Cuba in December: Fine Weather and Travel Opportunities
Though Cuba is located in close proximity to the equator, the December weather in Cuba is mild, making it an ideal time to visit the country. The cooler weather creates perfect conditions for hiking, while the beaches on the coast remain warm enough for basking in the sun. This is a high tourist month on the Caribbean island, and you can find plenty of activities. If you go to places like Havana, they come alive with music, parties, and festivals towards the end of the year.
- Elizabeth
- From USA
Cuba Weather in December
December has mild temperatures across Cuba, ranging between 18°C to 27°C. Expect occasional rain with cold fronts in certain areas during the Cuban winters. Nevertheless, any adverse weather clears up quickly, giving way to blue skies.
Pinar del Rio, in the west, remains a few degrees cooler due to its mountainous terrain. Further to the south, Santiago de Cuba and Guantanamo are far warmer. Likewise, the beaches around the coastline exhibit balmy Caribbean conditions, where temperatures average around 25°C throughout the year.
For a seasonal overview, visit our guide on the best time to visit Cuba.
Weather in Cuba in December - Rainfall and Temperatures
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 26 | 27 | 28 | 30 | 31 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 31 | 30 | 28 | 27 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 21 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 20 | 19 | 18 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 79 | 81 | 83 | 86 | 88 | 90 | 90 | 90 | 88 | 86 | 83 | 81 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 61 | 63 | 65 | 67 | 70 | 72 | 72 | 72 | 72 | 68 | 67 | 65 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 20 | 10 | 40 | 30 | 70 | 80 | 50 | 70 | 70 | 80 | 40 | 30 |
| Nov | Dec | Jan | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 28 | 27 | 26 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | 19 | 18 | 16 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 83 | 81 | 79 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 67 | 65 | 61 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 40 | 30 | 20 |
Why Visit Cuba in December
December has mild temperatures across Cuba, with opportunities to enjoy activities on the coasts and inland cities.
- Local festivals: Cuba plays host to the Habanos Festival in December. This is a series of parties and events dedicated to classic Cuban cigars. You can also witness Las Parrandas, a firework competition held over the week of Christmas in Villa Clara, featuring a procession and carnival floats.
- Christmas & New Year parties: Despite Christmas being banned in Cuba between 1969–1998, residents are certainly making up for the lost time. On Christmas Eve, families celebrate together with a big meal and a church service, everyone is invited so if you visit over the holidays expect a party. Over the New Year, Cubans hold huge bonfires where they burn effigies to burn away bad memories. It's a must-see if you decide to welcome the new year in Havana.
- Hiking expeditions: The cooler weather means the western mountains of Vinales are yours to explore away from the heat. Likewise, the hills in and around Trinidad are perfect for horse-riding and hiking amid mild conditions.
- City sightseeing: With little rain and sunny skies, this is the best time to go on a sightseeing trip to Havana to explore its rich history and culture. Stroll along the Malecon, sample some of the best Cuban cuisines, or try a margarita at the Hotel Nacional.
- Better rates: December is an ideal time to head to Cuba to enjoy all the fun of the high season at a discount. As the crowd is gradually settling, this is the last chance to enjoy the country before the prices hike.
Where To Go and What To Do
There are abundant opportunities to travel across Cuba in December. The mild weather is perfect for sightseeing trips in cities like Havana or a spending day out at a beach in Varadero. For beaches, there are also more options around Playa Ancon or Cayo Coco that ensure a quieter or less-crowded coastal experience. December is ideal for water sports, scuba diving, and snorkeling to see the amazing marine life in Cuba.
Take a tour of the cities to travel back in time and get acquainted with the country's past. Go on a sightseeing tour to the Plaza de la Revolucion to learn about Che Guevara, the Hotel Nacional to explore the tunnels from the Cuban missile crisis, and Playa Giron to learn about the famous Bay of Pigs military invasion.
If time is on your side, make the most of the opportunity to go on a road trip across the island. Take detours to the beautiful Vinales in the west, Trinidad and the Bay of Pigs in the South, and Santiago de Cuba in the far east.
Cuba is at its finest during the month of December. The warm temperatures, negligible rain, and jubilant festivities make December the ideal time to visit this island country. Get in touch with our local travel experts to plan a customized trip to Cuba. For more inspiration and information, browse through our Cuba tours in December.
