December is one of the most exciting months to travel. While temperatures fall across much of Europe and North America, many destinations in Asia, Africa, the Middle East and the Caribbean enjoy warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities.

Whether you are planning a Christmas holiday, a New Year escape, a romantic getaway or a family vacation, these destinations offer something special. This guide highlights where to go, what to expect from the weather and how to book your hotels, flights and experiences.

1. Thailand – Tropical Beaches and City Adventures

Typical December daytime temperatures: Around 28–32°C in popular destinations.

Thailand is one of the strongest choices for a warm December holiday. Much of the country enjoys favourable travel conditions, with Bangkok offering shopping, restaurants and nightlife, while Phuket and Krabi attract visitors with beautiful beaches, island excursions and water activities.

December is particularly popular for visiting Thailand’s Andaman coast. However, weather varies by region, so check conditions for your specific island before booking.

Best places to visit: Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi, Chiang Mai and Koh Lanta.

Best for: Couples, families, beach holidays, shopping and adventure.

2. South Africa – Summer Sunshine in Cape Town

Typical December daytime temperatures in Cape Town: Around 24–27°C.

December is summer in South Africa, making Cape Town an excellent choice for travellers seeking sunshine, scenic coastal drives, beaches and outdoor adventures.

Visit Table Mountain, explore the Cape Peninsula, enjoy Camps Bay and discover the famous Winelands. Cape Town is also a wonderful destination for a longer holiday combining city attractions with nature.

Remember that December is peak summer holiday season, so popular accommodation can become expensive.

Best places to visit: Cape Town, Stellenbosch, Durban and the Garden Route.

Best for: Couples, families, sightseeing, road trips and outdoor adventures.

3. Tanzania – Zanzibar’s Tropical Beach Escape

Typical December daytime temperatures: Around 29–32°C.

Zanzibar is a popular Indian Ocean destination known for turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, traditional Swahili culture and beautiful beachfront resorts.

December is warm and humid, but short rains can still occur. Travellers should be prepared for occasional showers, especially early in the month.

Explore Stone Town, enjoy a sunset dhow cruise, visit spice farms or relax along the beaches of Nungwi, Kendwa and Paje.

Best places to visit: Nungwi, Kendwa, Paje, Jambiani and Stone Town.

Best for: Honeymoons, romantic holidays, beach resorts and cultural experiences.

4. United Arab Emirates – Dubai’s Winter Sunshine

Typical December daytime temperatures: Around 24–27°C.

Dubai is an excellent destination for travellers who want warm weather without the intense summer heat. December brings pleasant conditions for beaches, outdoor dining, desert safaris and sightseeing.

Explore the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, traditional souks and desert landscapes. The city also offers luxury hotels, family attractions and shopping experiences.

December is a popular period for international visitors, particularly around Christmas and New Year.

Best places to visit: Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah and Jumeirah Beach.

Best for: Luxury holidays, shopping, families, couples and stopovers.

5. India – Goa’s Beach and Festival Season

Typical December daytime temperatures: Around 30–33°C.

Goa is a favourite destination for travellers looking for warm weather, beaches, vibrant nightlife and a relaxed holiday atmosphere. December is generally part of its dry season, making it a particularly attractive time to visit.

Enjoy beach resorts, seafood restaurants, water sports, local markets and historic Portuguese-influenced architecture. Christmas and New Year celebrations also make Goa lively during this period.

Best places to visit: Calangute, Baga, Candolim, Anjuna and Palolem.

Best for: Beach holidays, friends, couples, nightlife and affordable escapes.

6. Mauritius – A Beautiful Indian Ocean Holiday

Typical December daytime temperatures: Around 27–30°C.

Mauritius offers tropical beaches, luxury resorts, lagoons, mountain scenery and excellent opportunities for water sports. December is warm and marks the beginning of the island’s summer season.

Visitors can explore Le Morne, Grand Baie, Flic en Flac and the famous Chamarel landscape. Snorkelling, catamaran cruises and island excursions are popular activities.

December can be humid with occasional showers, and the cyclone season runs from November into the following months. Check weather forecasts before travelling.

Best places to visit: Grand Baie, Le Morne, Flic en Flac and Belle Mare.

Best for: Honeymoons, luxury resorts, family holidays and beach escapes.

7. Spain – Canary Islands for Mild Winter Sun

Typical December daytime temperatures: Around 20–23°C.

If you prefer pleasant sunshine rather than tropical heat, the Canary Islands are an excellent December destination. Located off the northwest coast of Africa, these Spanish islands enjoy a much milder winter climate than mainland Europe.

Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura each offer beautiful coastlines, resorts and outdoor attractions. December is ideal for walking, sightseeing, beach visits and exploring volcanic landscapes, although evenings can be cool.

Best places to visit: Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura.

Best for: European winter sun, families, couples and outdoor holidays.

8. Morocco – Warm Days and Desert Adventures

Typical December daytime temperatures: Around 19–23°C in Marrakech and Agadir.

Morocco is a great choice for travellers who want a combination of pleasant weather, culture, shopping and adventure. December is cooler than summer, but many southern and coastal destinations enjoy comfortable daytime conditions.

Explore the colourful souks of Marrakech, discover the coastal atmosphere of Agadir or arrange an unforgettable Sahara Desert experience. Nights, particularly in the desert and inland areas, can be cold.

Best places to visit: Marrakech, Agadir, Essaouira, Casablanca and the Sahara region.

Best for: Cultural holidays, couples, desert tours and affordable winter escapes.

9. Maldives – Luxury Island Holidays

Typical December daytime temperatures: Around 28–30°C.

The Maldives is a dream destination for anyone looking for turquoise lagoons, overwater villas, white-sand beaches and luxury island resorts.

December falls within the transition from the wetter southwest monsoon season towards the generally drier northeast monsoon. Conditions can improve as the month progresses, but rain is still possible.

Choose a resort based on your budget, transfer arrangements and preferred activities. Some islands require speedboat or seaplane transfers, which can add significantly to the total holiday cost.

Best places to visit: Malé, North Malé Atoll, South Malé Atoll and Ari Atoll.

Best for: Honeymoons, luxury holidays, diving and romantic escapes.

10. Mexico – Cancun and the Caribbean Coast

Typical December daytime temperatures in Cancun: Around 27–29°C.

Mexico’s Caribbean coast is a fantastic choice for a warm December holiday. Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum attract visitors with beautiful beaches, resorts, Mayan history and exciting water activities.

December is generally part of the drier season, although occasional showers can occur. It is also a popular period for international travel, so early hotel reservations are advisable.

Explore the Riviera Maya, visit Chichén Itzá, enjoy cenote swimming and discover the region’s beach clubs and restaurants.

Best places to visit: Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum and Cozumel.

Best for: Beach resorts, families, couples, nightlife and adventure.

How to Choose the Best December Holiday

Your ideal destination depends on your budget, travel style and preferred weather.

• For tropical beaches: Thailand, Zanzibar, Mauritius and the Maldives.
• For luxury and shopping: Dubai.
• For European winter sunshine: The Canary Islands.
• For culture and adventure: Morocco and South Africa.
• For beach parties and nightlife: Goa and Cancun.

Important December Travel Booking Tips

• Compare hotel rates across several booking platforms before paying.
• Check cancellation policies, taxes and resort fees.
• Confirm airport transfers, especially for island destinations.
• Book Christmas and New Year accommodation early.
• Check passport validity, visa requirements and entry conditions for your nationality.
• Consider travel insurance that covers your activities and trip dates.
• Check the local weather forecast shortly before departure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which country is hottest to visit in December?

Thailand, Goa in India and Zanzibar in Tanzania are among the warmer options on this list, with daytime temperatures often around 29–33°C in popular areas.

Where can I enjoy warm weather in December without travelling to the tropics?

The Canary Islands offer mild winter sunshine, while Dubai and southern Morocco are other options for pleasant daytime temperatures.

Is December a good time to visit the Maldives?

Yes, but December is a transition month. Rain can occur, and conditions generally become more settled as the month progresses.

When should I book a December holiday?

For Christmas and New Year travel, compare options and book as early as practical. Popular hotels and flights can become more expensive as availability decreases.

Do Nigerians need visas to visit these countries?

Entry requirements depend on the destination and the traveller’s passport, travel purpose and circumstances. Check the relevant embassy or official immigration website before making a booking.

Discover More Travel Inspiration

Still deciding where to go? Explore our guide to 30 Countries With the Best Weather in the World for more ideas when choosing your next holiday destination.

Weather information is based on typical seasonal conditions and is intended for travel planning, not as a guarantee of future weather. Prices, availability and entry rules can change.