Where to go in January

January

Much of the continent starts the new year basking in summer sun. Chilean and Argentine Patagonia are in their prime in January, with almost perfect “inbetween” days (not too hot; not too cold) and near-perfect hiking conditions. Whale watching from the Valdés Peninsula in Argentina is also still possible in early January. The Galápagos is also a dream at this time of year; we’re talking warm waters, active marine life and sea lions practicing their swimming skills. Colombia’s Caribbean coast is blissfully dry, making it a great time to combine Cartagena’s vibrant streets with the beaches of Tayrona, and the coffee region. Peru is hot and dry along the coast, making it a good time for Lima and its gastronomic delights, but it’s wet in the Andes.