South America Tours in December 2025
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10 best South America trips in December 2025
Compiled by

NinaSouth America travel expert at TourRadar
- 【South America】 21 days 5-country tour to Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Chile, Peru Package
- Explore Bolivia to Brazil (from La Paz to Mangaratiba)
- Premium Highlights of South America
- 21-day Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, & Chile Tour with Inca Trail & Bolivia Salt Flats Tour
- Real Argentina to Brazil
- From Snow-capped Peaks to Pristine Islands: A journey across the Andes, Cloudforest and Galapagos
- Premium Chile, Argentina & Brazil
- 5 Countries: Rio de Janeiro to La Paz (30 Days)
- Bolivia, Peru & Ecuador with Galápagos : The Spirit of the Andes & Islands
- The Heart of South America: Santiago to Rio in 14 Days
Duration 21 days Destinations Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Chile, Peru Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Delightful Travel December departure dates
See All Departure Dates1 Dec, 2025 10 spaces left 2 Dec, 2025 10 spaces left From
- NZ$17,519
Duration 31 days Destinations Bolivia, Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil Age Range Ages 15+ Operator Intrepid Travel From $9,135
15% Off- NZ$7,765You save $1,370
Duration 21 days Destinations Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, Chile Age Range Ages 18-55 Operated in English, Spanish Operator The Dragon Trip December departure dates
21 Dec, 2025 10+ spaces left From $7,751
25% Off- NZ$5,813You save $1,938
Duration 14 days Destinations Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil Age Range Ages 18-35 Operator Intrepid Travel December departure dates
12 Dec, 2025 5 spaces left From $4,660
10% Off- NZ$4,194You save $466
Duration 10 days Destinations Quito, Mindo Valley, Cotopaxi National Park, Baltra Island, Santa Cruz Island, Puerto Ayora Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, Spanish Operator Authentic Ecuador December departure dates
See All Departure Dates1 Dec, 2025 8 spaces left 2 Dec, 2025 8 spaces left From $5,973
4% Off- NZ$5,751You save $223
Duration 30 days Destinations Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Chile, Bolivia Age Range Ages 18+ Operated in English, Spanish Operator Hi Travel Argentina From
15% Off- NZ$5,114
Duration 17 days Destinations Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Wonderful Holidays UK December departure dates
See All Departure Dates3 Dec, 2025 10 spaces left 5 Dec, 2025 10 spaces left From $15,975
20% Off- NZ$12,780You save $3,195
Duration 14 days Destinations Chile, Argentina, Brazil Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Wonderful Holidays UK December departure dates
See All Departure Dates2 Dec, 2025 10 spaces left 6 Dec, 2025 10 spaces left From
20% Off- NZ$7,751
What our customers ask about South America Tours in December 2025
What is the weather like in South America during December?
South America's December weather varies significantly by region. Buenos Aires sees summer temperatures of 28°C (82°F) while Lima stays mild at 24°C (75°F). The Andean highlands including Cusco offer sunny 20°C (68°F) days perfect for exploring though nights turn quite cool. Pack layers as temperature swings are common especially in mountainous areas. As one TourRadar traveler noted: "The weather was perfect for exploring Machu Picchu in December - warm days for hiking but not too hot though we needed layers for the evening."
What special events and festivals happen in South America during December?
December fills South American cities with cultural celebrations and holiday spirit. Buenos Aires hosts the Feria de Mataderos where folk festivals and outdoor tango gatherings take over the streets. In Rio early carnival celebrations begin while the massive Reveillon New Year's party draws crowds to Copacabana Beach. Cusco's Plaza de Armas transforms into the Santuranticuy Christmas market with local artisans displaying traditional crafts. A TourRadar traveler shared: "The December festivals in Cusco were incredible - the mix of Incan and Catholic traditions created such a unique holiday atmosphere."
What are the best places to visit in South America during December?
The continent's most famous sites shine in December. Machu Picchu offers clear views while Rio's beaches come alive with pre-summer energy. The Amazon's wildlife becomes more active and Iguazu Falls reaches peak flow. Quality accommodations range from the centrally located Casa Andina Premium in Cusco to the beachfront Belmond Copacabana Palace in Rio. As noted by a TourRadar traveler: "Visiting Buenos Aires in December was magical - the jacaranda trees were in full bloom and the city had an amazing festive atmosphere with outdoor markets and tango shows."
What are the advantages of visiting the Galapagos Islands in December?
The Galapagos Islands enter their warm season in December bringing calm seas and clear waters ideal for snorkeling. Water temperatures reach 24°C (75°F) with excellent visibility. Nature enthusiasts can watch green sea turtles nesting and spot newly hatched giant tortoises. Eco-conscious travelers often choose stays at the Pikaia Lodge on Santa Cruz Island. According to TourRadar travelers: "December in the Galapagos offered perfect weather for both land and water activities plus we got to see baby tortoises hatching!"
How crowded are major tourist sites in South America during December?
December brings peak season crowds to South America's popular destinations. Expect higher visitor numbers at Machu Picchu and busy beaches in Rio's Copacabana and Ipanema neighborhoods. The Lake Titicaca region sees increased tourism with luxury properties like the Titilaka Lodge often reaching capacity. One TourRadar traveler advised: "Book popular sites like Machu Picchu well in advance for December visits - we nearly missed out due to limited availability."
How far in advance should I book a December trip to South America?
Plan to secure December bookings 6-8 months ahead particularly for sought-after accommodations like the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge at Machu Picchu or Rio's Fasano Hotel. Popular tours activities and premium lodging fill up quickly during this peak season. As one TourRadar traveler noted: "We booked our December tour 8 months ahead and still found some preferred hotels fully booked - early planning is essential."





















