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Martinique in January, one of the best times to visit the island
Martinique in January: an ideal time to explore the island
Why visit Martinique in January?
Visiting Martinique in January is a fabulous way to start the new year. January is one of the most pleasant months to discover Martinique. The climate is mild, the days are sunny, and conditions are ideal for exploring the island from north to south. It is a very popular time to enjoy the beaches, explore the scenic roads, and discover the natural and cultural riches of the territory. To organize your stay with peace of mind, renting a car in Martinique is essential.
Events and highlights in Martinique in January
January marks a special time in Martinique.
New Year celebrations
January 1, a public holiday, is an important day in Martinique. Families gather around traditional meals and local drinks. The atmosphere is friendly, especially in towns and on beaches, which are very busy on this day.
Epiphany and the tradition of the Feast of Kings
In early January, the Feast of Kings is celebrated in many Martinican homes. The galette des rois (king cake) is shared with family and friends. It is an opportunity to taste cakes with exotic flavors (guava, pineapple, or coconut).
The gradual launch of the Martinique Carnival
January marks the unofficial start of the Martinique Carnival. After Epiphany, the first parades and rehearsals of carnival groups begin, particularly in Fort-de-France and certain municipalities. The atmosphere gradually builds up to the peak days of the Carnival, usually in February or March, depending on the year.
What to do in Martinique in January
Beaches and coastline
The southern beaches, such as Anses-d'Arlet, Sainte-Anne, and Le Diamant, offer ideal conditions for swimming and relaxation. By car, it is easy to alternate between white sand beaches and more secluded coves.
Nature, hiking, and rivers
The north of the island is ideal for excursions in January. The Route de la Trace takes you through lush vegetation and gives access to remarkable natural sites such as Mount Pelée and rivers that are suitable for swimming. A vehicle is essential if you want to reach these areas independently.
What to Do in Martinique? Must-Do Activities
As a bonus, we're sharing our ideas for places to explore and road trips to take in Martinique.
Explore the Petrified Forest
Located at the southern tip of Martinique, the Savane des Pétrifications offers a unique, arid landscape on the island. In January, the dry season makes the area more accessible and hiking more comfortable, with less slippery trails and moderate temperatures. The site offers visitors the chance to discover a mineral landscape, rock formations, and unobstructed views of the Atlantic Ocean, which are very different from the green landscapes of the north.
📍Sainte-Anne
Enjoy the beach of Anse Couleuvre
Located in the north of the island, in the town of Le Prêcheur, Anse Couleuvre is a black volcanic sand beach accessible after a short walk. In January, weather conditions make it easy to access and explore the site. This excursion fits perfectly into a day trip in the northern Caribbean, via the Route de la Trace.
📍Le Prêcheur
Travel along the Trace Route
In January, the Trace Route offers pleasant driving conditions thanks to the dry season. This route takes you through dense vegetation and to iconic sites in northern Martinique, such as tropical forests, hiking trails, and mountain viewpoints. 📍Trace des Jésuites, North Caribbean
🍍 Seasonal fruits and vegetables in January
Pineapple: harvested during the dry season, it is particularly sweet and juicy in January.
Carambola: recognizable by its star shape, it is widely available on market stalls at the beginning of the year.
Guava: an iconic fruit, prized for its fragrant flesh and versatility in cooking.
Citrus fruits (oranges, tangerines, limes): still abundant in January, they add freshness and acidity.
Maracudja (passion fruit): ripens at this time of year and is widely used in juices and desserts.
Coconut: available year-round, but widely consumed during the dry season.
Okra: a seasonal tropical vegetable, commonly used in traditional dishes.
Christophine: harvested in winter, it accompanies many Creole dishes.
Eggplant, cabbage, tomato: locally produced and available in January depending on the farm.
Temperatures in January
In January, Martinique enjoys pleasant temperatures throughout the day. Maximum temperatures generally range between 79°F and 82°F, while evenings remain mild, around 72°F to 75°F, ideal for enjoying outings and excursions.
Water temperature in January
The sea temperature in Martinique is around 26°C to 27°C in January. These conditions are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or water sports, both on the Caribbean coast and the Atlantic coast.
Rainfall and sunshine in January
January is the dry season (Lent) in Martinique. Rainfall is limited and often short-lived. There is plenty of sunshine, offering beautiful days ideal for excursions, trips around the island, and exploring by car.
What to Pack in Your Luggage for a Martinique trip?
Don't forget to pack the following essentials in your luggage for your vacation in Martinique:
Sunglasses to protect you from intense UV rays.
Ocean-friendly sunscreen to protect your skin and the marine ecosystem.
A hat to protect you from the sun.
Hiking shoes to explore the island's trails.
Insect repellent to protect you from bugs.
✈️ Prepare for Your Trip to Martinique
As many tourists flock to the archipelago in high season, it is mainly by air that people come to Martinique in December. It is also at this time that air tickets start to become expensive. To avoid ruining your money on the trip between airports and spend your budget on activities and pleasures of the island, it is strongly advised to book your flights in advance. Prices are lower and more accessible!
Once you arrive at Aimé Césaire airport and in order to move around freely afterwards, don't hesitate to rent a car in Martinique and make the most of the island during your stay in December.
🚙 Getting around easily in Martinique
To explore the island easily, renting a car is still the best option. Europcar Martinique offers a wide selection of recent vehicles (economics cars, SUVs, utility vehicles) with agencies located at Aimé Césaire Airport and in strategic areas.
EXPLORE OUR OTHER ARTICLES
Martinique in February
A stay in Martinique in February allows you to take full advantage of the tropical climate and the island paradise. With a sea temperature of 28°C and an indoor temperature of 29°C, your stay rhymes with sun and beach pleasures.
Martinique Carnival Dates
Visiting Martinique in February ? Discover the program of the Carnival 2023 in Martinique! A party not to be missed! Every year, the Martinique carnival attracts more and more tourists. So remember to book your Europcar Martinique rental car several months in advance.
Which car to travel for two
You have booked your trip to Martinique, are you coming with your spouse or your best friend? Do you have the plane tickets and chosen your future temporary residence? Congratulation ! All you have to do is find your car rental in Martinique to get around the island as easily and comfortably as possible! But which car to choose?
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