Travelling during January is a great way to cure New Year blues – especially if you’re heading somewhere sunny. It also gives you an excellent opportunity to explore some of the world’s most popular destinations out of season. So, where is hot in January? Let’s dive in and see.
The Southern Hemisphere has plenty of incredible destinations that stay warm throughout the year. Some locations, such as Australia and South Africa, are experiencing their summer in January. Nevertheless, there are still plenty of destinations a little closer to the UK that you can visit for some winter sun.
Best places to travel in January for warm weather.
Filter below by price or temperature to find the best warm destination for you, or keep reading for more info on the best hot spots this month.
Where is hot in January?
- Koh Samui, Thailand
- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Cancun, Mexico
- Melbourne, Australia
- Punta Cana
- Durban, South Africa
- Miami, US
- Egypt
- Mexico City
- The best cheap travel options
1. Koh Samui, Thailand
- Average January temperature: 27°C
The lush, tropical paradise of Koh Samui is a prime destination for some winter sun – especially as the first month of the year marks the very beginning of the island’s dry season. While you might encounter a few showers, you’ll still enjoy temperatures of up to 29°C, making it one of the hottest destinations to visit in January on this list.
It’s an incredible destination for an off-season holiday, either with the kids in tow or as a couple. Nature lovers will feel right at home as Koh Samui has no shortage of beautiful beaches. Spend your days splashing around in the surf on Chaweng Beach or sunbathing on pristine white sands at Lamai. You can also head inland and hike up to stunning waterfalls or striking landmarks like the golden-hued Big Buddha temple.
A boat trip to Ang Thong National Marine Park is another must. The collection of 42 idyllic islands are fringed by vibrant coral reefs home to all kinds of sea creatures. There are so many ways to enjoy Koh Samui that it should sit at the top of your bucket list of warm destinations in January for years to come.
2. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Average January temperature: 27°C
If you’re looking for a warm country in January that doubles up as one of the world’s most vibrant cities, look no further than Rio de Janeiro. During January, it basks in glorious temperatures of around 23°C to 33°C, with warm evenings that are perfect for dining al-fresco. Hotels are reasonable too.
Rio itself is the quintessential Brazilian city. An oasis of culture, colour, fun and of course, football. Soak up the summer vibes on Ipanema or Copacabana Beach and join in a game of beach volleyball or football. Enjoy more outdoors on a jungle trail hike up to Mirante Dona Marta or to the Corcovado Christ the Redeemer statue.
Want to soak up some culture? Visit Rio’s Municipal Theatre and admire the beautiful architecture or discover the colourful street art at the Escadaria Selaron to see a different side of Rio. There’s plenty to see and do which is exactly why I love going there to stay warm in January.
3. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Average January temperature: 27°C
The capital of Malaysia enjoys hot weather all year round and January is no exception. Temperatures in Kuala Lumpur in January sit at around 31°C, with lows of 22°C. Kuala Lumpur is a fantastic place to visit if you love exploring thriving and electric cities on your travels. It’s the perfect urban getaway with its skyscrapers, bustling markets, fantastic food and lively neighbourhoods.
Take in the views from the Petronas Twin Towers or hit Suria KLCC Mall if you fancy a shopping spree. Want to enjoy some street food on your trip? Stop off at the Jalan Alor Street Market for the best choice of local vendors. This outdoor food court is the perfect place to try unique dishes, so why not enjoy the heat of both the sun and the food sampling some spicy Malaysian cuisine?
Ultimately, planning a trip to Kuala Lumpur is ideal if you want to experience the heat in January.
4. Cancun, Mexico
- Average January temperature: 24°C
Dreaming of a Caribbean escape? Cancun on Mexico’s east coast couldn’t be more ideal. January is one of the country’s driest months, making it an ideal time to soak up the sun on the white-sand beaches of Cancun. The resort is a particularly great pick for those after R&R, attracting everyone from families to couples.
Cancun’s Hotel Zone (also called Boulevard Kukulkan) is a popular place to base yourself. The sandy strip is brimming with all-inclusive hotels and beach clubs, with options to suit all budgets.
For a little Mexican culture, head downtown where you’ll find authentic eateries and vibrant markets. The Yucatan Peninsula’s average sea temperatures in January are a balmy 25°C, making snorkelling excursions and boat trips essential. You’ll also be within day-tripping distance of numerous ancient Mayan relics, including El Meco and Tulum.
5. Melbourne, Australia
- Average January temperature: 20°C
If you’re wondering where is hot in January in Australia, the short answer is: just about everywhere. However, if you’re looking for a city break with a bit of everything, whether that be sun, sea, nature and a small smattering of culture, look no further than Melbourne.
With average daily temperatures climbing as high as 26°C, Melbourne is an ideal destination to escape from the cold of winter. It’s famed as a wine region in Australia, meaning visitors can enjoy a trip to one of the many vineyards such as the Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula.
The city is also nestled within the stunning bay of Port Phillip where you’ll find plenty of fantastic stretches of beach to bask in the warm Australian sunshine.
6. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
- Average February temperature: 25°C
A Caribbean island getaway is never a bad idea – but it’s especially appreciated in the depths of winter. The Dominican Republic is one of the best countries to visit in January, with beach resorts galore and high temperatures often climbing into the high 20s.
Punta Cana sits on the island’s idyllically named Coconut Coast and it truly is a paradise. You’ll likely spend most of your time relaxing on white-sand beaches. There’s over 30 kilometres of stunning coastline to explore, too. This includes popular Playa Bavaro with its all-inclusive resorts and great water sports. You could also check out Macao Beach for some amazing surfing. Or secluded Juanillo Beach is perfect for a peaceful, desert island experience.
February sits outside the Caribbean’s hurricane season, so you won’t have to worry about any adverse weather or seaweed collecting on the beaches. What’s more, it’s one of the driest months of the year.
7. Durban, South Africa
- Average February temperature: 24°C
Durban is a solid choice for a warm January escape, with sunny days, temperatures around 24°C and warm Indian Ocean beaches. The city’s mix of Zulu, Indian and South African influences means great food and lively markets, while the Valley of a Thousand Hills and the Drakensberg foothills offer easy day trips. January is a busy month, so comparing options early can help you land the right hotel at the right price.
8. Miami, US
- Average February temperature: 20°C
Miami delivers the kind of January sunshine that feels like a reward for getting through winter. Expect warm temps around 24°C, clear days and plenty of beach time on South Beach or Key Biscayne.
Away from the water, you’ll find Art Deco streets, Cuban cafés in Little Havana and standout galleries across Wynwood. Visiting for the New Year and looking for an extra special treat? Book into the Mandarin Oriental, Miami – the food is divine and you’ll have access to your own private beach.
9. Egypt
- Average January temperature: 16°C
About 5 hours from England, Egypt has a fascinating culture and a wealth of historical attractions that visitors can explore. It also enjoys plenty of sunshine in January and throughout the winter. Temperatures tend to sit at around 14°C to 22°C, making it more bearable than the scorching summer months.
Take advantage of the sunny yet pleasant weather to explore beautiful outdoor attractions like Ras Mohammed National Park. You can also enjoy swimming and sunbathing at stunning beach spots like Hurghada on the Red Sea coast. Temperatures often reach 20°C during the day, while sea temperatures are around 23°C.
10. Mexico City, Mexico
- Average January temperature: 13°C
Mexico City is a great place for some mild winter sun in January. Temperatures are milder, but can reach the low 20s – perfect for exploring neighbourhoods like Roma, Condesa and Coyoacán between snack stops. The real highlight is the food scene, from street tacos and tamales to markets like Mercado de Coyoacán, where you can eat well cheaply. Even top restaurants are often more affordable than their UK equivalents, so it’s easy to mix cheap eats with big-name dining.
Where is hot and cheap in January?
For a budget trip from the UK to a balmy destination, you can’t go wrong with Thailand at the start of the year. Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket City and Krabi are all great warm weather destinations and food and hotels on average are very reasonable.
Check out KAYAK Explore to find cheap flights for your preferred dates.
FAQs
Europe may be in the depths of winter come January, but there are plenty of destinations further afield to have on your radar. Some of the best places to travel in January for warm weather sit in Asia or the Caribbean. Plus, many Southern Hemisphere gems like Brazil and Australia are in the middle of their summer seasons.
If you’re looking for warm places in January that aren’t too far from the UK, it’s hard to beat the Canary Islands. Gran Canaria is a particularly great shout as temperatures are pleasantly warm, offering the ideal conditions for exploring its rugged mountains, lush pine forests and dramatic calderas.
