best time to travel january header
Brazil

Best time to travel in January: 30 warm weather destinations

3 Januari 2024

January is an excellent month to travel. Not only because you can escape the cold, gray weather for a while, but also because tickets are often cheaper. Moreover, many destinations aren't as busy in January, allowing you to enjoy your holiday in peace. Enjoy the sun in South America, a tour of Asia, a safari in Africa... the possibilities are endless. Our experts have compiled a list of countries where the best time to travel is in January. Using our list, choosing your dream destination is easy!

Follow @yourlbb on Instagram

**Due to COVID-19, souvenirs are now available in bulk ❄️ Note to self: always keep room in your suitcase for 'souvenirs'. During my ski trip to Méribel, I popped into the local pharmacy just before leaving, and these are the beauty products I took home. I've tested them extensively and they're all more than YLBB-approved. Save them for your next trip to France (or your online beauty store). Which souvenirs always make it back in your suitcase? I'm curious! ✖️✖️✖️ 🖊️ @anne_de_buck PS: Follow @yourlbb for tons of tips to make the most of your free time — from travel tips to travel guides and more.
𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗻𝗱𝘂𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺 🫕 Thinking back of amazing days in the snow, I'm in the mood for cheese fondue! I call it comfort food at its finest, and I also love making fresh cheese fondue at home this winter (sometimes even better than eating out ✌🏼☺️). 𝗠𝘆 𝗳𝗮𝘃𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗻𝗱𝘂𝗲 𝘀𝗽𝗼𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺: 📍 @badhuis.amsterdam (East) Every Thursday is fondue night. For €26 pp you dig into a pot of cheese fondue with unlimited sourdough bread, crudités and vegetables. Good vibes included! 📍 @smelt.amsterdam (City Centre) Always a good idea. The cheeses come from De Kaaskamer, so yes: this is next level. Perfect if you love to mix & match. 📍 @cafe_bern (City Centre) Here they serve the best Classic Gruyère cheese fondue. No fuss, just great flavour. This is cheese fondue exactly how it's meant to be. 𝗡𝗲𝘅𝘁-𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗻𝗱𝘂𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗻𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻: 📍 @fromagerie_kef (City Centre, North & East) Amsterdam's go-to cheese specialist. From fondue cheeses to perfect wine pairings — and yes, tasting is encouraged. 📍 @fromagerielamuse (South) Cheese fondue kits for at home plus several recipes to make yourself. Which one will you try first? 📍 @dekaaskameramsterdam (City Centre) Swiss fondue, Dutch cheese fondue or ready-made options — you'll always leave with everything you need for the ultimate cozy night in. On 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸.𝗺𝗲 you'll find the complete guide with 12+ cheese fondue spots in Amsterdam. Let's make a list like this for the rest of The Netherlands too! What's your favorite spot? 🧀 ✖️✖️✖️ 🖊️ @anne_de_buck Follow @yourlbb & @yourlbb.amsterdam for more Amsterdam restaurant guides, travel guides & the best things to do on the weekends. #cheesefondue #amsterdam #winter

Best time to travel in January: 30 warm weather destinations

In this comprehensive guide, we've figured out the best time to travel in January and listed warm-weather destinations by continent, from Asia to the Middle East! Do you already know where your winter sun trip will take you this January?

Best time to travel in January: Asia

Chang Mai, Thailand

Northern Thailand is considered by many tourists to be the most beautiful region in Thailand. Chang Mai is known for its countless temples, picturesque scenery, and impressive waterfalls. The best time to visit this beautiful region is in January. This way, you avoid the rainy season and temperatures don't rise too high during this month. Moreover, this is one of the cheapest times to travel to this impressive country.

best time to travel to Thailand in January

Thailand

Southern Thailand (Phuket and Krabi), Thailand

Southern Thailand is a very popular destination for first-time travelers. The many beaches, beautiful islands, and famous nightlife are its main attractions. Moreover, this part of Thailand is well-equipped for backpackers and offers a wide range of accommodations. It's best to visit Southern Thailand early in the year. The low rainfall and mild temperatures make January the perfect month to explore the country.

best time to travel to Krabi in January

Krabi

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a small country with a huge diversity of attractions. For example, you can take a beautiful train journey through breathtaking landscapes, spot animals in a wildlife park, or visit a temple. Moreover, the weather is always favorable in January. Rain is unlikely during this period, and the temperature is mild. With temperatures around 32 degrees Celsius, it's pleasant to stay, and the fresh evening breeze cools it down nicely in the evenings.

best time to travel to Sri Lanka in January

Sri Lanka

North Vietnam

The capital, Hanoi, the impressive landscape of Ninh Binh, and the world-famous Halong Bay are just a few of the sights that North Vietnam has to offer. We do recommend avoiding the rainy season, which runs from May to September. The best time to travel to North Vietnam is from November to March. Little rain, pleasant temperatures, and no hurricanes—ideal weather!

best time to travel to Vietnam in January

Ninh Bin Vietnam

South Vietnam

When you think of South Vietnam, you probably immediately think of Ho Chi Minh City. This modern city, with its delicious street food and countless trendy restaurants, has a Western feel. Ho Chi Minh is also the ideal base for exploring the Mekong Delta. Here, you'll discover the real Vietnam. The dry season in South Vietnam runs from November to April. From February onwards, temperatures rise and it can get truly hot. January is therefore the perfect month to begin your South Vietnam adventure.

best time to travel January Ho Chi Minh

Ho Chi Minh

Cambodia

Cambodia is on every backpacker's bucket list. Besides the world-famous Angkor Wat, the vibrant city of Siem Reap and the quintessentially Asian Phnom Penh are also definitely worth a visit. Cambodia has a monsoon climate, meaning temperatures can soar during the dry months. By planning your trip in January, you'll avoid the stifling heat and can comfortably immerse yourself in Cambodian culture.

best time to travel to Cambodia in January

Cambodia

Laos

Laos is less touristy than Thailand or Vietnam. This means you can fully enjoy the pristine nature and the authentic, friendly people are more approachable. A trip to Laos quickly becomes a unique experience you won't soon forget. However, there is a lot of rain during the summer months. Therefore, it's best to plan a trip to Laos between October and April. In January, the nights are pleasantly cool, meaning you'll sleep better and be less bothered by mosquitoes!

best time to travel to Laos in January

Laos

India 

India probably immediately brings to mind chaotic traffic, a distinctive culture, and delicious food. But there's much more to India than that. It's home to the Taj Mahal, the world wonder, and its spectacular palaces and temples will leave a lasting impression. When planning your trip, keep in mind that the monsoon rains fall from June to October. The temperatures are mildest in December and January, making these the best months to travel.

best time to travel in India in January

India

Philippines 

The Philippines comprises an archipelago of over 7000 islands. White beaches, volcanoes, impressive snorkeling areas with colorful coral reefs, stunning rice terraces, and panoramic mountain ranges… The Philippines is a dream destination. However, the country is regularly hit by typhoons. The risk of a cyclone is greatest during the rainy season, which runs from June to October. The climate is at its best in January, and this is the month you can fully enjoy this magnificent archipelago.

best time to travel to the Philippines in January

Philippines

Best time to travel in January: South and Central America

Curaçao

It rarely rains in Curaçao. The chance of showers is greatest from October to December, although the climate is also incredibly pleasant during these months. The fact that it rains more frequently in December makes January the best time to travel. The nature is beautifully green, while the climate is perfect. The days are sunny, yet there's a pleasant breeze. The ideal temperature for sunbathing on the beach, hiking in nature, or visiting one of the charming towns!

best time to travel to Curacao in January

Curacao

Aruba

Aruba is an incredibly popular destination. The busiest times are around Christmas and the month of Carnival, February. As you can see, January falls right between these two periods. January is therefore the ideal time to travel to this beautiful country. Tickets are inexpensive, it's not too hot, and you avoid the peak season. Moreover, Carnival starts very early in Aruba, and you can experience the first festivities as early as January.

best time to travel to Aruba in January

Aruba

Bonaire

Bonaire is a wonderful place to escape the winter. In January, hurricanes are a thing of the past on this tropical island, and the sun shines brightly. Diving and snorkeling are Bonaire's national pastimes, and during the first few days of the year, the Caribbean Sea is incredibly calm. The colorful corals, countless fish species, and stunning underwater world are easily accessible. Thanks to the pleasant breeze, you can easily alternate diving with a lazy day on the beach or a walk in a nature reserve.

best time to travel to Bonaire in January

Bonaire

Cartagena Colombia

Pearly white beaches, historical monuments, a vibrant city center, Latin American friendliness… Cartagena has it all. Colombia is becoming increasingly popular as a holiday destination, and the port city is among the most beautiful in the country. January is by far the sunniest month of the year in Cartagena. With a pleasant temperature of 27 degrees Celsius, it's a wonderful place to be. There's almost no rain during this period, and it's never too hot to stroll through the charming streets.

best time to visit Cartagena in January

Cartagena

Barbados

Barbados is one of the most beautiful Caribbean islands. The country is a paradise with idyllic beaches, a vibrant nightlife, and the best surfing waves. To fully enjoy its Caribbean splendor, it's best to travel in January. The dry season begins in December and lasts until April. By planning your vacation during the first few weeks of the year, you'll avoid the crowds around Christmas and Carnival. January is the quietest month of the peak season and the ideal time to enjoy the tropical sun.

best time to visit barbados in january

Barbados

Panama

Panama is a beautiful country with North American, South American, and Caribbean influences. A place with a rich history, stunning white beaches, and a thriving contemporary culture. There's so much to do, and rain would definitely spoil the fun. Summer in Panama runs from late December to April, which is also the dry season. January is a good choice. In the first month of the year, you'll not only avoid heavy rain showers but also escape the busiest period.

best time to travel to Panama in January

Panama

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a spectacular country. Besides beautiful beaches, you can also take a tour through the rainforest. The stunning scenery combined with the wildlife is an unforgettable experience. It does rain a lot in Costa Rica, which is necessary to keep the rainforest lush and green. January is the driest month. With temperatures hovering around 25 degrees Celsius, this is the ideal weather to visit.

best time to travel to Costa Rica in January

Costa Rica

Belize 

Belize is a hidden gem in Central America. The country emerged from a blend of cultures, and this is immediately apparent. The tourist activities are impressive, ranging from visits to Mayan ruins to boat trips through the jungle or a day trip to a tropical island. The driest and least crowded season runs from January to April. During this time, you can enjoy sunny weather and unwind while exploring the country's splendor.

best time to visit beliza january

Belize

Brazil

Brazil is much more than samba, carnival, and beaches. A visit to the Amazon rainforest or one of the many world cities is just as impressive. Brazil lies largely below the equator, meaning the seasons run in reverse. Summer begins in January. Temperatures remain relatively moderate this month, and the chance of rain is minimal—perfect holiday weather. Moreover, the entire country prepares for carnival, giving you a taste of this popular festival.

best time to travel to Brazil in January

Brazil

Argentina 

Argentina is a vast country that has become incredibly popular in recent years. The nature in this country is simply spectacular. Glaciers, deserts, waterfalls; Argentina has it all. Because of the country's vastness, the climate varies greatly from region to region. However, January is always a good time. The first days of the year are neither too hot in the north nor too cold in the south. The perfect climate for getting to know this South American country.

best time to travel to Argentina in January

Argentina

Nicaragua

Nicaragua is the ideal destination for an adventurous trip. During your holiday, you can choose from fantastic activities such as lava spotting in a volcano, surfing spectacular waves, or horseback riding in the countryside. The best month to explore this Central American paradise is January. The temperatures are not only pleasant during this period, but the nature is also lush and green, and there's hardly any rain. Moreover, January is a quiet month, making it easy to find cheap tickets.

best time to travel to Nicaragua in January

Nicaragua

Best time to travel in January: North America

Los Angeles 

After New York, Los Angeles is the most popular city in the United States. Hollywood and Venice Beach are by far the most famous, but there are countless other places not to be missed. Since so many tourists travel to Los Angeles, tickets aren't cheap. However, January is the off-season, and many airlines offer incredible promotions during this time. The mild climate is also ideal for day trips.

best time to visit Los Angeles in January

Los Angeles

Tulum, Mexico

Tulum is a beautiful Mexican beach resort with plenty to offer. The region is especially known for its Mayan ruins and mysterious cenotes. Furthermore, the pristine beaches are perfect for a lazy day at the beach. Tulum can get very hot, so we recommend traveling in January. With a daytime temperature of 26 degrees Celsius, it's quite bearable, and you don't have to worry about rain during this time.

best time to visit tulum in january

Tulum

Best time to travel in January: Africa

Tanzania

Tanzania is an East African country where you can experience an unforgettable holiday. During one of the many safaris, you'll see magnificent animals, and a trek to the summit of Kilimanjaro offers impressive views. The climate in Tanzania is changeable. There are two rainy seasons each year: April to May and October to November. In January, the weather is stable and the crowds are relatively calm. This makes it the ideal month to admire African wildlife.

best time to travel to tanzania in january

tanzania

Zanzibar 

The beaches of Zanzibar, Tanzania, are arguably the most beautiful in the world. But that's not Zanzibar's only asset. The underwater world is also incredibly beautiful, and a day spent strolling through the capital, Stone Town, allows you to soak up the local culture. The best months to travel to this paradise are January and February. During these months, there's virtually no rainfall and temperatures don't rise too high. This also allows you to avoid the Christmas holiday crowds and offers slightly cheaper tickets.

best time to travel to Zanzibar in January

Zanzibar

Kenya

In Kenya, you can combine safaris with a relaxing resort holiday. In the national parks, you can encounter a huge variety of wildlife, and the resorts, with their white beaches, are top-notch. January also boasts clear days. Compared to the rest of the year, temperatures are mild, and the evenings cool down enough to enjoy a good night's sleep.

best time to travel to Kenya in January

Kenya

Uganda 

Uganda is primarily known for its gorillas. You can admire these magnificent apes in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. You can also encounter other wildlife in this park, making it an unforgettable experience. In January, the park is less densely vegetated, and the animals usually congregate around one of the many lakes. The chances of spotting an entire family of gorillas together are therefore very high.

best time to travel to Uganda in January

Uganda

South Africa 

South Africa is the ideal mix of culture, wildlife, and beaches. During a tour, you can combine these three activities so you don't miss a single South African attraction. It's best to plan your trip to this country during the South African summer (around New Year's Eve). It can get very cold during the winter months, especially at night. Incidentally, the magnificent Table Mountain is often hidden in the clouds during these months.

best time to travel to South Africa in January

South Africa

Best time to travel in January: Middle East

Dubai

Dubai's luxury is a must-see. The enormous shopping malls, the famous Burj Khalifa hotel, the world's largest aquarium… Dubai's possibilities are endless. Outside the city lies a vast desert where you can explore on quad bikes. Dubai has a desert climate and is one of the hottest places on earth. The coldest months are January and February. With an average temperature of 25 degrees Celsius, this seems like the best time to explore this cosmopolitan city.

best time to visit Dubai in January

Dubai

Oman 

During a holiday in Oman, you'll experience authentic Arabic culture. White Muscat with its magnificent mosques, the Empty Quarter desert, and the hidden swimming paradise of Wadi Al Shab are just a few of the gems this country has to offer. For us Europeans, it can get far too hot in Oman. Therefore, plan your trip between November and March. Temperatures hover around 25 degrees Celsius during this period, allowing you to easily spend a whole day wandering around.

best time to travel to Oman in January

Oman

Best time to travel in January: Oceania

Southeast Australia

Southeast Australia is best known for cities like Sydney and Melbourne. Besides these modern cities, this part of this beautiful country also boasts a spectacular interior with wilderness, the deserted outback, and an impressive coastline. The rainy season in Southeast Australia begins around May and ends in November. January is therefore a wonderful month with abundant sunshine, ideal for surfers or adventurers exploring the outback.

best time to travel to Australia in January

Australia

Travel Essentials

view all 36 tips here

more travel tips on your little black book

Did you know that Your Little Black Book contains hundreds of travel and city guides for destinations all over the world? You'll also find tons of tips for truly fantastic hotels. Check them out using the links below:

All Travel Guides for countries and regions around the world >>

All City Guides for the coolest cities in the world >>

View all tips for the Netherlands per province here >>

Yourlbb approved hotels >>

YourLBB's latest lists

Tip the editors

Spotted something fun that's opening soon or just opened? Or just a great tip that shouldn't be missing from Your Little Black Book? Let us know via the TIP THE EDITORS button!

 Tip the editors

LET'S GET SOCIAL: Follow me on TikTok and Instagram

@yourlbb_amsterdam

Follow @yourlbb on Instagram

**Due to COVID-19, souvenirs are now available in bulk ❄️ Note to self: always keep room in your suitcase for 'souvenirs'. During my ski trip to Méribel, I popped into the local pharmacy just before leaving, and these are the beauty products I took home. I've tested them extensively and they're all more than YLBB-approved. Save them for your next trip to France (or your online beauty store). Which souvenirs always make it back in your suitcase? I'm curious! ✖️✖️✖️ 🖊️ @anne_de_buck PS: Follow @yourlbb for tons of tips to make the most of your free time — from travel tips to travel guides and more.
𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗻𝗱𝘂𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺 🫕 Thinking back of amazing days in the snow, I'm in the mood for cheese fondue! I call it comfort food at its finest, and I also love making fresh cheese fondue at home this winter (sometimes even better than eating out ✌🏼☺️). 𝗠𝘆 𝗳𝗮𝘃𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗻𝗱𝘂𝗲 𝘀𝗽𝗼𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺: 📍 @badhuis.amsterdam (East) Every Thursday is fondue night. For €26 pp you dig into a pot of cheese fondue with unlimited sourdough bread, crudités and vegetables. Good vibes included! 📍 @smelt.amsterdam (City Centre) Always a good idea. The cheeses come from De Kaaskamer, so yes: this is next level. Perfect if you love to mix & match. 📍 @cafe_bern (City Centre) Here they serve the best Classic Gruyère cheese fondue. No fuss, just great flavour. This is cheese fondue exactly how it's meant to be. 𝗡𝗲𝘅𝘁-𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗻𝗱𝘂𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗻𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻: 📍 @fromagerie_kef (City Centre, North & East) Amsterdam's go-to cheese specialist. From fondue cheeses to perfect wine pairings — and yes, tasting is encouraged. 📍 @fromagerielamuse (South) Cheese fondue kits for at home plus several recipes to make yourself. Which one will you try first? 📍 @dekaaskameramsterdam (City Centre) Swiss fondue, Dutch cheese fondue or ready-made options — you'll always leave with everything you need for the ultimate cozy night in. On 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸.𝗺𝗲 you'll find the complete guide with 12+ cheese fondue spots in Amsterdam. Let's make a list like this for the rest of The Netherlands too! What's your favorite spot? 🧀 ✖️✖️✖️ 🖊️ @anne_de_buck Follow @yourlbb & @yourlbb.amsterdam for more Amsterdam restaurant guides, travel guides & the best things to do on the weekends. #cheesefondue #amsterdam #winter

With love,

Anne

| PS: Do you know Your Little Black Book's Green PolicyHere you'll find my personal tips on how to travel and live greener, and I'll explain why and how I offset the CO2 emissions from all the trips #teamyourlbb makes.

New Hotels in the Netherlands

view all 4 tips here

Train City Trips

view all 5 tips here

Travel Essentials

view all 36 tips here