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Start your year with sunshine, snow, and unforgettable adventures
New year, new passport stamps (and maybe a few new travel besties). If you’re looking for the best places to visit in January, this list is your go-to guide. January isn’t just for resolutions—it’s the perfect month to reset your mindset and explore somewhere unforgettable.
Whether you’re craving tropical sunshine or a snowy escape, we’ve rounded up the best destinations to visit in January for adventure, connection, and everything in between. Fewer crowds, fresh vibes, and epic experiences? That’s the dream. From once-in-a-lifetime safaris to frozen waterfalls and volcano treks, these are the best places for travel in January—and they’re even better with a group of fellow explorers.
TrovaTrip Host @veladyaorganica and Travelers on their group trip to Costa Rica.
1. Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a great place to visit in January, especially if your year needs more “pura vida.” It’s peak dry season, which means sunny skies, lush landscapes, and all the adventure you can handle—minus the mud. From ziplining through the jungle, to spotting sloths in the wild, to escaping for a retreat in Rincón de La Vieja, every day feels like a deep breath of fresh air.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time surfer, this is the place to shake off last year and start fresh—with sunshine, waterfalls, and maybe a few new friends in tow.
Join a trip to Costa Rica or explore itineraries to host your own group getaway.
TrovaTrip Host @alanaalovee and Traveler on a group trip to Japan.
2. Japan
You’ve heard of cherry blossoms—now meet Japan in January. It’s low-key one of the best-kept travel secrets: think peaceful temples, snow-dusted shrines, and restaurants without a wait.
As one of the best places to visit in January, Japan will bring you a mix of tranquility, culture, and a fresh start to the year. Winter brings crisp air, quiet temples, and the chance to explore iconic sites without the crowds.
In Tokyo, stroll through vibrant neighborhoods and visit shrines like Senso-ji under clear winter skies. Nagano invites you to unwind in a steaming onsen and wander snow-dusted mountain villages. Kyoto’s gardens are calm and pristine this time of year, while Shizuoka offers stunning views of Mount Fuji paired with a warm cup of locally grown green tea. And in Osaka, the street food scene brings the energy and flavor to round out your journey.
Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or planning your first group trip, Japan in January feels like a deep breath of renewal—peaceful, inspiring, and unforgettable. If you’re looking for one of the top places to travel in January, Japan should be at the top of your list.
Book a trip to Japan or host your own group with one of our ready-to-go itineraries.
3. South Africa
Looking to start your year with a little wow? South Africa stands out as one of the best places to visit in January thanks to its summer season featuring long, sunny days, warm temps, and the perfect setting for adventure, wildlife, and cultural exploration.
Cape Town is buzzing this time of year—hike to the top of Table Mountain for sweeping views, sip your way through the Stellenbosch wine region, or wander the vibrant, mural-filled streets of Bo-Kaap. Craving a serious thrill? Head to Gansbaai for cage diving with great white sharks—a heart-pounding experience you’ll be talking about for years.
And don’t skip the safari. January’s lush green landscapes in Kruger National Park not only provide incredible photo ops but also draw out wildlife in dramatic fashion. Whether you’re spotting lions, elephants, or giraffes, it’s a true once-in-a-lifetime moment.
Join a trip to South Africa or check out our South African Road Trip itinerary to host your own!
TrovaTrip Host @cedricwood kayaking in Thailand.
4. Thailand
Thailand in January? 🤌 Chef’s kiss. It’s dry season, which means perfect beach weather and cooler (but still warm) temps in the north—ideal for temple hopping, night markets, and jungle treks, all making Thailand a great place to visit in January.
Island-hop through the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea, or explore cultural treasures like Chiang Mai and Bangkok. Whether you’re diving with tropical fish or devouring street food from a floating market, Thailand delivers warmth in every sense of the word. But don’t be fooled, the warmth isn’t just in the weather—it’s in the people, the food, and the vibe. Thailand is the kind of place that feels like a hug in destination form.
🌈 Bonus: Thailand is widely celebrated as one of the world’s most queer-friendly travel destinations. From welcoming locals to vibrant nightlife and Pride events, it’s a place where LGBTQ+ travelers can feel at home, safe, and celebrated.
Check out our group trips in Thailand or host your own trip with one of our curated itineraries!
5. New Zealand
U.S. winter is prime summer in New Zealand, making it one of the best places for travel in January for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. which means long days, epic hikes, and all the nature your heart can handle. From fjords and glowworm caves to glacial lakes and Hobbiton, this is the ultimate active travel destination.
The South Island is a haven for road trips, with jaw-dropping scenery around every bend. Think waterfalls, beaches, mountains, and vineyards—sometimes all in one day. And the best part? It’s not as hot or hectic as other Southern Hemisphere summer spots.
Find a trip to join or host an adventure through New Zealand yourself!
TrovaTrip Hosts @bonschro and @matthewpvincent with their group of Travelers in Iceland.
6. Iceland
Trade beach towels for snow boots and say hello to your inner Viking—January is an epic time to experience the raw, otherworldly beauty of Iceland. Winter transforms this island into a surreal playground of glaciers, volcanoes, and geothermal wonders. Fewer crowds, cozy vibes, and a front-row seat to the Northern Lights? Yes, please.
Kick things off in Reykjavík, then dive into adventure along the Golden Circle and South Coast. You’ll walk behind frozen waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss, explore the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara, and stand in awe at Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most powerful cascades. Trek across glaciers in Skaftafell, witness the glowing icebergs at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, and soak away the chill in geothermal baths like Krauma and the famous Blue Lagoon.
And when the night sky cooperates? You’ll chase the Northern Lights like a pro, camera ready, layered up, and fully immersed in Iceland’s winter magic. Iceland has our vote for one of the best places to visit in January.
This is the Land of Fire and Ice at its most dramatic—and most unforgettable.
Book your dream Iceland trip or explore our winter itinerary to host your own adventure.
TrovaTrip Host @kendell_explores and group of Travelers ice trekking on their trip to Canada.
7. Canada
Winter wonderland, but make it epic. January is prime time to explore the snow-dusted magic of the Canadian Rockies—and trust us, this isn't your average winter getaway.
Start in Calgary before heading deep into the Rockies, where Lake Louise steals the show. Think ice skating on a frozen lake surrounded by towering peaks, cozy nights by the fire, and crystal-clear stargazing that makes you feel very small in the best way.
You’ll hike snowy trails like Johnston Canyon and Siffleur Falls, cross-country ski around postcard-perfect Emerald Lake, and even go hunting (with your camera) for the Insta-famous ice bubbles trapped under frozen lakes. After all that adventure? Warm up with a hot chocolate tasting and share stories with your new crew over dinner and game night.
This trip is equal parts cozy and adventurous—the kind of experience that makes you fall in love with winter all over again. Just pack your layers and your sense of wonder when you explore this great place to visit in January.
Explore group trips in Canada or check out our itinerary to host your own Rocky Mountain escape.
New Year, New Adventures
Whether you're chasing sunshine, snowflakes, or a total mindset shift, January is the perfect month to explore the world. These 7 spots are hands-down some of the best places to visit in January—and they’re even better when you travel with a community that gets you.
Check out all our upcoming group trips or browse itineraries to host your own adventure in one of the best destinations to visit in January. This could be your most adventurous year yet.