Deciding when to go on safari is one of the biggest choices in planning your African adventure — especially if you’re weighing a December safari during the holiday season. The answer isn’t a simple yes or no; it depends on what you’re looking for, where you’re going, and what wildlife experiences matter most. Below is a balanced, region‑by‑region analysis of the pros and cons of safari travel in December, helping you make an informed decision.
General Overview: What December Means in Africa
In much of Africa, December falls during the green or shoulder season — the period between the classic dry and peak seasons. This means:
- Lush landscapes and verdant scenery as rain rejuvenates the bush and grasslands.
- Short rains, usually daily showers in the afternoon or evening rather than all‑day downpours.
- Fewer crowds and lower travel costs in many parks compared with peak dry months.
- Active wildlife, including newborn animals and migratory birds.
That said, the experience you get in December varies significantly by region — from lush savannahs and dramatic migrations to hot summer conditions and tropical greenery.
Pros of Going on Safari in December
✅ Lush Scenery & Vibrant Wildlife
December’s early rains transform landscapes across Africa into vivid green panoramas. This makes bush scenery stunning and attracts migratory birds, while many herbivores give birth thanks to the abundant fresh grass — great for wildlife viewing and photography.
✅ Lower Crowds and Seasonal Discounts
Since December isn’t part of the peak dry‑season window that runs roughly from June to October, many parks see fewer visitors. With fewer safari vehicles in the bush and mid‑season pricing on accommodations, you often enjoy a more relaxed experience at a better value.
✅ Great Birding and Green Season Highlights
For bird lovers and nature enthusiasts, December is special. Migratory birds return to southern Africa, and places like Tanzania’s Tarangire and Nyerere parks are excellent for species diversity at this time.
Cons of Safari Travel in December
❌ Rains and Vegetation Density
The “green season” also brings more vegetation and water spread across the landscape. This can make animals harder to spot, since they’re not concentrated around scarce waterholes as they are in the dry season.
❌ Unpredictable Weather
Although showers are often brief and localized, weather can be unpredictable — especially earlier in the month — which may affect game drives or other outdoor activities.
❌ Increased Holiday Demand
While pre‑Christmas December (early to mid‑month) can be quieter, the period closer to Christmas and New Year sees higher demand and prices, particularly in family‑favorite parks.
Regional Breakdown: Safari Conditions in December
Below is a snapshot of how December safari conditions differ by region.
🐘 East Africa (Kenya & Tanzania)
Kenya:
- Warm, pleasant safari weather with sunny days and evening rains.
- Parks like the Masai Mara remain rewarding year‑round, with excellent wildlife sightings.
Tanzania:
- Marks the short rainy season, with grassy plains and fresh water sources.
- Serengeti migration herds often move into the southern and central circuits — thrilling for late December safaris.
- Ngorongoro Crater is lush and rich in wildlife year‑round.
Summary: A December safari here is very good, with plenty of animal activity and lush landscapes. The weather might bring short showers, but game viewing is rewarding and scenic.
🐅 Southern Africa (South Africa, Botswana, Namibia)
South Africa:
- December is summer — hot, green, and rain‑friendly.
- Kruger sees lush scenery, baby animals, and active birdlife. Rainfall is common but usually intermittent.
- Cape Town and the Western Cape enjoy warm, dry weather ideal for combining bush and beach.
Botswana & Okavango Delta:
- Green season and rising delta floodwaters offer spectacular birding and water‑based safari activities.
- Wildlife viewing remains good but animals may disperse more.
Namibia:
- Green season means dramatic desert blooms, hot temperatures, and sporadic rains.
- Etosha and coastal regions still offer rewarding drives and photo opportunities.
Summary: Southern Africa is hot and green in December, with scenic safari drives possible. It’s an excellent choice for combining safari with beach or cultural travel — though game may disperse more than in dry months.
When December Works Best
Early to Mid‑December: Best balance of weather, lower crowd levels, and pricing before the holiday rush.
Late December: Great wildlife activity and festive spirit, but expect higher travel costs and booking demand.
Green Season Perks: If you love dramatic landscapes, birdlife, and fewer safari vehicles, the green season can be magical — especially for photographers.
Conclusion
Is December a good time for a safari in Africa?
Yes — with the right expectations and planning. December offers rewarding wildlife viewing, lush landscapes, lower shoulder‑season pricing, and unique natural beauty across many regions. While rains and denser vegetation might make spotting game slightly more challenging than in the classic dry season, the dramatic scenery, birdlife, and cultural richness often make safaris this month truly unforgettable.
If you’re deciding between travel months, consider how you value weather, wildlife visibility, cost, and crowd levels — and use this guide to plan the safari that fits your priorities.
