January can be the best or worst time to visit specific places. For example, you probably never want to visit Glacier National Park in the winter, as a majority of the park is inaccessible to visitors from November – May. However, January is the perfect time to visit places such as New Zealand, Fiji, and Arizona, which have near-ideal temperatures this time of year. Whether looking for a relaxing beach vacation or epic adventure, here are the best places to travel in January.
Best Places to Travel in January
1. New Zealand
Winter in North America is summer in New Zealand, making it the perfect time of year to visit and travel through the country. New Zealand is made up of two main islands – the North Island and the South Island. The North Island is home to the country’s largest city, Auckland, as well as beautiful coastlines. The South Island has some of the most beautiful and iconic mountains & fjords, perfect for all types of adventures. January is also the end of the Lupine bloom, where millions of purple & pink flowers bloom throughout the country.
Best place to see: Milford Sound or Mount Cook
2. Iceland
This might not be the first country that comes to mind when you think of the best places to travel in January, but there are many reasons to visit the country this time of year. Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see northern lights, and the peak month for viewing in arctic countries is November – February, making January the perfect time to visit. January is also the perfect month for visiting some of the country’s best hot springs – such as the Blue Lagoon.
Best waterfall: Skogafoss
3. St. Lucia
If you’re searching for tropical beach weather on a beautiful Caribbean island without a long flight, St. Lucia is the picture-perfect location to travel in January. The island offers a little bit of everything, from sandy pristine beaches to tower seaside mountains. You can expect warm temperatures averaging 83 degrees, perfect for lounging out at your resort or hotel.
Best resort: Jade Mountain Resort
4. Costa Rica
Costa Rica is the top destination for visitors in Central America, and once you visit the country you’ll understand why. If craving beach, jungles, and relaxation, travel to the Pacific side, as that is where the best beaches & towns are located. Visit a sloth sanctuary, explore jungle waterfalls, or find your own hidden beach along the coast.
Best town to visit: Manuel Antonio
5. Australia
Similar to New Zealand, January is a summer month for Australia. If you’re craving hot weather, beaches, and summer fun in the middle of winter, Australia is the place to be! Visit places like Sydney, the Whitsundays, and the Gold Coast for the ultimate coastal adventure. The average temperature on the Gold Coast is 84 degrees. Pack your swimsuit!
Best activity: Visit the Australia Zoo
6. Hawaii
Hawaii is beautiful to visit year-round, but January is perfect for perfect beachside days without the heat or crowds of spring break. There are four main islands of Hawaii: Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and Hawaii (big island). Oahu is home to Honolulu and the biggest cities in the state. Maui is known for its all-inclusive luxury resorts, Kauai for the Na’Pali coast and beaches, and Hawai’i for its volcanoes & lava. Pick which island is best for you, you won’t regret it!
Best resort: Koloa Landing Resort
7. Egypt
In the summer months, temperatures in Egypt often exceed 110 degrees. June, July, and August are the worst months to visit, while winter months are comfortable and ideal for exploring the country. In January, the average temperature in Cario is 67 degrees. In Aswan, the temperature will be a comfortable 74.
Best thing to see: Valley of the King or Abu Simbel
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