Say arrivederci, adios, laa gòn and kwaheri to 2024 this December in destinations a little different from your living room.
From snowy settings to sandy shores, mountain treks to jungle walks, we’ve got the trips and you’ve got the choice. But hey, whatever you don’t get around to this year, next year is always free…
1. Central Europe
Why go? See Europe alight with holiday festivities and winter cheer
Temperature: 5ºC (41ºF) high, -2ºC (28ºF) low
Season: winter
It can be said that the Europeans really did perfect the winter holiday when they combined the aromas of Gluhwein (mulled wine), twinkling lights, chimney cakes, grilled sausage, cookies and traditional festive carols (to name just a few highlights). Even if you’re not interested in the Christmas part of the winter markets, Europe is well worth a visit in December if you’ve ever felt like stepping out into a fairytale.
2. Sri Lanka
Why go? Ideal weather for exploring the hotspots and enjoying the beaches
Temperature: 31ºC (88ºF) high, 24ºC (75ºF) low
Season: dry
What better way to toast the end of the year than soaking up the sun on a Sri Lankan beach? Plus, you’ve got a whole lot more than just beaches to look forward to. Step out into the lively city streets of Kandy, Colombo and Galle when they’re at their best this month. Wander or cycle through ancient ruins cities, stand beneath giant temples, walk through tea plantations and dine on home-cooked Sri Lankan cuisine; it may be a little different from your usual December, but it’ll be one you’ll always remember
3. Costa Rica
Why go? Little rainfall and warm temperatures mean fun in the sun
Temperature: 32ºC (90ºF) high, 22ºC (72ºF) low
Season: dry
If you can’t yet see the appeal of heading south for the winter, then Costa Rica is sure to convince you otherwise. December is the dry season here which means it’s the time for all things outdoors. Swim in the clear waters of Manuel Antonio National Park, hike past volcanoes, raft rapids on the Pacuare River or search for sleepy sloths in the jungle. In Costa Rica, you’re sure to finish the year off on a high (and maybe on a zip-line).
4. Thailand
Why go? For ideal weather on the west peninsula and mainland
Temperature: 31ºC (88ºF) high, 24ºC (75ºF) low
Season: cool and dry
Since it’s the end of the year, why not say goodbye in Thai and toast to another year from paradise? Take advantage of the cooler (and drier) season and visit elephants, temples and national parks on the mainland while it’s not too humid. Or maybe sailing from Phuket around the Phi Phi islands on the east coast is more your speed? We’ve got you sorted with beaches, boats and bungalows, not to mention the onboard private chefs serving top-notch Thai food.
5. North America
Why go? Plenty of ways to enjoy the New Year, snow up north, sun down south
Temperature (northern regions:) -3ºC (27ºF) high, -11ºC (12ºF) low
Temperature (southern regions): 17ºC (63ºF) high, 5ºC (41ºF) low
Season: winter
There’s not a whole lot you can’t do during a North American December. If you want to tick off catching the northern lights, then Canada’s Rocky Mountains is your best bet. If you want to hike the deserts of California and Arizona when they’re not at their hottest, this is the month for you. If you’re keen to ring in the New Year’s in one of the world’s liveliest cities, then you’ve got your pick of New Orleans, Nashville, Memphis and more on our Southern USA trips.
6. Uganda
Why go? Better trekking conditions and less foliage to contend with
Temperature: 26ºC (79ºF) high, 17ºC (62ºF) low
Season: dry
If you’re keen on an entirely different experience this December, might we suggest trekking through the jungles of Uganda to see gorillas. It’s been said that seeing a wild gorilla is an experience that leaves you speechless and possibly even brought to awestruck tears. As December is the dry season, you’ll have great trekking conditions and be in with a good chance of spotting these great apes.
What’s even better is that while on this trip, you’re directly supporting the work of our Intrepid Foundation partners, Gorilla Doctors. A trip that’s good for you and good for the gorillas – and a pretty epic way to spend a December (if we say so ourselves).
7. Chile
Why go? Summer festivals, animal sightings with hiking hotspots at their best
Temperature: 29ºC (84ºF) high, 12ºC (54ºF) low
Season: summer
December isn’t all that chilly in Chile, so put away your sweaters and grab your hats because we’re spending this sunny season getting to know the glacial peaks and icy fjords of Patagonia. Here, active adventurers can get their fill climbing strenuous peaks and valleys. Wildlife lovers can also rejoice with a great variety of animals to spot, ranging from penguins to sea lions and guanaco (close relatives of llamas and alpacas). This may be the end of the world, but it could also be a great start to a new year.
Still deciding on December?
Check out our recommendations on where to travel in November and January
Or, have you seen our last minute deals?
