South America from December to February: Where to Go During Korea's Winter

When Korea reaches the season for heavy coats, South America is heading the other way, into summer. On a South America trip from December to February in particular, you can enjoy very different moods, from Patagonia's long days and trekking season to beach breaks in Punta del Este and the hot summer of Rio de Janeiro.

If you want to escape the cold for a while and combine nature, beach time and city travel, South America in this season is worth a look. Here are the South America destinations to visit from December to February, during Korea's winter.

Southern Patagonia in Summer

Southern Patagonia is hard to leave out of a South America trip from December to February. It is a great time to get serious about trekking along mountains, glaciers and lakes, starting with Torres del Paine in Chile. From December to February the days are long, the weather is relatively mild, and it is peak season, when most trails in Torres del Paine are open.

From multi-day treks such as the W Trek and the O Circuit to trips taking in Grey Glacier and its lake, you can experience South America's vast nature up close. Still, even in summer the weather changes fast and the wind can be strong, so a wind- and waterproof jacket and clothes for layering are a must. If you are planning a multi-day trek, it is also best to book lodges and campsites in advance. In peak season they fill up quickly.

Summer Beach Time in Punta del Este

If you would rather enjoy a more relaxed South American summer than a trekking trip, Punta del Este in Uruguay is a good fit. Centered on Playa Mansa and Playa Brava, it is a classic seaside resort lined with beaches, yachts, restaurants and hotels.

Spend the day surfing, sailing and enjoying other water activities, then wind down at a restaurant or bar in the evening. Along more than 20 km of coastline, the mood shifts from quiet scenery to lively beaches, which is part of the charm. If you want a South American summer holiday on sunny beaches and resorts in the middle of Korea's winter, it is worth adding to a December to February trip.

Not sure about a winter getaway to South America?
From trekking in Patagonia to beach breaks in Uruguay and Brazil and city travel. Even within the same December to February window, the right route can change with your destinations and plans. If you would like to plan your South America itinerary around your trip length and travel style, feel free to contact Ahmo Travel.

Rio de Janeiro: Beaches and City Together

If you want city travel and the beach in one go, Rio de Janeiro is also a great choice. Beyond enjoying the summer vibe on beaches like Copacabana and Ipanema, you can combine nature and activities such as trekking and waterfalls in the Tijuca Forest, hang gliding or paragliding.

Between beach days, you can visit museums and cultural spaces or enjoy food and music in Santa Teresa and Lapa. With nature and the city so close together, it suits travelers who would find a pure beach holiday too little and a city-only trip too confining. Just note that summer in Rio is hot and humid with some rainy days, so pack light clothes along with something for the rain.

South America from December to February: It Depends on the Trip You Want

Even within December to February, time in these three places feels quite different.

Trips to enjoy from December to February
Southern Patagonia 👉 trekking, glaciers, national parks, vast nature
Punta del Este 👉 beaches, resorts, sailing, relaxed holidays
Rio de Janeiro 👉 beaches, city life, culture, outdoor activities

If you want to walk deep into nature, choose southern Patagonia; if you want to relax by a quiet sea, Punta del Este; and if you do not want to miss either the beach or the buzz of the city, Rio de Janeiro.

It is winter in Korea, but in South America it is the most summery time of year. If you are planning a slightly different winter holiday to escape the cold for a while, a South America trip from December to February is a great option.

Need a 1:1 Custom Plan for Your South America Trip?

👉 Ahmo Travel is a travel company specializing in 1:1 custom trips to Africa and South America. We fine-tune everything to your schedule and budget, from luxury hotels to good-value stays, so just get in touch and we will suggest a custom South America plan. With travel information from every corner of South America, you can combine destinations, stays and activities like building blocks to create your own unique travel plan. Every consultation is free of charge. Through close contact between consultants who know each destination well and our local partners, our information is always up to date. Start a special Ahmo Travel trip today, freer than a package tour and safer than traveling on your own.