When the Northern Hemisphere becomes too freezing, many travelers flee to other corners of the world to seek warm weather and sunny skies. South America is one of them, thanks to its wealth of vibrant beach towns and bucket-list natural wonders. In contrast to the Northern Hemisphere, November-December marks the beginning of the dry season. So, traveling means warm rays of sunshine, lots of beach days, and outdoor adventures! If this plan sounds good for you, here is our list of the best winter destinations in South America (and nearby Central American gem) to visit for a memorable winter getaway.
Winter Destinations in South America – Summary
- Cartagena, Colombia
- Eje Cafetero, Colombia
- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Lake Atitlan, Guatemala
- Costa Rica
- Ambergris Caye, Belize
- Cozumel, Mexico
- Bocas del Toro, Panama
- Machu Picchu, Peru
- Eduardo Avaroa Reserve, Bolivia
- Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
- Antarctica
1. Cartagena, Colombia
Best for: Colorful city scene, beaches, and festivals
Cartagena is a jewel of the Caribbean coast, famous for its colorful colonial architecture and lively culture. Stroll through the historic walled city, admire pastel-hued buildings, and soak in the romantic atmosphere. “Not only the vibrant cityscape will cheer you up, but also the weather. December is a sunny time to visit Cartagena and Colombia in general,” said TripLeader Paola, a local buddy who loves hosting trips around South America.
Moreover, Cartagena’s fun extends beyond the cityscape. You can take a trip to the nearby Rosario Islands, which offers crystal-clear waters and white-sand beaches. Then, explore the vibrant markets and enjoy fresh seafood along the waterfront. “Consider visiting in December to see Las Velitas or Little Candles Day. It shows you how Colombian loves celebration and the end of the year,” added TripLeader Paola.
2. Eje Cafetero, Colombia
Best for: Coffee culture and scenic mountain escapes
Colombia is known as the world’s coffee capital. Although every corner of the country offers a great cup of joe, Eje Cafetero is the real star. This coffee region features a lush paradise of rolling hills and coffee plantations. Visiting during the Northern Hemisphere’s winter means you’ll experience warm days and cool nights, ideal for touring coffee farms and hiking through verdant landscapes.
“When visiting Eje Cafetero, don’t forget to hike the Cocora Valley. It is the home of the world’s tallest wax palms. You can also visit local villages for more authentic experiences,” said TripLeader Alessandro, a certified guide from Colombia. In a nutshell, Eje Cafetero’s cozy rural lodges and welcoming locals make this region a dream for those who love both nature and a perfect cup of coffee.
3. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Best for: Lively culture and sun-soaked beaches
Rio de Janeiro dazzles with its world-famous beaches and lively culture, making it a top choice for a winter getaway from the north. From December to February, the city buzzes with energy, offering sunny weather ideal for lounging on Copacabana or Ipanema Beach. Take a cable car ride up Sugarloaf Mountain for sweeping views, or visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue. With samba music, beachside caipirinhas, and vibrant neighborhoods like Santa Teresa, Rio delivers excitement and tropical beauty in equal measure.
4. Lake Atitlan, Guatemala
Best for: Scenic relaxation and cultural discovery
“Lake Atitlan, one of my favorite places in the country and also considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. It was formed by the collapse of a volcanic caldera and is surrounded by three impressive volcanoes (San Pedro, Atitlan and Toliman) and 12 Maya-Cakchiquel and Maya-Tz’utuhil villages, each with their respective and characteristic costumes, forming an impressive landscape.” TripLeader Darja
5. Costa Rica
Best for: Wildlife adventures and tropical beaches
Costa Rica shines during Northern Hemisphere winter, as December to February marks the country’s dry season. Golden beaches, lush rainforests, and abundant wildlife await travelers seeking a tropical escape. Surf along the Pacific coast or venture into national parks like Manuel Antonio to spot monkeys and sloths. Adventure seekers can zipline through the cloud forests of Monteverde or hike around the Arenal Volcano. Not to mention, Costa Rica is one of the most eco-friendly destinations in the world. Traveling to the country allows you to enjoy unspoiled nature, experience a true pura vida, and take small steps towards a better planet.
6. Ambergris Caye, Belize
Best for: Diving, snorkeling, and island relaxation
When it comes to the best holiday destinations in winter, English-speaking Belize is a stand out option. The best time to visit Belize is from late November to mid-April: the country’s dry season. Swaying palm trees, the second-largest coral reef system in the world and a wealth of wildlife can be found here. Experience the Blue Hole, snorkel in shark ray alley or simply relax on one of the sugar-white Caribbean beaches.
7. Cozumel, Mexico
Best for: World-class diving and sun-soaked island escapes
“Cozumel is THE definition of tropical vacation. It has some of the clearest waters in the Caribbean, amazing beach bars, and various activities. It’s not the most non-touristic place in Mexico, but there are a lot of crowd-free spots you can explore,” said TripLeader Marie, who originally comes from Venezuela and have traveled around South America. In the winter, you’ll enjoy warm weather perfect for snorkeling or scuba diving along the world-renowned Mesoamerican Reef. Beyond the underwater wonders, Cozumel offers charming seaside towns, Mayan ruins like San Gervasio, and vibrant local markets. Whether you’re exploring coral reefs or relaxing on white-sand beaches, Cozumel delivers a mix of adventure and laid-back island vibes.
8. Bocas del Toro, Panama
Best for: Island-hopping and Caribbean adventure
Bocas del Toro is a province, archipelago, and tourist destination in the Caribbean Sea, off the northern coast of Panama. It’s known for its pristine natural environment, including rainforests, mangrove areas, and thousands of islands and islets, making it a popular ecotourism destination. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities like visiting beaches such as Starfish Beach and Bluff Beach, exploring diverse wildlife, and engaging in water sports like surfing.
9. Machu Picchu, Peru
Best for: Ancient history and breathtaking hikes
“Rise early for the highlight of your journey: Machu Picchu. A scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes precedes a bus ascent to the citadel. As you step through its gates, the mist clears to reveal the awe-inspiring ruins, perched high above the Urubamba River. Your guide will unravel its mysteries, from its astronomical alignments to its role as a royal retreat. After a soul-stirring exploration, return to Cusco by train, reflecting on this once-in-a-lifetime experience.” TripLeader Alvaro
10. Eduardo Avaroa Reserve, Bolivia
Best for: Otherworldly landscapes and high-altitude exploration
For travelers seeking dramatic natural beauty, the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve in Bolivia is extraordinary. During the Northern Hemisphere’s winter, you’ll encounter colorful lagoons, snow-capped peaks, and geysers steaming in the cold morning air. The region is home to flamingos, hot springs, and surreal landscapes like the Salvador Dalí Desert. It’s a remote but rewarding destination for adventurous spirits. “From there, the adventure intensifies through the Eduardo Avaroa Reserve, a wonderland of flamingo-filled lagoons, steaming geysers, and surreal rock formations. Warm up in natural hot springs and marvel at the vivid reds and greens of high-altitude lakes. 2-day adventure through the Bolivian Altiplano. Explore surreal landscapes, geysers, stone trees, and flamingo-filled lagoons like Colorada and Verde. Sleep in remote desert lodges under starry skies at over 4,000 meters altitude.” TripLeader Andrea, a travel specialist for Andean region, Chile, and Bolivia.
11. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
Best for: Unique wildlife encounters and island exploration
The Galápagos Islands are a wildlife lover’s dream and a perfect escape from Northern Hemisphere winters. December to February brings warm seas and excellent opportunities for snorkeling with sea lions, turtles, and vibrant marine life. You can also spot giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies while hiking across volcanic landscapes. This natural paradise promises unforgettable encounters with some of the world’s rarest species.
12. Antarctica
Best for: Once-in-a-lifetime polar expedition
For the ultimate winter adventure, head to Antarctica during the Northern Hemisphere’s colder months, which coincide with the Antarctic summer. December to February offers relatively mild temperatures and the best conditions for cruising through icy waters. Marvel at towering icebergs, watch penguins waddle along the shore, and witness whales breaching in the Southern Ocean. A trip to Antarctica is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that redefines the meaning of winter travel.
Plan Your Winter Escape with JoinMyTrip
Ready to turn your winter wanderlust into reality? Discover these incredible winter destinations in South America with JoinMyTrip. Join trips hosted by experienced travelers and passionate local hosts who plan everything—from unique activities to hidden gems—so you can simply relax and enjoy the adventure. Find your next trip with JoinMyTrip and make this winter unforgettable!