What's included on a December hiking vacation?

Accommodation every night, luggage transfers between stops, route notes and maps in our app, and 24/7 support. Flights aren't included.

Is luggage transfer included on December routes?

Yes, on our Portugal and Canary Islands routes. Our New Zealand Drive & Hikes don't include luggage transfer since you'll have your own vehicle, and New Zealand walking routes vary - see tours for details.

What countries can I hike in during December?

New Zealand is our strongest December destination, at the height of its summer. Portugal and Spain's Canary Islands are the picks for mild winter hiking in Europe.

Can I hike solo at Christmas and New Year?

Yes. Solo travelers are welcome on our December routes, though popular dates around Christmas and New Year book up early.

What grades are available in December?

Grades range from Easy to Challenging depending on the route. Each tour page shows its grade, and our Adventure Specialists can help you choose the right fit.

What gear do I need for December hiking?

Standard summer hiking kit for New Zealand - sun protection, a light waterproof and layers for cooler evenings. For Portugal and the Canary Islands, pack layers and a waterproof jacket.

Can I customize my December itinerary?

Yes – while our routes are expertly planned and fine-tuned by our team, you can add rest days, extra nights before or after, or book trips back to back. Get in touch and we’ll help you find the right fit.

4.7(317)

Hiking Vacations in December

December offers two very different ways to hike. New Zealand is at the height of its summer - long, warm days and trails at their best for a Christmas or New Year trip. Closer to home, Portugal's Atlantic coast and the Canary Islands stay mild for a winter-sun escape.

Walk the golden beaches of the Abel Tasman Coast Track or take a South Island Drive & Hike at your own pace, hike from Sintra's hilltop palaces down to Cascais, follow the Algarve's clifftops and sea caves, or swap snow for volcanic ridges on La Gomera.

20+ years of self-guided hiking expertise - Macs Adventure is a leader in self-guided travel, with hand-picked accommodation and route notes on every trip.

Queen Charlotte Sound, New Zealand
Abel Tasman Coast Track, New Zealand
La Gomera, Canary Islands

8 hand-picked routes

Portugal
4.7 (116)
Algarve Coastal Trails
Walking
7 days
Moderate
from$2,295CAD pp
View Route
Portugal
4.7 (83)
Walking Sintra to Cascais
Walking
5–7 days
Moderate
from$1,640CAD pp
View Route
Spain
4.7 (73)
Walking in La Gomera
Walking
8 days
Moderate - Challenging
from$2,440CAD pp
View Route
New Zealand
4.7 (17)
The Best of New Zealand
Walking
26 days
Moderate
from$9,175CAD pp
View Route
New Zealand
5.0 (13)
New Zealand: South Island Adventure
Walking
19 days
Moderate
from$7,570CAD pp
View Route
New Zealand
4.8 (9)
Queen Charlotte Track
Walking
4 days
Moderate
from$1,670CAD pp
View Route
New Zealand
5.0 (6)
Abel Tasman Track
Walking
4–5 days
Easy - Moderate
from$2,735CAD pp
View Route
New Zealand
Highlights of New Zealand In Style
Walking
14 days
Moderate
from$11,360CAD pp
View Route

Real photos, real stories, straight from the trail

Over 26,000 travelers strong, our community shares #MacsMoments, swaps tips and advice, and helps each other plan the perfect trip. Many connect long before they set off - and some even meet up on the trail!

I'm headed back to the states and have a mixture of emotions. So much to process. I feel like a different person!
October 2026
Camino de Santiago, Spain
Thank you Macs for the brilliant adventure! We loved all the accommodations provided
June 2026
West Highland Way, Scotland
October 2026
Hadrian's Wall Path, England
June 2026
Cotswolds to the Cornwall Coast, England
August 2026
Via Alpina, Switzerland
In fact, if you're looking for sensory magic, give this trip a try
October 2026
Walking the Dordogne in Style, France

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Where can I hike at Christmas and New Year?
New Zealand is in the middle of its summer, with trails in excellent condition. For somewhere closer, Portugal's Algarve, and La Gomera in the Canary Islands, stay mild through the holidays.
What's the weather like in December?
New Zealand runs warm, typically 65-75°F. The Canary Islands average 63-70°F, and Portugal's coast is cooler, around 55-62°F.
Is December a good time for New Zealand?
Yes - it's peak summer, with the Great Walks in excellent condition. It's also the busiest time of year there, so book well ahead.
Where will I stay in December?
Hand-picked lodges and guesthouses in New Zealand, village guesthouses on La Gomera, and coastal guesthouses and small hotels in Portugal.
How far ahead should I book a December trip?
New Zealand's Christmas-New Year period should be booked 6-9 months ahead. Portugal and Canary Islands routes can often be booked 3-4 months out.

Hiking Vacations in December