Safaris
in Tanzania

Where to go in January: the best places to visit In January, it’s safe to say that many of us are daydreaming about our next holiday. Christmas is over, the decorations are coming down, and the UK is firmly in its cold, dark season. Look beyond Europe, and January offers plenty of travel possibilities. You could be swimming in the Indian Ocean, exploring ancient temples in Cambodia, watching wildlife in Ecuador or trekking through the mountains of Chile. And importantly, January doesn't have to be about finding somewhere hot. The best destination depends on what you actually want from your holiday, whether that’s wildlife, beaches, culture, adventure or a combination of all four. Our experts know these destinations inside out, having returned to them countless times, year on year. So, rather than simply telling you where the weather is good, here are the places we think are particularly worth considering in January, and why. These are our top picks on where to go in January Cambodia: temples, countryside and island January is firmly within Cambodia's dry season, making it an excellent month for exploring. Around Siem Reap, cooler, drier conditions make visiting Angkor's temples considerably more comfortable than later in the year. Our Cambodia expert, Fenton, recently explored everything from the famous sights of Angkor Wat to the quieter beaches of Koh Rong island, and everything in between, with his wife and two young children. He says that January is a particularly good time to combine the two sides of Cambodia: a few days exploring its history and culture before heading south for some sunshine. Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => Cambodia is a great standalone destination, often demoted to a ‘city break’ to tag on to a trip to a neighbouring country. Spend a bit of extra time here, and you will be rewarded with wildlife encounters, unforgettable scenery, delicious food, and the smiles of a nation. [name] => Fenton [location] => HA Destination Manager, Cambodia. [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ Cambodia is a great standalone destination, often demoted to a ‘city break’ to tag on to a trip to a neighbouring country. Spend a bit of extra time here, and you will be rewarded with wildlife encounters, unforgettable scenery, delicious food, and the smiles of a nation. Fenton HA Destination Manager, Cambodia. ” And don't overlook the food. Cambodian cuisine is still strangely underrated, despite being every bit as interesting as its better-known neighbours. Our expert's personal verdict is Fish Amok for seafood lovers, or Beef Lok Lak if you're after something richer and peppery. Taken by HA Cambodia specialist Lisa during the Angkor Cycling Tour. Sri Lanka: January sunshine on the south and west coasts If you're searching for where to go in January, Sri Lanka will probably come up near the top of the list, and for good reason. January brings some of the best weather to the island's south and west, with warm, sunny days that make it a brilliant time for beaches, wildlife, tea country, and cultural sightseeing. But there's something you won't always read in a generic “best time to visit Sri Lanka” guide: January will also be exceptionally busy. Our specialist Rebecca said that It's not just the beaches that feel it. The national parks, tea plantations and cultural sites can all be busy, and in some of Sri Lanka's smaller hill towns and national parks, there are only a handful of places to stay. Once those rooms are gone, there's very little flexibility. That's especially true if you're after the smaller, characterful hotels we love recommending. The difference between finding the right place to stay and having to compromise can come down to when you book and, sometimes, which month you choose. (Pst, we have just written about some of our favourite Sri Lankan hotels if you fancy taking a peek: "The best sustainable hotels in Sri Lanka".) So, would we rule out January? Absolutely not. Sri Lanka is still a wonderful choice, and we'd happily recommend it for 2028. But if you're flexible on dates, we'd probably point you towards this March instead. You'll still get excellent conditions across the south and west, but with a little more breathing room. And that can make a real difference when you're travelling around an island where some of the most special experiences and places to stay are deliberately small-scale. It's a good example of why we don't think there is a single answer to “When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?” The best month depends on what you want to do, where you want to go and how you want to travel. So, if you've got Sri Lanka on your January shortlist, talk to our experts. They can look at your dates, the experiences you're after, and the types of places you would like to stay in, and tell you honestly whether January is right for you or whether shifting the trip by a few weeks could give you a better experience. Views of KK Beach, Galle, taken by HA's Head of Marketing, Gabs. The Maldives: a proper winter escape January is peak season in the Maldives, with the warmest and driest weather, which is why the price point tends to be much higher. The northeast monsoon generally brings the dry-season conditions that people picture when they imagine the Maldives: sunshine, warm temperatures and beautifully clear water. It's a particularly good time for snorkelling, diving and getting out on the water. Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => There is nothing better than finishing a Sri Lankan adventure with a few nights on a tiny island. [name] => Gabrielle Morley-Ham [location] => HA Head of Marketing [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ There is nothing better than finishing a Sri Lankan adventure with a few nights on a tiny island. Gabrielle Morley-Ham HA Head of Marketing ” On her most recent research trip with our specialist Rebecca, she said, “After the amazing rush of temples, wildlife and road journeys. Then being able to move on to nothing more complicated than a stroll along the beach or enjoying a glass of wine in the jacuzzi. It feels like mental preparation before having to head home to face the post-holiday blues!” January is one of the most popular times to travel to the Maldives, particularly around New Year, so keep in mind that the best resorts and room categories can disappear quite quickly. HA's Gabs watching the sunset from the jacuzzi in the Maldives. India: the classics and wildlife According to India specialist Clare, January has a classic North India itinerary written all over it. The monsoon has long gone, and the worst of the summer heat is still a long way off, making places such as Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur and Udaipur far more comfortable to explore. But January isn't simply about pleasant temperatures; you can actually enjoy the places you're travelling so far to see. You can spend more time wandering through Rajasthan's forts and markets, explore the Taj Mahal without the oppressive summer heat, and make time for the smaller experiences that can get lost when you're rushing between major sights. Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => Take a guided walk through the town at the right time of the day; the scene is something else. The farmers have returned from the fields, women are busy in their homes, and the shopkeepers have opened their doors. Production has started in the cotton mills, and the cows are returning home in the evening from their day of grazing. [name] => Clare Burkey [location] => HA Destination Manager, India. [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ Take a guided walk through the town at the right time of the day; the scene is something else. The farmers have returned from the fields, women are busy in their homes, and the shopkeepers have opened their doors. Production has started in the cotton mills, and the cows are returning home in the evening from their day of grazing. Clare Burkey HA Destination Manager, India. ” And this is where our specialists' first-hand knowledge really comes into play… Clare returned from her most recent trip and makes a brilliant point about slowing down rather than trying to cover the whole country. India is enormous, and she recommends spending at least two nights in each location because journeys often take longer than expected. Her newest article focuses entirely on how to begin mapping out a trip to Rajasthan. She highlights the hidden gems she likes to sprinkle into an itinerary after locking in the major cities, such as her visit to Ramathra Fort, which she describes as “pretty unique, totally unexpected, off the beaten track, and preserved from development.” Read the blog here: "Where to go in Rajasthan" Taken by HA's specialist, Clare, of her son meeting the elephants at Dera Amer. Tanzania: calving season, green landscapes and quieter safaris Tanzania in January can be overlooked in favour of the famous June–September safari season, but our Tanzania specialist, Cat, has a very good reason to put it on your radar. Calving season begins in January. Across the Serengeti, zebras, wildebeest and antelope begin giving birth, making it one of the most fascinating times of year to be on safari! And, naturally, where there are thousands of newborn animals, predators aren't far away… Another little extra that January brings is the occasional shower that keeps the landscape green and clears the dust from the air, resulting in beautifully crisp conditions for photography. Temperatures are also pleasant, and compared with the huge rush of June to September, January can feel considerably more relaxed. So while the Great Migration's dramatic river crossings get most of the attention, in January you can witness new life arriving across the plains, green landscapes, and predators keeping a close eye on the herds. For keen wildlife photographers in particular, this is a month worth talking to our Tanzania specialists about. And if you're considering a Tanzania safari followed by some winter sun with time on the beach, January also works beautifully for combining the Serengeti with Zanzibar. Cat's January tip: “Don't overlook the quieter dry season. The migration is a year-round phenomenon, and January gives you a very different and incredibly rewarding perspective on it.” A little zebra foal in Tanzania. Chile: summer in Patagonia January is peak summer in Chile , and if Patagonia is high on your list, this is one of the months when conditions are most convenient. By this, we mean longer days give you more time outside, trails are open, and it is the season for hiking, kayaking, and exploring the dramatic landscapes of the south. But there is a catch: January is busy. Chile's most famous areas, particularly Patagonia and Torres del Paine, can be considerably more expensive and harder to book during their summer months. So if space and quieter trails matter to you, we'd look at the shoulder seasons instead, which are just as fulfilling. If you do travel in January, planning ahead is essential, but it really is an excellent time to travel. You can combine the south with the Atacama Desert, Santiago, wine country or even Easter Island, creating a trip that feels completely different from beginning to end. On Louise’s most recent trip, she spent three weeks exploring Chile from top to bottom. Visiting coastal towns, wineries, and trendy neighbourhoods in the capital. She travelled solo through the scenic Lake District, passing volcanoes, araucaria forests, and islands. Then went far south to Torres del Paine, seeing wildlife, glaciers, granite peaks, and ranches. Finishing in the Atacama Desert, admiring lunar landscapes, more volcanoes, salt flats, and flamingo-dotted lakes. Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => High summer is December- February, which is peak holiday season for locals; the capital city and desert are very hot. Although you absolutely have to expect four seasons in a day in Patagonia – at any time of year! [name] => Louise Mumford [location] => HA Destination Manager. [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ High summer is December- February, which is peak holiday season for locals; the capital city and desert are very hot. Although you absolutely have to expect four seasons in a day in Patagonia – at any time of year! Louise Mumford HA Destination Manager. ” Lou's advice: if January is your only option, don't let the high season put you off; just get in touch early and secure your Chilean adventure. Ha's Lou in Castro, Chiloé Island. Ecuador & the Galápagos : wildlife above and below the water January is an interesting time to visit Ecuador , particularly if you're planning to combine the mainland with the Galápagos Islands. It's the beginning of the warmer, wetter season in the Galápagos, which can actually make it a particularly interesting time for wildlife lovers. The lovely warm water and calmer seas are perfect for snorkelling and swimming. You can count on eastern and northern routes for the best clarity when snorkelling. Our Galápagos specialist Dawn says it’s the best time to see marine iguanas grazing underwater and Green sea turtles nesting on the warm beaches. On the Ecuadorian mainland, you can combine the Galápagos with Quito, the Andes, or the Amazon, creating a truly varied trip that lets you hop from one environment to another. A useful little timing tip: if you can travel in the second half of January, you're avoiding the Christmas and New Year rush. Visitor numbers begin to ease, and availability can improve, while you still retain the characteristics that make this season so appealing. Aditionally, Galápagos cruises do need to be planned well in advance, particularly if you have a particular boat or cabin in mind. Llama in Equador, taken by HA's specialist, Dawn. Argentina : wildlife, wine and long summer days January is high summer in Argentina, like Chile, making it a particularly good month for exploring Patagonia and getting properly outdoors. Argentina isn't a destination we'd recommend simply because January is warm. In January, you can make the most of the country's huge landscapes. Patagonia is great this time of year for walking and exploring, while around Mendoza, the vineyards are green and the wine valleys come alive in the summer. And there are plenty of ways to make a trip to Argentina feel much more personal than simply ticking off Buenos Aires, Iguazú, and Patagonia. Our specialist Louise, says that La Bamba de Areco, around two hours from Buenos Aires, is a particularly lovely addition. “A relaxed estancia where guests can ride with gauchos at any level. Watch a horse whisperer at work, take cooking classes, swim, walk and experience traditional asado”. Lou recommends two nights here at the end of a trip as a chance to slow down before travelling back home. There's also the atmosphere of Buenos Aires itself. Louise describes it as “a beautiful, clean, laid-back city” that works particularly well on foot, with weekends bringing the parks, Recoleta and La Boca to life. One thing to know: January is a popular time to travel to Argentina, particularly for Patagonia, so the best accommodation and experiences can book up well in advance. HA's Lou horse riding in Argentina. So, where should you go in January? You have so many options for where to go on holiday in January. You could be walking through Rajasthan one week and snorkelling in the Maldives the next, exploring the temples of Cambodia, hiking beneath the mountains of Patagonia or heading over to the Galápagos to see wildlife found nowhere else. The important thing is that January doesn't work equally well everywhere. Some destinations are at their absolute best, some are busy and need planning well ahead, and others become considerably more appealing if you travel later in the month. That's where our specialists come in. They don't just know when a destination can be visited; they know what it actually feels like to be there at that time of year, which places are worth your time, where to slow down, and what is worth booking early. Thinking about getting away in January for some much-needed winter sun? Talk to one of our travel specialists, and we'll help you work out where makes the most sense for you. Holidays at their best this January Need to escape this January? Chat with one of our experts today to start planning your next getaway this January. ZEN_HOLIDAY_GET_A_QUOTE ZEN_HOLIDAY_TEL ZEN_HOLIDAY_OPEN_HOURS

Introducing: The International Mountain Awards  Things may have gotten a bit complicated again with travel recently, but we’re here to raise you up with the awards you never knew you needed. So, if you’re looking for summit to read this International Mountain Day… (sorry, we couldn’t help ourselves)… Look no further. From elusive peaks through to iconic ones just waiting to be explored, our wonderful world is bursting to the brim with ranges.   1. The Award for the most Elusive Mountain goes to… Mount Fuji, Japan If ever a mountain was to be labelled ‘shy’, it’s Japan’s iconic, cone-shaped Mount Fuji. Keep an eye on the weather when planning your visit, but don’t hedge your bets too much. Even on a sunny day, Mount Fuji has been known to sneak behind cloud or the summer haze that rises off the lakes, often leaving visitors wanting more. There are some public webcams available though, so you can check just how elusive the mountain is feeling before making your day trip to catch a glimpse of this iconic Japanese symbol. Try your luck at seeing it for yourself on this Japan getaway that gives you two nights in nearby Hakone   2. The Award for the most Lively Mountain goes to… Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica Although it’s currently snoozing, Arenal volcano is Costa Rica’s most active mountain. Up until 2010 it was erupting daily offering up an impressive show of bright red lava bubbling over the side of its cone-like crater. Despite being dormant though, Arenal is still Costa Rica’s adventure capital, with countless activities, stunning hiking trails and many natural hot springs to rest your weary adventure limbs in (it has its lively resident to thank for that!) Experience Costa Rica’s adventure capital on this Costa Rica family holiday   3. The Award for the Most Remarkable Mountain goes to… The Remarkables, New Zealand Towering over the lakeside city of Queenstown in New Zealand, these remarkable mountains really do live up to their name. Regardless if you venture up them, they will provide a beautiful backdrop to your time in this part of the country. If you do choose to take a closer look, from the south-side of the mountains you’ll be treated to a staggering view of Queenstown. If you’re visiting New Zealand during the winter, and are a fan of the powdery white stuff, this mountain range is one of the best spots for skiing in the region. Take in the beauty of New Zealand’s South Island on this South Island Scenic adventure   4. The Award for the Most Adventurous Mountain goes to… Torres Del Paine – Chile / Argentina – Andes mountain Wrap up warm when you visit Torres Del Paine, that place is Chile… (We’re not even sorry). The three impressive and towering granite peaks of Torres Del Paine alone are worth a visit to Chile’s most famous national park. But, a hike around this stunning display of natural beauty will see you uncovering lakes the colour of spearmint, This Patagonia holiday will see you taking in the very best of Chile and Argentina   5. The Award for the Most Challenging Mountain goes to… Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania If challenging yourself is top of your travel wish list for 2022, climbing to the top of Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro could be the mountain adventure for you. Frequently considered to be one of the greatest outdoor challenges on the planet, conquering Kilimanjaro could be the perfect excursion  if you’re really looking to test yourself (and enjoy the experience of a lifetime of course!) A climb up to the ‘Roof of Africa’ will see you making your way up to 5,895 meters above sea level, take 6 to 8 gruelling days and a fair level of fitness. It’s said that only between 45 and 65% of people who take on the challenge actually make it to the top. But we’re certain that watching the sunrise over the horizon at the summit will be worth every step. Do you fancy your chances? Climb Kilimanjaro on this active Tanzania adventure   6. The Award for the Most Iconic Mountain goes to… El Capitan, Yosemite The iconic, domineering granite wall of El Capitan is without doubt one of Yosemite’s most recognisable landmarks. There’s something truly magical about the light in Yosemite, it wraps around the vertical cliff faces of El Capitan and the Half Dome and is particularly beautiful early in the day when the morning mist gently coats the lush valley in a blue haze. If you really want to explore everything this staggering national park has on offer (including countless imposing mountains, wildflower meadows and plummeting waterfalls), we recommend staying for around three days, there’s just so much to see. Uncover the Yosemite mountains for yourself and so much more on this 13 day National Parks Road Trip itinerary.   7. The Award for the most Bucket-List Ticking Mountain goes to… The Rockies, Canada A visit to the Canadian Rockies will treat you to awe-inspiring mountain valleys, endless icefields, flowing rivers, snow-capped peaks, pristine glaciers and boundless nature. Plus, this mountain range is home to the Rocky Mountaineer, a train ride that makes it on to almost every travel-lovers bucket list as something to experience at least once in a lifetime. Ride the rails of the Rocky Mountaineer   8. The Award for the Most Wonder-Full Mountain goes to… Andes Mountains, Peru – Machu Picchu The lush, forested peaks of the Andes Mountains were hiding a fairly spectacular secret for quite some time. The ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu, now one of the seven wonders of the world (quite rightly), wasn’t rediscovered until 1911. Few mountains are home to an archaeological masterpiece quite like this. You can explore this Andes gem either under the steam of your own two feet, taking on the famous Inca trail, or you can opt for the more relaxed route and take the train up! Either way, this mountain’s secret empire is ready to wow. Trek to Machu Picchu and explore Lima and Cusco on this Peru holiday itinerary   9. The Award for the Best Sandy Mountain goes to… Dune 45, Namibia We’re clutching at straws a little here we realise, but the impressive sand dunes of Namibia’s Namib Desert couldn’t not feature on our best mountainous roundup. The elegant curves, glowing colours and monstrous peaks of what some claim to be the world’s largest sand dunes contrast almost perfectly with the almost other-worldly ‘vleis’ that lurk in their shadows. Get there early to hike up the sandy peak before the crowds arrive. Seeing the sun gradually cast its golden glow over the vast plains of Sossusvlei is an experience not to be missed. Uncover this sandy world for yourself on this Classic Namibia Self Drive holiday      

As summer slowly approaches autumn, now’s the perfect time to start planning how to make the most of the rest of the year, soak up some more sunshine, and maybe even fit in a knock-out family holiday to really treat the kids. Is there anything better than making forever memories together as a family? Seeing your kids’ faces as they taste a local delicacy for the first time, watching them run across the warm sand into the turquoise ocean or the wonder in their eyes as they experience their first animal sighting on safari. Travelling and experiencing the world together is the most wonderful gift. Which of these 9 family half-term holiday ideas would be perfect for you?   1. South African Family Adventure This family adventure showcases all the major highlights of South Africa. From the Cape Region and the Winelands , to the Garden Route and a safari experience the whole family will never forget. If you’re travelling with a young family, we’d recommend including a little more time on the Cape Peninsula to enjoy the penguins of Boulders Beach , World of Birds and the glass-bottomed boat at Hout Bay. In the Winelands, Spier is the destination of choice with its bird of prey interaction experience, whilst on the Garden Route, the animal sanctuaries of The Crags are always popular with kids. Finally, you’ll experience one of the ultimate bucket-list holiday moments: a safari together. (What’s more, by going on safari in the Eastern Cape , there is no need to take anti-malarial tablets, a blessing when travelling with little’uns!) View the sample itinerary   2. Oman Family Holiday We think Oman makes a brilliant destination for a family holiday. There’s so much to see and explore in Muscat , with its historic heart, lavish Sultan’s Palace, alluring old souk and dolphin cruises. Plus, there are plenty of stunning hotels with access to beaches and large swimming pools for relaxing, fun-filled days to choose from. That’s why we always suggest starting your adventure in Muscat to explore, and finishing there too for some sun-soaking time at a beach resort. This holiday then takes you into the jagged Hajar Mountains to explore the canyons and abandoned terraced villages. As you adventure together, you’ll feel a million miles from the modern world and will have your breath taken away every time you turn yet another dramatically beautiful corner. Then, a night in the desert is a must for an Oman family adventure. There’s something unmatchable about sitting together under the starry canopy reminiscing about what you’ve seen and done so far. Omanis themselves are also a very friendly, welcoming nation, creating a very accessible place in which to introduce your children to bold and beautiful Middle Eastern culture. Find out more     3. Mauritian Explorer Head to Mauritius to combine blissful beach time with laid-back local exploring this October. With three-stops, you’ll tick off all of the local highlights and have plenty of time to fall in love with the white sand beaches that Mauritius is known for. The island is relatively small, so it is easy to move from place to place, and offers gorgeous beaches, fantastic swimming opportunities for all the family, a delicious food scene and the chance to get off the beaten track in the inland mountainous scenery. Start your trip with four nights on the southwesterly side of the island, sample street food at Port Louis, hike in the Black River Gorge National Park , explore the coastline by boat, or simply relax on the coast. From here, hire a car to head towards the more remote eastern side of the island, perhaps stopping at Chamarel on the way for lunch. On arrival at your next hotel, for those wanting more activity, kite-surfing and mountain biking are on offer, or picnic on the beautiful eastern beaches of Ile aux Cerfs and Ilot Mangenie. Finally head north to the famous Belle Plage region for five nights in your final hotel, chosen to make the most of your remaining time on the beach. Get me on the beach     4. Thailand A family holiday to Thailand is just the perfect introduction to South East Asia. However old your kids are, there’s something for everyone. You can fly through the bustling streets of Bangkok on a tuk-tuk, explore the traditional floating markets , be wowed by elephants in the jungle, hike through wildlife-packed rainforests, play on soft white sand beaches, taste incredible local flavours and uncover so much rich culture. We couldn’t love it more and know you’ll love it, too. Find out more of what awaits   5. Singapore and Borneo Adventure If you’re a nature-loving family, this Singapore & Borneo adventure is for you. No trip here would be complete without a trek to see the majestic orangutan in the wild (or at the incredible Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre if your kids are little!) The wildlife sighting is phenomenal and the tropical islands dotted off the coast make the perfect retreat to end any family half-term holiday; the clear waters and sandy beaches are sure to delight children (and adults!) of all ages. To the orangutans…   6. Family fun in Vietnam There might be a little bit of a mixed bag weather-wise in Vietnam over October half-term, but we don’t think that should deter you from going. With time to adventure through the busy cities, the chance to get away from it all in lesser-visited Ninh Binh , see iconic Ha Long Bay for yourself and enjoy some relaxing beach days, this sample 16-day itinerary has something for everyone. We recommend heading to the beaches of the south to make the most of the returning sunny days! Dive in…   7. Cambodia Cambodia has everything you need for an unbeatable October half-term holiday adventure, as well as the perfect introduction to South East Asia. It is the end of the green season in Cambodia this time of year, but that means the landscape will be looking beautifully lush, Angkor Wat will be quieter and so will the beaches! There’s so much culture, beauty and experience to be had here with countless temples, sense-sizzling markets, paradise islands and the friendliest people. But, maybe pack a brolly just in case! Take me there!   8. The Maldives The Maldives might not be your first thought when planning a family holiday, but with fantastic family-friendly resorts like Siyam World Maldives (with villas that come complete with your very own waterslide into the shimmering turquoise ocean!!), it absolutely shouldn’t be ruled out. There can be a few showers in October and it is a little humid, but if you can deal with the odd shower then you’ll be rewarded with supremely quiet beaches and the ultimate tranquil family getaway. Claim your pool slide villa!   9. Tanzania Without doubt one of the greatest wildlife destinations on the planet, why wouldn’t Tanzania be on your wishlist for a family adventure?! October half-term is a fantastic time for a safari here, with warm sunny days and only the occasional shower. Can you picture your kids’ faces the first time they spot a lion in real life? That is the magic of a family safari. It’s safari time…