Unlike most places you might visit in December, Rio de Janeiro offers a wide variety of warm weather activities for any visitor. Located in the southern hemisphere, it has summer during the northern hemisphere's winter; so, you can visit Rio de Janeiro in your winter and enjoy a hot, sizzling summer. Take a break from the cold rain and icy snow and make sure you tackle these winter things to do in Rio de Janeiro:

1. Go to the Beach

While your friends at home struggle to stay warm in their cold cubicles, you can enjoy the luxury of sitting on a hot, sweeping, white-sand beach with a cool drink in your hand. With a handful of great beaches to choose from, you're sure to find the beach that suits you best. Of all the winter things to do in Rio de Janeiro, going to the beach is one of the top of most people's lists. The area's warm climate allows people to enjoy beaches year round. So even on a cooler day, the beach is a perfect getaway.

Arguably one of the best beaches in the world, Copacabana is the most famous of all beaches in Rio de Janeiro. With over 4 kilometers of spotless, white, open sand, it provides a great space for sunbathing, volleyball, water sports, partying, and futevolei (foot volleyball). You'll like Copacabana if you want a centralized place with a lot of beauty and action. Along the 4-km beach, you'll find a variety of well-priced accommodations with great views of the ocean and active beach below.

A little way along the coast from Copacabana, you'll find Ipanema, a more-relaxed, smaller beach with gorgeous soft, white sand. Preferred among families, Ipanema tends to be quieter and more peaceful. The crystal clear blue water also makes it a favorite among swimmers. Of all the winter things to do in Rio de Janeiro, going to the beach is by far the most relaxing!

2. Take a Walk through the Botanical Gardens

For more than 200 years, the Botanical Gardens have allowed locals to step out of the hectic life of the city for a while, breathe fresh air, and enjoy a variety of flora and fauna. Even if you don't tend to revel at the sight of beautiful flowers and lush forests, you'll be stunned by all that the Botanical Gardens in Rio de Janiero have to offer. Explore large palm groves with multiple species of palm trees in different phases of development. Wander through the Sensorial Garden, where you can close your eyes and experience the garden through other senses. Also be sure to stop by the Orquidário (Orchidarium), which has dozens of colors of orchids on display. There's also a great cactus garden, if you want to experience a drier climate.

If you love animals, be sure to walk the Mata Atlântica trail in the Botanical Gardens. You'll see a bunch of monkeys eating jackfruit. Who would have thought that of all the winter things to do in Rio de Janeiro, you'd end up watching snacking monkeys in a lush garden? Be sure to bring your camera because you'll want to remember this.

3. Rent a bike

Boasting 74 kilometers of bike trails, Rio de Janeiro is the perfect place to rent a bike and explore the city. You'll love the exercise, and biking is a unique way to sightsee. Of all the winter things to do in Rio de Janeiro, biking can be the most challenging, but it doesn't have to be. Every level of cyclist has a place to ride in Rio de Janiero.

For an easier ride, cycle around the Lagoa. You'll see the beautiful white sand beaches, great views and a different perspective of the city. Bring water and a picnic and make it a great day activity.

For a more difficult ride, head up Chinese Road in Tijuca Forest. You'll enjoy the challenge and the reward of beautiful views. On a hot day, be sure to drink and eat enough. Winter things to do in Rio de Janeiro can get quite hot!

Like most places in Rio de Janeiro, you'll want to watch over your belongings. Don't show flashy jewelry or cameras while biking, and be sure to lock your bike well without any belongings. If you rent a bike, you can also rent a lock at a good price.