Top 10 Places to Visit in December

Salar de Uyuni covers over 10,000 square kilometres in southwestern Bolivia. It sits at a high elevation of 3,656 metres above sea level. In December, the early rainy season begins. The thin layer of water over the salt crust creates a reflective surface that mimics the sky. Be prepared for rapid weather changes due to the altitude. The high elevation can cause physical discomfort for some travelers.

Queenstown sits on the edge of Lake Wakatipu in the South Island. It serves as a base for mountain activities and outdoor sports. December is the start of the southern summer. You get long daylight hours which are useful for hiking or visiting the mountains nearby. Expect high demand for accommodation. This is the primary vacation period for local residents.

Rovaniemi is located in northern Finland near the Arctic Circle. The city serves as the commercial hub for the Lapland region. December brings significant snow and darkness to the area. It is a functional center for winter tourism and regional logistics. Temperatures are consistently low. You must pack heavy thermal gear to walk around comfortably.

This park covers the southwest corner of the South Island of New Zealand. It contains deep valleys carved by glaciers over time. December provides the best access to the park trails. The snow has mostly cleared from the higher passes, making hiking safer. Weather remains unpredictable even in summer. Heavy rain can occur at any time, which may obscure the views.

Ushuaia sits on the Beagle Channel in Argentina. It is positioned below the 54th parallel south. In December, the region experiences its warmest temperatures of the year. This makes it a viable time for boat tours and exploring the surrounding mountains. The town is often crowded with tourists preparing for cruises. It can feel busy near the port area.

Phuket is the largest island in Thailand. It is located off the west coast in the Andaman Sea. December is the beginning of the dry season. Humidity levels drop and the sea becomes calm enough for regular boat travel to surrounding islands. This is peak season. The main beaches and towns will be crowded and prices for rooms increase significantly.

Cartagena is located on the northern Caribbean coast of Colombia. It was a key site for maritime trade during the colonial era. December weather is dry and sunny. It is comfortable for walking the walled city and exploring the historic sites. Crowds are heavy near the end of the month due to the holidays. Some areas become noisy and difficult to navigate.

Manuel Antonio is located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. The park protects a mix of forest and coastal water areas. December marks the start of the dry season. The trails are easier to hike compared to the rainy months, and wildlife is often more visible. The park has strict visitor caps. If you arrive without a pre-booked ticket, you may be turned away at the gate.

Boracay is a small island in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines. It is famous for white sand beaches. December brings cooler, dry winds to the island. This is the start of the high season for tourism. The island is small and can feel cramped. Commercial development has changed the character of the area over the years.

Antigua sits in the central highlands of Guatemala. The city is known for its Baroque architecture and mountain surroundings. December is cool and dry. The clear skies are ideal for seeing the volcanoes surrounding the city. The town is popular with students and holiday travelers. Some streets are made of original cobblestones, which are difficult to walk on in certain types of footwear.