Where to travel in December

In December, consider Sri Lanka for golden beaches, lush tea plantations and cultural landmarks under clear skies or Belize for calm Caribbean waters, rainforest adventures and ancient Mayan cities. South Africa enjoys long summer days, perfect for game-viewing and scenic coastal drives, while Cuba and Thailand deliver warm weather, cultural immersion and opportunities to explore historic towns, beaches and lively markets before the peak holiday season. 

 

Luxury Travel in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka

The south and west coasts of Sri Lanka shine in December, with warm temperatures, low rainfall and calm seas creating ideal conditions. Golden beaches at Mirissa, Tangalle and Galle invite leisurely days, while the Cultural Triangle enjoys dry, sunny weather perfect for exploring ancient cities, temples and local traditions. The hill country provides a cooler contrast, with verdant tea estates and scenic walks. 

 

December is also the start of whale-watching season along the southern coast, with blue and sperm whales regularly sighted. We can arrange private boat trips with expert guides, dawn surf lessons or cooking experiences in family-run villas. 

Umndeni Private Game Lodge, Waterberg, South Africa

South Africa

December is a wonderful month to experience South Africa. Long summer days make the Western Cape and Garden Route perfect for family adventures, scenic road trips and outdoor exploration. Cape Town buzzes with festivals, markets and restaurants, while beaches and vineyards are at their most inviting. The holiday season can be busy, but we can craft itineraries that avoid the crowds, arranging early-morning vineyard tours, city walks or secluded coastal picnics. 

 

Safari remains exceptional after the early summer rains, with lush landscapes, abundant birdlife and active wildlife in reserves such as Kruger or Madikwe. Our experts can arrange private game drives and walking safaris with a resident conservationist for an unforgettable experience. 

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

Cuba

December is an excellent time to explore Cuba, as the wet season draws to a close and drier, sunnier conditions make travel across cities and countryside a pleasure. In Havana, exclusive encounters with artists, craftspeople, musicians and dancers reveal the city’s creative life. Enjoy performances, take part in salsa lessons or immerse yourself in ballet, jazz and rumba. 

 

In Trinidad, one of the best-preserved colonial towns in the Americas, cobbled streets and pastel facades provide a backdrop for artisans and musicians. We can set up cooking classes, guided walks or bespoke experiences for a fully enriching Cuban journey. 

Blue Hole Belize

Belize

Belize is at its best in December, when the dry season brings warm temperatures, lower humidity and plenty of sunshine, ideal for exploring both coast and jungle. Along the Caribbean coastline, calm seas and excellent visibility make snorkelling and diving especially awe-inspiring, whether at the Great Blue Hole, Hol Chan Marine Reserve or the Barrier Reef. 

 

Inland, drier conditions make visiting ancient Mayan cities such as Xunantunich and Caracol far more comfortable, while rainforest trails reveal plentiful wildlife and birdlife. With cazenove+loyd, you can enjoy guided dives, dawn jungle treks or bespoke island expeditions for a memorable experience. 

Kenya

Kenya offers an exceptional bush-and-beach escape in December, when balmy weather and recent rains leave landscapes fresh and green. Northern safari camps are largely closed at this time, but regions such as the Maasai Mara, Laikipia and Meru remain excellent, with bountiful wildlife and migratory birds enriching every safari experience. Softer light and lush scenery provide ideal conditions for photography and enthralling game-viewing. 

 

The coast provides a perfect contrast, with warm Indian Ocean waters, calm seas and boutique beach lodges or private villas for relaxation. We can craft tailored journeys combining private safari camps with coastal stays, including early-morning drives, walking safaris and private picnics on chalk-white beaches. 

beach Thailand

Thailand

Thailand is particularly appealing in December, with dry, sunny weather and warm, comfortable temperatures ideal for exploring. Temples, markets and cultural sites in Bangkok or Chiang Mai can be visited with ease, while outings with an insider reveal buzzing street life and intricate architecture. The Andaman Coast offers tranquil seas and blue skies, perfect for beach stays, island-hopping or snorkelling among coral reefs. 

 

Early December coincides with the King’s Birthday on 5th December, celebrated with ceremonies, illuminated buildings and local festivities. Our Destination Experts design tailored itineraries blending city culture, temple visits, guided tours and serene coastal escapes for a varied and mind-expanding journey. 

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