You might not realize that the post-holiday season is actually one of the best times to pack your bags and head out on vacation. While the holidays may have affected your bank account, the right destination can let you enjoy sunshine and warm temperatures without breaking the bank.

If you are hunting for cheap warm places to travel in January, you have plenty of options that mix culture, great food, and plenty of Vitamin D. I’ve compiled a list of warm destinations around the world for January, from the vibrant cultures of Latin America to the soft beaches of Southeast Asia, ensuring your vacation is fulfilling and budget-friendly.

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Inexpensive Warm Places to Travel in January

Whether you crave jungles, beaches, or ancient cities, these 15 destinations prove you can enjoy incredible winter getaways without sacrificing your financial goals. Let’s dive into this list of the best places to travel in January for warm weather.

Destination	Average Temperature (°C/°F)	Total Cost per Day (USD)
Puerto Escondido, Mexico	29°C / 84°F	$40 – $60
Oaxaca, Mexico	27°C / 80°F	$45 – $65
San Juan, Puerto Rico	28°C / 83°F	$75 – $95
Havana, Cuba	26°C / 79°F	$50 – $70
Tamarindo, Costa Rica	32°C / 90°F	$60 – $80
Managua, Nicaragua	31°C / 88°F	$30 – $45
Panama City, Panama	32°C / 90°F	$50 – $70
Koh Chang, Thailand	30°C / 86°F	$30 – $50
Krabi, Thailand	32°C / 90°F	$35 – $55
Cebu City, Philippines	29°C / 84°F	$35 – $50
Bohol, Philippines	28°C / 83°F	$35 – $55
Nha Trang, Vietnam	26°C / 79°F	$25 – $40
Penang, Malaysia	31°C / 88°F	$30 – $50
Marrakech, Morocco	19-20°C / 66-68°F	$40 – $60
Madeira, Portugal	19°C / 66°F	$60 – $80

1. Puerto Escondido, Mexico  

Average Temperature in January: 29°C (84°F)

Total Cost: $40 – $60 per day

Cancun’s glamorous resort atmosphere and all-inclusive resorts are often Mexico’s top destination, but their steep prices can be prohibitive. Puerto Escondido offers a perfect alternative with its laid-back vibe. Located on Oaxaca’s Pacific coast, it’s famous for Zicatela Pipeline, a massive surf spot.

You can spend your days lounging at Playa Carrizalillo, a sheltered cove with calm turquoise water that requires walking down 160 steps. Or watch the beautiful sunset at Zicatela Beach and take a boat ride to see the bioluminescent plankton.

2. Oaxaca, Mexico  

Average Temperature in January: 27°C (80°F)

Total Cost: $45 – $65 per day

If you prefer culture and cuisine, the inland city of Oaxaca would be a better choice. While the mornings can be crisp, the days are gloriously warm and sunny. This is the culinary heart of Mexico. You could spend a week just hopping between mercados tasting different types of mole and drinking locally made mezcal.

Oaxaca’s architecture is vibrantly colorful, and you can experience local life in the main square, the Zócalo. Head to Monte Albán, a large pre-Columbian archaeological site, for an intriguing cultural journey.

3. San Juan, Puerto Rico  

Average Temperature in January: 28°C (83°F)

Total Cost: $75 – $95 per day

For American tourists, San Juan is an ideal destination because traveling to Puerto Rico does not require a passport. While Puerto Rico can be expensive if you stay in high-end resorts, the capital city offers plenty of budget hacks. Stay in a guesthouse in Santurce, the artsy district, rather than right on the beach in Condado to save money.

Old San Juan is a free, open-air museum. You can walk along the historic fortress walls of El Morro and soak up the history without spending a dime. The food trucks serve up alcapurrias and bacalaitos that make for a cheap, filling lunch. For those seeking beach life, nearby Luquillo Beach is a popular choice, offering full amenities and opportunities for water activities.

4. Havana, Cuba  

Average Temperature in January:  26°C (79°F)

Total Cost: $50 – $70 per day

Havana offers a fascinating mix of history, music, and sunny weather. While navigating the dual currency system can be tricky, the cost of living for travelers who eat and travel locally is very low, making it a viable choice among affordable warm places to travel in January. I recommend staying at a casa particular instead of a hotel. It’s cheaper, the food is better, and you’ll be directly supporting local families.

You can take a walk along the Malecón seawall to watch the sunset, explore the vibrant architecture in Old Havana, and spend a leisurely afternoon at a local café.

5. Tamarindo, Costa Rica  

Average Temperature in January: 32°C (90°F)

Total Cost: $60 – $80 per day

January marks the dry season in Tamarindo, ensuring ample sunshine. As one of Costa Rica’s most popular beach destinations, it boasts golden sands and calm waves. Compared to expensive beachfront hotels, accommodations within the city offer better value and allow easy access to the shore on foot.

Tamarindo is an excellent destination for beginner surfers and ecotourists, while Playa Tamarindo offers ideal surfing conditions. Howler monkeys can be seen playing in the trees right from town, and the nearby Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge provides opportunities to observe crocodiles and a variety of tropical birds.

6. Managua, Nicaragua  

Average Temperature in January:  31°C (88°F)

Total Cost: $30 – $45 per day

Nicaragua borders Costa Rica, but is significantly more affordable, typically costing about half as much. Its capital, Managua, is the largest city, featuring modern architecture, historical landmarks, and natural scenery. It also serves as the starting point for trips to Masaya Volcano.

Managua itself has the impressive Salvador Allende Port on the lakefront, filled with restaurants and bars. Or you can easily take cheap “chicken buses” to nearby attractions like the Masaya Volcano or the colonial city of Granada.

7. Panama City, Panama  

Average Temperature in January: 32°C (90°F)

Total Cost: $50 – $70 per day

Panama City is a place of contrasts. You have the gleaming skyscrapers that look like Miami, sitting right next to Casco Viejo, the colonial old quarter. January is the start of the dry season, making it perfect for walking the Cinta Costera, a waterfront park that connects the city. You can visit the famous Panama Canal at the Miraflores locks, then grab a $2 ceviche at the Mercado de Mariscos.

Even better, a 30-minute boat ride from downtown takes you to Taboga Island, where crowds are thinner and the atmosphere is quieter. Or explore the more Caribbean-feeling San Blas Islands, offering a more pristine setting and the unique Kuna culture.

8. Koh Chang, Thailand  

Average Temperature in January: 30°C (86°F)

Total Cost: $30 – $50 per day

Koh Chang is far more laid back than the popular islands of Phuket and Koh Samui, offering a remote escape from the crowds. Accommodations range from simple beachside bamboo huts to mid-range resorts, all priced significantly lower than in the West. For just a few dollars a day, you can rent a scooter to cruise around the island.

Klong Plu Waterfall is the largest waterfall on the island, where you can hike or swim nearby. Combined with a variety of water activities to experience, it’s one of the best places to travel in January on a budget for those who enjoy leisure and outdoor pursuits.

9. Krabi, Thailand  

Average Temperature in January:  32°C (90°F)

Total Cost: $35 – $55 per day

Krabi, with its spectacular limestone cliffs and numerous beautiful beaches, is one of Thailand’s most popular vacation destinations, offering a wide range of budget-friendly accommodations. Ao Nang and Railay Beach are the most sought-after areas, featuring abundant dining options alongside natural scenery and diverse activities.

Beyond the natural scenery, attempt to climb the 1,237 steps to the summit of Wat Tham Suea, where you can take in panoramic views and admire the famous golden Buddha statue.

10. Cebu City, Philippines  

Average Temperature in January: 29°C (84°F)

Total Cost: $35 – $50 per day

Cebu is an often overlooked tourist hub in the Philippines, offering both modern urban amenities and a wealth of natural landscapes and cultural heritage sites. Accommodation options are diverse, and both food and local transportation are quite affordable.

You can swim with whale sharks in Oslob and enjoy this harmonious moment. Mactan Island is also a great option, offering marine activities like snorkeling and diving. Don’t miss Magellan’s Cross, a landmark in Cebu commemorating Magellan’s missionary work in the Philippines.

11. Bohol, Philippines  

Average Temperature in January: 28°C (83°F)

Total Cost: $35 – $55 per day

Bohol Island lies close to Cebu, accessible by ferry. What sets it apart from other Philippine islands is the famous Chocolate Hills, formed by thousands of symmetrical mounds, and the Tarsier Sanctuary, home to the world’s smallest primate, the tarsier.

Anda or Panglao Beach is a great spot to relax or swim with its pristine white sand. Panglao Island, connected to Bohol, offers ideal diving sites where you can observe tropical fish and sea turtles.

12. Nha Trang, Vietnam  

Average Temperature in January: 26°C (79°F)

Total Cost: $25 – $40 per day

Vietnam itself is one of the most affordable warm-weather destinations, and the coastal city of Nha Trang attracts visitors from around the world. It boasts natural wonders like expansive beaches and emerald green bays, alongside well-preserved historical architecture.

The seafood here is fresh and incredibly cheap. You can visit the Po Nagar Cham Towers or take a mud bath in the local hot springs. Island hopping is also a popular activity, especially around Hon Mun, Hon Tam, Hon Mot, and Hon Tre, which are ideal locations for various water sports.

13. Penang, Malaysia  

Average Temperature in January:  31°C (88°F)

Total Cost: $30 – $50 per day

Penang, particularly its capital George Town, is a destination for the culturally and gastronomically inclined. Here you will witness the fusion of diverse cultures, including colonial architecture, various Chinese-style buildings and temples, and local art.

Penang’s cuisine is rich and affordable, especially its signature dishes like Penang Laksa, Char Kway Teow, and Nyonya Kueh, making it a dream destination for food enthusiasts.

14. Marrakech, Morocco  

Average Temperature in January: 19°C – 20°C (68°F)

Total Cost: $40 – $60 per day

Let’s turn our attention to Africa, where Marrakech offers greater convenience for travelers from the East Coast. The vacation atmosphere here is entirely distinct from that of South America and Asia, featuring ancient medinas, palaces, and desert experiences.

We recommend staying in a traditional courtyard Riad, where you can immerse yourself in local life while enjoying more affordable accommodations. Visit the Jardin Majorelle, a stunning blue art garden featuring a museum you can explore. From here, venture to the Agafay Desert for a unique desert experience unlike any other destination.

15. Madeira, Portugal  

Average Temperature in January: 19°C（66°F）

Total Cost: $60 – $80 per day

European cities may seem far removed from the concept of affordable destinations, but Madeira offers lower prices compared to other European cities, and many popular attractions are free, making it a more affordable travel destination in Europe.

At Pico do Arieiro, the island’s most spectacular peak, you can admire a sea of clouds and sunrise. Meanwhile, the Piscinas Naturais do Porto Moniz, natural seawater pools formed by volcanic lava, stand as one of Madeira’s natural wonders. Combined with the diverse marine life inhabiting the waters off Madeira, whale watching tours are available year-round.

Insider Tips for January Travel

Here are some practical strategies to ensure your January trip is both maximizing benefits and running smoothly.

Money-Saving Tips

• Avoid Early-Month Travel: Steer clear of traveling between January 1st and January 6th. Prices remain inflated due to the holiday period. Wait until the second week of January, when airfare will drop.

• Currency Check: For 2026, keep an eye on the exchange rates. Currencies in Southeast Asia often fluctuate, giving you more buying power.

• Eat Like a Local: In destinations like Vietnam or Mexico, be sure to dine where the locals eat. Seek out small, simple stalls and markets. A $20 meal at a tourist restaurant might cost just $3 from a street vendor, and it’s often better quality and more authentic.

• Using Public Transportation: In Panama City, Cebu, or Managua, you can utilize subways, buses, or local shared taxis. While slower than taxi services, they are significantly cheaper.

• Stay Local: Choose homestays over international hotels. They’re more affordable, support the local economy, and offer a richer cultural experience.

Packing Advice

• Bring a Coat: While these destinations have warm weather, places like Marrakech and Madeira cool down in the evenings. It’s best to pack a sweater or jacket.

• Quick-dry fabrics: Southeast Asia and the Caribbean have high humidity, so quick-dry fabrics keep you comfortable during sightseeing and make laundry easier.

• Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Many of the aquatic destinations on this list require or recommend reef-safe sunscreen to protect their delicate marine ecosystems.

• Personal Supplies: Including medications and necessities, many items tend to be more expensive overseas. Prepare in advance to avoid extra expenses.

• Lightweight Suitcase: If you’re flying budget airlines, a lighter suitcase is essential, allowing you to pack more.

• Universal Adapter: Especially important if you’re hitting multiple countries in Asia or Central America.

Safety Reminder

• Watch for Pickpockets: This is standard advice for any crowded area, especially the busy markets and squares of Marrakech, Oaxaca, and Havana. Keep valuables secure and out of sight.

• Water Safety: Only drink bottled or filtered water in the majority of these destinations. Be cautious of ice cubes unless you confirm they are made from purified water.

• Insurance: Never travel without insurance. Given the low cost of the trip itself, a good travel insurance policy is a tiny expense that provides enormous peace of mind, especially when traveling far from home.

• Cybersecurity: Avoid logging into bank accounts on public networks, and use a VPN when necessary.

FAQ

Where is hot in January and cheap?

The hottest and most affordable destinations in January are predominantly concentrated in Southeast Asia and Central America. Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines boast average temperatures ranging from 80 to 90 °F (26–32 °C) and offer budget-friendly prices. Nicaragua in Central America is similarly warm and economical.

Where to go on vacation in January for warm weather?

For guaranteed beach weather, consider destinations along Mexico’s Caribbean coast like Cancún or Tulum, or Pacific shores such as Puerto Escondido, Costa Rica, or Panama. If you prefer a warm city getaway without being sweltering, Oaxaca in Mexico and Marrakech in Morocco are both excellent choices.

Which country is the cheapest to visit in January?

In terms of the overall lowest prices, the cheapest countries are often Nicaragua and Vietnam. In both nations, a decent meal typically costs just $5 or less, and budget accommodations under $30 per night are readily available.