Things to Do in Uruguay in December

December in Uruguay is early summer, with warm temperatures ranging from 18–28°C (64–82°F) along the coast and slightly hotter inland. Montevideo and coastal resort towns like Punta del Este see plenty of sunshine—typically 8–10 hours a day—with occasional afternoon thunderstorms that pass quickly. Pack light layers, sunscreen, and a rain jacket for brief downpours.

December marks the start of Uruguay's summer season, so beach towns begin filling up with Argentine and Brazilian holidaymakers, after mid-month. Montevideo stays manageable, and you'll find fresh cherries and strawberries at mercados. It's warm enough for beach days but not yet peak-season crowded or expensive—hotel rates jump sharply after Christmas.

Expect warm, mostly sunny days with highs around 26–28°C (79–82°F) and pleasant evenings cooling to 18–20°C (64–68°F). Coastal areas benefit from Atlantic breezes, while inland cities like Salto can push past 30°C (86°F). Humidity rises compared to spring, and short afternoon storms are common but rarely disrupt plans.

Head to Punta del Este or José Ignacio for beach clubs and coastal walks before the New Year's rush, explore Colonia del Sacramento's cobbled streets in comfortable warmth, or taste tannat wines at bodegas in Carmelo and Canelones. December is also great for gaucho festivals in the interior—Tacuarembó hosts folklore events with traditional asado and guitar music.

Spend mornings at Playa Brava or La Mansa in Punta del Este, visit Casapueblo in Punta Ballena for sunset, or rent bikes to explore Cabo Polonio's sand dunes and sea lion colonies. In Montevideo, the Mercado del Puerto serves parrillada outdoors, and you can catch free summer concerts at Parque Rodó as the city gears up for Carnival rehearsals.

January is the hottest month in Montevideo, with daytime highs often reaching 28–30°C (82–86°F) and warm, humid nights around 20°C (68°F). The city empties out as locals head to beach towns, so restaurants and shops may have reduced hours. Afternoon thunderstorms are frequent but brief—UV is intense, so reapply sunscreen often.

Santiago, Chile, sits in a different climate zone—December there is hot and dry, with temperatures often hitting 30–32°C (86–90°F) and almost no rain. Uruguay's December is milder and more humid, with regular showers and cooler coastal breezes. If you're traveling between the two, expect warmer, drier conditions in Santiago.

Buenos Aires in December sees similar conditions to Uruguay—highs around 27–29°C (81–84°F), humid air, and occasional afternoon storms. Both cities share the Río de la Plata climate, though Buenos Aires can feel slightly hotter due to urban heat. Ferry crossings between Colonia and BA take about an hour if you're visiting both.

Punta del Este's Playa Mansa offers calm waters good for families, while Playa Brava has Atlantic surf popular with bodyboarders. José Ignacio, 30 km east, draws a quieter, upscale crowd. For wilder scenery, Cabo Polonio's windswept beaches require a 4x4 shuttle but reward with solitude and resident sea lions.

Uruguay has mild seasons: summer (Dec–Feb) averages 25–28°C, autumn (Mar–May) cools to 15–22°C with golden light, winter (Jun–Aug) rarely drops below 8°C but feels damp, and spring (Sep–Nov) warms gradually with wildflowers. Rain spreads fairly evenly across the year, though summer storms are heavier and winter drizzle more persistent.

Yes—December is excellent for visiting bodegas in Canelones, Carmelo, and the newer Atlántico Sur region near Maldonado. Vines are in full leaf, tastings happen on sunny terraces, and many wineries pair tannat with grilled meats for lunch. Book ahead for boutique estates like Bodega Garzón, which fills quickly during summer weekends.

Early December is relatively quiet—Argentine families and international visitors tend to arrive after Christmas. You'll find hotel rates 30–40% lower than peak season, restaurants unbookeד, and beaches uncrowded. By December 26, the town transforms into a buzzing resort, so the first three weeks offer the best value and space.