21 Best Countries to Visit in January for a Perfect Vacation

As we prepare ourselves for the new year, one common resolution that we all seem to share is to travel and explore new destinations. Whether you are seeking snow-capped peaks, sun-drenched beaches, or cultural immersion, these places to visit in January offer a diverse range of experiences to make an unforgettable getaway. From Australia's mesmerising landscapes to Thailand's vibrant streets, prepare for a lifetime journey that will leave you refreshed, inspired, and eager to plan your next adventure. This blog lists the 21 best countries to visit in January. Read on!

21 Best Countries You Can Visit in January

Here is a comprehensive list of the 21 best countries to visit throughout the world in January:

1. Hong Kong
Hong Kong, with its rich history and diverse culture, can be an endlessly fascinating destination for you to explore in January. Its lively Central District is beautifully designed with skyscrapers and centuries-old temples, creating a unique landscape that sets it apart from most Asian cities.

• Ideal Duration: 5-6 Days.
• Places to Visit: Hong Kong Disneyland, Tian Tan Buddha, Sky Terrace 428, Victoria Park, Wong Tai Sin Temple, Lantau Island, Tai O Fishing Village, A Symphony of Lights, Po Lin Monastery, Ngong Ping 360, Repulse Bay, and Victoria Harbor.
• Things to Do: Ride the Peak Tram, travel with the Hop on Hop off bus, enjoy Ocean Park, try different cuisines, and shop in the streets of Hong Kong.
• How to Reach: Hong Kong has two airports: Hong Kong International Airport in Chek Lap Kok and Sheh Kong Airport in Sheh Kong. You can take a direct flight from Delhi, Mumbai, or Kolkata to reach Hong Kong.

2. Dubai
Dubai is popular for its luxury shopping, modern living, and traditional Arabic culture. With its iconic Burj Khalifa dominating the skyline and other luxurious architecture, Dubai is a place where you can have a memorable trip.

• Ideal Duration: 5-6 days.
• Places to Visit: Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Fountain, Dubai Opera House, Jumeirah Mosque, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Desert Safari, Dubai Museum, Dubai Marina, Dhow cruise through Dubai Creek, Dubai Butterfly Garden, Burj Plaza, and Dubai Garden Glow.
• Things to Do: Skydiving, water sports, shopping, visiting Hatta, sandboarding, enjoying glass slides, and visiting the Museum of Future.
• How to Reach: Take a flight from Mumbai, Kochi, New Delhi, Chennai, or Kozhikode to Dubai International Airport or Dubai World Central.

3. Maldives
The Maldives is a tropical paradise that lies in the Indian Ocean. It is popular for its beaches and is easily accessible from India. This island nation, floating on calm ocean waves, is the ideal retreat for those looking to unwind away from the hustle and bustle of metropolitan life.

• Ideal Duration: 4-5 days.
• Places to Visit: Malé City, COMO Cocoa Island, Vaadhoo Island, Addu Atoll, Maafushi, Fulhadhoo Island, the Muraka-Conrad, Banana Reef, and AliMatha Island.
• Things to Do: Submarine tour, Sandbank snorkelling, sunset cruise, sunset fishing trip, and parasailing.
• How to Reach: Take a flight from Bangalore or Chennai to reach Malé International Airport.

4. Vietnam
Vietnam is known for its beautiful beaches, fascinating local culture, delicious food, and the well-known underground Cu Chi Tunnels. Explore the maze of rivers and green rice fields of the famous Mekong Delta, visit local villages, and more!

• Ideal Duration: 10-12 days.
• Places to Visit: Old Quarter, Cu Chi Tunnels, War Remnants Museum, Hoi An Ancient Town, Halong Bay, Hoàn Kiem Lake, Hue Imperial City, Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Golden Bridge, and Dragon Bridge.
• Things to Do: One day trip to Ninh Binh, snorkelling, pottery classes, visit cafes, try Vietnamese coffee, attend Hoi An lantern-making class, enjoy bike rides and local delicacies.
• How to Reach: Vietnam has two major airports, Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) and Hanoi Noibai (HAN). You can take a direct flight from Mumbai or Delhi to reach Vietnam.

5. Kenya
Kenya is home to a wide variety of diverse plant and animal species. The yearly wildebeest migration in this region is well-known worldwide. Kenya is one of the destinations for adventure seekers as it offers a unique experience that involves close encounters with nature and different cultures.

• Ideal Duration: 7-10 days.
• Places to Visit: Nairobi National Park, Samburu, Nakuru, Eldoret, Mombasa, Watamu Beach, Mida Creek, Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, Giraffe Centre, Diani Beach, Mount Kenya, and Karen Blixen Museum.
• Things to Do: Watch the Great Migration in Masai Mara, foster orphaned elephants (or a blind rhino), Meru National Park, Sail the Lamu Archipelago by dhow, See Tsavo from the air, visit Lewa Rhino conservation, Scuba or snorkel, and cycle through the Gate of Hell.
• How to Reach: Take a flight directly from Mumbai, Delhi, or Ahmedabad to Nairobi, Kisumu, Mombasa, or Eldoret International.

6. Australia
Australia is a land of contrasts, offering bustling cities, rugged outback landscapes, and pristine coastlines waiting to be explored. Whether you are diving into the colourful underwater world of the reef or trekking through the ancient rainforests, Australia promises unforgettable experiences.

• Ideal Duration: 2-3 weeks.
• Places to Visit: Sydney, Melbourne, Great Barrier Reef, Uluru, The Outback, Tasmania, and Great Ocean Road.
• Things to Do: Explore vibrant cities, enjoy outdoor activities like snorkelling or hiking, experience Aboriginal culture, and visit wildlife parks.
• How to Reach: Major cities like Sydney and Melbourne are easily accessible via international flights.

7. Thailand
Thailand boasts a rich cultural heritage reflected in its ornate temples, bustling street markets, and traditional festivals. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the tranquil waters of the Phi Phi Islands, Thailand's diverse landscapes and warm hospitality will leave a lasting impression on you.

• Ideal Duration: 10-14 days.
• Places to Visit: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi, Ayutthaya, and Phi Phi Islands.
• Things to Do: Visit temples, indulge in Thai cuisine, relax on beautiful beaches, experience Thai massages, and explore night markets.
• How to Reach: Bangkok is the main entry point, with international flights landing at Suvarnabhumi Airport.

8. South Africa
South Africa is home to some of the world's most renowned wildlife reserves, including Kruger National Park and the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. It offers unparalleled opportunities for safari adventures. But beyond its natural wonders, South Africa's vibrant cities, such as Cape Town and Johannesburg, offer a blend of rich culture, history, and culinary delights.

• Ideal Duration: 2-3 weeks.
• Places to Visit: Cape Town, Kruger National Park, Garden Route, Johannesburg, Durban, and Robben Island.
• Things to Do: Safari drives, wine tasting in Cape Winelands, visit Table Mountain, and explore cultural heritage sites.
• How to Reach: Johannesburg and Cape Town are major entry points with international airports.

9. New Zealand
New Zealand is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts with adrenaline-pumping activities in Queenstown and serene beauty of Milford Sound. Hiking through the lush forests of Fiordland National Park or exploring the wonders of Rotorua, every corner of this island nation offers something unique and unforgettable.

• Ideal Duration: 2-3 weeks.
• Places to Visit: Auckland, Queenstown, Wellington, Fiordland National Park, Bay of Islands, and Rotorua.
• Things to Do: Adventure sports like bungee jumping and skydiving, explore breathtaking landscapes, and experience Maori culture.
• How to Reach: Auckland and Christchurch are primary entry points with international airports.

10. Seychelles
Seychelles archipelago is a haven of tranquillity and natural beauty. With powder-white beaches, clear turquoise waters, and lush rainforests, it is the epitome of paradise. Whether you are snorkelling among vibrant coral reefs or simply relaxing on the sand, Seychelles offers a memorable experience like no other place.

• Ideal Duration: 7-10 days.
• Places to Visit: Mahe Island, Praslin Island, La Digue, Curieuse Island, and Anse Lazio.
• Things to Do: Relax on pristine beaches, snorkel in clear waters, hike nature trails, and visit Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve.
• How to Reach: International flights land at Seychelles International Airport on Mahe Island.

Also Read: Best Places to Visit in January in India

11. Cambodia
Cambodia welcomes travellers with its ancient temples, including the iconic Angkor Wat complex. Beyond its archaeological wonders, Cambodia's charming villages, bustling markets, and warm-hearted people invite exploration and discovery.

• Ideal Duration: 7-10 days.
• Places to Visit: Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, and Tonle Sap Lake.
• Things to Do: Explore ancient temples, visit floating villages, experience Khmer cuisine, and learn about Cambodian history.
• How to Reach: Phnom Penh and Siem Reap have International airports.

12. Laos
Laos offers a peaceful retreat away from the modern world. Whether you are cruising down the Mekong River, exploring ancient Buddhist temples, or trekking through remote villages, Laos's untouched beauty and rich cultural heritage leave a lasting impression on visitors.

• Ideal Duration: 7-10 days.
• Places to Visit: Luang Prabang, Vientiane, Vang Vieng, Plain of Jars, and Kuang Si Falls.
• Things to Do: Visit Buddhist temples, hike, and explore caves.
• How to Reach: Two international airports connect Laos to the rest of the world, one at Vientiane and Luang Prabang each.

13. Morocco
From the bustling medinas of Marrakech to the serene beauty of the Sahara Desert, Morocco is a feast for the senses. Its vibrant colours, exotic spices, and diverse landscapes offer an irresistible blend of ancient traditions and modern influences that captivate travellers worldwide.

• Ideal Duration: 10-14 days.
• Places to Visit: Marrakesh, Fes, Chefchaouen, Sahara Desert, Casablanca, and Essaouira.
• Things to Do: Explore bustling medinas, ride camels in the desert, visit historic landmarks like Hassan II Mosque, and try Moroccan cuisine.
• How to Reach: Major international airports include Casablanca and Marrakech.

14. Barbados
Barbados enchants you with its vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning beaches. It is a Caribbean gem waiting to be discovered. Whether you're sipping rum cocktails on the beach, exploring historic plantation houses, or dancing to calypso rhythms at a local festival, Barbados promises an unforgettable island experience.

• Ideal Duration: 7-10 days.
• Places to Visit: Bridgetown, Bathsheba Beach, Harrison's Cave, Oistins Fish Fry, and Animal Flower Cave.
• Things to Do: Relax on white sandy beaches, snorkel or dive in crystal-clear waters, explore botanical gardens, and try local cuisine.
• How to Reach: Grantley Adams International Airport serves as the main gateway for international flights.

15. Switzerland
Switzerland effortlessly blends tradition with modernity. It is renowned worldwide for its precision engineering, chocolate, and stunning alpine scenery. Whether you are skiing in the Swiss Alps, exploring charming lakeside towns, or indulging in gourmet cuisine, Switzerland offers a wealth of experiences for every type of traveller.

• Ideal Duration: 7-10 days.
• Places to Visit: Zurich, Geneva, Lucerne, Interlaken, Bern, and Zermatt.
• Things to Do: Enjoy skiing in the Alps, explore picturesque villages, cruise on Swiss lakes, and visit museums and galleries.
• How to Reach: Zurich and Geneva are major international airports in Switzerland.

16. Tanzania
Tanzania is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. But beyond its natural wonders, Tanzania's rich culture, warm hospitality, and vibrant cities, like Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar, offer a diverse and captivating travel experience.

• Ideal Duration: 10-14 days.
• Places to Visit: Serengeti National Park, Mount Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, and Tarangire National Park.
• Things to Do: Go on safari tours, climb Kilimanjaro, relax on Zanzibar's beaches, and visit Maasai villages.
• How to Reach: The main entry points are Kilimanjaro International Airport and Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam.

17. Colombia
From the colourful streets of Cartagena to the lush coffee plantations of the Andes, Colombia is a country of contrasts and diversity. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm-hearted people, Colombia invites visitors to explore its hidden gems.

• Ideal Duration: 10-14 days.
• Places to Visit: Bogota, Cartagena, Medellin, Tayrona National Park, Coffee Triangle, and Guatape.
• Things to Do: Explore colonial architecture, hike in national parks, visit coffee plantations, and experience vibrant nightlife.
• How to Reach: Major international airports include El Dorado International Airport in Bogota and Rafael Nunez International Airport in Cartagena.

18. Nicaragua
Nicaragua is an undiscovered gem in Central America. Whether you're surfing along the Pacific coast, exploring colonial cities like Granada and Leon, or trekking through dense rainforests, Nicaragua offers endless opportunities for adventure and discovery.

• Ideal Duration: 7-10 days.
• Places to Visit: Granada, Leon, Ometepe Island, San Juan del Sur, Corn Islands, and Masaya Volcano.
• Things to Do: Explore colonial cities, relax on beaches, hike volcanoes, and visit nature reserves.
• How to Reach: Augusto C. Sandino International Airport in Managua is the main entry point for international flights.

19. Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. It is renowned for its commitment to sustainability and ecotourism. From lush rainforests and exotic wildlife to pristine beaches and natural hot springs, Costa Rica offers a truly immersive and unforgettable experience in the heart of Central America.

• Ideal Duration: 10-14 days.
• Places to Visit: San Jose, Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest, Manuel Antonio National Park, and Tortuguero National Park.
• Things to Do: Experience rainforest adventures, zip-lining, wildlife spotting, relax on pristine beaches, and visit hot springs.
• How to Reach: Juan Santamaria International Airport in San Jose is the primary entry point for international flights.

20. France
From the romantic streets of Paris to the sun-drenched vineyards of Provence, France is a country that captivates visitors with its timeless beauty, rich history, and culinary delights. Whether you are exploring world-class museums and monuments or sampling delicious wines and cheeses in quaint villages, France offers a wealth of experiences that appeal to every traveller.

• Ideal Duration: 2-3 weeks.
• Places to Visit: Paris, Provence, French Riviera, Loire Valley, Bordeaux, and Normandy.
• Things to Do: Explore iconic landmarks, indulge in French cuisine, visit vineyards, and relax in picturesque countryside.
• How to Reach: Paris has two major international airports, Charles de Gaulle Airport and Orly Airport.

21. Norway
Norway is a land of unparalleled natural beauty and outdoor adventure with its dramatic fjords, snow-capped mountains, and charming villages. Whether you're hiking along scenic trails, cruising through narrow fjords, or chasing the Northern Lights in the Arctic Circle, Norway promises unforgettable experiences in every season.

• Ideal Duration: 10-14 days.
• Places to Visit: Oslo, Bergen, Tromso, Lofoten Islands, Geirangerfjord, and Flam Railway.
• Things to Do: Experience the Northern Lights, fjord cruises, hiking, visit museums, and explore historic towns.
• How to Reach: Oslo Gardermoen Airport and Bergen Flesland Airport are major entry points for international flights.

Explore the best global locations without straining your budget with a Personal Loan for travel from Poonawalla Fincorp. Check how to apply in the next section.

Steps to Apply for a Personal Loan for Travel

Step 1: Click on the ‘Apply Now’.
Step 2: Fill out the application form.
Step 3: Upload all the necessary documents.

On successful verification, the loan will be transferred to your bank account.

To Conclude

From natural wonders to cultural landmarks, there are several places to visit in January across the world. You can enjoy stunning skylines, fantastic beaches, and wildlife through a once-in-a-lifetime foreign vacation. Just pack your bags and take a global tour without having to worry about paying for your transportation or skipping out on luxurious lodging with a Personal Loan for travel. Get a loan amount of up to Rs.30 Lakh collateral-free with minimal documentation, quick approval, and flexible repayment tenure from Poonawalla Fincorp. Apply now!