When the UK is shivering in its coldest month, Tenerife is doing something quite different. While we’re scraping ice off windscreens, the “Island of Eternal Spring” is basking in the kind of weather we usually wait until June for. Taking an all-inclusive holiday in January isn’t just a getaway; it’s a strategic move to beat the post-Christmas blues without breaking the bank.
The Ultimate Winter Reset January in Tenerife is a secret weapon for savvy travellers. The “peak” Christmas rush has ended, the big summer crowds are months away, and the island settles into a beautiful, sun-drenched rhythm. It is the time of year when you can see snow on the peak of Mount Teide while you’re sitting by the pool in your swimwear—a view you won’t find anywhere else in Europe.
The “Blue Monday” Dodgers: People who find the dark UK mornings tough. A week of “unlimited sun” is the perfect antidote to the January slump.
Value-Seeking Couples: With the kids back in school, the resorts become much quieter and more sophisticated. It’s the prime time for adults to enjoy 5-star luxury at 3-star prices.
Active Explorers: Because it’s not “August hot,” January is the best month for hikers and cyclists. You can tackle the trails of the Anaga mountains or Teide National Park without breaking a sweat.
Heated Pools are Essential: In January, the Atlantic is refreshing, but you want your hotel pool to be like a bath. Most high-end all-inclusive resorts (like those in Costa Adeje) guarantee heated pools during the winter months.
No “Indoor” Blues: While you might need a light jumper for dinner al fresco, you’ll be spending 90% of your time outdoors. Having your food and drinks included means you can drift from the sunny terrace to the poolside bar without a care.
The “Three Kings” Magic: If you arrive in the first week of January, you’ll catch the Reyes Magos celebrations (January 6th). It’s bigger than Christmas in Spain, with massive parades and a wonderful festive atmosphere that extends your holiday spirit.
Top Tip: Pack a “layered” wardrobe. During the day, it’s a solid 20°C to 22°C (t-shirt and shorts weather). However, once the sun dips behind the horizon around 6:30 PM, the temperature can drop to 15°C. A light jacket or a pashmina is a must for your evening cocktails!
Aim for the Second Week: The first week of January (New Year) is expensive. From the 7th of January onwards, prices plummet. You can often find 4-star all-inclusive packages for under £400pp.
Go South for the Sun: While the North (Puerto de la Cruz) is beautiful and green, it’s much cloudier in January. For the most reliable tanning weather, stick to Playa de las Américas, Los Cristianos, or Costa Adeje.
Check the “Winter Sun” Sales: Airlines like Jet2 and easyJet launch massive “January Sales” on the first day of the month. If you’re quick, you can bag a last-minute flight for a pittance.
Whale Watching: The waters between Tenerife and La Gomera are home to resident pilot whales all year round. In January, the air is crisp and clear, making for incredible photos of the Los Gigantes cliffs.
Almond Blossoms: If you visit in late January, head to Santiago del Teide. The almond trees burst into pink and white blossoms—it’s one of the most beautiful natural sights on the island.
Stargazing: January offers some of the clearest skies of the year. A sunset and stargazing tour on Mount Teide is spectacular this time of year (just remember it’s freezing up there, so bring your big coat for the volcano!).
For the absolute bargain: The last two weeks of January.
For the culture: January 20th, for the Romería de San Sebastián in Adeje, where you can see traditional horse-bathing in the sea.
Flights leave daily from all major hubs like London, Manchester, and Glasgow. The flight is about 4.5 hours, landing you at Tenerife South (TFS). In January, the airport is much quieter, so you’ll be through security and in your transfer coach in record time.
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