Best Countries to Visit in January

Thailand’s perfect weather makes it a standout January destination. Cool, dry conditions create ideal circumstances for exploring ancient temples, bustling markets, and pristine beaches. Average temperatures hover around 78°F (26°C), with minimal rainfall and low humidity.

The northern regions around Chiang Mai offer comfortable temperatures for temple visits and hill tribe treks. Meanwhile, southern islands like Koh Samui and Phuket provide perfect beach weather with calm seas and clear skies.

Check out the Amatara Welleisure Resort in Phuket for an all-inclusive resort experience including private balconies, 35 pool villas, spa facilities, a fully equipped gym, multiple restaurants, a rooftop bar, and guided beachfront fitness activities.

January transforms Switzerland into a winter sports paradise. The Swiss Alps reach peak skiing conditions, with reliable snowfall and perfectly groomed slopes. Beyond skiing, visitors can experience iconic winter activities like sledding on Europe’s longest toboggan run or riding scenic snow trains through mountain passes.

Popular destinations like Zermatt and St. Moritz come alive with winter festivals, while thermal spas offer warm respite from the cold. Even non-skiers find magic in snow-covered medieval towns and cozy fondue restaurants.

Make the most of your visit with a stay at the Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa to enjoy an indoor pool, two outdoor swimming pools, a golf course, hiking and mountain biking, and more.

January brings warm summer weather to New Zealand, creating perfect conditions for outdoor adventures. The country’s diverse landscape offers everything from beach relaxation to mountain hiking during this peak summer month.

South Island’s hiking trails reach optimal conditions, while North Island’s beaches provide warm waters for swimming and surfing. Wine regions celebrate harvest season, and native forests burst with vibrant flora.

And of course, New Zealand is a bucket list destination for fans of Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings trilogy. Depending on where you stay, there are many guided tours that show you real filming locations from the iconic film series.

The Azur Lodge in Queenstown is an excellent lodging option featuring panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu.

The Maldives experiences its dry season in January, presenting visitors with ideal tropical weather. Clear skies and calm seas create perfect conditions for snorkeling and diving among coral reefs teeming with marine life.

Temperatures remain consistently warm around 84°F (29°C), while ocean breezes keep things comfortable. Water visibility reaches its peak, sometimes extending beyond 50 meters, making this the perfect time for underwater photography.

The Maldives is known for its breathtaking all-inclusive resorts, ranging from affordable family options to world-class luxury. Sun Siyam Olhuveli is an affordable but highly reviewed resort on the South Male Atoll featuring a private beachfront, a year-round outdoor swimming pool, sauna, fitness center, spa facilities, continental breakfast, a restaurant with internationally diverse cuisine, and more.

January in Morocco offers pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists at popular destinations. The mild winter climate creates comfortable conditions for exploring ancient medinas, desert landscapes, and mountain regions.

Marrakech enjoys sunny days around 65°F (18°C), perfect for wandering through souks and gardens. The Sahara Desert presents dramatic temperature variations, with warm days and cool nights ideal for desert camping experiences.

To make the most of your visit, consider a 15-day Morocco Excursion to see the Imperial Cities of Rabat and Meknes, the Roman ruins at Volubilis, the Sahara Desert, the dunes at Erg Chebbi, the Todra Gorge, the Atlas Mountains, and more.

Summer peaks in Argentina during January, bringing warm weather and vibrant cultural celebrations. Buenos Aires comes alive with outdoor tango performances and street festivals, while Mendoza’s wine country celebrates the approaching harvest season.

Patagonia reaches its most accessible state, with long daylight hours and mild temperatures perfect for hiking and glacier viewing. The Lake District offers ideal conditions for outdoor activities and scenic drives.

Visitors to San Martin de los Andes can count on an incredible experience at Rotui Luxury Village, a world-class resort with a rooftop swimming pool, spa, wellness center, sauna, hot tub, children’s playground, and more. The resort is just 6 miles from National Park Lanin and conveniently located near the Chimehuin Gardens and HuaHum Border Crossing as well.

January brings cool, dry weather to Vietnam, creating excellent conditions for exploring this diverse country. Northern regions like Hanoi and Halong Bay experience mild temperatures, while southern areas remain warm and sunny.

The central coast enjoys its best beach weather, and mountain regions around Sapa offer clear views and comfortable hiking conditions. This month also marks the approach of Tet celebrations, adding cultural festivities to the travel experience.

Vietnam is another popular resort country known for its unbelievable affordability. The Blossom Resort Island Da Nang features tradition Onsen hot springs, saunas, a swimming pool, spa facilities, and more.

The dry season peaks in Costa Rica during January, offering perfect weather for rainforest adventures and beach activities. Clear skies and minimal rainfall create ideal conditions for wildlife viewing, zip-lining, and volcano hikes.

Pacific coast beaches enjoy sunny days and optimal surfing conditions, while the Caribbean coast experiences a brief dry spell. National parks showcase abundant wildlife, and coffee plantations begin their harvest season.

The Manzanillo Caribbean Resort in Puerto Viejo offers visitors an outdoor swimming pool with breathtaking views and pool bar, a fitness center, an on-site restaurant with international cuisine and continental breakfast, and close proximity to Manzanillo Beach and the Jaguar Rescue Center.