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Where to Go on Holiday in January

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By Siobhan Blest


With the festive season behind us and a fresh new year ahead, January is the perfect time to shake off the winter chill and set your sights on a new, exciting destination.

Whether you're dreaming of some winter sun or looking to embrace the magic of cooler climates, January is the ideal month to set off on your very own adventure.

From tropical beaches to snow-dusted cities, here are some of our top destinations to kick off your year in style.

Reykjavik, Iceland

January in Reykjavik offers the optimum conditions to see Iceland’s Northern Lights. You’ll be blessed with long, dark nights allowing ample opportunity to catch a glimpse of the magical Aurora Borealis.


Just outside Reykjavík, geothermal hot springs offer a soothing contrast to the cold, with popular Sky Lagoon and the Blue Lagoon open all year round. Other enticing winter activities include ice caving, glacier hiking and snowmobiling. Trips to the Golden Circle still run from the city, showcasing frozen waterfalls and icy landscapes. For an unforgettable winter city break, Reykjavik is hard to beat.


For more inspiration take a look at our Iceland's Winter Adventure or other Iceland holidays pages.


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Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico

January in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula is a wonderful time to visit, you’ll be blessed with bright sunshine, comfortable temperatures, and minimal rainfall. Whether you're looking to relax at one of the luxurious all inclusive resorts along the Caribbean coastline, explore ancient Maya ruins, swim in underground cenotes, or absorb the local culture in colourful cities like Valladolid and Merida, you'll find no shortage of memorable experiences to enjoy.


For wildlife enthusiast, January is also considered one of the best times to witness the impressive sight of the Yucatan’s native pink flamingos. At this time thousands of these elegant birds gather in the shallow coastal lagoons and mangroves of the Ria Celestun Biosphere Reserve, where visitors can enjoy boat trips to explore its unique ecosystem.


For more inspiration take a look at our Mexico holidays pages.



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Rajasthan, India

With its endless array of historical sites, forts, and palaces, Rajasthan is a dream destination for anyone looking to embrace India’s rich culture and history. January’s pleasant daytime temperatures, combined with dry and sunny weather, make it an ideal month to explore this vibrant region. Discover the desert landscapes of Jaisalmer, stroll through the winding lanes of Jodhpur and the vibrant street markets in Jaipur, you’ll be amazed at how many unforgettable experiences are on offer. Between sightseeing, enjoy moments of calm as you sip warming chai tea at rooftop restaurants scattered across Rajasthan’s bustling cities.


January is also an excellent time to visit Ranthambore National Park, renowned for its population of Royal Bengal Tigers. The comfortable daytime temperatures encourage increased tiger activity, you may be lucky enough to spot a majestic tiger basking in the winter sun. Despite the sunny days, make sure to pack some layers as the early mornings and evenings can still feel fresh, especially on game drives in the park.


For more inspiration take a look at our Rajasthan and North India holidays pages.


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Khao Sok National Park, Thailand

January is the ideal time to explore Khao Sok National Park's natural beauty. Falling within the dry season, you can expect warm sunny days and comfortable evenings. The park is home to the oldest evergreen rainforest in the world, towering limestone cliffs, emerald lakes and an abundance of wildlife.


This picturesque national park in southern Thailand is a nature lovers dream and a tranquil contrast from Thailand’s bustling tourist hubs and cities. If you would like to combine a few days of exploration in the park with a beach escape, nearby Krabi, Phuket or Khao Lak are excellent options and can easily create the perfect multi centre holiday.


For more inspiration take a look at our Khao Sok National Park Holidays pages.


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Barbados

With warm, sunny days and comfortable night time temperatures, January is one of the best times to visit Barbados. This time of year, falls within the islands dry season, meaning rainfall is minimal, leaving you free to soak up the sun and make the most of everything this Caribbean paradise has to offer - whether you choose to lounge on the famous white sand beaches, take a snorkelling trip to meet the island’s resident turtles or explore the vibrant local culture.


As well as being an excellent choice for winter sun, Barbados also has a range of accommodation to suit all styles and budgets. Head to the west coast of Barbados for soft sand and the calm clear waters of the Caribbean Sea, perfect for swimming and relaxation. Or head to the south coast, known for its more vibrant atmosphere and a diverse range of activities.


For more inspiration take a look at our Barbados holidays pages.


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Patagonia

The stunning region of Patagonia spans across southern Chile and Argentina and offers some of the world’s most awe-inspiring scenery with jagged mountain peaks, striking glaciers and stunning turquoise lakes. January in Patagonia is peak summer season, offering mild temperatures and long days, perfect for exploring this remote and beautiful wilderness. Join a guided group tour and take advantage of the warmer weather as you camp beneath the stars or opt for a private tour and experience spectacular panoramic views from a range of luxury lodges.


In Chilean Patagonia, the rugged and windswept landscape of Torres del Paine National Park is the star of the show. While in Argentinian Patagonia the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier set within the Los Glaciares National Park is one of Argentina’s most impressive natural wonders.


For more inspiration take a look at our Patagonia Holidays pages.


Hiker at mirador condor enjoying amazing view of Los Cuernos rocks and Lake Pehoe in Torres del Paine national park, Patagonia, Chile
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Written by Siobhan Blest

Siobhan is our Web Content Supervisor based in our Kensington head office.

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