The Best African Safaris in December

In December, the weather you’ll experience during your safari adventure depends on where you’re headed. This month typically marks the onset of the dry season in many renowned safari destinations, bringing about varying climatic conditions across the diverse regions of Africa.

Typically, you can expect warm and inviting temperatures in most safari areas. Daytime weather ranges from comfortably mild to pleasantly hot, creating an ideal environment for engaging in outdoor activities like thrilling game drives. There is also a noticeable decrease in rainfall compared to previous months. This reduction means you’re far less likely to encounter heavy showers or the challenges of navigating muddy paths, making both travel and wildlife observation much smoother.

However, keep in mind that Africa spans a vast expanse with an array of climates:

• East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania) revels in warm temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it the prime window for safaris in iconic locales such as the Maasai Mara and Serengeti.
• Southern Africa (South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe) similarly enjoys dry conditions, creating an optimal setting for game-watching in celebrated parks like Kruger and Chobe.
• In desert regions like Namibia, daytime temperatures can soar, but evenings bring cooler air, giving you chance to admire unique desert landscapes and wildlife that has adapted to such an environment.

Staying updated on the local weather forecasts for your chosen destination is a savvy move, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your journey.

If you’re considering a safari adventure in December, there are plenty of destinations across Africa that we recommend to make the best of your trip at this time of the year. Here are some top places to consider for your December safari:

The Maasai Mara, especially in December, emerges as a top destination for those seeking an exceptional safari experience. This time of the year offers a harmonious blend of wildlife encounters, holiday cheer, and the unique cultural tapestry of the Maasai people.

One of the standout features of visiting the Maasai Mara in December is the fantastic wildlife viewing opportunity. As the dry season unfolds, your chances of spotting iconic species such as lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinos—the famed “Big Five”—are greatly heightened.

You may also be lucky enough to witness the tail end of the wildebeest migration. While the main migration typically occurs from July to October, pockets of wildebeest and zebra herds may still be traversing the Mara in search of grazing land and water sources. December also marks the arrival of migratory bird species to the Maasai Mara. This presents a treat for bird enthusiasts, as the Mara’s avian population becomes adorned with vibrant colors and diverse species.

If you have always dreamed of having an up, close, and personal wildlife encounter, visiting the Masai Mara should be on the bucket list. Why not book our 4-day trip over the festive season?

December in Botswana’s Okavango Delta marks the beginning of the enchanting green season. The landscape awakens with vibrant greens as plants flourish following the rains.

One of the most anticipated aspects of this season is the arrival of migratory birds from the northern hemisphere, which coincides with the birthing period of numerous herbivores, including baby impalas and wildebeests.

During this time, embarking on boat safaris becomes a favored way to explore the delta’s intricate waterways, channels, and floodplains. From the comfort of your boat, you’re treated to a fresh perspective of the diverse ecosystem in the park. Keep your camera ready for unexpected encounters – whether it be elephants or antelopes enjoying a leisurely drink at the water’s edge or crocodiles basking lazily in the sun.

In the early days of December, Serengeti National Park in Tanzania becomes a stage for a remarkable natural phenomenon: the start of the wildebeest migration. This event is concentrated in the northern part of the park and offers a fascinating opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts to observe both the migratory herds and the interactions between predators and prey.

Again, in the northern Serengeti, you have the chance to witness predator-prey dynamics up close. Carnivores like lions, cheetahs, and leopards are drawn to the migratory herds, presenting an opportunity to witness their hunting strategies in action. The park is also a haven for birdwatchers. A variety of bird species (both resident and migratory) can be spotted during this time.

If this type of safari adventure is right up your street, why not check out our 6-day Serengeti Safari!

Tarangire National Park might stand in the shadow of its more famous counterpart, the Serengeti, but when December arrives, Tarangire transforms into a hidden gem of wildlife encounters.

The Serengeti typically draws more crowds, but this park offers an intimate and less busy safari experience. In turn, you’ll be able to fully engage with the sights and sounds of nature, free from distraction.

The Tarangire River takes center stage in this national park, where a mesmerizing gathering of wildlife takes place. Imagine elephants, giraffes, zebras, and an array of antelope species converging along its shores, seeking refreshment and relief from the hot sun.

December emerges as an exceptionally enticing month to visit South Africa’s Kruger National Park. First and foremost, it marks the peak of the summer season in the southern hemisphere. The comfortable temperatures and extended daylight hours provide visitors with ample opportunities to engage in outdoor activities. Game drives remain a cornerstone of the experience, offering the chance to traverse the park’s diverse landscapes and come face-to-face with the Big Five and an array of other remarkable species. Guided walks led by experienced rangers provide a more intimate connection to nature, allowing visitors to absorb the finer details of the ecosystem, from the intricate flora to the smaller creatures that often elude the casual observer.

While the allure of the park’s diverse wildlife is a year-round phenomenon, December unveils a unique spectacle due to its convergence with the dry season. This season sees animals from across the park gather around waterholes, providing an exceptional opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts to witness a vibrant tapestry of creatures engaging in their natural behaviors.

No! The drier conditions of this month usually mean fewer of these pesky insects and mosquitos compared to the wetter months, meaning a reduced likelihood of irritating insect bites that can put a damper on your adventure.

Nonetheless, it’s always a smart move to exercise caution. While the mosquito population might be lower, they’re still present in some areas. During the early mornings and evenings, when they tend to be more active, it’s advisable to take some preventive measures such as applying mosquito repellent and long-sleeved clothing.