Yes, December is a good time to visit Fortaleza, Brazil. It is a festive time of year, with many cultural events and activities to enjoy. The city is beautifully decorated, and there is a palpable sense of excitement in the air.
Weather In Fortaleza During December
December is the middle of summer in Fortaleza, Brazil, and the weather is typically hot and humid.
- Average Temperature: 27-29°C (80-84°F)
- Average Humidity: 80-90%
- Average Rainfall: 100-150mm (4-6 inches)
- Sunshine Hours: 6-8 hours per day
Key Features:
- High temperatures: Temperatures can reach up to 35°C (95°F) during the day.
- High humidity: The air feels sticky and uncomfortable, especially during the afternoon.
- Occasional rainfall: December is part of the rainy season, so expect occasional showers or thunderstorms.
- Strong sunlight: Sunscreen and sunglasses are essential to protect yourself from the intense UV rays.
- Trade winds: Northeasterly trade winds provide some relief from the heat and humidity.
Tips:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Wear light, loose-fitting clothing made from breathable materials.
- Seek shade during the hottest part of the day (11 AM to 3 PM).
- Use insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites.
- Enjoy the warm ocean waters for swimming and other water activities.
Things To Do In Fortaleza In December
Festivities and Celebrations Unique to December in Fortaleza:
- Réveillon (New Year’s Eve): A massive beach party on Iracema and Meireles beaches, featuring live music, fireworks, and a festive atmosphere.
- Natal Luz (Christmas Lights): A spectacular light display illuminating beaches, streets, and buildings throughout the city, creating a magical holiday ambiance.
- Missão Velha: A traditional religious pilgrimage that starts on December 1 and continues until January 6. Pilgrims walk barefoot from Fortaleza to the city of Caucaia to visit the church of Nossa Senhora dos Prazeres.
- Feira Hippie de Fortaleza: Located at Iracema Beach, this vibrant market transforms into a festive shopping experience during December, with a wide variety of local crafts, souvenirs, and live music.
Additional Activities and Attractions:
- Visit the Mercado Central: A bustling market offering a wide range of fresh produce, seafood, and local products.
- Explore the Praia de Iracema: The most famous beach in Fortaleza, known for its iconic red pontoon and waterfront promenade.
- Visit the Ponte dos Ingleses: An iconic bridge offering panoramic views of the city and the sea.
- Visit the Museum of Ceara: A cultural institution showcasing the history and art of Ceara state.
- Take a beach day trip to Morro Branco: A nearby beach famous for its white sand dunes and picturesque lagoon.
Tourism In Fortaleza, Brazil During December
Fortaleza, Brazil, experiences a vibrant and lively tourism scene during December. The city transforms into a bustling hub of activity, offering a captivating blend of local culture, festive celebrations, and thrilling entertainment options.
Strolling along the iconic Beira Mar promenade, visitors are immersed in a lively atmosphere. Beach vendors showcase their wares, enticing passersby with colorful handicrafts and souvenirs. The air fills with the rhythmic sound of live music, creating an infectious energy that permeates the streets.
Fortaleza’s renowned museums offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history and cultural heritage. The Museu do Ceará houses an impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits that recount the state’s fascinating past. For those seeking contemporary art, the Centro Cultural Dragão do Mar is a must-visit, showcasing captivating works by local and international artists.
As the sun sets, Fortaleza transforms into a nightlife paradise. The city’s many bars and nightclubs come alive, pulsating with energetic music and vibrant crowds. Revelers dance the night away, enjoying the infectious rhythms of samba, forró, and axé.
For those seeking adventure, Fortaleza offers an array of thrilling experiences. Visitors can embark on sandboarding excursions down towering dunes, or enjoy the adrenaline rush of kitesurfing along the expansive coastline.
December in Fortaleza is also a time for religious celebrations and festivities. The city’s towering cathedral, Catedral Metropolitana de Fortaleza, becomes the focal point of traditional Catholic rituals and processions. The streets are adorned with festive decorations, and the air resonates with the joyous sounds of Christmas carols.