Things to Do in Saint Vincent in January
January weather, activities, events & insider tips
January Weather in Saint Vincent
Is January Right for You?
Advantages
- Prime dry season with only 89mm (3.5 inches) of rain across 10 days - the most reliable weather for outdoor activities all year
- Peak visibility for La Soufrière volcano hikes with clear summit views 80% of mornings before 10am cloud cover
- Northeast trade winds at 15-20 km/h (9-12 mph) create perfect sailing conditions in the Grenadines
- Coolest temperatures of the year at 22-29°C (72-84°F) make strenuous activities like volcano climbing and rainforest hikes comfortable
Considerations
- High season pricing with accommodation rates 40-60% higher than low season, particularly around New Year's week
- Cruise ship crowds peak with 3-4 ships weekly bringing 6,000+ day visitors to Kingstown and Villa Beach areas
- Advance booking essential - volcano guide tours and sailing charters often fully booked 2-3 weeks ahead
Best Activities in January
La Soufrière Volcano Summit Hikes
January offers the clearest summit visibility with dry trails and cool morning temperatures of 18-22°C (64-72°F) at elevation. The 6-hour round trip (13 km/8.1 miles) is most comfortable now before the heat of March-May. Morning departures before 7am guarantee clear views of the crater lake 90% of days.
Tobago Cays Marine Park Sailing
Perfect northeast trade winds of 15-20 km/h (9-12 mph) create ideal sailing conditions. Water temperature at 27°C (81°F) with 25m (82 ft) visibility for snorkeling. January's dry weather means calm seas 85% of days - the most reliable conditions for multi-day sailing trips.
Vermont Nature Trail Rainforest Walks
January's lower humidity at 70% makes the 2km (1.2 mile) trail through dense rainforest comfortable. Early morning starts at 6:30am avoid afternoon heat and catch peak bird activity. The Amazona guildingii (St. Vincent Parrot) is most active during January's mating season.
Black Sand Beach Exploration
January's calm seas make the rugged leeward coast accessible for visiting unique volcanic beaches. Buccament Bay and Questelles Bay have minimal waves and comfortable beach temperatures. UV index of 8 requires sun protection but sea breezes keep beach time pleasant.
Falls of Baleine Coastal Hiking
Accessible only by boat then 30-minute coastal hike, January's calm seas ensure reliable boat transport. The 18m (59 ft) waterfall flows strongest during January after December rains. Cool morning temperatures make the rocky coastal walk comfortable.
Kingstown Market and Fort Charlotte Cultural Tours
January brings seasonal fruits like golden apples and local vegetables to Kingstown Market. Comfortable walking temperatures of 25-27°C (77-81°F) make exploring the historic town pleasant. Fort Charlotte offers panoramic harbor views without the heat haze of warmer months.
January Events & Festivals
New Year's Calypso and Steel Pan Competitions
Local calypsonians compete in preliminary rounds leading to Carnival season. Authentic cultural experience with seasoned performers at venues like Peace Memorial Hall. Steel pan practice sessions intensify across neighborhoods.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Month
Government-sponsored cultural events including traditional dance performances, local craft fairs, and heritage site presentations. Special discounts at select restaurants and cultural attractions throughout the month.