California Tours in January 2026
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10 best California tour packages in January
Compiled by
SteffCalifornia travel expert at TourRadar
- Fascinating West ROT
- Best of Death Valley and Joshua Tree
- USA Adventure: City Hopping from Coast to Coast
- Bus Tour Baja California
- Yosemite and Giant Sequoia Excursion
- Taste of California
- Death Valley Inn Based Tour
- New York & California: From the Big Apple to the Golden State
- Womens Death Valley Basecamp Tour
- California Bucket List: Road Trip Dreams & National Wonders
Duration 9 days Destinations Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Solvang, Bakersfield, Sequoia National Park, Fresno, Yosemite National Park, San Francisco, Monterey, CarmelSee all destinations Age Range up to 85 year olds Operator Europamundo January departure dates
See All Departure Dates6 Jan, 2026 10+ spaces left 20 Jan, 2026 10+ spaces left From
- NZ$3,094
Duration 6 days Destinations Las Vegas, Death Valley National Park, Joshua Tree National Park Age Range up to 80 year olds Operator Wildland Trekking January departure dates
25 Jan, 2026 6 spaces left From
- NZ$6,975
Duration 13 days Destinations New York City, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Las Vegas Age Range up to 99 year olds Operated in Only: German Operator journaway January departure dates
See All Departure Dates2 Jan, 2026 6 spaces left 4 Jan, 2026 4 spaces left From
- NZ$4,379Incl: Flights from/to Düsseldorf International Airport. Other airports possible.
Duration 12 days Destinations San José del Cabo, Buenavista, Loreto, Guerrero Negro, San Ignacio, Baja California, La Paz Age Range 6 to 99 year olds Operator MEIERS WELTREISEN January departure dates
See All Departure Dates12 Jan, 2026 6 spaces left 26 Jan, 2026 6 spaces left From
- NZ$5,866
Duration 3 days Destinations Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Solvang, Bakersfield, Yosemite National Park, Fresno, Sequoia National Park Age Range up to 85 year olds Operator Europamundo January departure dates
See All Departure Dates8 Jan, 2026 10+ spaces left 22 Jan, 2026 10+ spaces left From
- NZ$1,031
Duration 15 days Destinations San Francisco, Santa Cruz, Monterey, Big Sur, San Simeon, Morro Bay, Pismo Beach, Santa Barbara, Beverly Hills, Los AngelesSee all destinations Age Range up to 99 year olds Operator DERTOUR January departure dates
See All Departure Dates1 Jan, 2026 9 spaces left 2 Jan, 2026 9 spaces left From
- NZ$2,018
Death Valley Inn Based Tour
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“I will be a repeat hiker with WLT! The supremely helpful guide made this an excellent experience.”
Dan, traveled in March
Duration 4 days Destinations Las Vegas, Death Valley National Park Age Range up to 80 year olds Operator Wildland Trekking January departure dates
16 Jan, 2026 6 spaces left From
- NZ$5,340
Duration 17 days Destinations New York City, Los Angeles, Palm Springs, Sequoia National Park, Yosemite National Park, Lake Tahoe, San Francisco, Morro Bay Age Range up to 99 year olds Operated in Only: German Operator journaway January departure dates
See All Departure Dates1 Jan, 2026 7 spaces left 2 Jan, 2026 6 spaces left From
- NZ$5,738Incl: Flights from/to Hamburg Airport. Other airports possible.
Duration 4 days Destinations Las Vegas, Death Valley National Park Age Range up to 80 year olds Operator Wildland Trekking January departure dates
30 Jan, 2026 4 spaces left From
- NZ$3,254
Duration 17 days Destinations Los Angeles, Palm Springs, Joshua Tree National Park, Sequoia National Park, Yosemite National Park, Lake Tahoe, San Francisco, Morro Bay Age Range up to 99 year olds Operated in Only: German Operator journaway January departure dates
See All Departure Dates1 Jan, 2026 7 spaces left 2 Jan, 2026 6 spaces left From
- NZ$5,240Incl: Flights from/to Hamburg Airport. Other airports possible.
What people love about California Tours in January
I especially like the Yoshimite national Park.
California Express - 3 Days
What our customers ask about California Tours in January 2026
What kind of weather can I expect in California State during January?
California's weather patterns show distinct regional differences in January. Southern California brings temperatures of 65-70°F (18-21°C) with occasional rain showers in Los Angeles while San Francisco and the northern regions stay cooler at 55-60°F (13-15°C). The Sierra Nevada mountain range including Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks sees winter snow with temperatures between 30-40°F (-1 to 4°C). Popular accommodations like the Holiday Inn San Francisco-Golden Gateway and Anaheim Majestic Garden provide comfortable bases for exploring during these winter conditions.
What are the best National Parks to visit in California during January?
Death Valley and Joshua Tree National Parks stand out as top choices for January visits. Death Valley's winter temperatures allow comfortable exploration of Golden Canyon Zabriskie Point and Badwater Basin without summer's intense heat. The Inn at Death Valley serves as a reliable base for park visits. A TourRadar traveler noted: "the weather was perfect for hiking and exploring the diverse landscapes from sand dunes to mountain peaks." Joshua Tree's desert environment is particularly welcoming in January with moderate temperatures ideal for outdoor activities.
What are the best coastal areas to visit in California during January?
The Central California coast shines in January particularly around Monterey Carmel and Santa Barbara. The 17-Mile Drive offers clear views of the coastline and frequent wildlife sightings. Santa Barbara's mild winter temperatures complement visits to its Spanish colonial sites and beaches. Tour reviews consistently mention the scenic Highway 1 drive noting "spectacular Pacific Ocean views" with worthwhile stops at Big Sur and Hearst Castle near San Simeon.
Is January a good time for whale watching in California?
January ranks among the best months for whale watching as gray whales migrate along the California coast. Monterey Bay combines prime viewing opportunities with visits to the historic Cannery Row. San Francisco Bay tours departing from Fisherman's Wharf regularly spot whales during this period. TourRadar reviews frequently mention successful whale sightings in January especially around the Monterey and Carmel areas.
What are the most popular January events and festivals in California?
California's January calendar features notable cultural gatherings. Los Angeles hosts the Golden Globe Awards and related Beverly Hills events. San Francisco presents the FOG Design+Art Fair while Chinatown begins Chinese New Year Festival preparations. The Palm Springs International Film Festival draws entertainment industry figures and movie fans. Tour guides note these events enhance winter visits with hotels like the Anaheim Majestic Garden offering convenient access to festivities.
How do January prices compare to other months for California tours?
January brings notable savings on California tours with prices typically 15-30% lower than summer rates. Europamundo tours start at 1266 USD in January below peak season costs. Hotels like the Best Western Plus Americana offer reduced winter rates though prices may increase during New Year's celebrations and events such as the Palm Springs Film Festival. TourRadar reviews consistently highlight January's value while noting full access to major attractions remains available.
Months