Whether you're seeking festive city breaks, snowy escapes, or beach retreats, this guide highlights the best destinations to visit, with options for every travel style.
Alexandra
Marketing Intern
Published on
01 Jan 2025
Updated on
14 Jan 2025
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Introduction
December is a magical month for travel, offering a variety of experiences, from winter wonderlands and festive celebrations to sunny escapes and wildlife adventures. Whether you're in the mood for classic holiday destinations, off-beaten-track adventures, or shoulder-season gems, December has something to offer every traveller. This guide explores some of the best places to visit in December, organized into Classic, Off-Beaten Track, and Shoulder Season categories, so you can choose the perfect location for your next getaway.
December is a prime time to explore South Africa, especially as summer reaches its peak. Savvy travellers looking to avoid the holiday rush often opt for the first two weeks of December when crowds are thinner, and the country's beautiful landscapes can be enjoyed in relative peace. During this early period, hotels and attractions are quieter, making it an ideal time to explore Cape Town’s coastal views, take a scenic drive along the Garden Route, or embark on wildlife adventures in Kruger National Park. However, the second half of December marks the beginning of the holiday rush, making South Africa a bustling hotspot. With soaring demand around Christmas and New Year, especially in the Cape, accommodations, lodges, and flights are often booked far in advance—sometimes more than a year. Prices are generally higher as well, as operators cater to the influx of holiday visitors seeking sun-soaked celebrations. If you're planning a special holiday season trip to South Africa, be sure to book early to secure your spot in this iconic destination.
December is an excellent time to visit Saint Lucia, as the island experiences its dry season, offering perfect weather with plenty of sunshine and cooler temperatures. The warm, turquoise waters are ideal for snorkeling and diving, while the island's iconic Pitons are perfect for hiking and offering breathtaking views. December also marks the start of the festive season, and visitors can experience the lively Christmas celebrations, including local music, street festivals, and traditional food. Saint Lucia offers the perfect balance of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and vibrant cultural experiences.
December is an ideal time for a winter escape to Egypt, especially for travellers looking to explore the country's historical treasures without the intensity of peak tourist crowds. As part of the low season, December brings pleasant temperatures averaging around 20°C, minimal rainfall, and smaller crowds compared to the busy autumn months. With discounted hotel rates and airfare, savvy travellers can enjoy Egypt's major attractions at a more affordable price. The comfortable weather makes it ideal for wandering between the awe-inspiring Pyramids, exploring the temples of Luxor, and immersing yourself in Islamic Cairo without the heat or humidity that define Egypt’s summer. While some days may feel a bit cool for long outdoor activities, the lack of high heat makes for a comfortable experience that pairs perfectly with the month’s travel savings. December offers the chance to explore Egypt’s remarkable history and architecture in both comfort and affordability, capturing the magic of this timeless destination.
December in Barbados offers ideal beach weather, with warm and sunny days perfect for lounging or participating in water sports. The island is alive with holiday cheer, as Christmas celebrations fill the streets with festive music, parades, and local traditions. Barbados is renowned for its lively festivals, and visitors can enjoy the island's culinary delights, from fresh seafood to locally inspired dishes. The warm weather and welcoming atmosphere make it a top destination for those looking to escape the winter chill in the northern hemisphere.
For those craving a winter escape to a beach paradise, Seychelles is a perfect choice in December. This Indian Ocean archipelago boasts some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, with white sands, clear turquoise waters, and rich tropical landscapes. While luxury resorts on Mahe and Praslin cater to relaxation and pampering, Seychelles is also a fantastic destination for snorkelling and diving in waters teeming with marine life. December’s warm, sunny weather makes it ideal for beach days and island hopping, with trips to the ideal La Digue, where life moves at a slower pace. With secluded coves, forested trails, and rare wildlife, Seychelles offers a classic winter getaway with all the ingredients for a perfect tropical vacation.
December marks the start of the peak tourist season in Turks and Caicos, but it’s still a great time to visit as the weather is perfect with warm, sunny days and pleasant evenings. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for exploring, whether you’re diving in the reefs or relaxing by the beach. The Turks and Caicos islands offer a peaceful escape with pristine beaches, such as Grace Bay, ideal for those seeking a tranquil holiday. December also brings a festive atmosphere, with events and celebrations making it an exciting time to visit this tropical paradise.
In December, winter takes hold in Bhutan, bringing a distinct, tranquil beauty to this Himalayan kingdom. As temperatures shift from cool to cold, visitors are treated to spectacular views of snow-capped mountains and serene, frosty landscapes. While the high-altitude treks become more challenging due to the colder weather, lower-altitude trails like the Punakha Winter Trek provide a unique opportunity to witness Bhutan’s winter charm and stunning scenery from a different perspective. The cultural exploration of Bhutan’s revered monasteries and ancient temples takes on a cosy atmosphere, making it a delightful time for introspective visits and spiritual immersion. December is also a time when some monasteries hold special winter festivals, offering travellers a chance to experience Bhutanese culture and traditions in an authentic, festive setting. With fewer tourists and enhanced seasonal beauty, winter in Bhutan is ideal for those looking to capture the country's untouched beauty and immerse themselves in its peaceful, spiritual ambiance.
December is another prime month to explore the diverse landscapes and ancient history of Ethiopia. With cooler temperatures settling in, this marks the beginning of a relatively short season (lasting about four months) when visitors can experience the remarkable Danakil Depression with relative comfort, allowing for a visit to one of the hottest and most unique places on Earth. December’s climate is also ideal for trekking, and Ethiopia’s renowned trails draw adventurers from all over. The Simien Mountains, with their impressive vistas and unique wildlife, become a popular trekking destination, along with TESFA Treks in the historical regions of Lalibela and Tigray. Here, travellers can traverse ancient trails, visit remote communities, and enjoy the stunning natural scenery unique to Ethiopia’s highlands. The combination of milder weather and spectacular landscapes makes December an exceptional time to witness Ethiopia’s rugged beauty and rich history.
The Falkland Islands, with their remote and rugged beauty, are a wildlife lover’s paradise in December. This is peak breeding season for penguins, and you’ll find thousands of them nesting on the beaches and rocky shores, including species like king penguins, gentoo, and Magellanic penguins. Sea lions and seals are also abundant, making it a fantastic destination for wildlife photography and hiking along coastal trails. Bird watchers will appreciate the diversity of seabirds and other native species, while the island’s wilderness areas offer an unparalleled sense of isolation and beauty. The Falklands’ unique landscapes and rich wildlife encounters make it an ideal choice for those seeking an adventurous and off-the-beaten-track experience.
December is one of the best times to visit Cambodia, with cooler temperatures and a reduction in crowds at the iconic temples of Angkor Wat. Early mornings here offer magical sunrises over the ancient structures, while the cooler weather makes exploring the vast temple complex more comfortable. Beyond Angkor, the bustling city of Phnom Penh offers a mix of historic sites, including the Royal Palace and the National Museum. For those seeking tranquillity, a boat trip along Tonle Sap Lake provides a look into local village life and floating communities. Cambodia’s cultural richness, combined with the slightly quieter atmosphere in December, allows for a deeper, more personal experience of its heritage.
Oman in December is a blend of adventure and relaxation, with the cooler weather creating perfect conditions for desert exploration. Head to the Wahiba Sands for a night under the stars in a Bedouin-style camp, where you can try dune bashing or camel trekking. The Jebel Shams mountains offer dramatic views and scenic hiking trails, while the coastal city of Muscat combines modern luxury with traditional charm. With fewer tourists than during peak seasons, December in Oman offers a unique mix of adrenaline-fueled activities and cultural experiences, from exploring ancient forts to enjoying the serenity of secluded beaches along the Arabian Sea.
December brings in the warm and wet season in the Galapagos Islands, bringing higher temperatures and increased rainfall. This transition presents an incredible opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts, as it marks the beginning of green sea turtle nesting season. Female turtles will be seen on the shoreline, laying their eggs in the warm sands, providing a unique spectacle for visitors. Additionally, this is your chance to spot the waved albatross chicks as they begin to learn to fly and leave the islands until March, adding to the vibrant wildlife experience. While it's also the end of sea lion mating season, there’s still a great opportunity to see playful sea lion pups swimming in the ocean, showcasing their charming antics. Despite the increase in rain, the wildlife activity remains plentiful, and the fewer crowds during this time make for an exclusive and memorable experience in this unique archipelago.
December offers a wealth of diverse travel experiences, catering to those in search of classic holiday getaways, adventurous off-the-beaten-path journeys, or the quiet appeal of shoulder-season destinations. For a classic vacation with warm weather and iconic sites, South Africa, Egypt, and Seychelles provide exceptional experiences filled with nature, history, and relaxation. For a unique adventure, consider Bhutan, Ethiopia, or the Falkland Islands, where you can explore ancient cultures, trek through unique landscapes, and witness amazing wildlife. If you’re looking for a balanced trip with cultural exploration and scenic beauty, Cambodia, Oman, and the Galapagos Islands offer a chance to escape the peak season rush while still enjoying fantastic activities and sights.
Whether you're chasing sunlit beaches, embarking on spiritual journeys, or embracing the festive cheer, December’s destinations cater to a wide range of travel styles and interests. From the bustling markets of Egypt and the serene temples of Bhutan to the colourful reefs of the Galapagos, these destinations provide a perfect blend of culture, nature, and adventure to make your December travels unforgettable. So pack your bags, set your itinerary, and prepare for an extraordinary journey as the year comes to a close.
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