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December ushers in the southern summer, and with it Patagonia's prime hiking season, Brazil's festive beaches and Rio's world-famous New Year's Eve. It's a joyful, warm month to travel — book ahead, and you'll catch the continent at its celebratory best.
December is the start of high summer in the south. Patagonia enjoys long, mild days ideal for hiking, while Brazil and the tropics turn hot and humid with afternoon rain. The Andes are in their green, wetter season, lush but often cloudy.
Expect warmth almost everywhere at lower altitudes and glorious long days in the far south.
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December is one of the best months for Torres del Paine and the trails around El Chaltén, with mild temperatures, long daylight and full trail access as summer begins.
It's a wonderful, slightly less frantic window than the New Year peak.
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Brazil sparkles in December. The beaches of Rio, Florianópolis and the north-east are in full summer swing, and New Year's Eve on Copacabana is one of the world's great celebrations, with millions in white welcoming the year with fireworks over the sea.
Book accommodation well ahead for the festive period, when prices and crowds peak.
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The Iguazú Falls are magnificent in December, fed by summer rains. Beyond the beaches and cascades, the Atacama offers warm days and superb stargazing away from the crowds, and the Galápagos enters a warm, wildlife-rich season with excellent snorkelling.
There's warmth and celebration to be found right across the continent.
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December is festive but busy, especially around Christmas and New Year, so book flights, refugios and coastal accommodation well in advance. Pack for contrasts — beachwear for Brazil, windproofs for Patagonia — and note the Inca Trail's popularity before its February closure.
December's summer energy is infectious, but the festive-season logistics are the trickiest of the year. Our small-group trips secure the beds, flights and permits early, so you can simply enjoy Patagonia, the beaches and the celebrations. Explore our South America trips and end the year with an unforgettable adventure.
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