Where to travel in December

December is a wonderful month to travel, with dry seasons and festive atmospheres in many destinations. In Sri Lanka, it’s an ideal time to explore golden beaches, lush tea plantations, and cultural landmarks under sunny skies. Belize offers warm, calm waters perfect for snorkeling, diving, and exploring the Great Blue Hole. Meanwhile, South Africa enjoys summer weather, making it a great time for safaris, coastal adventures, and discovering vibrant cities like Cape Town.

 

sri lanka tea plantation

Sri Lanka

If you’re looking for sunshine, beaches and delicious food, Sri Lanka is fantastic in December. For a small island, the climate varies dramatically, but in this month, the weather is perfect on the honey-hued beaches of the south and west coasts as well as in the Cultural Triangle and emerald tea country.

 

It’s also the beginning of the whale-watching season off the south coast. Whether you’re travelling with your family or a group of friends, we can recommend the best small luxury hotels or amazing private villas for you.

The Garden Route, South Africa

South Africa

December is the ultimate time to visit South Africa, offering a perfect blend of summer sunshine, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. With warm weather and longer days, it’s ideal for exploring everything this diverse country has to offer.

 

Enjoy world-class safaris in Kruger National Park, stunning coastal views along the Garden Route, or the lively energy of Cape Town’s beaches and festivals. From wine tasting in the Cape Winelands to diving with sharks in Gansbaai, South Africa a dream destination to explore in December.

Old vintage car in front of colonial style house, Cuba travel itinerary

Cuba

Start your trip in Havana, where you can experience amazing insider access, such as private visits to artists’ studios or musicians’ houses as well as exclusive dance performances and lessons. Whether your interests lie in Cuban ballet, jazz, rumba or salsa, we will ensure you get behind the music, art and dance scenes of this vibrant city.

 

Continue to Trinidad, with its beautiful Spanish colonial architecture, where we can arrange specialist guides and more fascinating encounters with musicians or artists. Finish your trip exploring the sugar cane plantations and mountains inland or lazing on a beach, lapped by the Caribbean Sea.

Blue Hole Belize

Belize

With warm temperatures, low humidity, and little rainfall, Belize is the perfect escape from colder climates. December marks the beginning of the dry season, making it the best time to explore its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush jungles.

 

Whether you’re diving the Great Blue Hole, exploring ancient Mayan ruins, or relaxing on idyllic islands, Belize offers an unforgettable tropical getaway. Plus, you can enjoy festive holiday celebrations that bring a unique charm to the season.

Kenya

Consider Kenya for the ultimate bush-and-beach Christmas. The short rains in December mean the weather is warm but not too hot and there is a refreshing bloom of green across the landscape as well as a good chance of seeing newborn animals and migratory birds.

 

The Mara or Laikipia Plateau are ideal places for a Christmas safari, followed by a fabulous week or so celebrating the new year on the chalk-white beaches of the coast. We know all the best owner-run safari camps and beach retreats and will select the right one for you and your family and friends.

beach Thailand

Thailand

With good weather wherever you are, December is one of the best months to visit Thailand. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on the islands, visiting ancient temples, or enjoying lively festivals like the King’s Birthday, December is full of opportunities to experience Thailand at its best.

 

It’s also the start of the peak tourist season and we recommend visiting toward the start of the month to avoid the busy festive period.

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