Tanzania Safari in December
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Tanzania in December
While at the coast, the weather is fantastic from mid-December on-wards, making it an ideal destination for a tropical Christmas break. Trekking Kilimanjaro can be challenging due to cold weather and slippery paths, but with fewer trekkers, it’s an excellent option for some. Take advantage of lower prices early in month and combine a safari with a beach retreat for a dream December holiday
December is a great time to visit Tanzania. As it is the shoulder season, you can enjoy fewer visitors, warm temperatures, and drier weather as the short rains that start in November begin to subside. The stunning green landscapes with dramatic skies and warm light make Tanzania in December a dream destination for landscape photographers. Spot the Big Five and much more during a safari to UNESCO – grade parks like Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti National Park.
December in Tanzania is such a festive time! Even though the rainy season is in full swing, it’s still a great time for a safari adventure. While some wildlife might be a bit harder to spot because it’s spread out, there are still plenty of exciting opportunities, especially for birdwatching. So, if you’re up for a little scouting, grab your binoculars and get ready for a wonderful experience!
A holiday in Tanzania is incredibly eventful as there are many parks to choose from with each having its own unique offerings. Some parks you can visit this month are Mahale National Park, which brings scenic waterfalls; Ruaha National Park, which offers spectacular birding; and Tarangire National Park, which brings amazing scenery in January.
Tanzania Weather in December
As Tanzania is a country with a tropical climate, it doesn’t experience a summer and winter. This means you can avoid northern hemisphere weather in December and visit Tanzania for an unforgettable safari and beach getaway in the sun. The weather in Tanzania is relatively warm during December, but the rain can sometimes overpower this. You can experience clear skies one day and then cloudy conditions with rain and thunderstorms the next.
December is often described as a month in Tanzania’s Green Season. With fewer visitors, lush green landscapes and returning migratory birds, it is a beautiful time to visit.
The weather in Tanzania during December is a tale of two halves. The short rains, occurring in brief afternoon storms, start at the beginning of November and continue into December. By mid-December, the rains begin to subside, leaving crisp blue skies and green landscapes in its gentle wake. Consequently, the second half of December experiences drier weather, but there is still the possibility of light rain.
The weather in Tanzania during December is sunny and warm. The average daytime temperature hovers around 31°C (88°F). Evenings are much more bearable, with temperatures averaging around 25°C (77°F). Temperatures, however, differ regionally. Coastal areas such as Zanzibar witness temperatures between 24°C (75°F) and 32°C (90°F), whereas the highlands, including the Serengeti, see the temperature range between 15°C (59°F) and 27°C (81°F).
While early December will still see occasional rainfall, it will completely stop by the middle of the month. The lack of precipitation towards the second half of December makes for perfect safari conditions, as the animals congregate around water sources.
Why Visit Tanzania in December
Warm and sunny weather conditions make December one of the best times to visit Tanzania. Outdoor activities like safari can be a pleasurable experience during this time. Here are some more reasons why it is a great idea to tour Tanzania in December.
- Start of the emerald season: Tanzania heralds the start of the ‘Emerald Season’ in December as the country’s national parks witness a green, lush landscape that provides a beautiful backdrop for a safari experience.
- Ideal time for keen birders: Tanzania is a birdwatcher’s paradise, and December is one of the best times for birdwatching. Sparse foliage offers a perfect opportunity to spot birds. Rainfall also helps by bringing out Tanzania’s colorful feathered residents into view.
- Calving season: December is the month when wildebeests, the famous inhabitants of Serengeti, give birth to their young ones. The calving season runs from December to March, and there is a high chance that you can witness this magical moment on one of your game drives.
- Lower crowds and rates: The first half of December sees a lighter flow of tourists in the country, making it a good time to get some wonderful deals. We suggest making bookings in advance for these dates. The third and fourth week welcomes the Christmas and New Year crowds which brings a hike in prices for all services.
- Festivals: Swahili Fashion Week and the Zanzibar Beach and Watersports Festival are two popular festivals that take place in December. Swahili Fashion Week is the biggest annual fashion event in Central Africa where designers from Swahili regions showcase their sartorial talents. The Zanzibar Beach and Watersports Festival is a three-day event that celebrates the beach life of Tanzania in the form of various sports tournaments like kite surfing, bike racing, rugby, volleyball, and beach football.
Where to Go and What to Do
Visit the Serengeti National Park to witness an incredible variety of wildlife, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, and wildebeest. You may witness the last of the Great Migration of wildebeest in the northern areas of the national park. December is a tricky month for safari due to the lush vegetation impacting wildlife visibility, so we suggest consulting with on-the-ground guides and locals before making any plans.
Besides the array of exciting events and activities Tanzania has to offer for travelers in December, we want to remind you of the classic attractions in Tanzania that are great to visit at this time of the year as well! You can’t miss these iconic landmarks, local favorites, and places rich with cultural heritage. We hope to give you insights and inspiration into the best things to see and do to make the most of your visit
Take a tour to Manyara National Park, known for its flamingos, elephants, and tree-climbing lions. December, being the bird-watching season, the park houses a large variety of bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
For a relaxed beach holiday, Zanzibar is an ideal destination. Head to this island paradise to unwind after a busy safari or mountain Trekking. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, turquoise waters, and rich culture. December is a great time to spot whale sharks, and if you are brave enough, choose to snorkel, dive, or swim in the waters alongside these magnificent creatures. The warm, white, sandy beaches are still a welcome respite for those who are not interested. You can also explore the Iraqw village. It is located in the country’s highlands and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Safari Adventures: Embark on thrilling safari excursions in the Serengeti or other national parks to witness the incredible wildlife, including the Big Five.
Cultural Experiences: Visit local Maasai villages and learn about Tanzania’s rich cultural heritage. Experience traditional dances, crafts, and cuisine.
Beach Relaxation: Unwind on the idyllic beaches of Zanzibar, indulging in water activities such as snorkeling, diving, or simply soaking up the sun.
What to Bring – Tanzania in December
- Lightweight clothing for daytime and warmer layers for evenings.
- Comfortable walking shoes and sandals.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Binoculars and a camera for capturing the stunning landscapes and wildlife.
Accommodations in December
Tanzania offers a range of accommodations, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly options. Popular national parks have well-established camps and lodges, providing a comfortable stay amidst nature.
What to wear in Tanzania in December – safari packing tips
If you plan to visit Tanzania in December, it’s essential to know that the weather is warm, but there is still a chance of rain. To help you pack for your trip, we’ve put together some tips on what to wear:
- Light, soft, and simple clothing, including a thin raincoat, is perfect for the warm weather in Tanzania,
- We recommend wearing light-coloured clothing with long sleeves and trousers to protect yourself from the sun and insect bites.
- Try to avoid wearing bright colours on safari, including camouflage, dark blue, and black.
- For nighttime and early morning game drives, pack some warm clothes.
- Pack hats and shades to shield yourself from the sun’s rays.
- Bring closed shoes for game drives and sitting around the campfire at night.
- Pack your swimsuit if you plan to swim in one of the many lodge pools.
- Enjoy a classic safari dinner by packing something smart to wear.
- If you’re heading to Zanzibar, please dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees in public places.
We hope these tips help you plan for your trip to Tanzania in December. Get in touch and we will assist you in planning your safari, mountain climb or beach holiday – any month of the year!
