Tanzania in December: Short Rain, Safari and Weather Tips

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.

Check out our seasonal guide to find out the best time to visit Tanzania.

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.

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.

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 exotic island paradise to unwind after a busy safari. 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.

In December, Tanzania provides perfect conditions for nature and culture tours, made even more lucrative by the unbeatable prices.

Fill out our customized Tanzania trip form to plan your itinerary from scratch. For more information, read our Tanzania travel guide.

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