Planning a solo vacation in winter can be exhausting, especially picking the best places to visit. But knowing the best solo travel destinations in December is the key to enjoying a perfect winter holiday.
A solo getaway for some people is a way of taking time off their busy schedules for the year. For others, it’s to make new friends and tour incredible places in the world. Whatever your reason may be, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we have compiled the 7 top destinations for solo holiday in December.
The 7 Best Solo Travel Destinations in December
From the hiking trails in Asia, and the snow-covered grounds in the Americas to the warm regions of Africa. Our solo travel recommendations will surely give you the satisfaction you desire for your winter holiday.
1. Japan
Japan in December
In terms of safety and security, Japan is one of the best solo travel destinations in December. The country is well-known for Mount Fuji – the highest mountain in the country. The active volcano is a sight to behold for travelers and also a place of pilgrimage. You can just see it from afar if you don’t want to hike it.
Then, you can head to Takayama, one of the best-preserved towns in Japan for a rural experience. You shouldn’t miss Tohoku – home to idyllic mountains and Japan’s zen temples.
Also, visit Hiroshima to learn more about the city that recovered from the atomic bomb. Head for Japan’s beach destinations – visit Kamakura, with a seaside resort and Yaeyama archipelago for a more relaxed beachside experience. For more fun, check out the snow monkeys in Nagano.
But, you can’t leave without seeing Japan’s crazy futuristic capital, Tokyo. Where tall skyscrapers meet zen temples. Walk the Nakasendo Way from Kyoto to Tokyo, where you can attend Comiket and celebrate the New Year.
Expert Tip: Japan receives numerous visitors in December, so book accommodation before your arrival. Rent a bicycle for easy access to places like Mount Fuji and rural towns.
2. New York City
Winter in New York City
New York City is truly a sight to behold in the winter. Although it is a cold winter destination, you would likely not be swamped by snow. Spend 4-5 days in New York for the perfect winter getaway.
Christmas begins early in New York, so the streets, shops, and markets will be shrouded with lights. Go ice-skating by the lights of the Rockefeller Square Christmas Tree. Visit Times Square for a New Year’s Eve ball drop. Check out Macy’s for your holiday shopping. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge or go to Central Park.
There are many places to visit in the USA in December. New York is one of our favorites.
Expert Tip: Holiday travelers throng New York City around the week of Christmas to New Year, so plan your trip early, especially accommodations.
3. India
Christmastime in India |Credit: Getty Images
You will soon discover that one of the best solo travel destinations for December is no other than India. Boasting an array of adventures with deep-rooted cultures, India should be on your bucket list of places to visit in December.
Visit the idyllic waterways of Kerala, hike the Northern Golden Triangle route, relax in Goa’s beach scenes, and get sun-tanned. Mumbai offers great culinary delights and is India’s cultural hub.
As if that’s not enough, what you’ll find in India is affordable accommodations and public transport. There are many organized group tours in December you can join. You’ll also find some of the best foods and markets in India. The hospitality of the people is unmatched and you have lush landscapes and dazzling scenes for photography.
4. Costa Rica
Solo Travel Destinations for December – Costa Rica | Credit: Fertnig
If you love nature and wildlife, then head to Costa Rica, one of the best solo destinations in Central America. It is an amazing destination for the eco-travelers. So lace up your boots and explore nature trails, from the Chirripo’s challenging peaks to the paths of Rincon de la Vieja National Park.
For wildlife adventures, you will find endemic birds and migrations of turtles and whales passing through. That’s not all! You will see four species of monkeys, pumas, and jaguars in the jungle.
Cool down at Costa Rica rivers offering thrilling water rafting experiences – from beginner-friendly to the great rapids. Engage in adrenaline-pumping water sports such as snorkeling, kayaking, surfing, and rafting. The Sarapiqui and Pacaure Rivers are known for rafting. While the coral reefs at Catalina Islands and Cahuita National Park are great for diving or snorkeling.
Pro Tip: Be careful in Costa Rica as there are some petty crimes. So avoid walking alone at night, especially around the bus stations. Also, stay away from the beach as the sun goes down.
5. Morocco
Morocco in December
For warm weather destinations in December, Morocco is a great choice. Unlike the sizzling heat of the summer months, winter in Morocco offers a milder climate, making it an excellent choice for single travelers. Another reason Morocco makes the list of our best solo travel destinations in December is the safari experience.
Visit Medina of Marrakech where you will find handwoven carpets to intricate gold works. The main square, Jemaa el-Fnaa comes alive at night with snake charmers and story-tellers enacting Morocco’s rich tradition. Lovers of art would find the beautiful cactus garden, Jardin Marjorelle appealing.
Desiring some beach experience? There’s a bar on the beach of Sidi Ifni. At sunset, locals bring in cheese and biscuits which you can nibble on while sipping on fresh Moroccan wine.
For more African travel ideas, read our post on Best Places to Visit in Africa in December.
6. Peru
December in Peru
One of the best places to spend Christmas alone is the South American region, Peru. This beautifully diverse country offers a variety of cultures, iconic spots, and even climates.
Some of the iconic spots are hiking trails such as Huacachina, the Peruvian Amazon, and the Inca Trail among others. You can also hike to the Rainbow Mountain. You will hardly be alone on these sites, as most tourists that visit end up at these places.
Pro Tip: I’ll advise you to learn a bit of Spanish as you go because most locals do not understand English. Also, exercise safety precautions while in the country.
7. Finland
Winter in Lapland, Finland
For some snow, layers, and cold weather, Finland is a perfect solo destination in December. Apart from beautiful scenery in the cold weather, Finland is one the safest places to visit in Europe for solo travel. Crime rates are very low and the people are hospitable. Also, most people speak good English, so you don’t have to learn Finnish.
Although most places in Finland are far apart, you can make use of the transport system to access different points. Visit the small towns like the Lake Area in eastern Finland and move to Mikkeli and Kuopio.
Then, head to the big cities: Helsinki and Lapland. Visit ice hotels in Lapland – Snowman World Igloo Hotel in Rovaniemi and SnowVillage in Kittila. There are several outdoor activities to keep you busy throughout your stay in Finland that will make you forget the cold. Go dogsledding, snowmobiling, gondola riding, rolling in the snow, and hiking in snowshoes.
Traveling Solo for Christmas?
I hope this guide has given you some of the top destinations for a solo holiday in December. Ensure to visit one of the incredible destinations on this list. We would love to know about your experience, kindly drop a comment about the place afterward.
Further reading – the best places to travel in December on a Budget.
