Best Places in South America to visit in December
If you are looking for a fantastic place, visit Estancias in December. It will allow you to witness endless wilderness and green grazing lands. You can also explore and learn from the remarkable cultural history of the place! It is one of the best places i n South America to visit in December.
The average temperature is around 31°C. Sunny weather with a gloomy sky characterizes December in Uruguay.
Since Uruguay has no imposing mountains but somewhat rolling hills, the views from any elevation are spectacular. You can try out horseback riding around the ranch. The highest point is about 3 miles from the estancia, and the track that leads there is broad and goes on for miles.
Get ready to experience the fun that Estancias offers!
San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina
San Carlos de Bariloche is a great place to visit in December because it is Argentina’s most well-known tourist spot. You can expect stunning scenery around the area. Numerous outdoor activities await you! It is one of the best places i n South America to visit in December.
The temperature typically ranges between 22 and 17 degrees Celsius. This makes it ideal for outdoor pursuits like rock climbing, hiking, and skiing.
You can travel and explore nearby mountains, lakes, glaciers, and land covered in forests. It is a top ski destination and draws many tourists because of its breathtaking panoramas, magnificent landscape, and excellent ski amenities. Due to its gorgeous chalets in the Swiss style, the city has a distinctively alpine appearance.
Book a visit to San Carlos de Bariloche and enjoy the different activities with your loved ones!
Medellin, Colombia
Known as the best Christmas lights in the world, Medellin is an excellent spot to visit in December. It is a stunning metropolis, and the city comes alive this month. You can witness spectacular lights and other fun activities!
Usually, it is between 27 and 17 degrees Celsius. Perfect weather to celebrate the winter holidays in December. It is one of the best places i n South America to visit in December.
Medellin turns its holiday lights on December 7 for the Day of the Little Candles. After that, on December 8, a famous parade commemorates the city’s urban myths and legends. Spend a few days in Medellin, experiencing its distinctive Christmas customs, and then travel north to Cartagena de Indias to take advantage of Colombia’s Caribbean coast.
To see more, visit Medellin today!
Fernando de Noronha, Brazil
In December, the tropical island of Fernando de Noronha is one of Brazil’s most alluring spots because of its rich aquatic life and exotic views. You can also find here three of Brazil’s five-star beaches!
The temperature ranges from highs of 30 and lows of 25 degrees Celsius. The warm, sunny weather is ideal for enjoying the water and beach.
You can explore its marine conservation area consisting of 21 islands. The volcanic archipelago is characterized by pristine beaches set against towering rocky peaks and accessible only by monster trucks.
You can do outdoor activities and water sports adventures in this place!
Join in the fun and excitement at Fernando de Noronha today!
Punta del Este, Uruguay
Punta del Este has to be one of the top choices for warm winter getaways in December. You can explore The Miami of, South America, a famous Uruguayan beach town. You can expect shopping activities and museums in this place!
The average temperature is around 26 degrees Celsius. This sunny, breezy weather is perfect for a vacation on an Uruguayan beach.
Punta del Este has been the preferred beach destination for decades due to its abundance of high-end hotels, shopping, and dining options. Visit The Ralli Museum, and you will see houses of work by renowned artists worldwide. They are an outstanding assortment of European Modern and Postmodern art from Latin America.
Punta del Este is one of the best places to visit in December, so don’t miss out!
Salento, Colombia
Salento is one of the most beautiful hiking destinations in the world in December because it is one of the few remaining unspoiled regions in Colombia. Hiking through this valley will reward you with breathtaking panoramas of the Nevados. You will also witness cloud forests, green rolling hills, and iridescent hummingbirds.
The average temperature is around 22 degrees Celsius. This is the best time to visit this beautiful part of Colombia. It is one of the best places i n South America to visit in December.
Visitors from all over the world flock to Salento to experience the Cocora Valley. Take a picture of wax trees, the world’s tallest palm trees. These trees are endemic to Colombia and northern Peru. Check out the most well-known street in Salento, called “Calle Real.”
Get endless sights at Salento!
Viña del Mar, Chile
Known for its stunning coastline and abundance of trees and flowers, Viña is a place to go in December. You can witness historical buildings and museums around the area. Beaches and other attractions await you!
The temperature ranges between 82 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Enjoy the lively nightlife and numerous nearby attractions!
Vina is not just a collection of impressive features. It is also a vibrant and culturally significant city. You can see historic buildings like castles and villas that have been renovated into museums showcasing local art. Visit Las Salinas beach. It is where many Chileans spend Christmas. The flower clock and the Via del Mar Casino are all must-sees during your stay.
Viña is often called Chile’s Garden City. So don’t miss out and explore this beautiful place today!
Wondering what the interesting tourist attractions in Chile are? We have compiled the most extensive list of must-see attractions available, so take a look! Hop over to the most popular Chile tourist attractions.
Merida, Venezuela
Merida is an excellent option if you’re seeking a great place to go on an adventure. One of the most significant resort cities is Merida, which is situated in Venezuela and is a part of the Andes Mountains.
The daily temperature is around 27 degrees Celsius. This makes it ideal for practicing extreme activities in urban areas. It has many sports, including rafting, mountain biking, hiking, and paragliding.
The Merida Cable Car is one of the attractions you shouldn’t miss. This one is the world’s highest and second-longest cable vehicle. You should also go to Pico el Guila, the tallest peak in Venezuela along the Transandean Highway. It is the highest point on the Transandean Highway and is located in the Cordillera de Mérida.
Enjoy your vacation, and get ready to experience these fun activities in Merida!
Angra Dos Reis, Brazil
Angra Dos Reis is a beautiful destination to visit in December. The town is walkable, and you will find various hostels at all price levels. You can also see many cafes, beachside restaurants, travel agencies, and shops. It is one of the best places i n South America to visit in December.
The temperature is around 88 degrees Fahrenheit. The weather is ideal for multiple nature walks and learning about marine fauna!
Explore the beaches that have white sand and clear, tranquil waters. Additionally, it is encircled by a forest that meets the sea. You can explore its adjacent islands, which boast stunning views. They are perfect for boat excursion activities!
In Angra Dos Reis, there are more than 2000 islands to explore every day of the year. Book a visit today!
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Any time of year is excellent for visiting Rio de Janeiro; it is one of Latin America’s top destinations. Brazil’s second-largest city is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, thanks to its extraordinary beaches and world-famous carnival.
The average temperature is around 29 degrees Celsius. This weather makes you want to go outside, like scuba diving or snorkeling. You can also see the fantastic variety of tropical marine life in the area’s waters.
On Christmas Day, you can bask in the sun or kick a soccer ball around on Rio’s world-famous Copacabana or Ipanema beaches. While in Rio, you must see the enormous floating Christmas tree in the middle of Lagoa lake every December.
Have a fantastic vacation in Rio de Janeiro!
The Coffee Triangle, Colombia
Coffee Triangle is the place to go in December if you are a coffee lover. It is one of the best places i n South America to visit in December.
The finest coffee in the world is stored here. It’s one of South America’s most prosperous and ecologically diverse nations.
The average temperature is around 77 degrees Fahrenheit. Perfect weather to stroll through the unending coffee farms. You can also explore brightly painted wooden houses with flower-adorned balconies!
Check out the Parque del Cafe. It’s a mechanical theme park with all the beauty of the Indian landscape. You will also find all the magic and history of the coffee culture that promotes the conservation of the coffee culture.
If you’re up to witnessing this fantastic place, visit Coffee Triangle today!
Pantanal, Brazil
If you want to see more wildlife, visit Pantanal in December. This is the best time to come because you can stay at floating hotels and lodges that offer all-inclusive rates.
Temperatures typically range between 73 and 76 degrees Fahrenheit. With this, exploring the breathtaking Pantanal sounds fun!
The Pantanal is home to an astonishing variety of bird species; visitors are often overwhelmed by the abundance of different birds they encounter. Witness the spectacular hyacinth macaws with their striking purple plumage. You can also expect to see one or two perched in the trees above your resort or tour group!
Bring your camera and take every single shot of the views in Pantanal!
Ambergris Caye, Belize
Ambergris Caye is a popular vacation destination in December. You can witness stunning attractions and numerous wildlife!
The temperature ranges from highs of 27 and lows of 19 degrees Celsius. This weather is ideal for doing many of Ambergris Caye’s top attractions, which center on exploring the island’s natural surroundings.
Ambergris Caye is a great home base for vacationers who want to spend a few days in paradise, exploring the island’s stunning wildlife and the laid-back Caribbean vibes. Check out San Pedro, the island’s one and only town. It serves as an ideal starting point for excursions throughout the entire island.
Ambergris Caye is fascinating to visit this month. So don’t miss the chance!
Are you interested in discovering the top tourist attractions in Belize? The feelings of chaos never last forever. The consequences of regrets are irreversible. Let’s not miss out on these incredible must-see attractions. Hop over to the most popular Belize tourist attractions.
Corcovado, Costa Rica
Corcovado is a fantastic destination to visit in December. It will allow you to discover one of Costa Rica’s most prosperous regions for wildlife. You can explore many different parks around the area!
The average temperature is around 87 degrees Fahrenheit. With such pleasant weather, Costa Rica is the ideal place to be passionate about nature and enjoy the most incredible experiences.
You can take a trip from Manuel Antonio or Uvita to Sierpe. If you decide to spend the night at the park, do it in La Sirena, a sizable area with many bunk beds. You may hike between La Sirena and the ranger stations in Los Patos and La Leona all day long. Exploring the Corcovado National Park is a must-try!
Corcovado has immersive experiences for you to enjoy!
Do you want to know what the tourist attractions are in Costa Rica? Feel the thrill of the journey in your heart with our list of must-see attractions. Hop over to the best Costa Rica tourist attractions.
Los Roques Archipelago National Park, Venezuela
Suppose you’re looking for a place where you can enjoy the summer weather in the middle of December. In that case, Los Roques Archipelago National Park is a great option. You can expect various water adventures! It is one of the best places i n South America to visit in December.
The average temperature is around 27 degrees Celsius. This hot summer weather in the winter is a perfect getaway to get rid of the winter blues in December.
This area is notable because it was designated as a national park in 1972. Expect large swaths of coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds. This beautiful place is also a haven for wildlife. You can also explore some of the parks and see endangered sea turtles.
You will experience many fun activities in Los Roques Archipelago National Park, so relax and enjoy!
Posted on Published: September 14, 2022 – Last updated: November 15, 2022
Home » South America » Best Places in South America to visit in December
Best Places in South America to visit in December
If you are looking for a fantastic place, visit Estancias in December. It will allow you to witness endless wilderness and green grazing lands. You can also explore and learn from the remarkable cultural history of the place! It is one of the best places i n South America to visit in December.
The average temperature is around 31°C. Sunny weather with a gloomy sky characterizes December in Uruguay.
Since Uruguay has no imposing mountains but somewhat rolling hills, the views from any elevation are spectacular. You can try out horseback riding around the ranch. The highest point is about 3 miles from the estancia, and the track that leads there is broad and goes on for miles.
Get ready to experience the fun that Estancias offers!
San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina
San Carlos de Bariloche is a great place to visit in December because it is Argentina’s most well-known tourist spot. You can expect stunning scenery around the area. Numerous outdoor activities await you! It is one of the best places i n South America to visit in December.
The temperature typically ranges between 22 and 17 degrees Celsius. This makes it ideal for outdoor pursuits like rock climbing, hiking, and skiing.
You can travel and explore nearby mountains, lakes, glaciers, and land covered in forests. It is a top ski destination and draws many tourists because of its breathtaking panoramas, magnificent landscape, and excellent ski amenities. Due to its gorgeous chalets in the Swiss style, the city has a distinctively alpine appearance.
Book a visit to San Carlos de Bariloche and enjoy the different activities with your loved ones!
Medellin, Colombia
Known as the best Christmas lights in the world, Medellin is an excellent spot to visit in December. It is a stunning metropolis, and the city comes alive this month. You can witness spectacular lights and other fun activities!
Usually, it is between 27 and 17 degrees Celsius. Perfect weather to celebrate the winter holidays in December. It is one of the best places i n South America to visit in December.
Medellin turns its holiday lights on December 7 for the Day of the Little Candles. After that, on December 8, a famous parade commemorates the city’s urban myths and legends. Spend a few days in Medellin, experiencing its distinctive Christmas customs, and then travel north to Cartagena de Indias to take advantage of Colombia’s Caribbean coast.
To see more, visit Medellin today!
Fernando de Noronha, Brazil
In December, the tropical island of Fernando de Noronha is one of Brazil’s most alluring spots because of its rich aquatic life and exotic views. You can also find here three of Brazil’s five-star beaches!
The temperature ranges from highs of 30 and lows of 25 degrees Celsius. The warm, sunny weather is ideal for enjoying the water and beach.
You can explore its marine conservation area consisting of 21 islands. The volcanic archipelago is characterized by pristine beaches set against towering rocky peaks and accessible only by monster trucks.
You can do outdoor activities and water sports adventures in this place!
Join in the fun and excitement at Fernando de Noronha today!
Punta del Este, Uruguay
Punta del Este has to be one of the top choices for warm winter getaways in December. You can explore The Miami of, South America, a famous Uruguayan beach town. You can expect shopping activities and museums in this place!
The average temperature is around 26 degrees Celsius. This sunny, breezy weather is perfect for a vacation on an Uruguayan beach.
Punta del Este has been the preferred beach destination for decades due to its abundance of high-end hotels, shopping, and dining options. Visit The Ralli Museum, and you will see houses of work by renowned artists worldwide. They are an outstanding assortment of European Modern and Postmodern art from Latin America.
Punta del Este is one of the best places to visit in December, so don’t miss out!
Salento, Colombia
Salento is one of the most beautiful hiking destinations in the world in December because it is one of the few remaining unspoiled regions in Colombia. Hiking through this valley will reward you with breathtaking panoramas of the Nevados. You will also witness cloud forests, green rolling hills, and iridescent hummingbirds.
The average temperature is around 22 degrees Celsius. This is the best time to visit this beautiful part of Colombia. It is one of the best places i n South America to visit in December.
Visitors from all over the world flock to Salento to experience the Cocora Valley. Take a picture of wax trees, the world’s tallest palm trees. These trees are endemic to Colombia and northern Peru. Check out the most well-known street in Salento, called “Calle Real.”
Get endless sights at Salento!
Viña del Mar, Chile
Known for its stunning coastline and abundance of trees and flowers, Viña is a place to go in December. You can witness historical buildings and museums around the area. Beaches and other attractions await you!
The temperature ranges between 82 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Enjoy the lively nightlife and numerous nearby attractions!
Vina is not just a collection of impressive features. It is also a vibrant and culturally significant city. You can see historic buildings like castles and villas that have been renovated into museums showcasing local art. Visit Las Salinas beach. It is where many Chileans spend Christmas. The flower clock and the Via del Mar Casino are all must-sees during your stay.
Viña is often called Chile’s Garden City. So don’t miss out and explore this beautiful place today!
Wondering what the interesting tourist attractions in Chile are? We have compiled the most extensive list of must-see attractions available, so take a look! Hop over to the most popular Chile tourist attractions.
Merida, Venezuela
Merida is an excellent option if you’re seeking a great place to go on an adventure. One of the most significant resort cities is Merida, which is situated in Venezuela and is a part of the Andes Mountains.
The daily temperature is around 27 degrees Celsius. This makes it ideal for practicing extreme activities in urban areas. It has many sports, including rafting, mountain biking, hiking, and paragliding.
The Merida Cable Car is one of the attractions you shouldn’t miss. This one is the world’s highest and second-longest cable vehicle. You should also go to Pico el Guila, the tallest peak in Venezuela along the Transandean Highway. It is the highest point on the Transandean Highway and is located in the Cordillera de Mérida.
Enjoy your vacation, and get ready to experience these fun activities in Merida!
Angra Dos Reis, Brazil
Angra Dos Reis is a beautiful destination to visit in December. The town is walkable, and you will find various hostels at all price levels. You can also see many cafes, beachside restaurants, travel agencies, and shops. It is one of the best places i n South America to visit in December.
The temperature is around 88 degrees Fahrenheit. The weather is ideal for multiple nature walks and learning about marine fauna!
Explore the beaches that have white sand and clear, tranquil waters. Additionally, it is encircled by a forest that meets the sea. You can explore its adjacent islands, which boast stunning views. They are perfect for boat excursion activities!
In Angra Dos Reis, there are more than 2000 islands to explore every day of the year. Book a visit today!
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Any time of year is excellent for visiting Rio de Janeiro; it is one of Latin America’s top destinations. Brazil’s second-largest city is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, thanks to its extraordinary beaches and world-famous carnival.
The average temperature is around 29 degrees Celsius. This weather makes you want to go outside, like scuba diving or snorkeling. You can also see the fantastic variety of tropical marine life in the area’s waters.
On Christmas Day, you can bask in the sun or kick a soccer ball around on Rio’s world-famous Copacabana or Ipanema beaches. While in Rio, you must see the enormous floating Christmas tree in the middle of Lagoa lake every December.
Have a fantastic vacation in Rio de Janeiro!
The Coffee Triangle, Colombia
Coffee Triangle is the place to go in December if you are a coffee lover. It is one of the best places i n South America to visit in December.
The finest coffee in the world is stored here. It’s one of South America’s most prosperous and ecologically diverse nations.
The average temperature is around 77 degrees Fahrenheit. Perfect weather to stroll through the unending coffee farms. You can also explore brightly painted wooden houses with flower-adorned balconies!
Check out the Parque del Cafe. It’s a mechanical theme park with all the beauty of the Indian landscape. You will also find all the magic and history of the coffee culture that promotes the conservation of the coffee culture.
If you’re up to witnessing this fantastic place, visit Coffee Triangle today!
Pantanal, Brazil
If you want to see more wildlife, visit Pantanal in December. This is the best time to come because you can stay at floating hotels and lodges that offer all-inclusive rates.
Temperatures typically range between 73 and 76 degrees Fahrenheit. With this, exploring the breathtaking Pantanal sounds fun!
The Pantanal is home to an astonishing variety of bird species; visitors are often overwhelmed by the abundance of different birds they encounter. Witness the spectacular hyacinth macaws with their striking purple plumage. You can also expect to see one or two perched in the trees above your resort or tour group!
Bring your camera and take every single shot of the views in Pantanal!
Ambergris Caye, Belize
Ambergris Caye is a popular vacation destination in December. You can witness stunning attractions and numerous wildlife!
The temperature ranges from highs of 27 and lows of 19 degrees Celsius. This weather is ideal for doing many of Ambergris Caye’s top attractions, which center on exploring the island’s natural surroundings.
Ambergris Caye is a great home base for vacationers who want to spend a few days in paradise, exploring the island’s stunning wildlife and the laid-back Caribbean vibes. Check out San Pedro, the island’s one and only town. It serves as an ideal starting point for excursions throughout the entire island.
Ambergris Caye is fascinating to visit this month. So don’t miss the chance!
Are you interested in discovering the top tourist attractions in Belize? The feelings of chaos never last forever. The consequences of regrets are irreversible. Let’s not miss out on these incredible must-see attractions. Hop over to the most popular Belize tourist attractions.
Corcovado, Costa Rica
Corcovado is a fantastic destination to visit in December. It will allow you to discover one of Costa Rica’s most prosperous regions for wildlife. You can explore many different parks around the area!
The average temperature is around 87 degrees Fahrenheit. With such pleasant weather, Costa Rica is the ideal place to be passionate about nature and enjoy the most incredible experiences.
You can take a trip from Manuel Antonio or Uvita to Sierpe. If you decide to spend the night at the park, do it in La Sirena, a sizable area with many bunk beds. You may hike between La Sirena and the ranger stations in Los Patos and La Leona all day long. Exploring the Corcovado National Park is a must-try!
Corcovado has immersive experiences for you to enjoy!
Do you want to know what the tourist attractions are in Costa Rica? Feel the thrill of the journey in your heart with our list of must-see attractions. Hop over to the best Costa Rica tourist attractions.
Los Roques Archipelago National Park, Venezuela
Suppose you’re looking for a place where you can enjoy the summer weather in the middle of December. In that case, Los Roques Archipelago National Park is a great option. You can expect various water adventures! It is one of the best places i n South America to visit in December.
The average temperature is around 27 degrees Celsius. This hot summer weather in the winter is a perfect getaway to get rid of the winter blues in December.
This area is notable because it was designated as a national park in 1972. Expect large swaths of coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds. This beautiful place is also a haven for wildlife. You can also explore some of the parks and see endangered sea turtles.
You will experience many fun activities in Los Roques Archipelago National Park, so relax and enjoy!
Posted on Published: September 14, 2022 – Last updated: November 15, 2022
Home » South America » Best Places in South America to visit in December
The Best Time To Visit South America – Climate Planner
With the climate varying so widely in this continent, trying to plan your South America trip can be an absolute nightmare. Now with that seed of despair planted in your mind, let me give you some good news: there is no bad time to visit South America!
Regardless of the time of year that you plan to travel, there will always be a country in full bloom and ready to showcase its assets to visitors. In order to help you plan your journey, let’s start with a very basic breakdown of some of the suggested months to visit each country.
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Your South America Climate Planner!
These months have been selected based on a number of factors including, weather, temperatures, transport accessibility, prices and overall attraction/activity availability. However, with countries so vast in size, all of these things vary hugely from one end to another.
For example, June may be a great time to visit the North of Chile but the South is a no-go because of transport disruption. With this in mind, check out the individual country overviews below which contain more specific guidance on particular regions. Before you start looking through the country breakdowns, make some quick notes about the type of activities you would like to do in each country. This will help you to decide where to start your research and what kind of climate is ideal. As always, don’t forget to make sure your travel insurance covers you for any activities you have planned!
The Best Time To Visit Argentina
March – May: These are great months to visit Argentina’s cities as temperatures are pleasant and the weather is good. If you’re a wine lover, be sure to visit Mendoza in March as this is when the grapes are harvested.
June – August: If you are hoping to get your skis on, this is the best time to visit. The winter months are great for snow sports but it gets super cold during this time. Expect reduced bus services and flight cancellations due to bad weather and make sure you pack for the cold and the wet.
September – November: Temperatures are warm in both North and Central Argentina whilst still being mild in the South. You can visit practically anywhere in the country and enjoy fair weather over this period. This is a great time to road trip the 7 Lakes route!
December – February: These are the best months to visit Patagonia (although prices are high) and enjoy some of Argentina’s best hikes. It is also a good time to visit the country’s beaches. Temperatures in the South are at their warmest which makes it the perfect time to get involved in some outdoor adventures. Read more about backpacking Argentina!
It can get pretty chilly in Patagonia!
The Best Time to Visit Bolivia
May – October: This is the high season and the best time to visit the country. Dry weather brings clear skies and decent conditions for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling and climbing. Be aware that this is the Bolivian winter season, so temperatures will vary all over and be fairly cool outside of the Amazon. La Paz tends to fluctuate between highs of seventeen and lows of zero from May to October!
November – April: It is probably easier for travellers to avoid the country during the rainy season. If you do visit, be prepared for transport disruption from flooding, landslides and severe fog. This also means that outdoor sports are a no-go at this time. The cities are still good places to check out though, especially when the festival season begins in February. If you want to see the famous Salt Flats in all their reflective glory, April is actually the best time of year to visit! Find out more about backpacking Bolivia!
Skies may be blue, but so are your fingers in La Paz!
The Best Time to Visit Brazil
March – June: Temperatures are warm which means prices are lower to tempt in visitors bef ore winter hits. Only consider visiting the Amazon from the end of May onwards if you don’t want to go everywhere via canoe, flooding is common from January up until this point.
June – September: These are the winter months in Brazil although temperatures tend to stay warm near the equator. Generally speaking, the higher the altitude or the further south in the country, the milder the temperatures (marginally).
October – November: Prices tend to be cheaper as these months are not the most popular with tourists. Temperatures are mostly comfortable and visiting out of peak season means you will avoid most of the holidays that draw in the crowds.
December – February: The summer season hits and brings hoards of tourists with it. As the temperatures peak, travellers flock to the country’s beaches. Prices will be hiked up around the time of the Carnival which takes place in either February or early March. Learn more about backpacking Brazil!
A Quiet Beach in Rio!
The Best Time to Visit Chile
March – May: The autumn season is a good time to visit Chilean Patagonia as it is cheaper, although you will have to make compromises. Throughout autumn many places shut up for the low season because of the cold temperatures. Don’t expect highs to regularly exceed ten degrees and prepare yourself for even colder nights. As a result of the plummeting temperatures, your accommodation options will be limited.
June – August: The weather in the North is good but avoid Chilean Patagonia because of freezing rainfall. Winter season sees the worst of the weather which leaves many roads blocked and forces attractions in the South to close.
September – October: This is a good time to visit the Atacama Desert, as well as the city of Santiago because the climate is pleasant. You will still want to pack something warm for the evenings though as it can get chilly.
November – February: This is the best time to visit Chilean Patagonia as temperatures are at their highest. However, this will mean time spent there will be expensive. More sun means that it is the best time to visit the beach but unfortunately everyone has the same idea. Read more about backpacking Chile!
Valparaiso
The Best Time to Visit Colombia
April – July: The Highlands should be avoided as this is when the country says hello to the rainy season. Transport disruption as a result of flooding is likely.
August – September: The rain begins to ease off around the start of this period so the country is more suited for outdoor adventures. To see Medellin in bloom, check out Feria de las Flores (The Flower Festival) which takes place in August.
October – November: The rain returns which scares off the majority of tourists. As a result, prices drop and the crowds ease off. This is a great opportunity to visit the Amazon for trekking as the rainforest is surprisingly dry this time of year.
December – March: These are the driest months across the country which makes them well-suited for a whole variety of outdoor activities including trekking in the Andes. Find out more about backpacking Colombia!
Cartagena, Colombia
The Best Time to Visit Ecuador
June – September: This is the peak season for visitors to the country. The temperatures are warm year-round in Ecuador, with the exception of in the Highlands which benefit from warmer temperatures and drier days. This is a particularly expensive time to do a Galapagos cruise.
October – November: These months see prices drop as there is less interest from tourists. This results in lower prices and also means that advance booking isn’t usually necessary. Both October and November are a good time to visit the Amazon as rivers are generally passable.
December – May: Whilst this is the rainy season, it is an ideal time to visit Ecuador’s beaches as you can enjoy warm, sunny mornings with short bursts of tropical rain in the afternoons and evenings. These are the warmest months for the Galapagos and the wind drops which is great if you are looking for an island cruise. Read up on Ecuador backpacking!
A Deserted Beach in Montañita, Ecuador
The Best Time to Visit French Guiana
January – June: This is the rainy season which puts many travellers off exploring the country. The temperatures are still warm but the rain makes for humid days. From March onwards, prices begin to drop to entice visitors.
July – September: Temperatures begin to rise and August sees the peak month of travel which bumps up prices. Rain eases off but the climate remains humid.
October – December: This is still a busy period for the industry so expect to see continued high prices. Rainfall begins to increase so expect a wetter experience, especially if interacting with the wildlife.
French Guiana
The Best Time to Visit Guyana
Late January – April: This marks the wind down of the rainy season, leaving the country more passable for rainforest exploration. Waterfalls are at their fullest and the foliage is lush and green. Whilst there is not yet a defined traveller trail, Guyana is popular with tourists during these months and prices will be higher.
May – Mid July: During this time, road travel can become troublesome owing to flooding from the rainy season. However, these months are a great time to spot Jaguar as they come out of the rainforest and onto the roads to dry off.
Late July – Mid November: These months see temperatures begin to increase (although they stay between mid-twenties and low thirties year-round owing to the proximity to the equator) and boggy parts of the jungle become easier to access.
Late November – Mid January: This is the second of Guyana’s rainy seasons and probably not the most advisable time to travel to the country. Learn more about backpacking Guyana!
Kaieteur Falls Guyana
The Best Time to Visit Paraguay
April – September: These are the peak months of tourism in Paraguay. The weather is less humid although still hot. Many travellers use this to their advantage to visit the Chaco, a vast plain which encompasses the entire western half of the country. Many important cultural festivals also take place within this time frame.
October – March: This is the summer season and a popular time for travellers to visit the country. As you would expect, temperatures are high and the humidity is extreme which can mean that outdoor activities are not the most comfortable!
Click for more on backpacking Paraguay!
Encarnación, Paraguay
The Best Time to Visit Peru
June – August: These months welcome the dry season which makes it a great time to embark on some of Peru’s best hikes, particularly in the Andes. Both July and August are the peak times to visit Machu Picchu, so make sure you book your trip at least six months in advance in order to obtain a permit.
September – November: Except for the Highlands, the weather is hot, with temperatures tending to hover around thirty degrees. As many tourists leave after August, it is a good time to do the busiest attractions.
December – March: Expect rain on the Highlands and around Cusco but make the most of the hot weather which comes with it. This is a good time to enjoy the coast of Peru because the rainfall is less in these areas and the days are sunny.
April – May: Visiting the country after the rainy season means that the landscape is at its greenest. You will also get to avoid the big crowds of tourists who are attracted by the peak season which means permits for hikes can be organised closer to the time. Read more about backpacking Peru!
A Very Snowy Path in Peru.
The Best Time to Visit Suriname
February – April: This is the first of the dry seasons in the country and the cooler of the two. Visit during late February to May to get the most out of turtle watching in the country.
May – July: These are generally months to avoid travelling through Suriname because of the volume of rainfall. The road network is fairly limited in certain areas and it can struggle to withstand the flooding that comes with the wet season.
August – November: This is the second of the dry seasons and is hotter than the first. Prices for accommodation and flights will be higher in these months but it is still possible to get some decent deals if you book in advance.
December – January: Temperatures are at their coolest, although it is still pretty hot during these months. There is also an increase in rainfall which means much fewer tourists and lower prices.
A mosque in Suriname.
The Best Time to Visit Uruguay
January – March: Both Carnival and Easter mean that these are expensive months to visit the country but temperatures are high and rainfall isn’t too bad.
April – May: This may be the autumn season but despite this, the sea is at it’s warmest. During this time, the beaches really come into their own. It is arguably the best time to go snorkelling off the coast.
June – October: Temperatures drop during the winter months which means cheaper accommodation and fewer crowds. If you’re interested in wildlife and would like to do some whale watching, head to the coast where they come to breed for the winter season.
November – December: Tourists from neighbouring countries tend to travel to Uruguay around the end of the year to spend the holiday season. Prices go up massively during the Christmas and New Year period and the temperatures begin to climb to just over twenty degrees. Click for more on Uruguay backpacking!
Punta Del Este
The Best Time to Visit Venezuela
February – March: It is slightly cooler this time of year which means visitors are able to enjoy the Easter Carnival celebrations which take place.
April – September: Temperatures start to warm up but it also gets wetter. Visiting Gran Sabana and the Angel Falls is the perfect activity as the rainy season makes them more accessible and offers better photos opportunities.
October – November: This is the low season so visitors to the country can enjoy lower prices. November signifies the beginning of the driest months of the year which offers the perfect excuse for hiking or getting involved in other outdoor pursuits.
December – January: These tend to be the months where most of the locals travel because of the Christmas and New Year holidays. Prices will go up rapidly and accommodation will fill up way in advance. Find out more about backpacking Venezuela!
Venezuelan countryside
Where are you going next?!
Sheree Hooker | Editor @ South America Backpacker + Winging The World
Sheree is the awkward British wanderluster behind wingingtheworld.com, a travel blog designed to show that even the most useless of us can travel. Follow Sheree’s adventures as she blunders around the globe, falling into squat toilets, getting into cars with machete men and running away from angry peacocks.
Source https://wondrousdrifter.com/south-america/best-places-in-south-america-to-visit-in-december/
Source https://wondrousdrifter.com/south-america/best-places-in-south-america-to-visit-in-december/#:~:text=Punta%20del%20Este,%20Uruguay%20Punta%20del%20Este%20has,of%20South%20America,%20a%20famous%20Uruguayan%20beach%20town.
Source https://southamericabackpacker.com/south-america-climate/