"Who said winter is a season of chill and gloom? It's a time of joy and magic!" As snowflakes whirl their dance outside, many dream of far-off, sunny retreats or embracing the cold in a picturesque winter wonderland. Welcome to the whirlwind tour of the best countries to visit in December, guaranteed to dust your winter blues away. This is not just about escaping to warmer climes or immersing in frosty landscapes; it's about immersing yourself in these destinations' unique experiences.
Pack your bags, set your wanderlust alight, and let's chase the winter sun or find a cosy snow-covered haven. "It's a whimsical world out there, waiting to sprinkle some holiday magic onto your December travels."
List of 16 Best Countries to Visit in December 2024
Journeying in December offers a unique, mesmerising charm. Here are the choicest travel destinations and winter vacation spots in December, promising unforgettable experiences!
Maldives | Tropical Paradise and Pristine Beaches
Mauritius | Stunning Coastline and Diverse Culture
Cancun | Vibrant Resort City and Beautiful Caribbean Sea
The Seychelles | Idyllic Islands and Pristine Coral Reefs
Bali | Exotic Landscapes and Rich Cultural Heritage
New Zealand | Breathtaking Scenery and Adventure Activities
Costa Rica | Lush Rainforests and Ecotourism Haven
Panama | Tropical Rainforests and Panama Canal
Dominican Republic | Stunning Beaches and Rich History
Jamaica | Reggae Vibes and Beautiful Caribbean Coastline
Mexico | Ancient Ruins and Vibrant Culture
United States | Diverse Landscapes and Iconic Landmarks
Canada | Majestic Mountains and Wilderness Exploration
Austria | Traditional Austrian Cuisine and Charming Countryside
Switzerland | Alpine Splendor and Chocolate Delights
Japan | Rich History and Unique Culinary Delights
1. Maldives | Tropical Paradise and Pristine Beaches
Fancy escaping the winter chill? What could be better than the best warm countries in December? Welcome to the Maldives, the epitome of a tropical paradise. With its sparkling turquoise waters and pristine beaches, it is heaven on earth.
Activities To Do: Delight yourself with a snorkelling experience amongst vibrant coral reefs, take a heart-pounding scuba diving trip to meet the rich underwater life or enjoy a serene dolphin-watching session at the break of dawn.
Major Tourist Spots: Visit the bustling fish markets of the capital city, Male, for a sense of the local life. Marvel at the grandeur of the 17th-century Hukuru Miskiy mosque, an epitome of Maldivian craftsmanship.
Best Food to Try: Do not miss out on the delicious Maldivian cuisine, especially Mas Huni - a traditional breakfast dish and Maldivian Live Lobster for a succulent seafood treat.
2. Mauritius | Stunning Coastline and Diverse Culture
Known for its stunning coastline and diverse culture, Mauritius is another top pick amongst the December sunny destinations. This small island nation is a melting pot of cultures, offering unique experiences.
Activities To Do: Enjoy a sun-soaked day at the beach, or participate in exciting water sports such as jet-skiing and parasailing. Hiking through the lush greenery of the Black River Gorges National Park is a must for nature lovers.
Major Tourist Spots: The park is also home to several species of flora and fauna and offers stunning panoramic views. Visit the vibrant Port Louis Market for an authentic taste of Mauritian street life.
Best Food to Try: From the street food vendors, try the Dholl Puri, a popular Mauritian snack, and the sumptuous seafood curries at the local restaurants.
3. Cancun | Vibrant Resort City and Beautiful Caribbean Sea
An oasis of turquoise blue waters and white sandy beaches, Cancun is a vibrant resort city promising a heady mix of relaxation and entertainment. Its rich Mayan history, bustling nightlife, and outdoor adventures offer a well-rounded travel experience. If you're in search of both peace and adventure, Cancun surely ranks among the best warm countries in December.
Activities To Do: Go snorkelling in the Great Mayan Reef, soak up some history at the El Rey Ruins, or dance the night away at the bustling nightclubs.
Major Tourist Spots: Must-visit sites include the underwater Museum of art - MUSA, the Tulum ruins, and the vibrant La Isla Shopping Village.
Best Food to Try: Enjoy the sumptuous seafood Tacos, and refresh yourself with Agua de Jamaica, a traditional hibiscus tea.
4. The Seychelles | Idyllic Islands and Pristine Coral Reefs
The Seychelles, an archipelago of 115 idyllic islands, is an untouched paradise renowned for its pristine coral reefs and rare wildlife. Here, time slows down, allowing you to truly experience and appreciate the beauty around you. Seychelles, one of the sunny destinations in December, is a dream come true for those yearning for a secluded tropical retreat.
Activities To Do: Dive in the clear waters to explore the vibrant coral reefs, hike through the lush trails of Morne Seychellois National Park, or sail around the beautiful islands.
Major Tourist Spots: Don't miss the Aldabra Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the picturesque Anse Source D'Argent beach, and the bustling Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market.
Best Food to Try: Taste the traditional Creole cuisine with dishes like Grilled Fish and Octopus Curry.
5. Bali | Exotic Landscapes and Rich Cultural Heritage
Bali, a tropical paradise known for its exotic landscapes and rich cultural heritage, captures the heart of every visitor. With its cascading waterfalls, lush rice terraces, ancient temples, and vibrant arts scene, Bali offers a cultural feast wrapped in breathtaking natural beauty. It truly is one of the best countries to visit in December.
Activities To Do: Take a yoga class in Ubud, surf on the waves of Kuta Beach, or witness a traditional Balinese dance performance.
Major Tourist Spots: Visit the sacred Pura Besakih temple, the picturesque Tegalalang Rice Terrace, and the bustling markets of Seminyak.
Best Food to Try: Savour the unique flavours of Nasi Goreng, a traditional Indonesian dish, and Sate Lilit, a Balinese speciality.
6. New Zealand | Breathtaking Scenery and Adventure Activities
New Zealand, renowned for its breathtaking scenery and adventure activities, offers an unforgettable escape from the routine. Its sweeping landscapes, ranging from rugged mountains to serene beaches, and the hospitable Kiwi culture, make it a must-visit. New Zealand is a perfect travel destination for thrill-seekers and nature lovers.
Activities To Do: Try bungee jumping in Queenstown, explore the unique Maori culture in Rotorua, or set sail in the Bay of Islands.
Major Tourist Spots: Explore the captivating landscapes of Fiordland National Park, the Hobbiton Movie Set, and the vibrant city life of Auckland.
Best Food to Try: Relish a traditional Maori Hangi feast and the iconic Kiwi dessert, Pavlova.
7. Costa Rica | Lush Rainforests and Ecotourism Haven
Costa Rica, synonymous with lush rainforests and rich biodiversity, offers an ecotourism haven for nature lovers. With its verdant landscapes, teeming wildlife and plentiful adventure opportunities, this paradise guarantees an exciting getaway for those eager to embrace nature.
Activities To Do: Indulge in a wildlife safari through the rainforest, experience the thrill of zip-lining, or relax in the naturally heated hot springs near Arenal Volcano.
Major Tourist Spots: Discover the unique ecosystem of Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, visit the Arenal Volcano National Park, and stroll through the vibrant markets of San Jose.
Best Food to Try: Relish the traditional Casado, a hearty lunch meal, and the succulent, smoky flavours of Chifrijo, a popular street food dish.
