December brings great changes to the African continent in terms of weather and atmosphere. Two types of weather make the month suitable for two safari types. This month sees vibrant colors and lively energy throughout the African wilderness.
East Africa: Short Rains and Green Savannahs:
In East Africa, December witnesses the beginning of the short rains. The rainfalls are usually light and last a short while before stopping. As a result, the weather is sunny, dry, and fresh.
Although the thick vegetation makes it hard to see some animals, there are advantages to the climate. For example, December is a fantastic month for bird watchers.
Many migratory birds come from Europe and North Africa to visit the region. In addition, many herbivores give birth during this period.
Consequently, there are numerous chances of seeing predator and prey interactions as predators hunt their young.
Southern Africa: The Pinnacle of Summer
In more southern areas, December marks the height of summer with its sunny, warm weather.
It is quite warm and hot enough to warrant taking an early morning or late afternoon game drive.
The landscape becomes bushy and golden. In addition, the heat may cause wildlife to cluster around watering holes for better chances of sighting wildlife.
The Festive Season Peak and Paradise Along the Coastal Beaches
Since the month of December falls within the festive season, there will be peak travel during this month.
Due to its warm climate, it provides the perfect opportunity to experience both the dusty safari and relaxing on the beach.
For the latter, the best spots are the Indian Ocean islands and the East African coast. Expect blue seas and sunbathing opportunities in the region.
Although crowded during the month, the festive mood and the abundance of wildlife make it very rewarding.
African Safaris and Holidays in December
- East African Weather: Known for “short rains,” brief, refreshing rainfall resulting in clear skies and a lush green environment.
- Southern African Weather: Summer season at its peak, marked by warm temperatures that make dawn and dusk game drives the most suitable time.
- Wildlife: Excellent time for birdwatching due to the presence of migratory birds and predators in higher numbers, as the herbivores have their breeding season.
- Wildlife Sighting Opportunities: Dense foliage makes the east scenic, while heat attracts animals to the watering holes, making sighting easy in the south.
- Holiday Travel: High season where one can enjoy both inland safaris and tropical beaches on the Indian Ocean.
- Overall Environment: Exciting and vibrant with plenty of action in the wildlife scenes despite the crowds during holiday travel.
The month of December brings about change across the whole continent, providing many possibilities for wildlife lovers.
The East African region boasts a green and vibrant environment thanks to the start of the short rains.
Known as the “Green Season,” it is an opportunity to view the great herds of the Serengeti plains and a perfect time for gorilla tracking in Bwindi, Uganda.
For southern Africa, it marks the midst of summer with lush surroundings.
Renowned game parks such as Kruger, Etosha, and the Okavango Delta have abundant greenery thanks to their revitalized water sources.
With vegetation being denser, it offers a fascinating stage for many newborns and migratory birds. Tourists should be prepared for warm and sunny weather, but still cautious about tropical rain showers.
For South Africa, while the northern part experiences a tropical climate, the western regions experience lovely dry summers.
For Zambia, the Victoria Falls start the season of greater water volumes.
Kenya Safaris in December
December is one of the best months for safaris in Kenya because the green color of vegetation returns after the rains of December.
The dusty roads are now free of dust, the air is clear, and it is perfect for taking photographs. Although there is plenty of water, the attraction of the “Big Five” will continue in the plains.
Overall, weather conditions are warm and sunny, but it would be advisable to carry some rain gear as light showers happen.
The main feature of December lies in its migratory birds and newborn herbivorous animals that appear during this time.
Most popular places in the Maasai Mara and other reserves become fully booked due to festive holidays, but you can always take advantage of walking safaris along fresh tracks and visiting the coast during its peak holiday period.
Tanzania Safaris in December
The month of December is definitely one of the best times to visit Tanzania.
The weather conditions are quite warm with an average temperature of 20°C to 28°C. This beautiful environment makes it easy to spot the “Big Five.”
The Southern Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater will make great places to visit in the month of December as the migration begins to graze on the short-grass plains in preparation for the calving season.
In the Tarangire National Park, the river that is now full attracts many different animals, while the Ngorongoro Crater provides a home to the animals all year round.
Since it is a popular time of the year to visit, it may not always be an ideal choice to visit the north circuit parks; a better option would be to visit the south parks, such as Ruaha National Park.
Uganda Safaris in December
December is a perfect time to visit Uganda due to its occurrence during the second dry season in the area.
This allows easier travel in the thick jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park when following the rare mountain gorillas.
Due to the excellent weather, treks to view the endangered gorillas require planning for permit bookings as they become hard to come by during this time.
Another benefit of the dry periods is that elephants and buffalo migrate near the Kazinga Channel and the Nile River.
For tourists, visiting Queen Elizabeth National Park will present a chance to spot the renowned tree-climbing lions of Ishasha.
In addition, it is an exciting period for bird watching with the arrival of migratory birds.
South Africa Safaris in December
During December, one enjoys two seasons. Whereas the northern area, such as Kruger National Park, is experiencing the sub-tropical rainy season, December is the time when the Western and Northern Capes enjoy the best of their dry summer season.
For the northern side, the abundance of green foliage and the full water holes make this a perfect place for photography with an abundance of newborn wildlife.
For the western side, however, December is an amazing time with the presence of blue sky and warm climate for the beaches.
Even though the wildflowers in the interior areas have faded out by now, wildlife is abundant in the coastal waters.
Travelers can expect to find different climatic conditions: the northern part is humid and hot with a temperature of up to 30°C or 86°F, whereas the southwestern part of the country enjoys sunshine and dry conditions.
Botswana Safaris in December
The month of December is one where everything comes in abundance in Botswana because of the summer rains that make the dry areas green and abundant with flora and fauna.
In Chobe and Linyanti, the availability of water makes the wild animals spread out, thus providing a better viewing experience of the wild.
In the Okavango Delta, the rainfall within the region begins to fill the water pans, leading to a “Green Season” where there is a lot of birdlife and antelopes that give birth during this period.
The predators, like the lions and leopards, become very active during this time due to the presence of plenty of prey.
Though December is considered the “low season,” it is still much sought after by the festive season travelers.
The average temperatures range from 20°C to 32°C, with brief thunderstorms clearing up for sunny skies.
Namibia Safaris in December
Namibia’s December climate is hot and sunny, with large spaces for the sun to shine brightly.
Though there might be some rain during the summer season, the dry vegetation in Etosha National Park makes it easy to enjoy some quality game viewing at the various waterholes where many animals gather.
This time of the year is ideal for visiting the coastal regions, where you can spend your days cooling down from the desert heat in the town of Swakopmund.
The early morning sun shining in the Sossusvlei dunes presents photographic opportunities similar to what a professional photographer would find desirable.
The tracking of the desert-adapted elephants of Hoanib and meeting with the Himba community is possible.
Considering that December is the peak holiday season for locals and foreigners alike, one needs to book their accommodation well in advance.
Zambia Safaris in December
In December, Zambia enters the midst of “Emerald Season,” a period known for having amazing skies and a wave of green throughout the bush.
With the rain rejuvenating the land and the wildlife migrations changing, the area becomes very photo-worthy.
Although some remote camps close down, several permanent camps throughout South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi National Park offer exclusive green season safaris.
It is a fantastic month for boat rides to observe the hippos and elephants living amid the new scenery.
If visiting Victoria Falls, then December is when water levels will start rising.
The spray will become more visible, with the rock formations surrounding it framed by the water that has come back into the Zambezi River.
Zimbabwe Safaris in December
The period of December is one of abundance for wildlife in Zimbabwe.
With the summer rain showers, there is a guaranteed rate of sightings of wildlife near permanent water sources despite the long grass.
This is indeed an amazing time for people who have an interest in the famous “Big Five” animals and the various species of birds that migrate to Zimbabwe during the season.
Canoe safaris on the Zambezi River in Mana Pools make for an ideal and tropical experience during this period.
It’s a great time for capturing stunning photographs in Victoria Falls as the month experiences good weather with rising water levels, thus allowing one to witness the spectacular force of the falls minus the mist.
It’s sunny throughout the day and rains during the night, providing much-needed relief from the heat.
Tourists should note that this month has quite a few visitors and, therefore, booking accommodations well in advance is highly recommended.
Zanzibar Island Beach Holidays in December
December is undoubtedly the best time to visit the Zanzibar coast.
The “short rains” are normally short-lived, and there will be ample time to enjoy some sunbathing, with average temperatures ranging from 26°C to 30°C.
The sea is smooth and transparent, ideal conditions for snorkeling and diving at the Mnemba Atoll.
The north coastline of Nungwi and Kendwa is especially favored by those who love deep-sea diving and the festive spirit of the region.
To the south-east, Paje retains its reputation as the center for kite surfing activities.
If you do not want to spend your time on the beach, then the pleasant weather can also be enjoyed during trips to the local spice farms or the historical sites of Stone Town.
December in Africa is a month full of change as it marks the peak of the “Emerald Season.”
With the rain pouring down on the savannas, the parched landscape during the dry months transforms into a lush, verdant ground covered with grass.
This time of year is especially fascinating in East Africa since it heralds the start of the calving season, where thousands of wildebeests and zebras give birth to their young, bringing along with them the big cats, including lions and leopards.
The best part about this experience is getting to observe nature in its true form while enjoying excellent weather conditions, with clean and crisp air ideal for taking professional photos.
The southern Africa region has its own unique summer season, which is just as exciting as elsewhere. In South Africa, for example, the Kruger National Park and premium game reserves such as Sabi Sands and Thornybush become filled with heat.
It is during this season that everything flourishes, and the lushness of the bush becomes a haven for wildlife and a paradise for rare birds.
While the Green Season is not ideal for tourists looking for a more luxurious environment free from malaria and other diseases common to a tropical climate, Madikwe Game Reserve continues to be one of the best options for a malaria-free adventure.
For the thrill-seeking tourist, December offers the best opportunity to experience primate tourism in Rwanda and Uganda.
Being the middle of the second dry season, it becomes easier for travelers to traverse the difficult terrains of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Volcanoes National Park.
Low rainfall means that it is possible to have drier forest floors, hence ensuring safe passage for tourists looking to embark on the adventure of their lives through gorilla tracking.
In the lower parts of Queen Elizabeth National Park and Kibale, it will be easy to view wildlife around water sources such as the Kazinga Channel.
Lastly, the Okavango Delta of Botswana provides an exclusive “secret season” during the month of December.
As the rain starts to fall and animals scatter from their regular watering holes, the delta becomes a haven for wildlife and vegetation.
This is the best period for people who are seeking solitude and affordability, since most of the high-end camps have reduced prices during this season.
The landscape is breathtaking, with vivid flowers blooming and the skies echoing the sounds of migratory birds.
If you are boating through the delta or traversing the salt flats of the Kalahari, then a safari in December will provide you with an exclusive experience.
Highlight of the best places to visit for safaris in December
- Tanzania (Serengeti and Ngorongoro): The Wildebeest Migration moves to the southern Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Areas, where the calving season begins.
- Kenya (Masai Mara and Amboseli): The birds migrate during this month, which is great for birding in lush environments. The Masai Mara features great views of the migrating wildebeests from a safe distance. Amboseli National Park allows visitors to see amazing landscapes of Mt. Kilimanjaro against the backdrop of herds of elephants.
- South Africa (Kruger National Park and Private Reserves): Hot weather results in green landscapes, perfect for birding and watching calves. Some recommended private reserves include Sabi Sands and Madikwe.
- Botswana (Okavango Delta): This is the rainy season; however, the green season offers amazing views, lush environment, good birding, and lower rates due to scattered animals.
- Rwanda/Uganda: Drier conditions make it an appropriate time for gorilla trekking at Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
