Uruguay in December: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect
Climate Map for December
Average temperature across Uruguay in December.
City Weather in December
| City | High | Low | Rain | UV | Feels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montevideo | 26° | 16° | 66 mm | extreme | Mild |
| Salto, Uruguay | 31° | 18° | 126 mm | extreme | Warm |
| Paysandú | 30° | 17° | 106 mm | extreme | Mild |
| Las Piedras, Uruguay | 27° | 15° | 76 mm | extreme | Mild |
| Rivera | 30° | 17° | 120 mm | extreme | Mild |
| Maldonado, Uruguay | 25° | 16° | 70 mm | extreme | Mild |
| Tacuarembó | 30° | 17° | 100 mm | extreme | Mild |
High / low are average daily temperatures (°C). “Feels” reflects how hot or cold it feels, allowing for humidity.
Montevideo & Río de la Plata Coast
Early summer heat returns in December and Montevideo hums with activity ahead of the holidays: daytime highs are regularly in the mid-to-high 20s°C with humid spells possible. The Rambla and Playa Ramírez are popular for sunset walks, and outdoor markets keep late hours; expect larger crowds and higher accommodation prices over the season. Include swimwear and a versatile layer for cooler nights along the river.
Punta del Este & Maldonado Coast
December returns the full energy of the season as holidaymakers arrive and daytime temperatures climb into the mid-to-high 20s°C. New Year’s parties and beach activity ramp up, with marine conditions typically calmer than the midwinter storms. Reserve accommodation and restaurants early and pack both your swimsuit and a light layer for breezy evenings along the peninsula.
Rocha Coast, Nature Reserves & Cabo Polonio
December jumps into full summer with hot days and lively beach culture across Rocha; expect festival atmospheres at popular spots and busy coastal roads. Daytime highs can be in the upper 20s°C with humid spells and occasional short storms. Advance bookings for accommodation are wise for holiday weekends, and a sun hat, reef-friendly sunscreen and reusable water bottle are travel essentials.
Southwest: Colonia, Carmelo & Río de la Plata Estuary
December returns heat and activity, with ferry traffic increasing and Carmelo’s bodegas offering more public events during the lead-in to summer. Daytime temperatures commonly reach the mid-20s°C and the riverfront fills with locals and visitors taking advantage of longer evenings. If you plan to cross to Buenos Aires, book ferries early for holiday weekends.
Interior Plains & Northwest (Salto, Paysandú, Tacuarembó)
By December summer warmth returns with a rise in outdoor events, markets and river recreation across the interior; daytime highs often sit in the high 20s°C. Holiday travel grows, and local tourist services absorb more visitors, so book ahead for popular estancia and thermal resorts. Afternoon storms remain possible, so an umbrella or packable rain jacket is still useful.