Looking for the best places to visit in January? Go skiing, or explore Antarctica, the Maldives, Thailand, Barbados and Abu Dhabi for fun and adventure.
January is a month of contrast. Across much of Europe, days are short and temperatures low, yet elsewhere it’s peak season for sunshine, wildlife and once in a lifetime journeys.
If you’re wondering where to travel in January, this is the time to think beyond the obvious. It’s high summer in Antarctica, dry season across parts of Southeast Asia and the Caribbean, and comfortably warm in the Arabian Gulf.
These global conditions make January one of the best months for everything from expedition cruising and reef diving to beachfront relaxation and cultural exploration.
Antarctica in January: Peak wildlife and long daylight hours
January sits at the heart of Antarctica’s short summer. Sea ice has retreated, wildlife activity is at its most dynamic and daylight can stretch close to 20 hours. Penguin chicks begin to hatch and whales are increasingly spotted feeding in nutrient rich waters.
Temperatures are relatively mild by polar standards, often hovering around freezing, which makes zodiac landings and guided walks more comfortable. It’s also one of the most reliable windows for expedition cruising along the Antarctic Peninsula.
Maldives in January: Dry season perfection
The Maldives is in its dry season in January, bringing low humidity, minimal rainfall and calm, clear seas. Visibility for snorkelling and diving is excellent, particularly around North and South Malé Atolls where you can hope to see manta rays and reef sharks.
Days are typically bright and warm, ideal for overwater villa stays and private sandbank picnics. If you’re considering where to go on holiday in January for uninterrupted Indian Ocean luxury, conditions don’t get much better than this.
Thailand in January: Sunshine across coast and countryside
January falls within Thailand’s cool, dry season, especially along the Andaman coast. Phuket, Krabi and Khao Lak enjoy sunny days, lower humidity and calm waters that are ideal for island hopping and diving in the Similan Islands.
In the north, Chiang Mai’s comfortable temperatures make temple visits and gentle trekking far more enjoyable than in hotter months. It’s one of the best places to visit in January if you’re looking for beaches, flavourful cuisine and rich culture in one well balanced trip.
Barbados in January: Reliable Caribbean warmth
Barbados enjoys dry season conditions in January, with warm trade winds, low rainfall and average temperatures around 28°C. The west coast offers calm, clear water for swimming and sailing, while the south coast brings livelier surf and vibrant nightlife.
It’s also prime time for catamaran cruises and turtle encounters just offshore. If you’re after a healthy dose of winter sun, Barbados delivers dependable warmth and an easy island rhythm.
Abu Dhabi in January: Comfortable desert sunshine
January is one of the most pleasant months to visit Abu Dhabi. Daytime temperatures usually sit in the low to mid twenties, so it’s comfortable to explore beyond the beach or pool.
Desert safaris feel far more enjoyable without intense heat, and you can visit cultural landmarks such as Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque at a relaxed pace. The cooler weather also suits golf, outdoor dining and waterfront strolls.
If you’re weighing up the best January destinations in the Gulf, Abu Dhabi offers reliable sunshine with a refined edge.
For more inspiration on travelling in January, contact your Travel Counsellor.
Where you stay in and around Kruger National Park can shape the entire safari experience, from intimate lodges inside the reserve to private game viewing in the Greater Kruger area. Each property included in this round-up offers a different take on a South African safari, whether you’re looking for authentic design, indulgent comfort, or exceptional guiding.
The rail network in Japan makes it easy to shape a trip around the kind of experience you want, rather than following a single fixed route. One day you can be in the middle of a busy food district, the next you’re watching the landscape open out into mountains or coastline. These journeys aren’t about rushing through a checklist, but about choosing routes that naturally link places together and give each stop a bit more meaning.
Finland is often linked with winter trips to Lapland, but there’s much more to discover across the country. From design-led cities to quiet lakes and coastal landscapes, it offers a different pace of travel that feels both refreshing and easy to explore. If you’re looking for a European destination that combines nature, culture, and something a little less expected, Finland is well worth considering.
Finding your match...