Things to Do in Uruguay in December

December Weather in Uruguay

25°C (77°F) High Temp

20°C (68°F) Low Temp

51 mm (2.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is December Right for You?

Advantages

Peak summer season with 14+ hours of daylight - beaches and outdoor activities accessible until 9 PM
Lavender fields in Montevideo department bloom mid-December, creating purple landscapes unavailable other months
Traditional Christmas markets in Ciudad Vieja operate December 15-24, featuring local crafts and seasonal foods
Optimal conditions for whale watching off Punta del Este - southern right whales migrate through December-February

Considerations

High season pricing inflates accommodation costs 40-60% compared to shoulder months like November or March
Beach towns like Punta del Este and Piriápolis experience peak crowds - reservations essential and traffic congestion common
Afternoon thunderstorms occur 10 days per month, typically 3-5 PM, requiring flexible outdoor planning

Best Activities in December

Atlantic Coast Beach Resort Activities

December offers ideal beach conditions with 25°C (77°F) highs and extended daylight. Punta del Este beaches like Playa Brava offer consistent waves for surfing, while Playa Mansa provides calmer waters for families. Water temperature reaches 22°C (72°F) - warmest of the year.

Booking Tip: Reserve accommodations 6-8 weeks ahead for best rates, typically $80-200 USD per night in December. Book through established operators for water sports equipment rental and surf lessons. See current tour options in booking section below.

Montevideo Cultural Walking Tours

December's extended daylight hours allow comprehensive exploration of Ciudad Vieja and Pocitos neighborhoods. Pleasant 20°C (68°F) evening temperatures make sunset walks along Rambla waterfront particularly rewarding. Christmas decorations transform Plaza Independencia mid-month.

Booking Tip: Self-guided walks work well, but organized tours provide historical context unavailable elsewhere. Book 3-5 days ahead, typically $25-45 USD for 3-4 hour experiences. Licensed guides offer insights into December-specific traditions.

Wine Region Cycling Tours

Canelones wine region experiences perfect cycling weather in December - warm mornings without excessive heat. Harvest season runs December-March, offering tastings of fresh grape juice alongside established vintages. Rolling hills provide moderate challenges across 15-25 km (9-16 mile) routes.

Booking Tip: Book wine region tours 1-2 weeks ahead through established operators, typically $60-120 USD including tastings and lunch. Many include bicycle rental and support vehicles. Peak availability mid-week versus weekends.

Colonia del Sacramento Day Trips

This UNESCO World Heritage site offers cobblestone streets ideal for December exploration. Historic quarter remains cool due to Portuguese colonial architecture, while Rio de la Plata waterfront provides breeze during 25°C (77°F) afternoon temperatures. Ferry connections run frequently from Buenos Aires.

Booking Tip: Day trips from Montevideo take 2.5 hours driving, or combine with Buenos Aires ferry routes. Book accommodation if staying overnight 4-6 weeks ahead - limited historic quarter hotels. Tours typically $40-80 USD from Montevideo.

Thermal Springs Resort Visits

Northern thermal springs like Termas del Daymán offer year-round 42°C (108°F) natural pools, particularly appealing during December's variable weather. Indoor and outdoor pools provide relaxation after beach activities or before evening thunderstorms.

Booking Tip: Thermal resort packages include accommodation and spa access, typically $90-180 USD per night in December. Day passes available $15-30 USD. Book weekend visits 2-3 weeks ahead - weekdays offer better availability and pricing.

Gaucho Ranch Experiences

Working estancias offer horseback riding and traditional asado experiences optimal in December's warm weather. Extended daylight allows full-day programs including cattle demonstrations and folkdance performances. Many properties located 1-3 hours from Montevideo.

Booking Tip: Full-day estancia visits typically cost $80-150 USD including meals and activities. Book 1-2 weeks ahead through established operators offering transportation. Some properties offer overnight stays for authentic gaucho experiences.

December Events & Festivals

December 15-24

Montevideo Christmas Market

Traditional holiday market in Plaza Independencia features local artisans selling leather goods, woolen items, and traditional mate accessories. Food stalls offer seasonal specialties like pan dulce and champagne cider

Early December

Punta del Este Summer Season Opening

Beach resort season officially begins with live music performances, beach club openings, and cultural events throughout the peninsula. Marks beginning of high season social calendar

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or umbrella - afternoon storms last 30-45 minutes but can be intense

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 and beach reflection intensifies exposure

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - 70% humidity makes synthetic fabrics uncomfortable

Light sweater for air-conditioned restaurants and evening temperature drops to 20°C (68°F)

Comfortable walking shoes with good traction - cobblestones in historic areas become slippery when wet

Swimwear and quick-dry clothing for multiple beach/pool activities

Power adapter (Type C and F plugs) for electronic devices

Insect repellent for evening outdoor dining - mosquitoes active during warm humid periods

Packable day bag for excursions and beach items

Cash in small denominations - many markets and small vendors prefer cash transactions

Insider Knowledge

Uruguayans take vacation December 15-February, creating local crowds but authentic summer atmosphere - book restaurants early for weekend dinners

Afternoon storms typically pass by 6 PM, leaving clear evenings perfect for outdoor dining along the Rambla waterfront

Public beaches remain free while private beach clubs charge $10-25 USD daily - many clubs allow non-members to use facilities for day fees

Grocery stores and pharmacies reduce hours December 24-January 2 - stock essentials before Christmas week closures

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating December accommodation demand - booking less than 6 weeks ahead limits options and increases prices significantly

Planning outdoor activities for 2-5 PM when afternoon thunderstorms most likely - schedule beach time mornings or after 6 PM

Expecting Buenos Aires-style nightlife timing - Uruguayans dine earlier (8-9 PM) and social activities start before midnight