Where is hot in January?

January is the start of a new year and a great time to travel. You may be wondering where is warm in January that’s great to explore. If that’s the case, then look no further! Here are some destinations that will provide a mix of delightful weather, inviting cultural experiences and charming locales to explore. We’ll look at top destinations such as Australia, St Lucia, and Morocco, all of which are fantastic places to enjoy in January.

Why travel in January

There are many reasons to travel in January. Firstly, it is the ideal time to soak up some sun in tropical nations or countries that bask in summer temperatures in this month. With some destinations, such as Thailand, January is a wonderful time to visit and the weather is not excessively hot as it can be later in the year.

For those seeking to broaden their horizons to begin their year, whether it is with a trip to Africa, Asia or the southern hemisphere, there are so many vibrant places waiting to be discovered and enjoyed where you can take a well-deserved break and create unforgettable memories.

The best hot destinations to go on holidays in January 

Below is a list of the top 10 hot countries in January that are all ideal for a memorable journey to start your year.

Madeira

Average January temperature: [16°C]

Known as the pearl of the Atlantic, Madeira offers travellers an incredible experience in balmy temperatures. From the delightful capital of Funchal where travellers can get a sense of the country’s delicious food and rich culture, to breathtaking scenery ranging from mountains and sparkling coastal areas, it is the ideal destination for travellers who want to start the new year in style.

Explore our Madeira - Pearl of the Atlantic solo tour

Vietnam

Average January temperature: [24°C]

Offering gorgeously warm tropical weather and a mixture of incredible food, compelling history and bustling cities, Vietnam is a destination that many want to return to again and again. Take in breathtaking vistas on an overnight cruise in spectacular Halong Bay. Wander the lively streets of Ho Chi Minh City, admire the French-influenced streetscapes of Hanoi and maybe taste some Bia Hoi, or “fresh beer”. In the centre of the country, you can marvel at ancient monuments and the walled citadels and temples in smaller cities such as Hue and Hoi An. 

Find amazing solo tours in Vietnam

Thailand

Average January temperature: [27°C]

With delightful weather, Buddhist traditions, and lively markets, Thailand is one of the most fascinating destinations in Southeast Asia and January is the ideal time to go. From opulent palaces to ancient ruins, it offers an informative and enriching experience. So whether exploring the shopping and temples of Bangkok in a tuk-tuk or taking in the laid-back ambience and rich heritage of Chiang Mai, Thailand is a truly magical place.

Explore our Thailand - A Land of Smiles solo tour

Costa Rica

Average January temperature: [27°C]

An ever-popular Caribbean destination thanks in part to lovely weather and its dedication to conservation, Costa Rica offers travellers an opportunity to experience stunning natural beauty. You can learn about the local cultures and traditions of indigenous communities such as Bribri, as well as experience the array of tempting national dishes. You can also take in the magnificent scenery at national parks such as Tortuguero and Cahuita.

Check out our Real Costa Rica tour

Morocco

Average January temperature: [27°C]

A country made up of ancient cities and landscapes of compelling contrasts, Morocco has a wild beauty and a culture distinctively its own. From sweeping through the desert to following in the footsteps of sultans, there is something to fascinate everyone. Travellers can explore the stunning architecture of the Roman ruins of Volubilis, stroll through the sights and smells of souks in Marrakech and visit kasbahs in balmy temperatures.

Explore our Imperial Cities and Road if a Thousand Kasbahs solo tour

St Lucia

Average January temperature: [20°C]

Boasting average temperatures of 20°C and offering breathtaking beauty, geographical riches and delicious local Creole cuisine, St Lucia is a jewel in the Caribbean that offers a compelling combination of culture with the opportunity to relax in an island paradise. From whale-watching excursions to exploring unspoilt rainforests and breathtaking waterfalls, St Lucia is an unforgettable choice for a dream holiday.

Find an amazing selection of St Lucia solo tours

Brazil

Average January temperature: [25°C]

Home of the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro and its Art Deco Christ the Redeemer statue, Brazil is one of the most popular South American countries to visit. This nation has incredible energy, whether you’re admiring its magnificent mountains or its delightful Ipanema and Copacabana beaches. The food is delicious, the people are friendly and the atmosphere is welcoming. Brazil is also home to parts of the Amazon River and a stunningly biodiverse rainforest, which all add up to a memorable journey.

Explore our selection of amazing solo tours in Brazil

Namibia

Average January temperature: [32°C]

With average temperatures of 32°C, Namibia is an ideal place to travel to in January. This African nation offers a variety of natural wonders and a wealth of history, combined with desert landscapes, tempting food and plenty of wildlife you can spot on excursions like game drives through Etosha National Park. With trips to the Kuiseb and Canyon Pass, exploration of historical sites such as the city of Windhoek, and a tour of the Damara Living Museum, visiting Namibia allows travellers to be immersed in a different world. 

Check out our Namibia - Tribes and Natural Wonders solo tour

Peru

Average January temperature: [26°C]

With dry yet sunny temperatures of 26°C and home to part of the Amazon rainforest and ancient archaeological sites, Peru is an intriguing country that offers travellers a range of exciting journeys and cultural experiences. From exploring Machu Picchu and towns full of colonial heritage, to discovering the islands of Lake Titicaca, Peru is the ideal destination for anyone who wants to start the year with a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Check out our selection of Peru tours for solo travellers

Argentina

Average January temperature: [25°C]

With its rich history, glacial lakes and great weather, Argentina is the perfect destination for those who want to experience this vast country and maybe sample some of its world-famous beef or wine. Whether it’s taking in the views of the thundering Iguazu Falls, looking for a gaucho on the Pampas grasslands or dancing the tango in the bustling and stylish metropolis of Buenos Aires, Argentina promises an exciting experience for all who travel there.

Peruse our selection of solo tours to Argentina

Explore more destinations

Not free during January? Don’t worry, at Just You, we have a selection of tours running every month, so you won’t be missing out. 

If you’d like to travel somewhere warm but in a different month, we have articles on the best hot destinations for every month, including December, February and March.

If you are not a fan of the heat or are looking to spend the summer months somewhere cooler, why not visit Iceland? With its dramatic landscapes, from geysers to glaciers, and endless daylight during the summer, Iceland offers a truly unique escape.