Want to go to Gran Canaria in January?
Find out if the region is right for you at this time of year, with our comprehensive guide to climate, travel conditions, crowds, prices, attractions and events.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
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Going to Gran Canaria in January: quick answers
Is the weather nice in Gran Canaria in January? Is this a good time to visit?
January is a good time to visit Gran Canaria, as the weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures around 18-20°C during the day. Although there may be occasional rain, sunny days are frequent, ideal for outdoor activities. The island is less crowded, which enhances the experience.
WHERE TO STAY IN Gran Canaria
Our independent picks for the accommodation of your dreams:
- Where to stay in Gran Canaria
- Our favorite: Marina Suites Hotel
Select by hotel type:
- 5-star hotels
- Best boutique-hotels
- Best adults-only hotels (coming soon)
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- Best hotels for families
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Travelling to Gran Canaria in January: summary of conditions
Temperatures
In January, the average temperature in Gran Canaria is around 18°C (64°F), with daytime highs of around 21°C (70°F) and night-time lows of around 15°C (59°F).
Water temperatures
In January, the average sea temperature in Gran Canaria is around 20°C (68°F), with minimum temperatures of around 19°C (66°F) and maximums reaching 22°C (72°F). Swimming conditions may be cool for some, but many find them pleasant enough.
Crowds and prizes
In January, Gran Canaria experiences a moderate influx of visitors as many Northern European tourists seek the winter sun. All in all, it’s a popular month, with balanced demand and the opportunity to save money.
Opening conditions
Places to visit, restaurants and hotels in Gran Canaria remain open in January. However, opening times may vary, so it’s advisable to check in advance.
Length of day
Daylight hours average 10.30 hours. Plenty of time to explore, even if it ‘s winter.
A LITTLE MORE patience
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Best attractions in Gran Canaria in January
Gran Canaria’s must-see attractions include..:
- the old town of Las Palmas
- The Maspalomas dunes
- The Little Venice district of Puerto de Mogan
- Archaeological sites
- The village of Aguïmes and its narrow valleys
- The mountains with Pico de la Neives at the summit the Roque Nublo hike
- Sandy beaches
- Boat trips to observe whales and dolphins
- The western cliffs
- Amusement parks
- …
See the best attractions in Gran Canaria.
And lots of activities like these:
FUN in Gran Canaria:activities
Dolphin watching
Buggy / Quad
Snorkeling
Kayaking in the Mogan caves
But also: Canyoning, Horse riding, Via Ferrata, Coasteering… See all options
Gran Canaria climate in January – weather forecast
In January, Gran Canaria’s weather presents an interesting contrast between the coastal areas and the mountainous interior.
Seaside weather
Along the coast, especially in the south, the weather is generally mild and pleasant. The days are often sunny and warm, with clear skies. The climate is generally stable, offering comfortable conditions for beach activities and outdoor exploration. We really appreciate it.
Although it’s not hot enough to feel like summer, the heat is noticeable and pleasant, especially for visitors from colder climates. We love a bit of winter sun!
Northern coastal areas, while still mild, tend to be slightly cooler and may experience more cloud cover. The risk of occasional showers is higher in the north, but they are generally brief.
Weather in the mountains
On the other hand, in Gran Canaria’s mountain range, conditions can be more changeable and cooler. As you climb in altitude, temperatures drop significantly. The mountains can experience foggy conditions, especially in the morning, which often clear up as the day progresses. The likelihood of precipitation is higher in these regions, and on some days you may even encounter light frost on the highest peaks.
January temperatures in Gran Canaria
Temperature in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (north)
- The average daytime temperature is around 19-21°C (66 to 70°F).
- At night, it cools to around 15-16°C.
Temperature at Maspalomas (south)
- The average daytime temperature is around 19-22°C (66 to 72°F).
- At night, it cools to around 15-16°C.
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN Gran Canaria
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- If you’re planning to explore the mountains, don ‘t take the smallest cars. A more powerful engine will be more comfortable.
- But don’t take too big a car either, as some roads are narrow.
- There’s a lot of demand and it’s an island, so book early.
Rain and Wind
- Rainfall in Las Palmas: 12-27 mm
(over 7 days on average) - Rainfall in Maspalomas: 12-24 mm
(over an average of less than 6 days)
High up in the mountains, it’s possible to see a little snow in Gran Canaria from time to time, but it doesn’t last long.
In January, Gran Canaria experiences moderate winds. The predominant wind direction is mainly easterly during the first half of the month, then northerly later on. Although there are a few windy days, particularly when wind speeds exceed 55 km/h, these events are less frequent than during the summer months. On the whole, the wind is generally manageable, contributing to the island’s pleasant winter climate.
Sunshine
In January, daylight hours vary from 10:20 to 10:50.
Sunrise is around 7.50am and sunset around 10.20am.
In January, Gran Canaria enjoys plenty of sunshine, with an average of 6 to 8 hours per day. Days are generally bright and skies clear for most of the month. This makes it an attractive destination for those seeking winter sunshine, despite occasional rain.
Water temperature – swimming in Gran Canaria in January
In January, the average sea temperature in Gran Canaria is around 20°C (68°F). While some find the temperature pleasant for swimming, particularly in southern resorts such as Puerto Rico and Playa Amadores, many consider it cool. Whether or not you can swim depends on your tolerance to colder waters.
- Water temperature in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: 20°C (68°F) on average
- Water temperature in Maspalomas: 20°C (68°F) on average
Crowds and other conditions
In January, Gran Canaria sees an influx of tourists, particularly from Northern Europe, in search of winter sunshine, which results in moderate crowds. The southern regions, such as Maspalomas and Playa del Inglés, are particularly popular, which translates into busier beaches and restaurants. Overall, January offers a lively atmosphere and opportunities for savings, making it an interesting time to visit the island, in our opinion.
Dolphins and whales in January
Dolphins and whales can be seen around Gran Canaria in January, as the region is home to a wide variety of cetaceans all year round. We highly recommend it.
The most commonly observed dolphins are bottlenose dolphins, Atlantic spotted dolphins and common dolphins. They can be seen all year round.
January is the migration season for humpback whales, which pass off the Canaries en route to their breeding grounds further south. It is therefore possible to observe them at this time of year.
There are tours in catamarans, speedboats and more traditional boats. Departures are mainly from the port of Puerto Rico in the south of the island.
See boat tour options.
January events in Gran Canaria
In January, Gran Canaria hosts several noteworthy events:
- The new year
- International Festival of “Músicas de Canarias”: An event straddling January and February, this festival presents a variety of musical performances, with prestigious orchestras and soloists, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Canary Islands.
- Las Palmas Carnival: this vibrant festival features colorful parades, music and dancing, transforming the city into a lively party – dates vary each year. It can start at the end of January or as late as February.
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January prices
As everywhere, prices vary depending on what you are looking for. Accommodation ranges from youth hostels to 5-star hotels. It is therefore difficult to give you a budget. In January, however, tourist numbers are moderate, especially at the end of the month, so prices can be attractive.
Other months
- Gran Canaria in February
- Gran Canaria in March
- Gran Canaria in April
- Gran Canaria in May
- Gran Canaria in June
- Gran Canaria in July
- Gran Canaria in August
- Gran Canaria in September
- Gran Canaria in October
- Gran Canaria in November
- Gran Canaria in December
Or read our article: When to go to Gran Canaria.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Gran Canaria
- Best of
Best things to do in Gran Canaria
Most beautiful landscapes
Most beautiful towns and villages
Most beautiful beaches
Best natural pools
Archaeological sites
Best museums
Best boat tours (coming soon)
Secret places, off the beaten track
- Practical advice
25 tips for a successful trip to Gran Canaria
When to go?
How to get around
How to rent a car in Gran Canaria
Driving tips
Best excursions (coming soon)
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 6 days – 7 days – 10 days
- The must-dos
Las Palmas and its historic center
Dolphin watching in Gran Canaria (coming soon)
Maspalomas dunes
Puerto de Mogan (Little Venice)
Agaete and its natural pools
The magnificent town of Agüimes
