Rio de Janeiro is one of the best cities to winter in Latin America because of the warm temperatures, amazing beaches, and great culture

10 Best Cities For a Warm Winter in Latin America

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LOOKING FOR THE BEST CITIES TO VACATION IN LATIN AMERICA FOR THE WINTER?!

Are you looking for the best cities in Latin America for a warm winter!? As someone who began traveling South America full-time starting in October, I can confidently say there are plenty of great warm weather spots to pick from! Whether you want to visit Central America, South America, or Mexico, we’ll cover all the best places! Let’s dive in!

Best Cities In Latin America For a Warm Winter: An Overview

I don’t blame you if you dislike cold winters and want to travel somewhere warmer. I grew up in Minnesota and moved to Arizona later on in life. Now, I’m traveling through South America during the winter and enjoying the warmer weather! My goal is that this list will give you some travel inspiration for the chillier months. Here are ten of the best cities in Latin America for a warm winter:

10 Best Cities For A Warm Winter in Latin America

If you live in a place that gets cold during the winter months and gives you the blues, it’s one of the best times to get outta town. This post will cover the best cities to visit in Latin America during the winter months in December, January, and February. Read on for trip inspiration, when to go, what type of weather you can expect, and things to do in each location!

Picture of Buenos Aires

1. Buenos Aires, Argentina

For those looking for sunny days, Buenos Aires in Argentina is a great place to spend December through February. December officially marks the beginning of summer, so the weather is lavish at this time of year. January and February are Buenos Aires’ busiest months for tourism, so if you want fewer crowds, I’d aim for December!

Since it is peak tourist season, book your hotels months in advance. Visiting during February opens up the opportunity to experience Buenos Aires Fashion Week and Carnaval! To avoid the extreme muggy heat, visit during the beginning of December or late February for more moderate temperatures. It’s one of the best places to visit in South America at Christmas time.

Buenos Aires traditional market

Things To Do

Since the weather is so pleasant from December through February, there is a ton you can do in Buenos Aires. If you visit in December, popular things include exploring the Christmas Markets, taking a day trip to Tigre and exploring the Delta waterways, taking a tango dance class, and visiting the lively street market Feria del San Telmo.

The traditional fair, Feria de Mataderos, is open every Sunday in January. You can take a cemetery tour or check out one of the local museums between beach trips! February is a popular time for the Carnaval festival, which would be a fantastic way to experience Buenos Aires. It’s also the month of soccer tournaments, which can provide fun entertainment during your trip!

Winter Months To Visit: December through February
Weather: Temperatures with lows of 65 and highs of 89 degrees Fahrenheit. It is typically warm, sunny, and breezy. Rearing February, it becomes overcast about 30% of the time.

Rio de Janeiro is one of the best cities to winter in Latin America because of the warm temperatures, amazing beaches, and great culture

2. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

If you’re looking for warm temps, December through February is the best time to visit Rio de Janeiro. Winter is when the city comes to life, and if you go at the end of December, you can experience the best New Year’s Eve celebrations in the world! Rio de Janeiro is also situated on Copacabana beach, a fantastic place to cool off from the hot temperatures.

If you like the beach, meeting new people, and partying, this is the place you’ll want to go! I’d argue that it’s one of the best beaches to visit in South America during December. It’s a time of the city’s biggest festivities and warm temps, making it an enjoyable place to spend some time during the winter. Since it is the busiest time for tourism, book your transportation and accommodations well in advance!

Panoramic view of Rio de Janeiro

Things To Do

The best thing to do throughout the winter months in Rio is (of course) to visit one of the area’s beaches, including Copacabana, Ipanema, and Barra de Tijuca beaches. While at the beach, you can surf, paddle board, and try different water activities! There’s never a bad time to visit classic attractions such as Christ the Redeemer, Botanic Gardens, and Sugarloaf Mountain.

Other than the beaches and city attractions, there are a ton of holiday festivities and celebrations that go on this month worth checking out! The city is magical over Christmas and New Year’s, and February marks Rio’s Carnaval! Book in advance to partake in all the festivities!

Winter Months To Visit: December through February
Weather: Low of 73 and high of 88 degrees Fahrenheit. December through February is the wet season, so it typically is warm and sunny during the day, with occasional rainfalls in the evenings.

Cartagena is surprisingly one of the best cities for winter in Latin America! There are so many things to do to stay entertained and warm!

3. Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena is one of the South American cities that has unwavering temperatures year-round. Lucky for us, these temps are fantastic! December through February is also the country’s dry season, so there is barely any rainfall. Temperatures stay consistent around 80 degrees, allowing you to enjoy the warm weather, sunshine, and outdoor activities.

Cartagena is a world UNESCO site, and the city is remarkable from December to February. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, from the fascinating sites, beautiful beaches, holiday markets, abundant outdoor scenery, and more. December is the busiest time for tourism, so if you want to beat the crowds, aim for February instead.

Rosario Island

Things To Do

There are countless things to do in Cartagena between December and February. December is the holiday season so the city is lit with festive lights and local markets to explore. Any of these months are fantastic for wandering the streets of the Old Town or taking a walking tour to learn more about the city’s history.

If you like to spend time outdoors, you can take a day trip to hike in the beautiful Colombian nature. You can also visit beaches or take a boat to the Rosario Islands to relax on the ocean. Of course, you can also engage in water sports if you desire!

Winter Months To Visit: December through February
Weather: Year-round, temperatures are on average 88 degrees Fahrenheit. From December through January, it is the dry season with hot and dry weather.

4. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

December is the beginning of the warmer season in the Galapagos, making it a fantastic time to book a trip to the island. The Galapagos is truly an island paradise, and it’s a great winter destination for plenty of outdoor activities for nature lovers. It’s one of the most protected places in the world, so you can experience nature and wildlife here like no other place.

Galapagos Islands are one of the best cities for winter in Latin America because the waters become clearer and the wildlife is great!

Things To Do

There is plenty to do in the Galapagos year-round. During December, visibility improves in the ocean, making it an ideal time for snorkeling and scuba diving. It’s also the warmer part of the year, perfect for relaxing on the beach or by a pool. There is plenty of hiking in the Galapagos, and the winter months are great for birding!

You can swim in the warm waters in December and January, usually without a wetsuit. You can go surfing or kayaking or enjoy land activities like mountain biking. February is also a fantastic time to visit because the wildlife becomes active. You can watch green sea turtles lay eggs, land birds nest, and sea lions play!

Winter Months To Visit: December through February
Weather: Lows of 70 with highs of 86 degrees Fahrenheit. December is the end of the dry season, while January and February are the wet seasons, with the warmest weather and waters.

Atacama Desert

5. Atacama Desert, Chile

Another warm winter destination in Latin America is the Atacama Desert in Chile. December, January, and February are the high tourist season because of the warm, enjoyable temperatures, beautiful clear skies for stargazing, and spectacular scenery. Nearby you can find incredible volcanoes, salt flats, and even lagoons!

This is a great destination to explore the world’s natural wonders. If you like warm temperatures and being active outdoors, this is a unique destination, perfect for winter visitation. If you visit at the tail end of February or early December, there will be less crowds.

Salt Flats in Atacama Desert

Things To Do

Visiting the Atacama Desert from December through February is fantastic because the warmer weather provides plenty of activities. The longer days allow for longer outdoor activities or time by the pool, whereas the clear nights are great for stargazing. It’s the best time to take in most of the area’s landscapes and natural scenery.

Winter Months To Visit: December through February
Weather: Low of 45 degrees with a high of 90 degrees Fahrenheit. December starts to warm up while January and February see higher temperatures with lows in the mid-sixties.

Ambergris Caye in Belize is one of the best cities for winter sun in Latin America because of the pristine beaches, amazing culture, and great activities.

6. Ambergris Caye, Belize

My step-siblings spent their early childhood in Belize, and let me tell you… I’ve wanted to take a trip there for so long to experience the beautiful country they’ve been telling me about! Ambergris Caye is Belize’s largest island and the waters are so crystal clear I can’t even fathom it. It’s the perfect place to go if you like to spend time exploring marine life and soaking in the winter sun rays.

Ambergris Caye is the vacation spot from December through February. The warm tropical climate of the Caribbean encompasses the island during the dry season, providing warm days with sunny, clear skies. It’s arguably one of the best times of the year to visit to avoid the rain and get the best weather.

Fishing in Belize

Things To Do

One of the most popular things this island is known for is its water sports, including snorkeling, swimming, diving, sailing, and fishing. The beaches are beautiful and enjoyable year-round, but you can also enjoy land activities like exploring the small town of San Pedro’s shops and food, heading to Calvin’s Green Iguana Eco-Park, or visiting the Marco Gonzalez Mayan Site.

Winter Months To Visit: December through February 
Weather: Low temperatures of 62 with a high of 84 degrees Fahrenheit. December typically still has a few rainfalls, but January and February are usually less humid, with a cool breeze keeping the temperatures pleasant.

Osa Peninsula

7. Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica

December through February are fantastic months to visit Costa Rica because it’s the beginning of the dry season, so the days are warm and sunny, and the nights are cool. Many cultural celebrations occur during these months, too. The Osa Peninsula is a world-renowned rainforest known for its wildlife, so if you’re a nature lover, head here during the winter!

The Osa Peninsula hosts over half of Costa Rica’s wildlife, and you can easily spot monkeys, sloths, toucans, coatimundis, and many fascinating birds. January is also humpback whale migration season, so if you head to the Dulce Gulf, you have a high chance of seeing these beautiful creatures. These months mark the tick-hatching season, so take precautions to avoid getting bit!

Corcovado national park

Things To Do

Although I haven’t been to the Osa Peninsula, I was blown away by the wildlife in other parts of Costa Rica. The Osa Peninsula is on my bucket list because there are a variety of activities that any adventurer can enjoy. You can go on a jungle hike or relax on the beautiful beaches. You can kayak through mangroves, go ziplining through the rainforest, or take a trip to the Corcovado National Park.

The adventure opportunities are truly endless at this Costa Rican destination. You can snorkel, swim in waterfalls, go scuba diving, or horseback riding on the beach. Or, you can dolphin and whale watch! My favorite activities were wildlife tours, hiking volcanoes, and doing a rainforest canopy.

Winter Months To Visit: December through February
Weather: Low of 70 degrees with highs of 90 degrees. December through February is the dry season, though there can be scattered showers in December and the rainforest. This time of year is hot and humid.

Lake Atitlan is an underrated destination, but one of the best cities for winter in Latin America due to the cool cultural cities, beautiful crater lake, and hiking opportunities.

8. Lake Atitlán, Guatemala

Lake Atitlán might be one of the most beautiful lakes ever. It’s the deepest lake in Central America, in the southwestern part of Guatemala. It’s a body of water in a volcano crater formed by a volcanic eruption. The dramatic, steep volcanos that surround the lake are immaculate. There are many different cities around Lake Atitlán, each offering a unique winter getaway.

The dry season is from November to April, so winter is a great time to visit. It’s argued that February is the best month to go because the waters are calm and the weather is warm. It is also the coffee harvest season, so it’s a perfect time to visit a coffee farm.

Overview of Lake Atitlan

Things To Do

There are many great ways to experience Lake Atitlán during the winter months. You can spend some time visiting the different cities around the lake and learning about Mayan culture. You can take a boat tour to experience the lake’s natural beauty and even swim if you don’t mind it being slightly chilly! You can also visit some local Christmas markets in December!

Another fun way to explore the region is taking a coffee tour! You can also explore the outdoors more by kayaking on the lake, taking a sunrise hike to Indian Nose, or heading to the Atitlán Nature Reserve. If you’d like to relax, head to the solar thermal pools to enjoy the pools, get a massage, or book a sauna.

Winter Months To Visit: December through February
Weather: Low of 50 degrees at nighttime with a high of 83 degrees during the day. During the dry season, you’ll have more daylight with little rainfall.

Cancun Mexico

9. Cancún, Mexico

Cancún is a popular winter destination for Americans looking for all-inclusive resorts on pristine beaches. If you like to relax by the beach or pool with a drink in hand, this is a destination worth looking into. The vibe is very different from the other destinations listed above, focused more on relaxation and comfort, though if that’s your cup of tea, it’s worth checking out.

Cancún’s beaches are white, sandy, and soft, and the waters are breathtakingly turquoise. It’ll truly make you feel like you’re in paradise with all the amenities you’ll ever need at arm’s distance. If you’re the type that likes to pay a set price for everything to make your vacation easy and stress-free, Cancún is the place for you.

Cenote in Mexico

Things To Do

If you book an all-inclusive resort in Cancún (which most people do), you’ll have many activities available, including lounging by the beach or pool and enjoying the accommodation’s amenities. However, you can also buy jet ski rentals, kayak rentals, snorkeling gear, paddle boards, and other gear in Cancún on the beach. It’s also known for its nightlife, so if you like to party and meet new people, you’ll have ample opportunity!

If you want to leave the resort area, there are ways you can experience the history and culture of Cancún. You can take a trip to Chichen Itza or El Rey Archeological Zone. You can also explore Downtown Cancún for some amazing street food and to take a break from the hotel zone. You’ll also find a ton of cenotes (natural sinkholes) that you can swim in around the peninsula!

Winter Months To Visit: December through February
Weather: Lows of 60 degrees to highs of 85 degrees. December through February are ideal times to visit because the weather and the water are warm. It is generally humid in Cancún with little rainfall during these months.

Beautiful overview of the Lake District in Argentina

10. Lake District, Argentina

Last but certainly not least, we have the lake district in Argentina! The lake district is in northwest Patagonia, a scenic region with beautiful nature. It’s surrounded by lakes (of course), mountains, forests, and small towns. I’m heading there in a few months and can say that I am THRILLED!

Winter is a great time to visit because it is the warmest and driest time of the year. The days are long and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, scrolling through the town, and more. It is the busiest time for tourism, so plan and book your accommodations and flights in advance! 

The lake district in Argentina is one of the best cities for winter in Latin America if you enjoy the water and outdoors

Things To Do

There is plenty to do in the Argentine Lake District, including exploring the country’s oldest national park, Nahuel Huapi, riding a horse through the Patagonia Steppe, or taking a scenic drive around the lakes. You can also experience many great water activities like fishing or rafting. You can also go birding on a nearby hiking trail.

Winter Months To Visit: December through February 
Weather: Lows of 50 degrees with highs of 70 degrees Fahrenheit. January and February experience sunnier days with lower humidity, though there are icy slopes when you reach higher elevations.

Beautiful view over Lake Atitlan

FAQs: Best Cities in Latin America For a Warm Winter

Great! Now that we have covered the ten best cities winter destinations in Latin America for the winter months, I can discuss some frequently asked questions.

Where is the best place to winter in Central America?

Lake Atitlán in Guatemala, the Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica, and Ambergris Caye in Belize are great places to winter in Central America. These destinations offer unique perks, but the common denominator is that the weather is fantastic!

Where is the best place to go for Christmas in South America?

There are plenty of great places to spend Christmas in South America, including Buenos Aires, Cartagena, and Rio de Janiero. Each has Christmas markets that make the holidays meaningful while you’re away from home.

What is the best South American country to visit in January?

There are plenty of great South American countries to visit in January. If you’re looking for warm temperatures, these places are worth checking out: Rio de Janeiro, Cartagena, Buenos Aires, Lake Atitlán, Galapagos Island, the Lake District in Argentina, and the Atacama Desert in Chile.

Cool hangout spot in Belize

Wrapping Up: 10 Best Cities For a Warm Winter in Latin America

There you have it! Ten of the best cities for a warm winter in Latin America. With destinations ranging from Mexico to Central and South America, you can use this list as inspiration when booking your next trip. Remember that winter in the US and other parts of the world is considered summer in some of these countries!

December, January, and February are often the busier tourist seasons for many warm-weather destinations, so you must book your trip well in advance. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach in Mexico, snorkel in the Galapagos, attend a New Year’s Eve celebration in Rio de Janeiro, or whale watching in Costa Rica, you’re bound to avoid the winter blues in these locations!

Happy travels!