Best time to visit
Where to go in January: the destinations with ideal weather
Right after the holidays, the urge for sunshine is often at its strongest. Here's where to go in January to enjoy genuinely favourable weather.
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PlanTripNow Team
July 24, 2026 · 3 min read
January is often the month when the urge for sunshine is strongest, right after the holidays and in the depths of the European winter. Several regions of the world happen to be going through their best season at exactly this time of year.
Asia: beaches and sunshine without excess
The Maldives start the year in excellent conditions: January falls within the dry season, with blue skies, a turquoise sea and summer-like temperatures all year round. Sri Lanka is also a good option, provided you focus on the south west of the country (Colombo, Kandy), which enjoys its dry season at this time. Thailand, meanwhile, offers a warm climate in January that isn't yet scorching, far from the humidity of the monsoon, which lets you enjoy the southern beaches as much as the banks of the Mekong up north.
East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula
In East Africa, January is one of the best times to watch the wildebeest and zebra migration in Tanzania, while also enjoying the white sand beaches of Zanzibar. Oman, with its mild, sunny climate, bright days and pleasantly warm evenings, is another interesting option for January.
South America and Europe
In South America, the east coast and central Brazil are well suited to a January trip. Without leaving Europe, the Canary Islands keep temperatures around 20 to 25 degrees, a safe bet for a sunny winter getaway. Lisbon and Porto, cooler but still mild, also offer good hotel rates and an appealing cultural scene in January.
January's best picks
| Destination | Why in January |
|---|---|
| Maldives | Dry season, blue skies and a turquoise sea to start the year off right. |
| Sri Lanka (south west) | Colombo and Kandy enjoy the dry season at this time of year. |
| Thailand | Pleasant warmth, no monsoon or scorching heat, beaches and the Mekong both accessible. |
| Tanzania & Zanzibar | The great wildebeest migration and white sand beaches. |
| Oman | Mild, sunny climate, bright days all year round. |
| Canary Islands | 20 to 25°C, Europe's most reliable winter getaway. |
Key facts for January
Best of beach
Maldives, Zanzibar, Sri Lanka
Best of safari
Tanzania
Best of gentle budget
Lisbon, Porto
Best of Europe
Canary Islands
Caution
Northern and eastern Sri Lanka, fairly rainy at this time of year
Destinations in this article
Frequently asked questions
Are the Maldives a good destination in January?
Yes, it's one of the best times of year: the dry season is in full swing, with clear skies, calm seas and excellent visibility for diving.
Is all of Sri Lanka pleasant in January?
No, Sri Lanka's climate varies by region: the south west (Colombo, Kandy) enjoys the dry season in January, while the north and east of the country can see more rainfall at the same time.
Why is January a good time for Tanzania?
It's one of the best windows to watch the great wildebeest and zebra migration in the southern Serengeti, while also enjoying dry weather that's well suited to Zanzibar's beaches at the end of the trip.
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PlanTripNow Team
A team of travellers who test, taste and map the best addresses around the world to help you plan itineraries that feel truly local.
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