Port of Spain Weather in January

January weather in Port of Spain

January is warm, sticky and often showery. Highs reach 29°C, with nights staying near 24°C. Rain falls on 18 days, so a dry spell isn't guaranteed, even though January is less wet than December. You'll get some sunshine, but clouds can break up the day.

It's still a good month for city sights between showers. Visit the National Museum and Art Gallery, or take a walk around Queen's Park Savannah when the weather allows. The frequent rain can make long outdoor plans less reliable, and January isn't the best choice if you want a run of dry beach days. February to April is generally better for that.

Events and crowds

New Year's Day is a public holiday, so some businesses may close or change their hours. Carnival preparations and parties often get going in January, but the main Carnival celebrations fall on dates that vary each year. If you're visiting for Carnival, check the dates before choosing your trip.

If you hate crowds, avoid the New Year period and any big Carnival events. Port of Spain can feel busier then, and accommodation may cost more than in quieter months. Outside those peaks, January is usually less crowded than the main Carnival period. It's not the driest month, either, so February to April may appeal more if weather matters most.

A local tip

Travelling with kids? Use the Queen's Park Savannah as your landmark: it's a large open green space close to the Emperor Valley Zoo and the Royal Botanic Gardens. If a shower rolls in, you can shift to an indoor museum visit nearby instead of losing the day.

For a taste of the city, try doubles from a street vendor. They're a popular Trinidadian snack made with curried chickpeas in soft fried bread. Eat them while they're fresh, and expect a little mess.