Over the years we’ve seen that December is one of the most popular times to travel. Especially solo travellers often seek an adventure towards the end of the year to celebrate the new year in true explorer style. If you’re in need of inspiration, fear not! Below you’ll find the 10 best places to go in December.
1. Colombia
Colombia is one of those destinations that you can visit all year round without being disappointed. However, if you’re asking us for the best weather then we’d have to say, visit from December through to March, as there is virtually no rain. We have found that Colombia is a very popular destination for our travellers around Christmas and the New Year.
Celebrate the holidays in Colombia on our 14-day Classic Colombia tour. Don’t have that much time? How about a quick 8-day break!
2. Patagonia – Chile & Argentina
Patagonia is easily one of the best places to go in December. December marks the beginning of summer in the southern hemisphere and with summer come warmer days and clearer skies in southern Chile and Argentina, known as Patagonia.
Patagonia is a truly remote destination which is why we’re using our comfortable overland truck to get around here. Embark upon one of the biggest adventures planet earth has to offer and enjoy an active holiday with rewarding views and experiences that will make any adventure traveller’s heart beat faster.
Did we get your attention? Find out more about Patagonia in our blog.
3. India
After the wet season has come to an end, temperatures are continuing to fall to pleasant levels in December. This makes India one of the best places to visit in December. Temperatures in northern India can vary quite a bit: it’s not uncommon for this part of the country to experience temperatures from 8 to 27 degrees Clesius in December. Make sure you come prepared and bring some warm clothes, especially if you’re planning on taking a detour to the desert.
Go on the ultimate exploration trip and discover the treasures of Rajasthan on our 15-day tour.
4. Malaysia (West Coast)
Although the monsoon seasons on the east and west coasts of Malaysia aren’t aligned, in December you’ll probably find the best balance across the country. The west coast of Malaysia is the winner in December and features some of our favourite spots. Dry and hot days characterise the region this time of year. Just bear in mind that you’ll pretty much always encounter rain on your visit to Malaysia. Downpours usually go as quickly as they’ve come and you’re likely to use them as a way of cooling down.
Opt for the real southeast Asian experience and travel from the cultural capital Bangkok via Malaysia to modern Singapore on our 15-day tour.
5. Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos Islands are a popular destination over Christmas and the New Year. And it’s no surprise, the Galapagos Islands are extremely remote and while you’re certainly not alone with your thoughts due to the rich wildlife, it’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of your daily routine – take a step back and gain a different perspective.
Furthermore, December brings pleasant temperatures and warm waters to the region. With the beginning of the wet season also comes lush green vegetation that will make for beautiful views. Are you frowning at the words “beginning of the wet season”? There’s no reason, because December in the Galapagos Islands is also characterised by calmer waters and blue skies. This easily makes the Galapgos Islands one of the best places to travel in December.
Find out more about the Galapagos Islands here.
6. Cuba
Certainly one of our most frequently booked and enquired destinations over Christmas and the New Year is Cuba. With Caribbean beaches, lots of history and the opportunity to get away from the connected world (access to WiFi is still hard to find) we can understand why.
On top of that you’ll find day and water temperatures in the mid to high 20s and very little rain – you simply can’t go wrong.
Treat yourself to a well-deserved break on our Best of Cuba tour this December.
7. Vietnam
Vietnam is a very long country and experiences different weather in the north and south. However, December probably is one of the best months for adventurers to explore this fascinating country. It’s the beginning of winter and temperatures in the north are pleasantly mild, usually around 20 degrees Celsius, while you’ll catch warm days around 25 degrees Celsius in the south. It’s also the beginning of the dry season, making Vietnam one of the best places to travel in December.
Discover Vietnam in only 8 days on our Vietnam Highlights tour.
8. Panama
December brings dry weather and warm temperatures around 30 degrees to the region. Whether you’re after a beach holiday, a trip filled with adrenaline or a combination of the two, Panama can deliver as one of the best places to go in December.
Contact our tailor-made team for bespoke itineraries to Panama.
9. Mexico
Mexico’s weather in December is perfect for exploring the bustling cities and ancient landmarks whilst still being able to add one or two days of beach time to your trip. The dry season has taken over the country with an average day temperature of around 25 degrees Celsius.
Find yourself following the footsteps of the Aztecs and Mayans on our Highlights of Mexico tour.
10. Bolivia
Before we start on Bolivia we want to emphasise that the wet season here runs from December to April. As we’ve mentioned many times in our travel calendars, the best time to travel is about more than just dry weather. Bolivia happens to have one of the best reasons to put up with a bit of rain on your holiday.
Have you guessed it yet? Yes, that’s right! It’s the famous Salt Flats. Only during the rainy season you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of the mesmerising reflections on the endless Salt Flats you may have seen around. This makes Bolivia one of the best places to go in December.
Make a trip of it and tick off Peru, Bolivia and Chile on your holiday in December on this 15-day tour.
Anna is on the marketing team at Tucan Travel. From a young age Anna has travelled solo and on group tours through Europe, Africa, the Americas and Asia.
