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Kicking off a new year with an elaborate vacation is probably one of the best ways to set the mood for the rest of the year. You get to escape the winter blues and travel to places with sunshine or countries with peak snowfall as well. From the winter wonderlands of Europe to the warm escapes in the Southern Hemisphere, there’s something for every traveller. Depending on accessibility in terms of visa and passport, there are a variety of places to visit in the world in January. However, with so many options and the need for extensive planning, you need to gear up with research to make the most out of your next big vacation.
Top 10 Places To Visit In The World In January
Be it for some warm sunshine or cultural immersion, there are a variety of places around the world that you can explore in January.
1. New Zealand
Photo: Sebthedev / Wikimedia Commons
A country located in the South Pacific, New Zealand experiences tropical summer months during January. With crystal-clear lakes and sprawling greenery, New Zealand features a coastline fringed with golden sand beaches. For adventure enthusiasts, hikes through Milford Sound and glacial valley exploration on the Franz Josef Glacier add to the experience. You can also embrace the local Maori culture and traditions at Waitangi Treaty Grounds. To witness the geothermal wonders, travel down to Rotorua. There are bungee jumping experiences exclusively available at Queenstown as well.
Weather In January: Temperature ranges from 18°C to 25°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Milford Sound, Franz Josef Glacier, Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Rotorua, and Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
Top Experiences: Bungee jumping in Queenstown, geothermal spa experience in Rotorua, scenic flights over glaciers, and kayaking in Abel Tasman National Park
Ideal Duration: 10 – 14 days
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In The World In February
2. Japan
Among the best places to visit in the world in January, Japan is a great choice. Be it for cultural immersion or for exploring the natural wonders, Japan has everything to offer. You can start your trip by exploring the popular cities, including the capital city of Tokyo or the hyped cities of Kyoto. Book a ticket for a train ride to witness close-up views of Mount Fuji on the passing, which comes to life during the winter months. To indulge in skiing, make your way to Niseko or enjoy a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs. Do not forget to try local food like sushi and Ramen, which have gained world popularity now.
Weather In January: Temperature ranges from -6°C to 10°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Mount Fuji, Kyoto, Tokyo, Niseko, Hakone, and Beppu
Top Experiences: Skiing in Niseko, soaking in Onsen, attending a tea ceremony, and visiting traditional Ryokan
Ideal Duration: 10 – 14 days
3. Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is one of the best places to visit in the world in January, especially if you are travelling with your family. Often known as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” this island nation has stunning beaches, hill stations and historical spots. You can start with a hike up Sigiriya and get mesmerised by the 5th-century fortress perched on a lion rock. To truly immerse yourself in the history of the country, visit the ancient city of Anuradhapura where you get to learn about the local Buddhist culture. You can also plan a visit to the nearby cities like Kandy and Batticaloa City.
Weather In January: Temperature ranges from 24°C to 30°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Anuradhapura, Temple of the Tooth (Kandy), and Sinharaja Forest Reserve
Top Experiences: Witnessing cultural performances in Kandy, and wildlife safari in Yala National Park
Ideal Duration: 10 – 14 days
Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In The World In March
4. Australia
While talking about good places to visit in the world in January, Australia, the country down under, is another must-visit spot. To kick off your journey, start with the vibrant city of Sydney and visit its iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge. However, the most beautiful part of this country lies in the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef system. The underwater adventure you get to experience there is unimaginable. To appease the adventurer in you, you can plan a hike through the ancient sandstone formations of Uluru. Take your time to learn about the history of Aboriginal culture in Kakadu National Park.
Weather In January: Temperature ranges from 22°C to 30°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Sydney Opera House, Uluru (Ayers Rock), Kakadu National Park, and Melbourne Cricket Ground
Top Experiences: Snorkelling or diving in the Great Barrier Reef, exploring the Whitsunday Islands, and climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge
Ideal Duration: 7 – 10 days
5. Morocco
Photo: Moussa Idrissi / Pexels
For an offbeat travel experience, consider visiting Morocco. The blend of adventure, history and culture makes it a great destination to visit in the world in January. You can get lost in the bustling maze-like medinas of Marrakech or mesmerise your senses with the smell of the variety of spices in the main souks around the city. Adventure activities in this desert land include hiking through the majestic Atlas Mountains or planning a trek through the Sahara Desert. Don’t miss out on visiting Chefchaouen, the “Blue Pearl,” known for its vibrant blue-washed houses.
Weather In January: Temperature ranges from 15°C to 22°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Djemaa el-Fna (Marrakech square), Chefchaouen, Atlas Mountains, and Sahara Desert
Top Experiences: Exploring the souks of Marrakech, and visiting the ancient city of Fez
Ideal Duration: 10 – 12 days
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In The World In April
6. Thailand
Photo: Robin Noguier / Unsplash
Up next on the list of places to travel in the world in January is Thailand, aka the Land of Smiles. This makes for a great destination for family vacations where you can relax on the beaches of Phuket or Koh Lanta. The highlight of the vacation will be exploring the magnificent temples of Bangkok, like Wat Pho and Wat Arun, or exploring the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya, which was the former historical capital. You can also plan a hike through the jungles of Chiang Mai. If interested in learning about their cuisine, you can sign up for a traditional Thai cooking class too.
Weather In January: Temperature ranges from 24°C to 32°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Phuket, Phi Phi Island, Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai, and Bangkok
Top Experiences: Exploring the temples of Bangkok, and elephant sanctuary visit
Ideal Duration: 7 – 10 days
7. Argentina
For an offbeat and less explored travel experience, include Argentina in your list of places to visit in January in the world. The island of Tango is primarily known for its bustling markets in the capital city of Buenos Aires where you can relax at the charming cafes around. To truly witness the charm of the natural wonders in the country, consider visiting the Iguazu Falls or the many other waterfalls that are present along the border of Argentina and Brazil. You can hike through the majestic peaks of Patagonia or embark on a wildlife safari.
Weather In January: Temperature ranges from 18°C to 28°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Iguazu Falls, Perito Moreno Glacier (Patagonia)
Top Experiences: Trekking on Perito Moreno Glacier, tango show in Buenos Aires, and wildlife watching in Patagonia
Ideal Duration: 10 – 14 days
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In The World In May For Your Summer Escape
8. Costa Rica
To witness the beauty of nature, Costa Rica offers the perfect January escape brimming with diverse ecosystems and adventure activities. One of the most unique experiences is hiking through volcanic landscapes where you can witness the Arenal Volcano’s fiery glow. For the travellers that love water, sign up for a river water rafting experience on the thrilling rapids of the Pacuare River. There are beaches where you can go for surfing and snorkelling too. To witness the rich biodiversity, visit Tortuguero National Park or Manuel Antonio National Park.
Weather In January: Temperature ranges from 22°C to 28°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Arenal Volcano, Manuel Antonio National Park, Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, and Jaco Beach
Top Experiences: Ziplining through the rainforest canopy, and white-water rafting on the Pacuare River
Ideal Duration: 10 – 14 days
9. Egypt
For history buffs or a family vacation, one of the best places to see in the world in January is Egypt. Start the trip by exploring the iconic pyramids of Giza, including the Great Pyramid, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The museums will give you a glimpse into the treasures of King Tutankhamun in Cairo. Book tickets to sail down the Nile River or witness the majestic temples of Luxor and Karnak while you are there. To immerse in the local culture, visit the Khan el-Khalili to buy different local specialities.
Weather In January: Temperature ranges from 18°C to 28°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Pyramids of Giza, Egyptian Museum, Valley of the Kings, Temple of Karnak, and Luxor Temple
Top Experiences: Hot air balloon ride over the pyramids, and sailing on the Nile River
Ideal Duration: 10 – 14 days
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In The World In June For Summer Vacations
10. Norway
Photo: Tobias Bjørkli / Pexels
If you have always wanted to witness the magical beauty of the northern lights, plan your next vacation in January to Norway. Despite the chilly cold and the snow-covered surroundings, the beauty of this country is unmatchable. Witness the Norwegian fjords, like Geirangerfjord and Sognefjord, especially with the glaciers that date back millennia. However, the most alluring part of the vacation lies in chasing the magical aurora borealis across the night sky. For winter sports enthusiasts, there are multiple ski resorts and snowboarding opportunities too, which are available in Norway only.
Weather In January: Temperature ranges from °C to 5°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Geirangerfjord, Sognefjord, Bergen (Bryggen wharf), and Trondheim (Nidaros Cathedral), Lofoten Islands
Top Experiences: Witnessing the Northern Lights, exploring the fjords by boat, and hiking or skiing in the mountains
Ideal Duration: 7 – 10 days
Choosing one of the best places to visit in the world in January when you have so many can be a rollercoaster. So, take your time, assess the different options in hand, consider your budget and visa accessibility and then plan the itinerary of your next big trip. You can simplify all of your international bookings with TripXL in a matter of seconds.
Cover Photo: Visit Greenland / Pexels
