Planning a winter sun escape and wondering where is it hot in January 2023? Well, you’ve come to the right place, as I’ve compiled this incredible guide to hot countries and the best places to visit for warm weather!
January marks the peak of winter for US & European travelers, and you’re either all snug and cozy in your lounge near the fire while enjoying the cold weather, or if you think similar to me, are planning a mission to escape the brutally cold January weather!
Fortunately, there are plenty of warm cities around the world that will be enjoying warmer weather during January! If you’re looking for a sun-drenched destination to enjoy, there are many to pick from. From South-East Asia to Hawaii, you’ve got plenty to choose from in 2022!
Whether you want to make your way down under (it’s peak summer down in Australia), book a luxurious getaway to the Maldives, or find yourself sipping on pina coladas in Central America – this list will surely give you some solid ideas!
Top 20 Warm Places to Visit in January
1) Tulum, Mexico
Starting off the list, there’s arguably no “hotter” destination to visit in January 2022 to than Tulum, Mexico. It’s recently skyrocketed in popularity (large in part to social-media), and is now Mexico’s third-most visited destination!
Complete with an incredible food scene, epic nightlife, and tons of adventure – it’s an ideal winter sun getaway that offers a little something for everyone!
Tulum also has tons of history, and it’s home to the ancient Tulum Ruins, which show signs of life from the 6th-century! Did you know that Tulum is a walled city that was built by the Mayans? It also functioned as a vital port for the inland settlements historically.
Tulum in January is also one of the least humid months of the year, so it’ll feel comfortably warm without overheating (but when that happens just take a quick dip in the beautiful beach!
January is, fortunately, one of the least humid months for Tulum and brings mild and dry weather. This is ideal for lying on the beach and enjoying the Carribean coast.
Tulum is also home to one of Mexico’s Music Festivals – so for the party-seekers out there, Tulum is simply one of the best hot holidays in January you can book! Make sure you bring along a Festival Hydration Backpack so you can stay hydrated (as the parties can get super hot even at night)
Average Maximum Temperature: 28°C/82°F
Top 5 Activities in Tulum, Mexico
- Book a day-trip through many of the popular cenotes. Or I’d also recommend renting a car and doing a self-guided trip to all the different cenotes (there are tons in the area)
- Meander through the ancient Tulum Ruins.
- Head to the “Hotel Zone” and rent a sunbed and relax for a day. The beaches in Tulum are stunning, and making it one of the best places to travel in january for warm weather!
- Revel in the healing properties of the mud, while bathing in it at Laguna de Kaan Luum.
- Party it up to experience the famous Tulum nightlife! In January in particular, there are some incredible festivals and all-night long parties.
2) Phuket, Thailand
Thailand just recently announced that there are no travel restrictions for tourists, so visiting Thailand in January would be an excellent decision!
Phuket is a popular island destination within Thailand. It’s brimming with mountains and rainforests. It is the largest island in Thailand and lies on the Andaman Coast, and is the gateway to exploring all the nearby islands!
Phuket is also home to the cultural and historical Phuket City, which boasts streets of sino-Portuguese architecture. There are many restaurants, bars, and clubs here. What makes the city so popular is its energetic nightlife and humid temperatures which allow for relaxing on the many beautiful beaches.
January marks the high season for Phuket as it presents some of the warmest and driest weather!
Phuket is easily one the best warm places in January to visit!
Average Maximum Temperature: 31°C/88°F
My website is also filled with fun articles about traveling in Thailand, so be sure to give them a read if you decide to book a Thailand trip in January!
Top 5 Activities in Phuket, Thailand
- Island-hop to Phi Phi Islands for spectacular scenery, snorkeling, and scuba diving – the ocean is calm enough to do so in January
- Go canoeing in Phang Nga Bay Sea Cave
- Laze on Patong Beach, rated one of Thailand’s most beautiful beaches
- Watch the elaborate ladyboy – Simon Cabaret
- Eat Thai delicacies at the Naka Weekend Market
3) Bali, Indonesia
These days, Bali needs no introduction, as it has become one of the world’s hottest tourists destinations. And while it’s technically rainy season, Bali is still an incredible warm destination to visit in January!
Famed for it’s iconic volcanos, rice paddies, beaches, temples, sunsets, and so much more – a trip to Bali is deserves a place on everyone’s bucket list! Spend your days zooming around on scooters, chasing waterfalls, doing yoga, drinking coconuts, or partying it up in Canggu. The list of incredible things to do in Bali seriously never ends.
The island also boasts scenic coral reefs with multitudes of fish species – more than the Great Barrier Reef! In January, there are hot and humid temperatures, but you should expect a bit of tropical rain.
I’ve personally flew to Bali to spend the entire month of January several times, and it’s truly remarkable. You simply can’t beat the food, the accommodation, the sights, etc.
Bali is one of my favorite warm destinations to visit during the winter!
Average Maximum Temperatures: 29°C/81°F
I’ve written heaps about Bali, so be sure to read a few of my guides to help you plan your travels!
Top 5 Activities in Bali, Indonesia
- Rent a scooter and explore all of the incredible beaches around Uluwatu (the southern part of the island)
- Visit the rice terraces, cafes, and swings in Ubud. The iconic Tegalalang Rice Terrace is a must visit!
- Taste the world’s most expensive coffee bean; Kopi Luwak!
- Complete the Mount Batur sunrise hike! It’s not all too strenuous, and the views above the clouds looking out over volcanoes is breathtaking!
- Take a day trip to Nusa Penida for jaw-dropping scenery, swimming with Manta Rays, and incredible viewpoints.
4) Mirissa, Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is an unbelievably underrated destination that would be a perfect warm place to visit in Januara!
Mirissa is a small coastal city on the south coast of Sri Lankan. It attracts many tourists because of its tropical and clean beaches that are palm tree-lined. Travelers especially love this destination because it has incredible resorts, beach hotels, and affordable guest houses.
Mirissa is not overly hot nor is it very humid, making it one of the more popular warm places to visit in the winter months. If you do plan a trip to Sri Lanka, be sure to hop around quite a bit though, as the entire country is filled with amazing national parks, iconic landmarks, unique landscapes + so much more!
If you make your way to Sri Lanka in January, be sure to visit the amazing Sigiriya Rock Fortress as well! It’s one of my favorite places in the country!
Sigiriya Rock, Sri Lanka
Average Maximum Temperature: 29°C/84°F
My site has tons of fun Sri Lanka content to browse through as well to inspire your next adventure:
Image via Flickr | Falco Hermert
Top 5 Activities in Mirissa, Sri Lanka
- Trek to a coconut farm that’s on the top of a hill in the ocean
- Enjoy picturesque views from the top of Parrot Rock on Mirissa Beach
- Easily discover the Mirissa (not so) Secret Beach, where you can also enjoy the food and beverages from the on-site beach bar.
- Take part in the many snorkeling and scuba-diving opportunities
- Day-trip to the Sinharaja Rain Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
5) Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii
For those U.S travelers who want to visit someplace warm without leaving the country, then a trip to the Hawaiian Islands is a no-brainer!
Lahaina is a historic seaside town in Western Maui, and runs along a 30-mile shoreline, providing lovely oasis’s to laze in. It’s traditional culture and appearance has been supplemented by contemporary aspects such as art galleries, beachfront resorts, and restaurants/bars.
This is one of the best places to travel in January for warm weather because it’s still within the convenience of the Northern Hemisphere.
There are typically fantastic flight specials to/from Maui, and would be a a great place to start a Hawaiian island hopping trip, or spend a full week exploring Maui!
Average Maximum Temperature: 28°C/82°F
I just recently returned back from a visit to Maui, so check out my articles here:
Top 5 Activities in Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii
- Take a trip in the Atlantis Submarine which plunges 30 meters into the water.
- Partake in one of the many snorkeling tours or scuba diving excursions.
- Stroll along Front Street for culture, shopping, and beachfront views.
- Snap a picture with Maui’s oldest living tree at Banyan Tree Park.
- Rent a car and enjoy a windy road trip along the iconic Road To Hana.
6) The Maldives
Do I really need to give you a reason to visit the Maldives? It’s one of the most sought-after destinations in the world, and a trip out there in January would be a fantastic decision! While it may be difficult to choose where to visit in the Maldives, as it’s made up of around 1200 islands, I’m sure no matter where you go you’ll have an awesome time.
You can choose between visiting the countless luxury resorts and spend thousands on overwater villas, or you can visit Maldives on a budget and visit the local islands (which are all pretty great and help support the local economies).
While it may be the most expensive places on the list, it’s definitely one of the best countries that are hot in January! It’s also the the dry season, which means little rain and lots of sunshine. I’ve personally visited the Maldives two different times now, and each trip was truly jaw-dropping (and worth every penny).
Average Maximum Temperature: 30°C/86°F
I spent a month in the Maldives, so be sure to check out my articles here for some inspiration:
Top 5 Activities in The Maldives
- Snorkeling & Scuba Diving! It has some of the most magical dive sites I’ve experienced in my life.
- Visiting the Local Islands for a cheaper option and experience the culture.
- Delicious cuisine at world-class restaurants (all the resorts have fantastic dining options and local cuisine).
- Experience luxury at the world’s top resorts and stay at an overwater villa.
- Watersports, Island hopping and Sunset Cruises. The resorts all offer a ton of different activities/ day trips.
7) St. George, Bermuda
This old coastal town was the first British colonial settlement of Bermuda. It’s located on St. George’s island and is still very much the way it was many years ago. Because of this age-old feeling and maintenance of the historic buildings, the town was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
While visiting in January there will be a chance of some rain, the weather is still warm and enjoyable!
A trip to Bermuda has a little something to offer everyone, and visiting in January would be a much needed winter escape that the whole family will enjoy, or perfect for a romantic getaway!
Average Maximum Temperature: 21°C/70°F
Top 5 Activities in St. George
- Enjoy excellent visibility of the water in January and try watersports or snorkeling in Tobacco Bay
- Learn about the Wars in the World Heritage Center
- View the ruins of an incomplete Gothic Church from the 19th-century; ‘Unfinished Church’
- Go on a day trip to the Crystal and Fantasy Caves
- Visit Fort St. Catherine, which has now been transformed into a History Museum
8) Eilat, Israel
Exploring Israel in January will bring about varying climatic conditions. These conditions vary from wet, cold conditions in Jerusalem during winter, to warm conditions in Eilat – which boasts an extensive coastline, adorned with white-sand beaches and crystal blue water.
Unbelievable Israeli food and scuba-diving in the Red Sea – need I say any more?
Eilat is regarded as one of the hottest places in January to visit within Israel. The Red Sea temperatures are fortunately warmer than that of the Dead Sea, so this will be your best bet for enjoyable swimming, relaxing, and top-notch nightlife.
There is consistent sunshine throughout the month, with the nights becoming much cooler. While in Israel, you could also hop over the border to Taba Heights in Egypt, or do a few day excursion over to Jordan to visit Petra.
Average Maximum Temperature: 21°C/70°F
Israel is an all-around amazing decision any time of the year, so check out a few of my top articles:
Top 5 Activities in Eilat, Israel
- Go scuba-diving and snorkeling along Eilat’s coral beaches
- Swim with dolphins in the Dolphin Reef, where they naturally like to swim because of the nearby corals
- Take a hike along the Red Canyon, a desert and geographically-distinct feature
- Visit a lake in the Negev Desert at Timna National Park
- Submerge underwater into the country’s largest public aquarium; the Underwater Observatory Park
9)Aqaba, Jordan
Okay, so I couldn’t mention Eilat without also mentioning the neighboring country’s iconic Red Sea destination!
Most people don’t know that Jordan actually has a coastal city, Aqaba. This city is set along the north-eastern section of the Red Sea, and offers amazing and easy access to coral reefs, luxury beach resorts, blue waters, and desert mountains!
This is actually the country’s only port and coastal city, so it’s common for locals to spend their holidays there.
In January, Aqaba experiences almost no rainfall, and a trip to Jordan is always a good idea. Visit Petra, the Dead Sea, Wadi Rum, and Aqaba all in just one short week! Be warned though, Jordan can be a bit expensive!
Average Maximum Temperature: 21°C/70°F
If you make it out to Jordan, check out my Jordan tour review here for some trip inspiration:
Two Days in Jordan | Exploring Petra, Amman, and Jerash
Top 5 Activities to do in Aqaba
- Go scuba-diving in the coral reefs
- Day-trip to Wadi Rum, also known as the Valley of the Moon
- Stroll around Aqaba’s Old Town
- View remnants of the first Islamic town not to be placed within the Arabian peninsula – Ayla
- Visit the Mamluk Castle that was originally built by the Crusaders in the 1100s.
10) Gold Coast, Australia
The country and continent, Australia, is a beachcomber’s haven. With all of its major cities being coastal, you’ll find this nation densely populated with tourists and locals alike. What makes it popular for visitors in January is the fact that it’s summer here, and most locals are on vacation. The southern region, mainly the Gold Coast, become favored spots for vacationers!
All of Australia would be a fantastic choice for travelers looking for warmth in January! My site is filled with Australia content, so be sure to read a few of these articles for some more inspiration:
Average Maximum Temperature: 29°C/84°F
Top 5 Activities in the Gold Coast
- Swim in the clear waters of the Pacific Ocean, along the area’s 43 miles of golden sand beaches
- Take a lesson on how to surf, or if you’ve already learned, enjoy this surfer’s paradise!
- Hike in Tamborine National Park, in the hinterland of Queensland
- Take a jetski safari through the Gold Coast’s varied islands and rivers
- Unleash your inner-kid at the Warner Bros. Movie World
11) Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur is the capital city of Malaysia, and 2018’s sixth-most visited city in the world. With a colonial past, the city has a rich history. Being landlocked, it’s only a 1.5-hour drive away from tropical, white-sand beaches too!
Kuala Lumpur functions as the country’s international city and its economic development is rapidly increasing.
The city is infamous for its high flooding rates during Summer due to its close proximity to two rivers. It would be a wise decision to visit in Malaysia in January; winter. This is because there is low rainfall at this stage, in comparison to Summer months.
The city offers incredible food, rich culture, and is a gateway to exploring the rest of the country. If you find yourself heading to Malaysia, be sure to visit the Perhentian Islands, Langkawi, Penang, and the Cameron Highlands as well!
Average Maximum Temperature: 32°C/90°F
If you do happen to visit Malaysia in January, check out a few of these articles:
Top 5 Activities in Kuala Lumpur
- Visit the world’s highest twin towers and walk the sky bridge at the PETRONAS Towers
- Take a trip to the Batu Caves, that are within a limestone hill and accompanied by Hindu temples
- Get cultured at the Sri Mahamariamman Temple, the oldest Hindu Temple in the city
- Take a day-trip to the Cameron Highlands and the butterfly garden
- Indulge in the local delicacies and food at the Jalan Alor Food Market
12) Puerto Princesa, The Philippines
Situated in the largest jurisdiction island of The Philippines, Palawan, Puerto Princesa is picture-perfect. It is a fairly new settlement that lies in close proximity to green rainforests and white-sand beaches. Tourists mainly utilize this city as a gateway to the Subterranean River National Park. This has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its astonishing cave systems and underground rivers.
January is a great month to visit these caves – and the city – as it’s a dry and hot month. What’s more, the sun shines here all day, with an average of 11.5-hours.
Average Maximum Temperature: 31°C/88°F
If you do happen to visit the Philippines in January, check out a few of these posts:
Top 5 Activities in Puerto Princesa, Palawan
- Venture through the world’s longest navigable underground river; the Puerto Princesa Underground River beneath limestone rock
- During sunset, walk along the city’s bay walk promenade
- Island-hop to the other surrounding, nearby islands such as Honda Bay
- Laze at one of the many private or public beaches. Talaudyong Beach is a top-pick.
- Travel to Mitra’s Ranch for lovely views of the city and ocean
13) Auckland, New Zealand
Auckland is the biggest city for New Zealand and is connected to two natural harbors. This means that the city is the inner-land between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea. The metropolis is located around a volcanic field, where there are 53 dormant volcanoes.
It has incredible coastlines, forestry as well as prolific native wildlife nearby. January is a splendid time to visit since this is the middle of summer in New Zealand. Warm, temperate days are accompanied by cool nights.
Average Daily Temperature: 22°C/72°F
Piha Beach – Auckland Day Trip
If you decide to visit New Zealand in January, be sure to check out a few of these articles:
Top 5 Activities in Auckland, New Zealand
- Kayak to Rangitoto Island where a dormant volcano sits
- Take a day trip and marvel at or surf in the dramatic setting of Piha Beach
- Take a ferry to Tiritiri Matangi Island to view conserved endangered wildlife
- Do the coast-to-coast walk; from Waitemata Harbor to Manukau Harbor
- Elevate 330-meters above ground to get panoramic views from the Sky Tower
14) Cape Town, South Africa
Table mountain sunset
Cape Town offers some of the best picturesque spots in South Africa. From viewing penguins at Boulders Beach to hiking the inner-city mountains, it is one of the continent’s most visited cities.
It attracts a liberal, artistic crowd and is an innovative African city. With a colonial past, Cape Town is also marked by indicators of its Apartheid past.
Flocks of international and local visitors head to Cape Town in January for its long summer days, and dry conditions. Rain won’t be a problem for you here during this month, which means it’s one of the best places to visit in January for some sun.
Be sure to read my guide on Airbnbs in Cape Town for the ultimate vacation getaway!
Average Maximum Temperature: 29°C/84°F
overall aerial view of Cape Town, South Africa
Top 5 Activities in Cape Town
- Visit Robben Island to see where Nelson Mandela was held captive
- Laze on Camps Bay Beach and walk across to the many bars and restaurants
- Hike up both Lions Head and Table Mountain, on two different occasions, of course
- Take a drive to Cape Agulhas, the most Southern tip of Africa
- Venture to the nearby wineries in the province
15) Nassau, The Bahamas
Scenic view of Paradise Island in Nassau, Bahamas
Many of the islands in the archipelago of the Bahamas remain untouched. Yet, the capital city of Nassau boasts the best of both worlds; natural landscape accompanied by high-rise buildings and lavish beach resorts. This is a favored stop among cruise ships and is based on the largest island of the country; New Providence.
The month of January brings peak season to visit as the weather is at its finest. You’ll enjoy dry, hot conditions, as well as being outside the hurricane season.
Average Maximum Temperature: 26°C/79°F
Top 5 Activities in Nassau, Bahamas
- Buy straw artifacts from the Nassau Straw Market
- Take a jet ski tour across the ocean
- Spend the day in Blue Lagoon Island, where you can find the Bahama’s best beaches
- Be entertained in the colossal resort, Atlantis, which has an Aquaventure Waterpark
- Take a day trip to the Exuma Cays, where you can swim with pigs!
16) Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dubai is a world-renowned city that is scattered with high-rise, futuristic buildings. It’s an economic and financial center for the UAE and has global pursuits too. The city and broader inland mainly have hot and dry desert conditions. Fortunately, Dubai is on the banks of the southeastern Persian Gulf which provides relief from the heat.
This makes it a great beach holiday, year-round. Some days reach a high of during January, so you’ll definitely find yourself lying on the spacious beaches at one point.
Dubai has a typical desert climate which means that it is not often affected by a cold winter. Rather, it remains warm and dry in its winters. In January, there is also little chance of rain.
Average Maximum Temperature: 24°C/75°F
Top 5 Activities in Dubai
- The world-famous Dubai Shopping Festival takes place in January
- Brave your way up the world’s tallest tower, the Burj Khalifa
- Go on an Arabian desert safari on a camel
- Unwind and relieve yourself from the heat at Jumeirah Beach
- Cool down in the Atlantis Waterpark
17) Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s hidden gem is a dry tropical forest along a 15-mile shoreline. This 570-hectare area is home to Latin America’s premier resort destinations! Much of the inland forestry is conserved and the biodiversity within is well-maintained.
It’s definitely one of the most scenic hot destinations in January and it’s the dry season during this time. So, you won’t be burdened by rain and can enjoy the beaches in tropical conditions! It’s also one of the Safest Countries to visit in Central & South America which is nice to know!
There is tons of explore in the country making it an ideal winter escape.
Average Maximum Temperature: 33°C/91°F
Exploring the Beaches of Costa Rica in January is truly unforgettable!
Top 5 Activities in Peninsula Papagayo
- Zipline for an entire mile at Diamante Adventure Eco Park
- Enjoy a variety of watersports at Playas del Coco beach
- Day trip to Arenal Volcano National Park; an active volcano
- Visit Planet Hollywood Resort for a foamy pool party
- Go scuba-diving at the Summer Salt Diving Center
18) Baga, India
Baga is a small coastal town in the state of Goa, in India. It offers visitors long-stretching tropical palm-lined beaches along the Arabian Sea. The town has a youthful energy and even has a ‘party-strip’ for those who love to drink and socialize.
It’s mainly a tourist location and is located in Northern Goa. However, it allows for easy access to other coastal and inland areas of Goa such as Calangute.
In January, Goa isn’t troubled by any chance of rain. This makes it one of the unmissable warm holiday destinations in January. Temperatures are still very hot, yet not wet or humid. Goa is also a prime spot for India’s Electronic Music Festival because it hosts the popular SunBurn Reload.
Average Maximum Temperature: 32°C/90°F
Top 5 Activities in Goa
- Spend a day at India’s first inflatable watersports park; Monsoon Fun Park
- Tan and swim in Baga Beach
- View Goa’s best example of neo-Gothic architecture; Church of Mae de Seus
- Join a yoga class at Satya Yoga Goa
- Escape the Churches and explore the Sri Shantadurg Temple
19) Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
As one of Brazil’s most iconic cities, Rio de Janeiro has many of the best things to do in Brazil. this coastal metropolis bustles day and night. It’s surrounded by mountainous landscapes and lengthy shorelines. It’s famed for its vibrant nightlife and lively culture.
The city is on the banks of the Guanabara Bay, which consists of over 100 islands. Rio also houses the world’s largest urban forest.
In January, summer has just begun and it can get very hot here. Although the sun doesn’t shine all day here, when it does, the beaches become populated. Rain is not uncommon in this month and offers relief to the hot temperatures.
Average Maximum Temperature: 30°C/86°F
Top 5 Activities in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Visit one of the seven wonders of the world; Christ the Redeemer
- Take the cable-car up 400-meters to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain
- Absorb the sun at the spacious Ipanema Beach
- Spend the day in Tijuca Rainforest
- Browse through the bohemian area on the mountains; Santa Teresa
20) Santa Marta, Colombia
While the saying goes that you should leave the best for last – we left one of the hottest for last! Colombia’s oldest city, Santa Marta, often has days in January that reach 35°C/95°F. So, it’s certainly one of the hottest places in January to visit!
Santa Marta boasts scenic beaches along the Caribbean bay. It’s a major port for the country and holds significant archaeological and historical value. It was the first site that the Spanish colonizers occupied within the country.
In January, there’s a low chance of rain, making Santa Marta popular to visit for its beautiful beaches.
Average Maximum Temperature: 33°C/91°F
Top 5 Activities in Santa Marta
- Visit Simon Bolivar’s house, the man who brought about Colombia’s independence
- Unwind in the pristine beaches at Tayrona National Park
- For the fit: journey to the ancient Lost City
- Visit the organic coffee farms in Minca
- Admire the gold artifacts at Museo del Oro
What are your favorite hot destinations to visit in January?
This list really could have gone on and on, but I wanted to keep it down to 20! There are so many more though, so would love to hear from you guys and see if there’s any specific warm winter destinations that I should have included on my list!
My personal favorite? Well, I’d have to say the Maldives! It’s so beautiful, and contrary to popular belief – doesn’t need to be an expensive trip!
Final Thoughts on Hot Countries in January
So, there’s certainly no excuse for you to stay cold in January unless you want to. From snorkeling in the ocean to having a healing mud-bath in Mexico, something ought to have tempted you.
Being the peak summer month for many Southern Hemisphere countries, hot holidays in January are plentiful. Temperatures can exceed 36°C/97°F in some destinations, and the weather is mainly unburdened by rains as this month marks the middle of the dry season for most destinations.
Thanks for reading my guide for Where is Hot in January
Share these warm winter destinations with your favorite travelers!