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Weather Comparison

Rio de Janeiro vs Sao Paulo

Side-by-side weather comparison for December

Rio de Janeiro: 30°CSao Paulo: 26°C361 km apart

December Weather: Rio de Janeiro vs Sao Paulo

MetricRio de JaneiroSao PauloBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer30°C (86°F)26°C (79°F)Rio de Janeiro
Average LowHigher is milder23°C (73°F)18°C (64°F)Rio de Janeiro
Rain DaysFewer is drier20 days20 daysTie
PrecipitationLess is drier226 mm168 mmSao Paulo
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier10h/day10h/dayTie
HumidityLower is more comfortable78%78%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer99Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better12 km/h18 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.

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.

MonthRio de JaneiroSao Paulo
HighRainHighRain
Jan31°C20d26°C23d
Feb31°C17d27°C20d
Mar30°C21d26°C20d
Apr28°C14d24°C10d
May26°C11d22°C8d
Jun25°C7d22°C5d
Jul25°C7d22°C5d
Aug26°C8d23°C5d
Sep27°C11d24°C10d
Oct28°C14d25°C14d
Nov28°C19d25°C16d
Dec30°C20d26°C20d
30°

Rio de Janeiro Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

26°

Sao Paulo Weather in December

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Rio de Janeiro warmer than Sao Paulo in December?
Yes. 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, Rio de Janeiro or Sao Paulo?
Both cities average 20 rain days in December with similar precipitation levels.
Is it better to visit Rio de Janeiro or Sao Paulo in December?
It depends on your preferences. Rio de Janeiro averages 30°C and 10 hours of daily sunshine with 20 rain days. Sao Paulo averages 26°C with 10 sunshine hours and 20 rain days. If you prefer warmer weather, choose Rio de Janeiro. For fewer rain days, both are equal.
How far apart are Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo?
Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo are approximately 361 km (224 miles) apart. Rio de Janeiro is located in Brazil (South America) while Sao Paulo is in Brazil (South America).
What is the best month to visit Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo?
For Rio de Janeiro, April tends to be the best month with 10 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 28°C. For Sao Paulo, February is typically ideal with 10 sunshine hours and 27°C highs.

Compare Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo 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.

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