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Weather Comparison

Sao Paulo vs Rio de Janeiro

Side-by-side weather comparison for December

Sao Paulo: 26°CRio de Janeiro: 30°C361 km apart

December Weather: Sao Paulo vs Rio de Janeiro

MetricSao PauloRio de JaneiroBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer26°C (79°F)30°C (86°F)Rio de Janeiro
Average LowHigher is milder18°C (64°F)23°C (73°F)Rio de Janeiro
Rain DaysFewer is drier20 days20 daysTie
PrecipitationLess is drier168 mm226 mmSao Paulo
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier10h/day10h/dayTie
HumidityLower is more comfortable78%78%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer99Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better18 km/h12 km/hRio 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.

Sao Paulo sits in the comfortable travel range at 26°C. Rio de Janeiro runs hot at 30°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, both cities are equally dry in December.

Temperature Comparison in December

Sao Paulo reaches an average high of 26°C (79°F) and drops to 18°C (64°F) at night during December. The daily temperature range is 8°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

Rio de Janeiro averages 30°C (86°F) for the high and 23°C (73°F) for the low, with a daily range of 7°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

Sao Paulo receives approximately 168 mm of rainfall across 20 rain days during December. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.

Rio de Janeiro sees 226 mm over 20 rain days. Both cities are equally rainy this month.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 78%.

What to Pack: Sao Paulo vs Rio de Janeiro

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

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

Pack for both: waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes, moisture-wicking fabrics. These items are useful in either destination during December.

Year-Round Comparison: Sao Paulo vs Rio de Janeiro

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.

MonthSao PauloRio de Janeiro
HighRainHighRain
Jan26°C23d31°C20d
Feb27°C20d31°C17d
Mar26°C20d30°C21d
Apr24°C10d28°C14d
May22°C8d26°C11d
Jun22°C5d25°C7d
Jul22°C5d25°C7d
Aug23°C5d26°C8d
Sep24°C10d27°C11d
Oct25°C14d28°C14d
Nov25°C16d28°C19d
Dec26°C20d30°C20d
26°

Sao Paulo Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

30°

Rio de Janeiro Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Sao Paulo warmer than Rio de Janeiro in December?
No. In December, Rio de Janeiro is warmer with an average high of 30°C (86°F) compared to Sao Paulo at 26°C (79°F), a difference of 4°C.
Which city gets more rain in December, Sao Paulo or Rio de Janeiro?
Both cities average 20 rain days in December with similar precipitation levels.
Is it better to visit Sao Paulo or Rio de Janeiro in December?
It depends on your preferences. Sao Paulo averages 26°C and 10 hours of daily sunshine with 20 rain days. Rio de Janeiro averages 30°C with 10 sunshine hours and 20 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Rio de Janeiro. For fewer rain days, both are equal.
How far apart are Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro?
Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro are approximately 361 km (224 miles) apart. Sao Paulo is located in Brazil (South America) while Rio de Janeiro is in Brazil (South America).
What is the best month to visit Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro?
For Sao Paulo, February tends to be the best month with 10 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 27°C. For Rio de Janeiro, April is typically ideal with 10 sunshine hours and 28°C highs.

Compare Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

Sao Paulo coordinates: -23.55°N, -46.63°E | Rio de Janeiro coordinates: -22.91°N, -43.17°E