Weather Comparison
Rio de Janeiro vs Sao Paulo
Side-by-side weather comparison for December
December Weather: Rio de Janeiro vs Sao Paulo
| Metric | Rio de Janeiro | Sao Paulo | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average HighHigher is warmer | 30°C (86°F)▲ | 26°C (79°F) | Rio de Janeiro |
| Average LowHigher is milder | 23°C (73°F)▲ | 18°C (64°F) | Rio de Janeiro |
| Rain DaysFewer is drier | 20 days | 20 days | Tie |
| PrecipitationLess is drier | 226 mm | 168 mm▲ | Sao Paulo |
| Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier | 10h/day | 10h/day | Tie |
| HumidityLower is more comfortable | 78% | 78% | Tie |
| UV IndexLower is safer | 9 | 9 | Tie |
| Wind SpeedCalmer is better | 12 km/h▲ | 18 km/h | Rio de Janeiro |
Which City is Better in December?
Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Sao Paulo edges ahead as the better destination in December. Sao Paulo offers 10 hours of daily sunshine with only 20 rain days, while Rio de Janeiro sees 10 sunshine hours and 20 rain days.
Rio de Janeiro can feel quite hot at 30°C, so plan for heat. Sao Paulo is also comfortable at 26°C.
For travelers who prioritize dry weather, both cities are equally dry in December.
Temperature Comparison in December
Rio de Janeiro reaches an average high of 30°C (86°F) and drops to 23°C (73°F) at night during December. The daily temperature range is 7°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.
Sao Paulo averages 26°C (79°F) for the high and 18°C (64°F) for the low, with a daily range of 8°C. The 4°C difference is noticeable but not dramatic.
Both cities are in the Southern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in December.
Rainfall Comparison in December
Rio de Janeiro receives approximately 226 mm of rainfall across 20 rain days during December. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.
Sao Paulo sees 168 mm over 20 rain days. Both cities are equally rainy this month.
Both cities share similar humidity levels at 78%.
What to Pack: Rio de Janeiro vs Sao Paulo
Packing for Rio de Janeiro in December
Highs of 30°C, lows of 23°C, 20 rain days
- ✓lightweight breathable clothing
- ✓sunscreen SPF 50+
- ✓sunglasses
- ✓a wide-brimmed hat
- ✓waterproof jacket
- ✓compact umbrella
- ✓waterproof shoes
- ✓moisture-wicking fabrics
Packing for Sao Paulo in December
Highs of 26°C, lows of 18°C, 20 rain days
- ✓light layers
- ✓a light jacket for evenings
- ✓sunscreen
- ✓waterproof jacket
- ✓compact umbrella
- ✓waterproof shoes
- ✓moisture-wicking fabrics
Pack for both: waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes, moisture-wicking fabrics. These items are useful in either destination during December.
Year-Round Comparison: Rio de Janeiro vs Sao Paulo
The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.December is highlighted for quick reference.
| Month | Rio de Janeiro | Sao Paulo | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | Rain | High | Rain | |
| Jan | 31°C | 20d | 26°C | 23d |
| Feb | 31°C | 17d | 27°C | 20d |
| Mar | 30°C | 21d | 26°C | 20d |
| Apr | 28°C | 14d | 24°C | 10d |
| May | 26°C | 11d | 22°C | 8d |
| Jun | 25°C | 7d | 22°C | 5d |
| Jul | 25°C | 7d | 22°C | 5d |
| Aug | 26°C | 8d | 23°C | 5d |
| Sep | 27°C | 11d | 24°C | 10d |
| Oct | 28°C | 14d | 25°C | 14d |
| Nov | 28°C | 19d | 25°C | 16d |
| Dec | 30°C | 20d | 26°C | 20d |
Rio de Janeiro Weather in December
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities
Sao Paulo Weather in December
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities