The 7 Best Places to Go in January 2026

January has a rather unfavourable reputation, thanks to its 31 long days of doom and gloom for much of the world. Plus, it doesn't really help that January marks the end of all the excitement of the preceding festive period. However, it's quite the contrary for many parts of the world, as January is the start of many exciting festivals, annual events and glorious weather. From large-scale snow festivals in China to peak summer weather in Thailand, each country tells its own story during the first month of the year. 

We're here to make January everyone's favourite month, with our suggestions on the best places to go across the world. Not to mention, January is often considered shoulder season for much of the world, meaning that prices and crowds are likely to be much lower. Let's discover the best places to go in January 2026, from the gorgeous landscapes of Patagonia to the snow-smattered streets of Iceland.

Thailand

In January, the weather in Thailand enters its 'sweet spot', in that it's neither sweltering nor freezing. The monsoons and wet season are a distant memory, and what's left is the beating sun, with the whisper of a cloud or a breeze here and there. The weather is warm and tropical, but still refreshingly mild, meaning you'll be able to enjoy yourself without needing to shelter inside an air-conditioned building to escape the heat. 

There's no better time of year for chasing sunsets in Bangkok, immersing yourself in the historic Old Town of Chiang Mai, or exploring temples and markets in Phuket. Start your year off in a truly magical way, and leave behind the winter chill and the chaos of the festive period. Bear in mind that because of its dry weather, January is also one of the most popular and therefore expensive times of year to travel in Thailand. But, in this case, the positives far outweigh the negatives. 

Utah, USA

On the other side of the world, and indeed of the scale, something begins to stir in Utah. Tickets are being sold, the promotion begins, and excitement and anticipation begin to ramp up. You see, every January in Salt Lake City, Utah, the Sundance Film Festival begins. One of the year's most highly anticipated celebrations of independent cinema, it's truly a cultural cornerstone that has been spread across the world. Film stars, directors, and confessed cinephiles come together to watch and discuss new independent film releases. 

But it's not just this iconic event that makes Utah a memorable place to be in January. As the temperatures plummet, the participation in and buzz around winter sports skyrockets. Utah is a renowned hub for winter activities like skiing and snowboarding. January offers excellent snowfall in this American state, making it the perfect time of year to visit. 

Patagonia, South America

The only way to appreciate Patagonia's January landscapes is wide-eyed and awestruck, with stamina fuelling your hiking trips and your camera capturing the glacial sparkle. In January, Patagonia is wild, bright, and thriving. Insects swarm the swathes of wildflowers, adventure-seekers flood the Torres del Paine, and kayakers take to the lakes. The crisp air quietly hums and dances, providing the perfect refreshing relief from the scorch of the Argentine summer. 

Through your binoculars, guanacos thrive and munch, and the snow makes the Andes' peaks sparkle. While Patagonia tells a unique story during every season, there's something truly special about what it offers in January. The Andes divide Patagonia between Argentina and Chile, with each country showing off the prized region in different ways. No matter which side you're on, Patagonia is a breathtaking landscape. We'd recommend visiting in January, but also visiting every month of the year. 

Harbin, China

Step aside, hot weather and mountain-lined landscapes, there's something new on the scene to rival your appeal. Away from the postcard-like landscapes and tropical sun-drenched beaches, China emerges as one of the world's top winter spots. We can attribute this reputation to China's Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival. Taking place each year from December to February, China is transformed into a winter wonderland that is known worldwide. 

Colossal creations made of snow and ice tower above awestruck locals and curious newcomers. Winter activities like ice skating and ice carving take place across the city, and the atmosphere thrives. Akin to its neighbour Japan's iconic Sapporo Snow Festival, it's the largest of its kind in the world. As the new year is fast approaching, this may become your new favourite activity to take away those January blues.

Kenya 

Kenya in January is nothing short of pure magic. January marks the beginning of Kenya's dry season, which conveniently makes members of the Big 5 much easier to spot. If you're heading on a safari tour in Kenya, this is the perfect time of year for not only the best temperatures, but also the best chance at viewing some beautiful animals in the wild. See zebras graze, elephants roam, and lions sunbathe across the arid plains of Kenya's Masai Mara or Amboseli safaris. 

Ditch the winter blues and snow heaps in favour of Kenya's vast plains and perfect temperatures. One of the best aspects of Kenya in January is the weather — it’s the ideal middle ground between scorching and bitterly cold. It's ideal for us, but also for Kenya's native animals, who flock to the perfect viewing spots. 

Cape Town

While the Northern Hemisphere layers up and turns the thermostat to maximum, the Southern Hemisphere enjoys temperatures way at the other end of the scale. South Africa shines in the sun as the Northern Hemisphere shivers, but while this is far from ideal for some of us, expert winemakers are thriving with productivity. January marks the start of the grape harvest for the Cape Winelands and beyond.

From January to April, the Cape Winelands truly come alive. Certain types of grapes, such as Sauvignon Blanc, are best harvested in January. It’s easy to lose yourself in the natural beauty of Cape Town and its surroundings. But, while some tourists hike and paddle, there’s a group of wine connoisseurs who are making their way to the Cape Winelands in search of a fresh tipple. Stellenbosch and Paarl dominate the wine-making regions of South Africa, so if you’re looking for a wine tour or tasting, give these areas a go.

Iceland

Our top spot pick for the best January destinations is Iceland. Now, there's a multitude of reasons why we've chosen this little island, but it comes down to two main ones. As you may know, Iceland and its Scandinavian neighbours are the perfect spots to view the aurora borealis. And, in January, the chance of seeing these glorious green sky lights increases. At the start of the year, the nights are long and dark, essentially handing the Northern Lights to you on a plate. 

What's more, January causes Iceland to become flooded with tourists who flock to the ice caves, glaciers and hot springs. You'll find something memorable to do in Iceland during every month of the year, but January is that extra little bit special.