Kingstown in January

January weather, activities, events & insider tips

January Weather in Kingstown

26°C (78°F) High Temp

24°C (75°F) Low Temp

0.0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is January Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect sailing conditions with consistent 15-20 knot trade winds and calmer seas - visibility for diving reaches 30m (98 ft) compared to 15m (49 ft) during wet season
Carnival season creates electric atmosphere with calypso competitions, steel pan rehearsals echoing through neighborhoods, and locals practicing mas band routines in streets
Cruise ship arrivals peak (12-15 ships weekly) bringing busy market activity - vendors stock best produce and craft selections, street food variety doubles
Post-holiday pricing drops 30-40% on accommodations compared to December peak while weather remains ideal for outdoor activities

Considerations

Afternoon rain showers occur 10 days monthly lasting 30-45 minutes - outdoor lunch plans frequently disrupted between 1-3pm
Carnival preparation crowds major venues and performance spaces - expect closures at cultural sites for rehearsals, especially weekends
Trade wind strength makes small boat excursions to outer islands choppy - prone to seasickness should reconsider 45-60 minute journeys

Best Activities in January

Carnival Cultural Tours

January is prime Carnival preparation season with steel pan orchestras rehearsing nightly at community centers, costume makers working in open workshops, and calypso tents hosting competitions. Witness authentic cultural immersion as locals practice traditional dances and prepare elaborate costumes for February festivities. Morning tours avoid afternoon rain and capture cooler temperatures of 24-25°C (75-77°F).

Booking Tip: Book cultural tours 7-10 days ahead through certified heritage guides. Tours typically cost EC$120-180 (US$45-65) including workshop visits and steel pan demonstrations. Look for operators offering morning schedules to avoid afternoon showers.

Botanical Gardens and Nature Walks

January's 70% humidity and consistent 26°C (78°F) temperatures create lush conditions in the 20-acre Saint Vincent. Morning walks between 7-10am offer optimal wildlife viewing with over 50 bird species active before midday heat. The gardens showcase 500+ tropical plant species at peak growth during dry season start.

Booking Tip: Self-guided visits cost EC$15 (US$6) entry. Guided botanical tours range EC$80-120 (US$30-45) and should be booked for morning slots. Reserve through eco-tourism operators specializing in Caribbean flora interpretation.

Sailing and Catamaran Excursions

January delivers ideal sailing with steady 15-20 knot northeast trades and 1-2m (3-6 ft) swells - perfect for both beginners and experienced sailors. Water temperatures hold at 27°C (81°F) while visibility reaches 25-30m (82-98 ft) for snorkeling stops. Afternoon clouds provide natural sun protection during 3-5 hour excursions.

Booking Tip: Full-day catamaran trips cost EC$200-300 (US$75-110) including lunch and snorkel gear. Book 5-7 days ahead through licensed marine operators. Morning departures (9am) avoid stronger afternoon winds and return before evening showers.

Local Market and Food Tours

January brings peak produce season with mangoes, breadfruit, and plantains at optimal ripeness. Kingstown Market operates 6am-6pm with Friday and Saturday showing maximum variety when cruise passengers boost vendor participation. Morning tours capture cooler 24°C (75°F) temperatures and freshest seafood arrivals from overnight fishing.

Booking Tip: Guided food tours range EC$100-150 (US$37-55) including tastings at 6-8 vendors. Book morning tours starting 8-9am through culinary tourism specialists. Self-guided market visits require no booking but bring EC dollars for small purchases.

Volcano and Rainforest Hiking

January's variable weather creates dramatic cloud formations around Saintvincentandthegrenadines while trails remain accessible during the dry season start. Morning hikes encounter less cloud cover with temperatures starting at 18°C (64°F) at 1,000m (3,280 ft) elevation. Trail conditions optimal before afternoon moisture increases.

Booking Tip: Guided volcano hikes cost EC$180-250 (US$65-95) including transportation and equipment. Book 10-14 days ahead through certified mountain guides. Departures at 6-7am essential for clear summit views and return before afternoon weather changes.

Snorkeling and Diving Excursions

January's calm conditions and 30m (98 ft) underwater visibility create ideal diving scenarios around coral reefs and shipwrecks. Water temperature of 27°C (81°F) requires only light wetsuit while gentle currents suit beginner snorkelers. Marine life activity peaks during cooler morning water temperatures.

Booking Tip: Diving packages range EC$150-220 (US$55-80) for two-tank dives including equipment. Snorkeling trips cost EC$100-160 (US$37-60) for half-day excursions. Book through PADI-certified operators 3-5 days ahead for best site selection.

January Events & Festivals

Throughout January

Steel Pan Rehearsals and Calypso Competitions

Community steel orchestras rehearse nightly preparing for Carnival season with performances at various neighborhood centers. Local calypso tents host competitions featuring both veteran and emerging artists performing social commentary through song.

Early January

Nine Mornings Festival Continuation

Traditional pre-Carnival celebrations extend into early January featuring early morning street parties, traditional dancing, and community gatherings starting before dawn with string bands and cultural performances.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain poncho or packable umbrella - afternoon showers last 30-45 minutes and occur on 10+ days during January

SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 with strong reflection off water during sailing and beach activities

Breathable cotton or linen clothing in light colors - avoid synthetic fabrics in 70% humidity which trap moisture and heat

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - cobblestone streets in downtown Kingstown become slippery during rain showers

Light sweater or windbreaker for morning boat trips - temperatures drop to 24°C (75°F) with wind chill on water

Insect repellent with DEET - increased mosquito activity during variable weather patterns, especially near botanical areas

Waterproof phone case or dry bag - essential for sailing trips and sudden afternoon downpours throughout the month

Cash in EC dollars (small bills) - many local vendors and markets don't accept cards, ATM availability limited outside town center

Modest clothing for cultural sites - long pants and covered shoulders required for church visits and some community events

Reusable water bottle - stay hydrated in humid conditions, many accommodations offer filtered water refill stations

Insider Knowledge

Local buses (route taxis) run EC$2-4 within Kingstown but stop running after 8pm - arrange return transportation for evening cultural events in advance

Friday mornings offer best market experience when fishing boats return with weekly catches and farmers bring premium produce for weekend cruise ship visitors

Many restaurants close Sunday evenings and Mondays - plan dining accordingly, especially if staying longer than 3 days during this traditional rest period

Carnival costume makers welcome visitors to workshops during January preparation - informal tours available for EC$20-30 tip, offering authentic cultural insight

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities for 1-3pm when afternoon showers most likely occur - morning and late afternoon timing prevents weather disruptions

Bringing only US dollars - while accepted, poor exchange rates at tourist areas cost 15-20% more than using local EC currency

Underestimating January's popularity - accommodation prices remain high due to Carnival season buildup, book 4-6 weeks ahead for best selection