January 2026 Highlights
Winter in Northern Hemisphere • Summer in Southern Hemisphere • Chinese New Year (January 25)
Why Travel in January?
January offers unique travel opportunities with lower prices in many destinations, fewer crowds at major attractions, and the perfect mix of winter wonderlands in the north and summer escapes in the south. Whether you're seeking snow-covered adventures or tropical getaways, January 2026 has something special for every traveler.
Top 10 January Destinations & Experiences
Explore the Grand Canyon's South Rim in Winter
Experience the majestic Grand Canyon transformed by winter's touch. January offers a rare opportunity to see this natural wonder dusted with snow, creating a magical contrast against the red rock formations.
- Fewer crowds mean more peaceful viewpoints
- Stunning photography opportunities with snow-dusted vistas
- Mather Point and Bright Angel viewpoints are must-visits
Best time: Early to mid-January
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Witness the Northern Lights in Alaska
January's long, dark nights in Alaska create perfect conditions for viewing the mesmerizing aurora borealis. Combine your northern lights chase with exhilarating winter activities for an unforgettable Arctic adventure.
- Fairbanks offers some of the best aurora viewing opportunities
- Try dog sledding or snowmobiling during the day
- Book a specialized aurora photography tour
Best time: Mid to late January
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Take a Nile River Cruise in Egypt
January brings mild, pleasant weather to Egypt, making it the perfect time to cruise the legendary Nile River. Explore ancient temples, vibrant markets, and timeless landscapes without the scorching heat or overwhelming crowds.
- Visit the temples of Luxor, Karnak, and Abu Simbel
- Enjoy comfortable temperatures around 70°F (21°C)
- Experience authentic Egyptian cuisine onboard
Best time: Throughout January
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Experience the Magic of Rome Without the Crowds
Discover the Eternal City as locals do. January in Rome means minimal tourist crowds, allowing you to explore iconic sites like the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and Trevi Fountain without the long lines and summer heat.
- Enjoy St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel in peace
- Find cozy trattorias serving authentic winter Roman cuisine
- Experience January sales at Italian designer boutiques
Best time: Mid to late January
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Celebrate Chinese New Year in Hong Kong
Ring in the Year of the Dragon with Hong Kong's spectacular Chinese New Year celebrations on January 25, 2026. Experience dazzling fireworks over Victoria Harbor, vibrant street parades, and traditional festivities throughout the city.
- Watch the International Night Parade in Tsim Sha Tsui
- Visit flower markets at Victoria Park
- Enjoy special New Year menus at local restaurants
Best time: January 23-28, 2026
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Relax on the Beaches of Thailand
Escape winter's chill for the sun-drenched shores of Thailand. January brings perfect beach weather with clear skies, calm seas, and temperatures hovering around 85°F (29°C), ideal for island hopping and water activities.
- Visit Krabi for dramatic limestone cliffs and pristine beaches
- Explore the Phi Phi Islands' crystal-clear waters
- Experience vibrant nightlife in Phuket
Best time: Throughout January
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Ski the Powder Snow in Japan
Experience Japan's legendary powder snow at world-class ski resorts like Niseko and Hakuba. January offers optimal skiing conditions with consistent snowfall, creating perfect powder for all skill levels.
- Enjoy some of the world's finest powder snow conditions
- Relax in traditional onsen (hot springs) after skiing
- Sample authentic Japanese cuisine in mountain villages
Best time: Mid to late January
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Discover the Serenity of Dubrovnik, Croatia
Experience the "Pearl of the Adriatic" without the summer crowds. January in Dubrovnik offers a peaceful atmosphere to explore its UNESCO-listed Old Town, walk the historic city walls, and enjoy authentic Croatian hospitality.
- Photograph the iconic red rooftops without tourist photobombs
- Enjoy local seafood at fraction of summer prices
- Take the cable car for panoramic winter views
Best time: Throughout January
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Unplug in Kennebunkport, Maine
Discover the quiet charm of this coastal New England town in winter. January transforms Kennebunkport into a serene retreat with snow-dusted beaches, cozy inns with crackling fireplaces, and a genuine small-town atmosphere.
- Stroll along empty beaches with winter ocean views
- Visit art galleries and boutiques in Dock Square
- Enjoy fresh Maine lobster at local restaurants
Best time: Early to mid-January
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Chase the Aurora Borealis in Norway's Lofoten Islands
The dramatic Lofoten archipelago offers one of the world's most spectacular settings to witness the northern lights. January's long Arctic nights provide optimal conditions for aurora hunting against a backdrop of jagged mountain peaks and fjords.
- Stay in traditional red fishermen's cabins (rorbuer)
- Take a northern lights photography workshop
- Try winter activities like snowshoeing and ice fishing
Best time: Mid to late January
Discover MoreJanuary 2026 Travel Tips
Essential Tips for January Travel
- Book accommodations and tours early for Chinese New Year destinations
- Pack layers for variable weather, especially in transitional climate zones
- Consider travel insurance that covers winter weather disruptions
- Look for "January sales" on flights and accommodations after the holiday rush
- Research seasonal closures in off-season destinations before finalizing plans
- For Northern Lights viewing, plan to stay at least 5-7 days to increase your chances
- Check visa requirements well in advance, as processing times may be longer after the holidays
Winter Packing Essentials
- Thermal base layers for cold destinations
- Waterproof and windproof outer layers
- Portable hand and foot warmers
- Moisturizer and lip balm for dry winter air
- Camera with extra batteries (cold drains them faster)
Tropical Getaway Essentials
- Reef-safe sunscreen (essential for Thailand)
- Light, breathable clothing
- Insect repellent for evening activities
- Waterproof phone case for beach activities
- Light rain jacket for occasional showers
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Plan Your January 2026 Adventure?
Start the new year with unforgettable experiences in destinations perfect for winter exploration
Quick Navigation
- 1. Grand Canyon in Winter
- 2. Northern Lights in Alaska
- 3. Nile River Cruise
- 4. Rome Without Crowds
- 5. Chinese New Year in Hong Kong
- 6. Beaches of Thailand
- 7. Skiing in Japan
- 8. Dubrovnik, Croatia
- 9. Kennebunkport, Maine
- 10. Lofoten Islands, Norway
Weather Comparison
| Destination | Avg. High | Avg. Low |
|---|---|---|
| Grand Canyon | 43°F (6°C) | 18°F (-8°C) |
| Alaska | 5°F (-15°C) | -13°F (-25°C) |
| Egypt | 70°F (21°C) | 50°F (10°C) |
| Rome | 55°F (13°C) | 37°F (3°C) |
| Hong Kong | 66°F (19°C) | 57°F (14°C) |
| Thailand | 88°F (31°C) | 73°F (23°C) |
| Japan (Niseko) | 30°F (-1°C) | 16°F (-9°C) |
| Dubrovnik | 54°F (12°C) | 41°F (5°C) |
| Maine | 34°F (1°C) | 16°F (-9°C) |
| Norway (Lofoten) | 34°F (1°C) | 27°F (-3°C) |
January 2026 Calendar
Key dates to consider when planning your trip:
- January 1: New Year's Day (Global)
- January 6: Epiphany (Many European countries)
- January 25: Chinese New Year
- January 26: Australia Day
- January 19: Martin Luther King Jr. Day (USA)
Featured Tour Packages
Alaska Aurora Adventure
7 days from $2,499
Nile Luxury Cruise
10 days from $3,199
Japan Powder Ski Tour
8 days from $2,899
Featured Resources
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