It’s one of the smallest national parks in Costa Rica, but it has incredible biodiversity.

You’ll see sloths, monkeys, iguanas, and tropical birds without even trying. The beaches inside the park are gorgeous: white sand and calm water perfect for swimming.

Arenal Volcano hot springs

Arenal Volcano dominates the landscape, and the hot springs at its base are heated by volcanic activity. You can soak in thermal pools surrounded by rainforest.

Book evening passes to watch the stars while soaking. The volcano is usually shrouded in clouds, but you might get lucky with a clear view.

Best eco-lodges across Costa Rica

Costa Rica pioneered eco-tourism, and the eco-lodges here are some of the best in the world.

• Lapa Rios (Osa Peninsula): Luxury jungle lodge, bungalows with ocean views
• Pacuare Lodge (Turrialba): Only accessible by raft, all-inclusive adventure
• Finca Rosa Blanca (Central Valley): Organic coffee plantation, unique architecture
• Nayara Gardens (Arenal): Luxury with private hot springs in suites
• Origins Lodge (Upala): Remote rainforest location, wildlife corridors, sustainability focus
• Rancho Pacifico (Uvita): Cliffside views, infinity pool overlooking jungle and ocean
• El Silencio Lodge (Central Highlands): Cloud forest setting, farm-to-table dining
• Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge (Golfo Dulce): Off-grid, boat access only, yoga platform
• Tiskita Jungle Lodge (Southern Pacific): Working fruit farm, birdwatching paradise

Most eco-lodges include meals, guided hikes, and transportation in their rates.

Make January Your Month to Travel

January offers something for everyone. You might be craving warmth on a Maldivian beach, adventure in Patagonia’s mountains, or cultural immersion in Marrakech’s souks. These 15 destinations prove that January is a month to explore while crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

The best part? You’re traveling during each destination’s sweet spot. Dry seasons, perfect snow conditions, festival seasons, and wildlife migrations all align in January. You’re traveling smart, not compromising on anything.