Best Countries to Visit in January

January is an ideal time to travel because it offers a unique mix of experiences that cater to all types of travellers. With the festive rush behind, many destinations are quieter, making it easier to explore without battling large crowds. The post-holiday season also means better deals on flights, accommodations and tours, making January a cost-effective month for travel.

Weather is another big advantage. If you love snow, January brings pristine winter landscapes perfect for skiing, snowboarding or simply enjoying cosy evenings by the fire. For those who prefer warmth, many tropical destinations offer sunny skies and pleasant temperatures, providing the perfect escape from the winter chill.

January also marks the beginning of new cultural and local events around the world. In many places, you can participate in unique festivals, seasonal wildlife migrations or special New Year traditions. It is also a time when wellness retreats and adventure tours pick up, giving you options to start the year refreshed or energised.

January sets the stage for memorable travel experiences for all kinds of travellers. With thoughtful planning, you can make the most of this month and create a holiday that is the perfect start to your year.

Destination Name	Visa Needed	Season Type (Low/Shoulder/Peak)	Cost per Person Approx. (in ₹)*
Australia	Yes (evisa)	Peak	₹2,00,000 - ₹2,50,000
Maldives	Visa on Arrival	Peak	₹80,000 - ₹1,20,000
Thailand	Visa on Arrival	Peak	₹50,000 - ₹80,000
Seychelles	No (Visa-free)	Peak	₹1,50,000 - ₹2,00,000
Argentina	evisa	Shoulder	₹2,50,000 - ₹3,00,000
Costa Rica	Yes	Peak	₹1,70,000 - ₹2,20,000
Egypt	Yes (evisa)	Peak	₹1,00,000 - ₹1,50,000
South Africa	Yes	Shoulder	₹1,50,000 - ₹2,00,000
Austria	Yes (Schengen Visa)	Peak	₹1,80,000 - ₹2,30,000
Sri Lanka	ETA required	Peak	₹50,000 - ₹70,000

Let us learn more about the best places to see in January in detail below:

-Australia in January

Australia, known for the Great Barrier Reef and stunning beaches, is perfect for adventure lovers and beach enthusiasts. January is summer in Australia, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 38°C, depending on the region.

While it can get hot, the long days make it ideal for exploring cities like Sydney and Melbourne, enjoying sunrises, shopping or relaxing in parks. It is a great time to experience Australia’s vibrant summer vibe.

-Average Tour Price/Person for 6N/7D

₹2,00,000 - ₹2,50,000* (includes flights, accommodations, meals and tours, depending on the itinerary).

-Things To Do

• Snorkel or dive in the Great Barrier Reef.

• Explore Sydney’s Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

• Visit wildlife sanctuaries to see kangaroos and koalas.

• Take road trips along the Great Ocean Road.

• Surf or relax on iconic beaches like Bondi and Gold Coast.

• Discover Aboriginal culture at Uluru.

-Popular Tourist Spots

• Great Barrier Reef

• Sydney Opera House

• Blue Mountains National Park

• Bondi Beach

• Uluru (Ayers Rock)

• Melbourne's Federation Square

• Great Ocean Road

-Maldives in January

The Maldives is one of the best holiday places in January for travellers looking for a tropical paradise with white sandy beaches. It is perfect for adventure, honeymoons or relaxing holidays.

January is an ideal time to visit, as it falls in the dry season with clear blue skies, calm seas and minimal rainfall or humidity. Daytime temperatures reach around 29°C and drop to 25°C at night, with a refreshing ocean breeze keeping the atmosphere pleasant throughout.

-Average Tour Price/Person for 6N/7D

₹80,000 - ₹1,20,000* (includes flights, accommodations, meals and tours, depending on the itinerary).

-Things To Do

• Snorkelling and scuba diving in crystal-clear waters.

• Relax on pristine white sand beaches.

• Enjoy sunset cruises or dolphin-watching tours.

• Experience underwater dining at unique restaurants.

• Indulge in spa treatments at luxury resorts.

• Try water sports like jet skiing, paddleboarding and kayaking.

-Popular Tourist Spots

• Male City

• Hulhumale Island

• Maafushi Island

• Banana Reef

• Vaadhoo Island

• Addu Atoll

-Thailand in January

Thailand is one of the cheapest countries to visit in January and it offers a mix of stunning beaches, lush forests, ancient temples and busy markets. January is a peak month with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C, offering plenty of sunshine. The clear waters and excellent underwater visibility make it a popular time for diving.

Both the islands and regions like northern and central Thailand attract travellers looking to experience its rich culture and natural beauty during this pleasant month.

-Average Tour Price/Person for 6N/7D

₹50,000 - ₹80,000* (includes flights, accommodations, meals and tours, depending on the itinerary).

-Things To Do

• Explore Bangkok’s vibrant markets and temples.

• Visit the Grand Palace and Wat Pho.

• Relax on the stunning beaches of Phuket or Krabi.

• Experience the floating markets and traditional Thai cooking classes.

• Go island-hopping to places like Phi Phi Islands and Koh Samui.

• Enjoy adventure activities like zip-lining and trekking in northern Thailand.

-Popular Tourist Spots

• Bangkok for Grand Palace and Wat Arun

• Phi Phi Islands

• Phuket and Patong Beach

• Ayutthaya Historical Park

• Chiang Mai and Doi Suthep

• Krabi and Railay Beach

-Seychelles in January

Seychelles, known as the island of love, is a popular luxury honeymoon destination due to its stunning beauty. While January falls during the monsoon season, it remains warm, with temperatures around 27°C.

Despite occasional rain, the weather is still pleasant. January is also a peak tourist month, as it aligns with the global holiday season, making it a perfect time for many travellers to visit.

-Average Tour Price/Person for 6N/7D

₹1,50,000 - ₹2,00,000* (includes flights, accommodations, meals and tours, depending on the itinerary).

-Things To Do

• Relax on beautiful beaches like Anse Source d'Argent and Anse Takamaka.

• Snorkel or dive in crystal-clear waters to explore coral reefs.

• Visit the Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Go island-hopping to nearby islands like Praslin and La Digue.

• Enjoy a sunset cruise or fishing trip.

• Indulge in luxury spa treatments and savour local seafood.

-Popular Tourist Spots

• Anse Source d'Argent Beach

• Praslin Island

• La Digue Island

• Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve

• Mahé Island

• Curieuse Island

-Argentina in January

Argentina, the second-largest country in Latin America, offers diverse landscapes, from the Andes mountains to Patagonia’s glaciers and the Pampas grasslands. January, the peak of summer, is a great time to explore these beautiful sites.

You can visit the lively city of Buenos Aires, admire the stunning Iguazu Falls or head to Patagonia for breathtaking views and outdoor adventures, making it a perfect destination for all types of travellers.

-Average Tour Price/Person for 6N/7D

₹2,50,000 - ₹3,00,000* (includes flights, accommodations, meals and tours, depending on the itinerary).

-Things To Do

• Explore Buenos Aires' vibrant culture and tango shows.

• Visit the majestic Iguazu Falls, one of the largest waterfall systems in the world.

• Hike or take a boat tour to see the stunning glaciers in Patagonia.

• Experience wine tasting in Mendoza’s famous vineyards.

• Discover the wildlife in Tierra del Fuego National Park.

• Go on a horseback riding adventure through the Pampas.

-Popular Tourist Spots

• Buenos Aires

• Iguazu Falls

• Patagonia

• Mendoza

• Tierra del Fuego National Park

• Bariloche

-Costa Rica in January

Costa Rica is famous for its rich wildlife, unique culture and exciting adventure activities. January, which falls during the dry season, is the perfect time to visit. You can explore lush national parks, enjoy hikes through rainforests, go zip-lining and unwind on beautiful, untouched beaches. Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes and biodiversity make it an unforgettable destination for nature and adventure lovers.

-Average Tour Price/Person for 6N/7D

₹1,20,000 - ₹1,70,000* (includes flights, accommodations, meals and tours, depending on the itinerary).

-Things To Do

• Explore the rainforests and national parks like Manuel Antonio and Corcovado.

• Go zip-lining through the jungle canopy.

• Relax on the pristine beaches of the Pacific and Caribbean coasts.

• Hike to volcanoes like Arenal or Poás.

• Spot diverse wildlife, including monkeys, sloths and exotic birds.

Try white-water rafting or kayaking in rivers and waterfalls.

-Popular Tourist Spots

• Manuel Antonio National Park

• Arenal Volcano National Park

• Tortuguero National Park

• Monteverde Cloud Forest

• Playa Tamarindo

• Poás Volcano National Park

-Egypt in January

Egypt is known for its exotic beauty, with iconic pyramids, mummies and ancient treasures. However, there is much more to explore. January offers pleasant temperatures, making it a great time to visit the country's historic sites.

January is also a peak season, so famous attractions like the Pyramids of Giza, the Temples of Luxor and Abu Simbel can be quite crowded. However, the weather makes exploring comfortable and enjoyable.

-Average Tour Price/Person for 6N/7D

₹60,000 - ₹90,000* (includes flights, accommodations, meals and tours, depending on the itinerary).

-Things To Do

• Explore the ancient Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx.

• Visit the Valley of the Kings and the Temples of Luxor.

• Take a cruise on the Nile River.

• Dive or snorkel in the Red Sea at Sharm El Sheikh.

• Discover the Egyptian Museum in Cairo.

• Visit Abu Simbel’s colossal temples.

-Popular Tourist Spots

• Pyramids of Giza

• Luxor

• Abu Simbel Temples

• Nile River Cruise

• Sharm El Sheikh

• Egyptian Museum

-South Africa in January

South Africa is famous for its wildlife safaris, beautiful beaches and vineyards. Known as the "Rainbow Nation" for its cultural diversity, it offers a lot to explore. January is summer in South Africa, with warm temperatures and long days.

You can go on a safari in Kruger National Park, explore Cape Town and its scenic views or visit the stunning Winelands for a relaxing experience.

-Average Tour Price/Person for 6N/7D

₹1,20,000 - ₹1,80,000* (includes flights, accommodations, meals and tours, depending on the itinerary).

-Things To Do

• Go on a safari at Kruger National Park to spot the Big Five.

• Explore the vibrant city of Cape Town and hike up Table Mountain.

• Visit the Cape of Good Hope and Boulders Beach for penguin sightings.

• Tour the scenic Winelands for wine tasting.

• Enjoy whale watching or shark cage diving.

• Relax on the beaches of Durban or explore its cultural sites.

-Popular Tourist Spots

• Kruger National Park

• Cape Town

• Cape of Good Hope

• Boulders Beach

• Stellenbosch and Franschhoek

• Durban Beaches

• Garden Route

-Austria in January

Austria is one of the best European countries to visit in January and is rich in imperial culture, stunning architecture, vibrant music and cosy cafes. It is also perfect for adventure seekers with thrilling winter sports.

January, the coldest month, is ideal for skiing and snow activities in the Alpine region. Do not miss the famous Hahnenkamm race in mid-January, which offers exciting skiing competitions and draws visitors from around the world.

-Average Tour Price/Person for 6N/7D

₹1,30,000 - ₹1,80,000* (includes flights, accommodations, meals and tours, depending on the itinerary).

-Things To Do

• Go skiing in the Austrian Alps or take part in snowboarding.

• Explore Vienna’s imperial palaces and museums.

• Enjoy classical music concerts in Vienna or Salzburg.

• Visit charming Christmas markets that extend into early January.

• Hike or ride cable cars for breathtaking views of snowy landscapes.

• Indulge in traditional Austrian cuisine at local cafes.

-Popular Tourist Spots

• Vienna

• Salzburg

• Innsbruck

• Hallstatt

• Zell am See

• Kitzbühel, which is the Hahnenkamm skiing race

-Sri Lanka in January

Sri Lanka is one of the best Asian countries to visit in January and is famous for its stunning beaches, ancient Buddhist temples, wildlife and rich history. January is warm and sunny, making it a great time to visit.

The Hill Country offers cooler weather, while the beaches on the South and West coasts are hot, dry and perfect for relaxing. Temperatures during this time range from 30-32℃, which is ideal for exploring and enjoying the outdoors.

-Average Tour Price/Person for 6N/7D

₹40,000 - ₹70,000* (includes flights, accommodations, meals and tours, depending on the itinerary).

-Things To Do

• Relax on the pristine beaches of Bentota and Mirissa.

• Explore ancient Buddhist temples like the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy.

• Take a scenic train ride through the lush tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya.

• Visit Yala National Park for a wildlife safari.

• Hike up Sigiriya Rock Fortress for panoramic views.

• Enjoy water sports like surfing and snorkelling on the southern coast.

-Popular Tourist Spots

• Sigiriya Rock Fortress

• Temple of the Tooth Relic, Kandy

• Ella

• Galle Fort

• Yala National Park

• Mirissa

• Nuwara Eliya

[*Disclaimer: The mentioned prices are approximate and subject to change. Please check the latest rates before finalising your travel plans.]

Travelling in January can be exciting and fun. And now you also have an idea about the best countries to go to in January. But a little planning goes a long way. Here are some tips to make your trip smooth and memorable:

-Pack Accordingly

January weather varies by destination. Pack warm layers for colder climates and light clothing for tropical spots. Do not forget essentials like sunscreen, rain gear and sturdy footwear.

-Book in Advance

January is a popular travel month. Secure your flights, accommodations and activities early to avoid price hikes or unavailability.

-Be Flexible

Expect crowds at tourist hotspots, especially in peak destinations. Plan activities early in the day to avoid long queues.

-Check Travel Advisories

Review visa requirements, COVID-19 guidelines and local regulations for your destination. If you need to have any health-related certificates for the trip, get them in advance.

-Carry Travel Insurance

Weather disruptions are common in January. A good travel insurance plan offers peace of mind. Make sure you have the right travel insurance from TATA AIG before the trip commences.

January is a peak travel month, drawing tourists worldwide to experience diverse climates and festivities. However, travelling during this season can come with unforeseen challenges, so a TATA AIG travel insurance plan is an essential part of your planning.

In many regions, the winter season can bring unpredictable weather, leading to potential flight delays or cancellations. A travel insurance policy ensures you are covered for such disruptions, reimbursing you for extra costs or rebooking expenses.

Furthermore, if you are travelling with your parents, medical emergencies can occur anytime during international trips, and that can be expensive. Whether it is a sudden illness or an accident, TATA AIG’s travel insurance for senior citizens provides comprehensive coverage for hospitalisation and medical care, easing your financial burden.

Lost baggage or travel documents is another concern, especially when navigating crowded airports and destinations. Travelling insurance helps you recover from these setbacks by offering compensation or assistance for replacement.

Moreover, January often sees a spike in tourist activity, which may lead to crowded destinations and higher chances of mishaps. With TATA AIG, you also benefit from features like trip cancellation coverage and emergency cash allowances, adding an extra layer of security to your journey.

Do not let unexpected situations disrupt your vacation. Travel worry-free by securing your trip with TATA AIG’s reliable travel insurance plans.

January is the perfect month to start the year with an unforgettable adventure. From exploring busy cities to relaxing in nature’s lap, January’s diverse options ensure something for everyone.

Remember to plan ahead, pack appropriately and secure travel insurance for a hassle-free trip. Start the year on a high note by visiting one of these amazing destinations and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Your perfect January getaway awaits!

How do I avoid the peak tourist crowds in January?

To avoid large crowds, consider visiting lesser-known destinations or exploring off-the-beaten-path locations. Also, try travelling early in the month before peak holiday periods. Smaller towns and rural areas tend to be quieter during this time, offering a more peaceful experience.

Is January a good time for a beach holiday?

Yes, January is ideal for beach holidays, especially in tropical destinations like the Maldives, Thailand and Costa Rica. The weather is warm with minimal rainfall, perfect for lounging on sandy beaches, playing water sports and exploring marine life.

Are there any destinations with unique festivals or events in January?

Yes! January features unique festivals and events, like the Hahnenkamm Ski Race in Austria and the Buenos Aires Summer Festival in Argentina.