Top 3 Countries to go on African Safari in December
The Top 3 Countries to go on African Safari in December for the great time to escape the cold winter and enjoy a warm African safari is Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda. While many places in the northern hemisphere experience snow, Africa offers sunshine, wildlife, and scenic landscapes. This is a perfect season to celebrate Christmas or New Year’s in the wild. Families, couples, and friends can explore breathtaking destinations with diverse wildlife and cultural experiences.
December is an excellent time to visit Africa because of its comfortable climate and active wildlife. Visitors can explore national parks, watch great migrations, and relax in scenic lodges. Safari lovers can take advantage of fewer crowds and lower prices in some destinations. Whether watching wildebeests in Tanzania, spotting elephants in Kenya, or trekking gorillas in Uganda, Africa offers an exciting experience. Here are the top three African countries to visit for a safari in December.
Tanzania
Weather in Tanzania in December
Tanzania experiences short rains in December, usually brief showers in the afternoon. The temperatures remain warm, creating excellent safari conditions. The landscapes turn green, making the scenery beautiful for photography.
The Great Wildebeest Migration
December is a great time to witness the Wildebeest Migration in Tanzania. During this period, the herds move to the southern Serengeti, preparing for the next phase of their journey. The vast plains provide spectacular views of thousands of wildebeests grazing and preparing for the upcoming calving season.
High or Low Season?
December is a low season for safaris in Tanzania. Visitors enjoy lower rates and fewer crowds in national parks. The parks remain rich in wildlife, ensuring excellent game viewing.
Best Places to Visit in Tanzania in December
Serengeti National Park
The Serengeti remains a top destination in December, offering diverse wildlife and stunning scenery. While the herds spread across different areas, the park remains vibrant with predators and resident animals. Green landscapes make the scenery even more stunning, providing an incredible safari experience.
Nyerere National Park
Nyerere National Park offers a unique safari experience in December. The short rains bring fresh vegetation, creating a beautiful contrast to the dry-season landscapes. Rivers swell, and wildlife disperses, making game drives more adventurous. Elephants, hippos, and predators remain visible, ensuring rewarding sightings.
Tarangire National Park
December transforms Tarangire National Park into a lush paradise. Elephants and other animals move across the park, making game drives exciting. Migratory birds arrive, providing a great birdwatching experience. The park’s baobab trees look stunning against the green landscapes, creating breathtaking scenery.
Mahale Mountains
The Mahale Mountains in December offer excellent chimpanzee trekking experiences. The short rains cool the forest, bringing primates closer to the lower slopes. The landscapes remain fresh and green, making the experience even more rewarding. Fewer tourists visit during this time, ensuring peaceful and intimate trekking adventures.
Kenya
Weather in Kenya in December
Kenya enjoys warm temperatures in December, with occasional showers. The climate remains pleasant, making it a great time for safaris. The scenery looks fresh and green after the short rains.
High or Low Season?
December is a low season for safaris in Kenya, except for beach destinations. Lower visitor numbers in the parks create a more relaxed experience. The country remains one of the best safari destinations throughout the year.
Best Places to Visit in Kenya in December
Masai Mara
Although the Wildebeest Migration moves to Tanzania, the Masai Mara still offers excellent game viewing. With fewer tourists, visitors enjoy quieter game drives. The lush greenery enhances the landscape, making photography more rewarding. Predators remain active, ensuring exciting wildlife encounters.
Amboseli National Park
Amboseli National Park transforms into a vibrant paradise after the short rains. Mount Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped peak stands beautifully against the lush green landscape. Large elephant herds roam the park, making game viewing fantastic. The fresh air and clear skies create excellent photography opportunities.
Kenya Beaches in December
Kenya’s beaches remain spectacular in December. The ocean becomes crystal clear, perfect for scuba diving and snorkeling. The coastline looks lush, creating a beautiful tropical escape.
Lamu Archipelago
Lamu offers a mix of history, culture, and beautiful beaches. The warm weather and light breezes make December ideal for visiting. Ancient Swahili towns, dhow sailing, and relaxing beaches create a fantastic getaway. The festive season adds a cultural charm, with local celebrations bringing life to the island.
Diani Beach
Diani Beach provides an incredible December retreat. The weather remains warm, and the sea is calm. Visitors enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and water sports. Holiday events add a lively atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and adventure.
Uganda
Gorilla Trekking in December
December offers one of the best times to trek gorillas in Uganda. The short dry season makes hiking trails easier to navigate. Trekking conditions improve, and gorillas become more active. The reduced rainfall ensures clearer sightings and comfortable trekking experiences.
Weather in Uganda in December
Uganda enjoys warm temperatures with minimal rainfall in December. National parks remain accessible, making it a great time for wildlife viewing. The dry weather improves visibility, increasing chances of spotting animals near water sources.
Best Places to Visit in Uganda in December
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Bwindi offers an amazing gorilla trekking experience in December. The dry conditions make trails more manageable. Fewer visitors ensure a more personal and immersive experience. The dense forest remains lush and beautiful, adding to the adventure.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park provides excellent wildlife sightings in December. The dry weather concentrates animals near water bodies, making game viewing easy. Lions, elephants, hippos, and antelopes remain active, creating memorable encounters.
Murchison Falls National Park
Murchison Falls offers spectacular scenery and diverse wildlife in December. The mighty falls look stunning with full water flow. Game drives provide excellent opportunities to see elephants, giraffes, and crocodiles. Boat cruises on the Nile enhance the safari experience.
Birdwatching in Uganda
December is a fantastic time for birdwatching in Uganda. Migratory birds arrive, increasing the number of species in different parks. Lake Victoria, Mabamba Swamp, and Queen Elizabeth National Park offer excellent birdwatching opportunities.
