Belo Horizonte Weather in December

December weather

December is warm, muggy and very wet in Belo Horizonte. Highs reach 27°C, but rain falls on 23 days, often interrupting afternoons. Cloud cover is common, so don't count on long, sunny stretches.

You can still explore Praça da Liberdade and the Pampulha sights between showers. Keep indoor stops such as the Mercado Central for rainy spells. Long hikes or a full day outdoors are harder to plan; wet paths and sudden downpours can spoil them. The city's comfort rating is poor this month.

Christmas and summer break

Christmas brings decorations and seasonal events around the city, while Christmas Day is a public holiday. Many shops and restaurants may close or shorten their hours, so check locally before heading out. December also marks the start of summer school holidays in Brazil.

If you hate crowds, avoid relying on a quiet city-centre Christmas week. Families are travelling, and holiday demand can make flights and hotels cost more than in the calmer May-to-August period. It's still a useful time to visit if you're meeting family or want a festive city break, but expect less routine and more rain.

Make rainy days work

Travelling with kids? Save Mercado Central for a wet afternoon. You can browse its food stalls and try pão de queijo, the local cheese bread, without needing a sunny day.

For a clearer outing, head to Pampulha when the skies look settled. The lakeside sights, including the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi, are best enjoyed without a downpour. If rain sets in, switch plans rather than pushing on: December is wetter than November, and even January stays rainy. You'll get more from the city by keeping your sightseeing flexible.