If January’s icy grip has you dreaming of palm trees and piña coladas, you’re not alone. Winter is officially the season of “nothing-to-look-forward-to-until-Easter,” but that doesn’t mean you can’t make your own sunshine! Cue the hot places to visit in January. Sure, a quick flight might only get you into the low 20℃s, but hey, sunshine and poolside vibes are still a win.
Now, if you’re up for a longer haul, think bigger – from off-season Serengeti safaris to cruising down the Amazon like a pro explorer. And, of course, beaches! January is basically the red carpet of hot places to visit in January, with some of the world’s finest shorelines just waiting for you. Whether it’s a remote, secluded hideaway or a postcard-perfect Caribbean view, these spots have your Vitamin D cravings covered. Ready to escape the cold and warm up your winter? Start packing!
Escape the Chill with These Sizzling Warm Places to Visit in January
1. Fuerteventura, Canary Islands
If you’re searching for hot places in January to visit, Fuerteventura might just blow you away—literally. The island’s name translates to “strong wind,” thanks to the Sahara breezes that make it a top kitesurfing spot all year round. With an average January temperature of 18℃, it might be a tad chilly for full-on sunbathing, but with 90 miles of pristine sandy coastline, you’ll hardly care. And with a population of just 113,000, you won’t be fighting anyone for a beach spot. Hot places to visit in January don’t get much more secluded than this!
Beyond the beaches, the stunning Jandía Natural Park landscapes are so dramatic, they snagged a role in Solo: A Star Wars Story. Yep, it’s that epic. If you’re more into land adventures, hiking and horse riding await at Mahoh, a rural retreat built from volcanic stone. Or for family vibes, opt for a minimalist two-bedroom house with a heated pool and close-up volcano views.
2. St. Lucia, Caribbean
Looking for hottest destinations in January to visit that’ll turn your winter blues into island greens? St. Lucia’s got you covered—literally, with 80% of its landscape being lush rainforest. Sure, it’s one of the wettest Caribbean islands, but lucky for you, January is one of the driest months! Before February’s peak season madness hits, it’s the perfect time to bask in 28℃ sunshine without the crowds. Of course, you could just lounge by the sea all day, but why not kick it up a notch? Hiking the iconic Piton Mountains is a must for thrill-seekers, or you can glide through the treetops on the rainforest aerial tram. Talk about sightseeing from new heights!
When it comes to where to stay, hot places to visit in January don’t get much hotter than Sugar Beach by Viceroy. Nestled at the base of Petit Piton with Grand Piton views, it’s like nature’s VIP lounge. Add in a rainforest spa and private plunge pools, and you’ve officially won at winter escapes. Or, head to Ladera Hotel, perched high between the Pitons with jaw-dropping views that make you forget winter ever existed. Because let’s face it—hot places to visit in January are way more fun than freezing at home!
ALSO READ: 9 Best Hotels in St Lucia
3. Palawan, Philippines
Dreaming of the Maldives as on of the tropical places to visit in January but with a little extra drama? Say hello to Palawan, Philippines—a tropical paradise that could give the Maldives a run for its money, thanks to its jaw-dropping limestone karsts. If you’re scouting hot places to visit in January, Palawan’s balmy 30℃ weather should be on your radar. It’s one of the Philippines’ most sparsely populated areas, so no elbowing your way through tourist crowds here. Fun fact: Palawan was the inspiration for The Beach, but author Alex Garland kept it hush-hush, setting the story in Thailand to keep this paradise a secret. Sneaky, right?
Where to stay? Amanpulo is your private island retreat, where barefoot luxury meets the world’s coolest bar—literally floating offshore! Swim out to Kawayan, a thatched bamboo raft, and sip on an Elderflower Gin Fizz while soaking up those tropical vibes. Want a more authentic Filipino experience? El Nido Resorts Miniloc is your spot, complete with traditional nipa huts perched overwater and its very own lagoon.
4. Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica
Looking for January travel destinations that blend adventure, wildlife, and stunning beaches? Costa Rica in January is a top pick, and Peninsula Papagayo is your go-to tropical places to visit. With dry season weather at 26℃, it’s perfect for swapping winter chills for tropical thrills.
Sure, Costa Rica is known for zip-lining through jungles, rafting down wild rivers, and spotting sloths, toucans, and frogs—but what if you just want to laze on a jaw-dropping beach? This private 1,400-acre retreat has only two resorts and miles of pristine, uncrowded sand for that sweet dose of Vitamin Sea. When you’re ready for action, expert-guided excursions include everything from tree climbing to free-diving with humpback whales. Talk about a winter upgrade!
When it comes to places to stay, the Andaz Papagayo is a quirky standout with its armadillo-shaped suites (yep, you read that right). For more classic luxury, the Four Seasons Resort offers private villas and residences ideal for families. Couples? The one-bedroom canopy suite with a private pool is calling your name!
ALSO READ: Costa Rica All Inclusive Family Resorts: What Makes These 8 Stunning Picks Stand Out?
5. Scottsdale, Arizona
If you’re looking for hot places to visit in January, Scottsdale, Arizona, is calling your name! With a pleasant 20℃ average, this desert gem is not just about endless spas and golf courses (although it’s said to have more spas per capita than anywhere else in the US—talk about pampered perfection!). Once Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter playground, Scottsdale is an architectural wonderland.
Hotel Valley Ho, where Robert Wagner and Natalie Wood tied the knot, and Wright’s own masterpiece, Taliesin West, are mid-century marvels you won’t want to miss. If you need more than architecture and spa days, explore the artsy galleries in the Old Town. Among Arizona best places to visit, it’s where singing cowboys and Wild West storefronts keep the desert vibe alive.
Where to stay? The Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain. This indulgent haven offers jaw-dropping views over Paradise Valley, casitas with outdoor hot tubs, and cozy fireplaces—because who said desert nights can’t be dreamy? Scottsdale is hands down one of the hot places to visit in January you won’t regret!
6. Off-Season Safari in Tanzania
Tanzania’s off-season safari is your ticket to an unforgettable adventure. While the Serengeti is a tourist hot spot during the Great Migration, January’s short dry season serves up a quieter, greener experience. As the rains start to ease, the plains come alive with wildebeest calves, offering you one of the best chances to see the largest herds up close. Think of it as the Serengeti’s VIP season, where you get front-row seats to nature’s greatest show without the crowd.
Don’t miss the spectacular Ngorongoro highlands while you’re there! And for the perfect blend of luxury and wilderness, check out Singita Sabora Tanzania. Nestled in the Grumeti Game Reserve, this spot offers nine canvas tents with a design that lets you blend seamlessly into the plains—talk about “glamping” with a view!
7. Egypt in January
Craving a warm escape this January? Egypt is one of the warm places to visit in January where ancient history meets modern luxury. The average temperature is a comfy 19℃, perfect for exploring without melting. This year, you can sail the Nile like a pharaoh on luxury cruisers from Oberoi, featuring rooftop pools and spas—or opt for Sanctuary Retreats’ Art Deco boats with heated pools and gourmet dining. And let’s not forget the Grand Egyptian Museum, set to unveil treasures from King Tutankhamun’s tomb—because who doesn’t want to get up close with the most famous mummy?
For the ultimate relaxation, head to the Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh, boasting four pools, five restaurants, and a spa to soothe your sun-kissed self. Or, for a riverfront stay in the capital, check out the St. Regis Cairo.
8. Escape to Fiji
Dreaming of a January escape that doesn’t involve a snow shovel? Fiji, one of the warm places to visit in January, is your tropical solution. With an average temperature of 26℃, it’s the perfect mix of warmth without turning into a puddle. Fiji’s bounce-back from Cyclone Winston has transformed it into a beacon of responsible tourism. Though travel restrictions are a thing of the past, remember to be fully vaccinated and insured—because paradise isn’t just a place, it’s a lifestyle choice.
For a touch of luxury, Royal Davui is a tiny island haven with just 16 chic villas, perfect for a honeymoon or a “I need to get away from everyone” retreat. Or, opt for Six Senses Fiji on Malolo Island, where you can enjoy eco-friendly opulence with solar panels and Tesla batteries powering your bliss.
