January Honeymoons
Honeymoon Destinations in January
January is the ideal month to escape winter and begin married life in the sun. Across the tropics and southern hemisphere, the weather is reliable, the days are long, and travel is generally quieter after the festive rush. From pristine beaches to intimate safari camps, this is a month that suits couples seeking romance, adventure, and the freedom to explore at their own pace. Whether you want to toast the new year on a private terrace over turquoise waters or watch wildlife under soft dawn light, January offers unforgettable experiences.
The beginning of the year is perfect for those who want to combine sunshine with seclusion. The Indian Ocean islands, like the Maldives, Mauritius, and Seychelles, offer idyllic beaches and calm lagoons, making them perfect for honeymooners seeking pure relaxation.
In Africa, Kenya and Tanzania are lush and less crowded than the peak dry season, ideal for couples wanting a private safari with dramatic landscapes as a backdrop. Sri Lanka’s south and west coasts are in their dry season, blending beaches with cultural experiences, while Costa Rica’s Pacific coast provides jungle adventure, wildlife spotting, and stunning sunsets.
We often recommend January for couples who want warm weather without the busier crowds of February and March. It’s a month where days can be spent snorkelling or hiking, while evenings can be savoured in candlelit privacy, whether that’s on a secluded beach or in a tented lodge surrounded by nature.
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Our Top January Honeymoon Trips
January Honeymoon Destinations
Maldives
Overwater villas, turquoise lagoons, and endless sunsets make the Maldives a perennial favourite. January is part of the dry season, so you can expect sunny skies and gentle seas. Couples can enjoy private candlelit dinners on the sand, sunset cruises through atolls, and snorkelling among vibrant coral reefs. The sense of seclusion makes it ideal for couples seeking uninterrupted romance.
Kenya
January is an excellent time for a more intimate safari experience, as it precedes the busier dry season. Green landscapes bring dramatic scenery and wildlife is active. Couples can stay in luxury tented camps, enjoy early-morning game drives, and end the day with sundowners overlooking the savannah. Pair your safari with a few days on the Kenyan coast, and you have a perfect bush-and-beach honeymoon.
Sri Lanka
The south and west coasts of Sri Lanka are sunny and calm in January. Couples can balance lazy beach days with cultural exploration, visiting colonial towns, ancient temples, and lush tea country. Whale-watching off Mirissa is at its peak, and boutique beach resorts offer both privacy and style. Sri Lanka is ideal for couples who want a blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation.
Costa Rica
The Pacific coast enjoys dry season weather, with warm days and cooler evenings. Couples can stay in jungle lodges, take guided hikes through volcano parks, or enjoy private boat trips along the coast. From surfing to wildlife encounters, Costa Rica is perfect for couples who want active adventures alongside quiet romantic moments.
Seychelles
January is one of the warmest months, perfect for island-hopping, snorkelling, and exploring lush interiors. Couples can stay in small boutique resorts, enjoy secluded beaches, and hike through pristine national parks. Its sense of exclusivity and tranquillity makes it an exceptional choice for honeymooners seeking privacy and natural beauty.
Why Book Your January Honeymoon With Us?
Our Favourite January Honeymoon Accommodation
FAQs About Your January Honeymoon
Planning a holiday to January? Our experts share advice on everything from what to pack, when to go, to tips for families, covering the questions we get asked the most.
What destinations are best for a honeymoon in January?
January is ideal for escaping winter in the northern hemisphere. Think sun-drenched islands, tropical beaches, and warm safari destinations. Popular choices include the Maldives, Seychelles, Mauritius, Kenya and Tanzania. South America can also offer cultural richness and adventure, with destinations like Argentina, Chile and Brazil providing mild summer weather in the southern hemisphere.v
Can I combine beach and adventure on a January honeymoon?
Absolutely. January is perfect for blending relaxation and activity. Consider a safari in Kenya or Tanzania followed by a stay on Zanzibar’s pristine beaches. Alternatively, combine Costa Rica’s lush rainforests with a Pacific coast escape. This way, you can enjoy wildlife encounters, hiking, or cultural experiences in the day, then unwind in luxury by the sea in the evening.
Is January a good time for a tropical beach honeymoon?
Yes, many tropical destinations are at their peak in January. The Maldives, Seychelles and Mauritius offer sunny days, calm seas, and minimal rainfall. Caribbean islands like St Lucia and Barbados are also excellent. It’s a great month to enjoy warm waters, water sports, and luxurious resorts while avoiding the busiest summer holiday season.
What about honeymooning in Africa in January?
January is ideal for southern and eastern Africa. Kenya and Tanzania offer lush landscapes, thriving wildlife, and comfortable weather, perfect for safari lodges. Southern Africa, including South Africa and Botswana, also has pleasant summer conditions, ideal for combining safari with wine regions or coastal retreats. Expect warm temperatures, clear skies, and memorable wildlife viewing opportunities.
How can I avoid crowds on a January honeymoon?
Opt for boutique resorts, lesser-known islands, or off-the-beaten-path safari lodges. Travelling mid-month often helps, as early January sees some residual holiday crowds. Planning well in advance ensures you secure exclusive experiences, private villas, and tailor-made activities, so you can enjoy your honeymoon with intimacy and space, away from the busier, more touristic areas.
What are the most romantic experiences for a January honeymoon?
From sunset dhow cruises in Zanzibar to candlelit dinners on a private Maldivian sandbank, January offers countless romantic moments. In Africa, you might share breakfast while watching elephants at a waterhole or sleep under the stars in a luxury sky bed. Many lodges and resorts include special honeymoon touches such as private dining, spa treatments, or bespoke excursions.
How far in advance should we book a January honeymoon?
January is a popular time to travel, especially for couples seeking winter sun, so booking six to nine months ahead is wise. This ensures the best choice of rooms, flights, and private experiences. For tailor-made trips, it also allows time to fine-tune every detail, from internal transfers to romantic surprises along the way.
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Ruth
Amanda
