Visiting Guayaquil in December can be an excellent choice for travelers seeking cultural immersion and festivities. The city comes alive with the spirit of Christmas, offering a vibrant atmosphere and unique experiences.
During December, Guayaquil hosts numerous holiday events and activities. Visitors can witness the enchanting “Paseo de los Nacimientos,” a charming display of Nativity scenes from around the world. The streets are adorned with festive decorations, creating a magical ambiance. Additionally, the city’s iconic Malecón 2000 waterfront transforms into a lively holiday hub, featuring festive markets, live music performances, and stunning festive light displays.
Weather In Guayaquil During December
December in Guayaquil, Ecuador
Guayaquil has a tropical rainforest climate with warm temperatures year-round. December falls within the rainy season, but it is also the warmest month of the year.
Average Temperatures:
- High: 32°C (90°F)
- Low: 24°C (75°F)
Rainfall:
- Average rainfall: 150-200mm (6-8 inches)
- December is one of the rainiest months of the year. Expect afternoon or evening thunderstorms most days.
Humidity:
- Humidity is high throughout the year, averaging around 80%.
Sunshine:
- Expect 6-7 hours of sunshine per day on average.
Other Weather Conditions:
- Wind: Light to moderate winds, mostly from the southwest.
- Water temperature: Warm, around 27°C (81°F).
- Air quality: Air pollution levels can be high in Guayaquil, especially during the dry season (July-November).
Packing Tips:
- Pack light and breathable clothing as the weather is hot and humid.
- Bring a raincoat or umbrella for the rain.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as you will likely spend a lot of time exploring the city on foot.
- Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Pack insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes.
Things To Do In Guayaquil In December
Festivals and Celebrations in December in Guayaquil:
-
Paseo de las Luces (Walk of Lights): A festive parade showcasing dazzling lights, music, and floats that fill the Malecón 2000 boardwalk with holiday cheer.
-
Festival Navideño en el Parque Histórico: A Christmas festival held in the Parque Histórico de Guayaquil featuring traditional Christmas decorations, music, and culinary delights.
-
Festival de Pirotecnia (Fireworks Festival): A spectacular fireworks display takes place along the banks of the Guayas River, illuminating the city with vibrant colors.
Other Things to See and Do:
-
Visit the Malecón 2000: Stroll along this iconic waterfront promenade, adorned with colorful trees, festive displays, and panoramic views of the city and river.
-
Explore Las Peñas Historical Neighborhood: Discover the charming streets of this historic district, featuring vibrant houses, art galleries, and stunning views of the city skyline.
-
Visit the Cathedral of Guayaquil: Admire the grandeur of this Neo-Gothic cathedral, a prominent landmark in the city center.
-
Shop for Christmas Gifts: Take advantage of the festive atmosphere to browse local markets and shopping malls for unique gifts and souvenirs.
-
Indulge in Traditional Delicacies: Sample festive treats such as “pan de pascua” (Christmas bread), “natilla” (custard), and “coladas moradas” (purple corn drink) for an authentic taste of Ecuadorian Christmas.
Tourism In Guayaquil, Ecuador During December
During December, Guayaquil transforms into a vibrant and festive city, brimming with holiday spirit and cultural events. The streets are adorned with colorful decorations, and the air is filled with the sounds of traditional Christmas carols and music.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the city’s festive atmosphere by visiting the numerous Christmas markets that pop up throughout the month. These markets offer a plethora of local handicrafts, decorations, and traditional treats, providing an authentic glimpse into Ecuadorian holiday traditions.
The city’s parks and plazas come alive with holiday festivities, hosting live music performances, dance shows, and family-friendly activities. One of the most popular events is the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony in Parque Seminario, which draws thousands of locals and visitors alike.
For those seeking a more unique holiday experience, Guayaquil offers a variety of cultural attractions that showcase the city’s rich history and traditions. Visitors can explore the Museo Antropológico y de Arte Contemporáneo (MAAC), which houses an extensive collection of pre-Columbian artifacts and contemporary art, or take a leisurely stroll through the historic Las Peñas neighborhood, admiring its colorful buildings and charming cobblestone streets.
As the month draws to a close, the city gears up for the grand finale of the holiday season - New Year’s Eve. Fireworks light up the night sky, and locals and tourists gather in public spaces to celebrate the arrival of the new year with live music, dancing, and traditional Ecuadorian food.