Complete travel information for your December journey
Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is the busiest airport in the world by passenger traffic and a major connecting hub for flights to Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) in Puerto Vallarta. In December, travelers from Atlanta, Savannah, Charleston, Nashville, and Orlando should prepare for heavier crowds, earlier arrival times, and potential weather-related delays. Use MARTA or reserve parking in advance, enroll in TSA PreCheck to reduce security wait times, and monitor airline notifications for any schedule changes. For December deals, search ATL to PVR flights early, compare nonstop and one-stop itineraries, and consider flexible dates around Christmas and New Year’s Eve to find the best fares. Book now to lock in competitive ATL to PVR fares and ensure holiday travel plans go smoothly.
Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is accessible by MARTA rail (Airport Station on the Gold/Red lines), airport shuttles, ride-hails, and major highways I-75/I-85. In December expect heavier traffic and holiday shuttle demand, so allow at least 90–120 minutes from downtown Atlanta, Savannah, or nearby suburbs during peak holiday hours. Book airport parking or reserve a ride in advance to avoid delays and ensure a smooth start to your ATL to PVR journey.
Yes — December is one of the busiest travel months at Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) because of Christmas and New Year travel. Expect longer security lines, more checked baggage, and higher likelihood of weather-related delays, especially if cold fronts or winter storms affect the Southeast. To minimize disruption, check your flight status frequently, enroll in airline alerts, and arrive early to clear TSA and holiday crowds.
For domestic departures and international flights from Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), plan 2–3 hours for check-in and TSA screening in December due to increased holiday passenger volumes. If you're flying internationally to Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR), arrive at least 2.5 hours early to allow time for passport checks and potential airline international check-in counters. Use online check-in, clear your mobile boarding pass, and consider TSA PreCheck to speed the process.
Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) offers hourly, daily, and reserveable long-term parking with shuttle service; the ATL airport cell phone lot and on-site economy lots fill up quickly in December. Reserve parking online in advance to secure a spot near the terminal during the holiday surge. Consider off-airport private lots with scheduled shuttles for cheaper, reliable long-term parking during peak travel periods.
Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) serves travelers from Atlanta, Savannah, Charleston, Nashville, and Orlando who commonly connect to international flights like Atlanta to Puerto Vallarta (PVR). Major highways and intercity rail/coach services make ATL a regional hub for Southeastern United States travel. Use ATL as your connecting gateway to access the best December flight options to PVR and surrounding Mexican Pacific destinations.
Traveling from Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) to Mexico requires a valid passport and compliance with airline and Mexican immigration rules; there are no additional visa requirements for many U.S. citizens for short tourism stays, but check Mexico's entry rules before travel. In December, ensure you have passport validity of at least six months if your airline recommends it, keep print and digital copies of travel documents, and monitor any seasonal policy updates from the airline and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Arriving at Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) in December places you right at the beginning of Puerto Vallarta’s high season. With clear skies, balmy days, and holiday events, PVR handles a large increase in international arrivals from hubs like Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). Pre-book transfers to Sayulita, Punta Mita, and downtown Puerto Vallarta to avoid waits, and confirm pickup details with your hotel during the Christmas and New Year peak. For weather-sensitive activities like whale-watching and beach days, December offers excellent conditions—search and book ATL to PVR flights early to secure your preferred nonstop or one-stop itinerary for the holidays.
Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) in Puerto Vallarta experiences the start of its dry, high-season climate in December with warm, sunny days and comfortable evenings. Expect efficient immigration and customs processes, but increases in passenger volume during the holiday season can lengthen lines—plan extra time for baggage claim and transfers. Pre-book ground transfers or confirm resort shuttle pickups to avoid delays after arrival.
From Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR), travelers can take authorized airport taxis, shared shuttles, private transfers, or rental cars to Sayulita, Punta Mita, Tepic, Guadalajara, and Mexico City. December is a popular month, so book private transfers or reputable shuttle services in advance to secure preferred times and competitive rates. For more budget options, shared vans are available but may have longer wait and travel times.
December in Puerto Vallarta features festive holiday markets, Christmas and Posada celebrations, and New Year’s Eve beachfront fireworks. Notable seasonal activities include Las Posadas reenactments in mid-December, the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe (December 12), and lively Malecon festivities that attract both international visitors and residents. These events increase local demand for hotels and transfers—book tours and airport shuttles early when traveling from Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) to Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR). Take advantage of December’s cultural offerings but plan logistics in advance to avoid sold-out activities.
For December travel from Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) to Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR), the best time to fly is early December or the first half of the month and on weekdays (Tuesday–Thursday) to avoid Christmas and New Year peak pricing. If your schedule is fixed around December holidays, consider departing a few days before the major holiday and returning a few days after to lower fares. Flights that depart early morning or late evening often have fewer delays and can provide more consistent connections through major hubs. Search ATL to PVR flights with flexible date tools to compare prices across the month.
Nonstop flights (when available) between Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) provide the fastest door-to-door experience and lower the risk of missed connections during busy December travel. However, nonstop seats are often limited and priced at a premium. Connecting itineraries via Dallas, Houston, or Mexico City increase schedule options and can significantly reduce costs. For December travel, weigh the convenience of nonstop ATL to PVR flights against potential savings: if you value beach time and fewer logistical steps, book nonstop early; if flexibility and price are priorities, choose a one-stop route.
Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, United Airlines, and Aeromexico commonly serve routes between Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) with varying schedules and connection hubs. Delta leverages ATL’s hub for competitive one-stop routing; American often routes via DFW or MIA; United may connect via IAH or DEN; Aeromexico frequently offers connections via Mexico City with competitive fares. For December travel, compare baggage allowances, change policies, and potential overnight connections. If you prioritize nonstop convenience, book early with carriers offering seasonal direct service; if price is key, evaluate one-stop itineraries and sign up for fare alerts to capture sales for ATL to PVR flights.
Prepare for peak-season travel when flying from Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) to Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) in December by packing lighter for warm Puerto Vallarta days and a jacket for cooler evenings. Protect your holiday plans with travel insurance covering cancellations and weather disruptions, and check baggage allowances as airlines are strict during high-volume travel. Arrive early at ATL to navigate holiday crowds, confirm PVR transfer bookings, and carry printed/digital copies of reservation details. CTA: Book ATL to PVR flights and transfers now to secure the best December itineraries and rates.
Typical total travel time from Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) to Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) in December ranges from approximately 6.5 hours (faster one-stop routing) to 10+ hours for longer connections. Nonstop services between ATL and PVR may be seasonal and limited; most travelers route via hubs such as Dallas–Fort Worth, Houston, or Mexico City. Check early-morning and late-evening connections to avoid heavy holiday crowds at ATL and to maximize beach time in Puerto Vallarta. Always confirm current departure times and connection windows before booking ATL to PVR flights in December.
To find cheap flights from Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) to Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) in December, book as early as possible—ideally 60–90 days before peak holiday travel. Use fare alerts, set flexible date searches around mid-week departures, and compare one-stop itineraries via hubs like Dallas, Houston, or Mexico City. Consider bundled package deals (flight + hotel) and look for last-minute charter or seasonal direct services that sometimes appear for the December high season. Use primary keywords when searching (e.g., “ATL to PVR December cheap flights”) and check both major carriers and low-cost Mexican carriers for competitive rates. CTA: Compare ATL to PVR fares now and sign up for price alerts to capture limited December deals.
As of December, Mexico typically has few entry health restrictions, but travelers should verify the latest health advisories before departure for Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR). Carry vaccination documentation if required by airlines or for re-entry to the United States, and consult both airline guidance and official Mexican health ministry updates for any short-notice changes. It's also wise to have travel insurance covering health and trip interruption during busy holiday travel.
December in Puerto Vallarta (PVR) marks the start of the dry season with daytime highs around 27–30°C (80–86°F) and cooler nights near 18–22°C (64–72°F). Pack lightweight breathable clothing for daytime, a light jacket for evenings, reef-safe sunscreen, and comfortable shoes for exploring coastal towns like Sayulita and Punta Mita. If you plan holiday dining or evening events, include smart-casual options for restaurants and New Year’s festivities.
Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) serves Puerto Vallarta and provides access to nearby destinations such as Sayulita, Punta Mita, Guadalajara, Tepic, and Mexico City for onward travel. In December you can enjoy the Malecon boardwalk, whale-watching excursions, Christmas markets, and vibrant New Year’s celebrations. Use PVR as your gateway to Pacific Mexico’s beaches and cultural hubs and book tours early to secure spots during the busy holiday season.
Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) offers currency exchange counters and ATMs, though rates are often better in town or via local banks. In December, lines may be longer—consider exchanging a small amount at the airport for immediate expenses and using ATMs or reputable exchange services in Puerto Vallarta for better rates. Inform your bank of travel to Mexico and carry a mixture of cash and card for convenience.