Tanzania Safari in December

Leopard, Serengeti National Park

Embark on a Tanzania Safari in December, navigating a landscape refreshed by short rains. While the greenery flourishes, occasional showers may persist, adding a dynamic element to your adventure. Encounter the Serengeti migration and explore diverse ecosystems amidst evolving weather patterns.

Let us first look at the pros and cons of visiting in December quickly, and then we will address aspects like climate and accommodations, and look at each park in the Northern Circuit and Zanzibar in detail:

Pros:

Lush Greenery: December marks the beginning of the short rainy season, resulting in vibrant green landscapes and rejuvenated parks.
Reduced Crowds Early in the Month: Initially, December attracts fewer tourists, allowing for a more peaceful and less crowded safari experience.
Lower Accommodation Costs: Compared to the peak season, December offers lower accommodation prices, making it a more budget-friendly time to visit.
Abundant Wildlife: Wildlife sightings are abundant in December, with parks like Serengeti, Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and Lake Manyara offering excellent opportunities to spot a variety of animals.
Migration and Calving: Witnessing the great migration in Serengeti and the beginning of wildebeest calving in late December are unique experiences for safari enthusiasts.
Tranquil Island Getaways: Zanzibar, Pemba, and Mafia Islands offer serene beach experiences, with the possibility of swimming with whale sharks in Mafia.

Cons:

Increased Crowds Towards the End of December: The approach of Christmas and New Year leads to an increase in tourist numbers, resulting in slightly crowded parks and higher accommodation prices.
Unpredictable Weather in Zanzibar: Zanzibar experiences unpredictable weather in December, with sporadic downpours and rough seas, impacting beach and water activities.
Challenging Wildlife Spotting in Tarangire: As watering holes emerge outside Tarangire National Park, wildlife may migrate beyond park boundaries, making animal sightings more challenging.
Limited Availability of Preferred Accommodations: Due to the holiday season, preferred accommodations may get booked quickly, requiring early reservations for desired lodges or campsites.
Seasonal Rain Showers: While the rains rejuvenate the landscapes, occasional showers may occur, affecting outdoor activities during the day.
Possibility of Crowded Attractions: Some popular attractions in parks like Ngorongoro and Lake Manyara may experience increased visitor numbers, impacting the serene safari experience.

Let us see now what Tanzania looks like in December in detail.

Climate and Landscape

December marks a season of short rains in Tanzania. The parks rejuvenate with vibrant greenery, and the roads stay free from dust. Most of the rains occur at night, which is generally acceptable for many tourists. The early part of the month experiences more rain than the latter, resulting in a drier second half of December. While the possibility of showers lingers, it diminishes compared to the earlier days of the month.

Temperatures in December range between 16°C / 60°F to 30°C / 86°F.

Crowds and Accommodations

December initially attracts fewer tourists, but as the holidays approach there is an increase in tourist influx. Prices are notably lower than the high season.

However, towards the end of December, with Christmas and New Year approaching, the country witnesses another surge in tourist numbers. Although not reaching the peak season levels, it does feel more crowded, and accommodation prices tend to rise. If planning a visit during the holidays, it is advisable to book well in advance to secure preferred accommodations.

Serengeti

Lioness, Serengeti National Park

In early December, the Serengeti witnesses the migration predominantly in the Eastern and South Eastern regions. As mid-December approaches, parts of the migration extend to Northern Ngorongoro, culminating in late December when the entire migration disperses across Southern Serengeti, Ndutu, and Northern Ngorongoro. These open plains become a gathering ground for wildebeests, preparing for their collective calving. While the majority of calving occurs in January and February, late December may offer glimpses of wildebeests giving birth. Alongside wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles, integral members of the migration, will be prominently visible.

Furthermore, the Southern sections become a preferred habitat for cheetahs, easily spotted amid the rolling plains. Predators such as lions and hyenas also make appearances, strategically lingering near the migratory herds to seize opportunities for prey.

Moreover, Serengeti in general remains a great location throughout the year, with Central Serengeti specifically standing out as an exceptional destination in December. Central Serengeti, known for its famous Seronera Valley teeming with big cats and earning it the name of the Big Cat Capital, offers unparalleled wildlife experiences. Alongside the impressive population of big cats, Central Serengeti is also home to a variety of other animals such as giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, warthogs, elephants, impalas, and more. Its landscape features the classic Serengeti grasslands and is studded with stunning kopjes where you can often find animals lounging about or observing their surroundings. Therefore, Central Serengeti remains an excellent location to visit in December and throughout the year.

To check out Southern Serengeti/Ndutu tours, click here.

To ckeck out Central Serengeti tours, click here.

To understand the movement of the Great Migration better, ckeck out our article here.

To check out our popular migration itineraries, click here.

Tarangire

In Tarangire, lush green landscapes studded with majestic baobabs create stunning scenic landscapes. As watering holes begin to emerge outside the park, herbivores, notably wildebeests and zebras, commence migration towards these new watering areas. Consequently, some predators also venture beyond the park boundaries, requiring visitors to exercise patience and spend additional time seeking them out. Nevertheless, sightings of elephants, buffalos, impalas, giraffes, and other wildlife remain abundant within the park.

To check out our Tarangire tours, click here.

Ngorongoro

Ngorongoro’s wildlife population receives a boost at this time, as some part of the Serengeti great migration spreads into its regions. So you’ll find plenty of wildebeests, zebras, gazelles, and impalas here. But besides that, you’ll also find Ngorongoro carpeted with fresh green grass making for some spectacular sceneries. In the crater, you’ll find more herbivores like giraffes and elephants but besides them, predators like lions, hyenas, and cheetahs will be present too. This will also be a good time to spot migratory and endemic bird species such as starlings, buzzards, bee-eaters, spurfowls, tinker birds, and more.

To check out our Ngorongoro tours, click here.

Lake Manyara

Lake Manyara transforms into a picturesque setting with lush greenery as vegetation thickens and grass becomes more vibrant. This environment offers sightings of various herbivores, including impalas, dik-diks, hartebeests, and giraffes. Big cats like lions and cheetahs inhabit the area, although leopards, due to their elusive nature, are challenging to spot. Explore treetop walking, canoeing, and the hot springs at Lake Manyara for a captivating introduction to your journey.

To check out our Lake Manyara tours, click here.

Island Getaway:

Zanzibar shells

Zanzibar

Zanzibar's weather in December can be somewhat unpredictable, marked by sporadic downpours and the arrival of winds, creating slightly rough seas. Conditions tend to improve towards the end of the month, with more frequent sunny skies. Opting for the southern and western shores during this period is advisable, as the seas are calmer, allowing for enjoyable activities like swimming and snorkeling. However, if water sports such as kitesurfing are your preference, the eastern coasts with more wind would be an excellent choice. While visiting Zanzibar at the beginning of the month may pose some challenges, towards the end, you can anticipate a more pleasant experience on the white sandy beaches.

Pemba and Mafia Island

In December, both Pemba and Mafia Island share similarities with Zanzibar, featuring sunnier, windier days towards the month's conclusion. Their remote locations contribute to a tranquil retreat, as they experience low tourism during this period, appealing to those seeking a serene environment. Additionally, in Mafia, there's still the possibility of swimming with whale sharks and catching baby turtles hatching during this month.

To understand the difference between Zanzibar, Pemba, and Mafia in detail, click here.

Southern Circuit

Exploring the Southern Circuit of Tanzania in December offers a unique blend of experiences amidst the short rainy season. During this time, occasional showers and thunderstorms punctuate the days, bringing a refreshing coolness to the air. Temperatures hover between the low 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit during the day, dipping to the mid-50s at night, creating a comfortable climate albeit with higher humidity levels.

The parks within the Southern Circuit transform into lush, green landscapes thanks to the recent rains. While this verdant beauty enhances the visual spectacle, it also poses challenges with muddy and slippery roads, making access a bit trickier. However, the upside is encountering fewer crowds compared to peak dry-season periods.

Despite the rains, wildlife viewing remains rewarding as animals gather around permanent water sources, providing excellent sightings, especially around the Ruaha River in Ruaha National Park. Migratory birds add to the avian spectacle, making birdwatching a delightful activity. However, the abundance of water and foliage may slightly reduce animal activity compared to the dry season, as creatures find more cover.

Tourists can indulge in traditional game drives, boat safaris (particularly enjoyable in Selous Game Reserve), and walking safaris, although the latter's availability may vary based on park and weather conditions. Birdwatchers will find December particularly enchanting with the diverse avifauna on display.

While the month brings forth the pros of vibrant greenery, fewer crowds, and good wildlife sightings, it also presents challenges such as occasional rain showers, slippery roads, and slightly reduced animal activity.

In December, exploring renowned parks like Ruaha National Park offers glimpses of large elephant herds and diverse wildlife congregating near water sources, albeit with potential road challenges. Nyerere National Park (Selous Game Reserve) becomes a hub for elephant, lion, and crocodile sightings, with boat safaris along the Rufiji River at their peak. Mikumi National Park caters to those short on time with rewarding wildlife sightings around watering holes, despite holiday crowds. For adventure seekers, Udzungwa Mountains National Park presents a hiker's paradise amidst rainforests and waterfalls, although trails can be muddy.

This information, gathered from various reliable sources, aims to provide a comprehensive overview of what to expect during a Tanzania safari in the Southern Circuit in December.

To understand in detail how all the Tanzanian safari circuits differ from each other, check out our article here.

Western Circuit

Exploring Tanzania's Western Circuit in December promises a captivating blend of natural wonders amidst the short rainy season. Expect occasional showers and thunderstorms, lending a refreshing touch to the warm temperatures ranging from the low 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit during the day and dropping to the mid-50s Fahrenheit at night, accompanied by higher humidity levels.

The parks within the Western Circuit transform into lush, green havens owing to recent rains, albeit with challenges like muddy and slippery roads, adding a touch of adventure to accessibility. On the bright side, encountering fewer crowds compared to peak dry-season periods enhances the sense of tranquility and exclusivity.

Wildlife viewing remains rewarding, with animals gravitating towards permanent water sources due to reduced availability elsewhere. Despite slightly lower animal activity due to ample water and foliage cover, visitors can still enjoy excellent sightings, especially around Gombe Stream National Park and Mahale Mountains National Park, renowned for their chimpanzee trekking experiences.

Tourist activities in December encompass traditional game drives, chimpanzee trekking, and boat safaris, offering varied experiences amidst the lush greenery. Birdwatching enthusiasts will find this time of year particularly enchanting.

The advantages of visiting in December include vibrant green scenery, fewer crowds, excellent wildlife viewing around water sources, and unparalleled birdwatching opportunities, not to mention the chance to encounter chimpanzees in their natural habitat. However, occasional rain showers, challenging road conditions, and slightly lower animal activity compared to the dry season are factors to consider.

Exploring popular Western Circuit parks in December reveals diverse experiences. Gombe Stream National Park, renowned for Jane Goodall's chimpanzee research, promises thrilling chimpanzee trekking adventures amidst potentially muddy trails. Mahale Mountains National Park offers another immersive chimpanzee trekking experience, coupled with stunning lakeside scenery, although boat access may be affected by high water levels. Katavi National Park, known for its remote wilderness and abundant hippo and crocodile populations, offers an off-the-beaten-path safari experience, albeit with increased mosquito activity due to the rains. Additionally, Murchison Falls National Park in Uganda, often included in Western Circuit itineraries, showcases good wildlife viewing along the Nile River, though some areas may be inaccessible due to flooding.

This information, gathered from reputable sources, aims to provide a comprehensive overview for planning a memorable Tanzania safari in the Western Circuit during December.

To understand in detail how all the Tanzanian safari circuits differ from each other, check out our article here.

December - Seasonal Discounts

In December, accommodations across Tanzanian parks offer discounts ranging from approximately 10% to 60%, with options like Ole Serai, Lemala Ndutu, Melia, and Osupuko providing appealing deals for travelers. However, as the holiday season approaches, many lodges may revert their prices to original rates, and promotional offers could become scarce again. This transitional period is ideal for those looking to enjoy the beauty of Tanzania at a reduced price before the festive rush begins.

Popular 7 Day Itinerary in December

To help you understand better, what our safari tours look like in May, we have presented below one of our most popular 7 Day tours.

This popular December safari itinerary showcases the best of Tanzania's wildlife and landscapes. It begins in Tarangire National Park, where the lush greenery from the short rains attracts large elephant herds and diverse wildlife, including lions and giraffes, along the vibrant Tarangire River. The adventure continues in the Serengeti, where the rainy season transforms the plains into a verdant paradise, offering exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. Finally, the journey culminates in the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, where lush surroundings and watering holes attract a remarkable array of animals. This combination of stunning scenery and rich wildlife experiences makes this itinerary an unforgettable choice for December safaris.

Day 1 - Arusha to Tarangire

Your safari adventure kicks off with an 8:30 AM pick-up from your hotel in Arusha. You'll travel to Tarangire National Park, renowned for its majestic baobab trees that dwarf the animals beneath them. Enjoy a picnic lunch during your full-day game drive in Tanzania’s third-largest national park. The Tarangire River, the park’s lifeline, draws one of Africa’s largest elephant populations. Here, you can also spot lions, leopards, cheetahs, lesser kudu, buffalo, oryx, eland, giraffes, and zebras. After a thrilling day of wildlife viewing, head back to your camp or lodge for a delicious dinner.

Day 2 - Tarangire

Start your day with breakfast around 8:00 AM before embarking on another full-day game drive in Tarangire National Park. This park is famous for its diverse landscapes and nine distinct vegetation zones. The towering baobab trees, some thousands of years old, create a dramatic backdrop for your safari. Your game drive, with a break for a picnic lunch, offers a chance to see elephants, giraffes, lions, antelopes, and zebras. With luck, you might even spot the rare tree-climbing python or the long-necked gerenuk. Tarangire boasts Tanzania’s highest concentration of elephants, providing unique opportunities to observe their social interactions. Capture these moments with your camera before returning to your camp or lodge for dinner and a restful night.

Day 3 - Tarangire to Central Serengeti

After a hearty breakfast, depart for the legendary Serengeti National Park. As you travel through the endless plains, anticipate the wildlife wonders that await. An afternoon game drive in the Serengeti offers a chance to see great herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles, along with prides of lions resting in the shade. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst this spectacular scenery. Your eventful day concludes with a hearty dinner and a comfortable night's rest at your accommodation.

Day 4 & Day 5 - Central Serengeti

These two days are dedicated to exploring the central Serengeti, particularly the Seronera area, which is renowned for its abundant wildlife. Start with either a relaxed breakfast and a 9:00 AM departure for a full-day game drive, or opt for an early 6:00 AM drive followed by breakfast and an afternoon game drive. The Seronera River sustains a variety of wildlife, making this one of the richest habitats in the park. Look out for the numerous lion prides, and don't miss the chance to see leopards lounging in trees. Each game drive includes a picnic lunch, and you'll return to your lodge by late afternoon for dinner and a restful night.

Day 6 - Central Serengeti to Ngorongoro

After breakfast, enjoy a morning game drive in the Serengeti before departing for the Ngorongoro Conservation Area with a picnic lunch. The Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest unbroken volcanic caldera, is a stunning natural wonder. Surrounded by extinct volcanoes, the crater floor is dotted with watering holes that attract around 30,000 animals. Explore this unique ecosystem before returning to your accommodation for dinner and a good night's sleep.

Day 7 - Ngorongoro Crater Tour (5 hours) to Arusha

Your final safari day begins early with a quick breakfast, followed by a descent into the Ngorongoro Crater around 6:30 AM. The crater floor, spanning 260 sq km with a depth of over 2000 feet, teems with wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, black rhinos, hippos, hyenas, cheetahs, and lions. Enjoy a 5-hour game drive, capturing unforgettable moments with your camera. After a picnic lunch at the scenic Hippo Pool, ascend to the crater’s rim and begin the 4-hour drive back to Arusha. Arrive in Arusha by 6:00 PM, marking the end of your incredible safari adventure with cherished memories and new experiences.

Tanzania Safari Costs Across All The Months

To help you understand the cost of a Tanzania Safari throughout the year, we have attached a table below showcasing the monthly prices for our most recommended 7-day safaris. These prices are based on stays at E2 accommodations, which are mid-tier, 3-star level comfort hotels located in prime areas. E2 accommodations strike a perfect balance between affordability and convenient proximity to major attractions, ensuring a comfortable and accessible safari experience.

To understand our classification of accommodations better, please click here.

Safari costs

Tanzania safari costs 2

Tailored Guidance for Your Safari Adventure

Explore our comprehensive guides rating popular parks and regions in North Tanzania for each month here.

Discover recommended safari tours for December. Connect with our team when planning your December visit for detailed insights into wildlife and avian scenarios across different parks. customise your itinerary based on expert recommendations.

Tours

To check out our Tanzania safaris of different durations during the month of August click on the link of your choice below:

FAQs For Tanzanian Safari in December

How is the weather in Tanzania in December? In December, Tanzania experiences a transition period with short rains, contributing to the rejuvenation of the parks with vibrant greenery. This period also sees a comfortable temperature range from 16°C / 60°F to 30°C / 86°F. The rain pattern is generally nocturnal, which is quite manageable for tourists. However, it's important to note that the early part of December tends to have more precipitation compared to the latter half. As the month progresses, the showers diminish, leading to a drier environment.

Which parks do you recommend visiting in December? For a comprehensive Tanzanian safari experience in December, several parks stand out:

Serengeti: Witness the mesmerizing migration spectacle, with early December showcasing the migration predominantly in the Eastern and South Eastern regions. As mid-December approaches, parts of the migration extend to Northern Ngorongoro, culminating in late December when the entire migration disperses across Southern Serengeti, Ndutu, and Northern Ngorongoro. This period also offers a chance to witness wildebeests giving birth, especially towards the end of December.
Tarangire: Experience lush green landscapes adorned with majestic baobabs. This time of year sees herbivores migrating towards emerging watering holes outside the park, attracting predators as well. While sightings may require some patience, the park remains abundant with wildlife, including elephants, buffalos, impalas, and giraffes.
Ngorongoro: Explore Ngorongoro during December to witness a boost in wildlife population as a part of the Serengeti migration spreads into its regions. The crater becomes adorned with fresh green grass, creating spectacular sceneries. Alongside the usual herbivores and predators like lions, hyenas, and cheetahs, this period is ideal for spotting migratory and endemic bird species.
Lake Manyara: Delight in the picturesque setting of Lake Manyara, where lush greenery and vibrant grasses attract various herbivores such as impalas, dik-diks, hartebeests, and giraffes. The area is also home to big cats like lions and cheetahs, making it a diverse and captivating destination.

Is December crowded in Tanzania? December initially witnesses fewer tourists, offering a quieter safari experience. However, as the holiday season approaches, there's a gradual increase in tourist numbers. Towards the end of December, especially around Christmas and New Year, Tanzania experiences another surge in tourists, leading to a relatively crowded environment. It's advisable to book accommodations well in advance, especially during the holiday period, to secure preferred places to stay.

Can you recommend a few Tanzania safari tours for December? Certainly, several safari tours cater to different preferences and experiences in Tanzania during December:

Migration-focused tours: Opt for a Serengeti safari tour to witness the migration in its various stages, from early movements to calving towards the end of December.
Wildlife and birding tours: Consider tours that cover multiple parks like Tarangire and Ngorongoro for diverse wildlife sightings and excellent birding opportunities.
Cultural and nature tours: Explore tours that offer a blend of wildlife, culture, and nature experiences, such as visiting local communities or exploring the diverse landscapes.

Is November relatively expensive for safaris in Tanzania? November is generally considered a transitional period, not as expensive as the peak season. However, towards the end of December, particularly around Christmas and New Year, prices can rise due to increased demand for safaris and accommodations.

Where can I see the migration in December? In December, the Serengeti offers prime locations to witness the migration's various stages. Starting from the Eastern and South Eastern regions in early December, the migration extends to Northern Ngorongoro by mid-December. Late December marks the dispersal of the entire migration across Southern Serengeti, Ndutu, and Northern Ngorongoro, providing opportunities to witness wildebeests preparing for calving and other associated wildlife spectacles.

Is December good for birding in Tanzania? Yes, December is an excellent time for birding in Tanzania. The Ngorongoro region, in particular, offers a rich diversity of migratory and endemic bird species during this period, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts.

Can I do a group safari in December in Tanzania? Yes, group safaris are available in Tanzania during December. It's recommended to book such safaris in advance, especially during the holiday season, to ensure availability and secure accommodations within your preferred budget range.

What should I watch out for while planning a December safari in Tanzania? When planning a December safari in Tanzania, several factors require attention:

Weather patterns: Be prepared for short rains, especially in the early part of December.
Crowd levels: Expect increased tourist numbers towards the end of December, necessitating early booking of accommodations and safari tours.
Migration movements: Plan your safari itinerary around the migration's movements in the Serengeti and other regions.
Activities and interests: Consider your specific interests, whether it's wildlife viewing, birding, cultural experiences, or a combination of these.
Budget considerations: Anticipate potential price increases, especially during the holiday period, and plan your budget accordingly to avoid last-minute surprises.

Can you recommend a few Tanzania safari tours for December? Certainly, here are some of our recommended tours:

5 DAYS - SERENGETI AND NGORONGORO CRATER

6 DAYS - TARANGIRE, SERENGETI AND NGORONGORO CRATER

7 DAYS - TARANGIRE, SERENGETI AND NGORONGORO CRATER

8 DAYS - LAKE MANYARA, SERENGETI (3 NIGHTS), NGORONGORO CRATER AND TARANGIRE

9 DAYS - LAKE MANYARA, SERENGETI (4 NIGHTS), NGORONGORO CRATER AND TARANGIRE (2NIGHTS)

10 DAYS - TARANGIRE, LAKE MANYARA, LAKE NATRON, SERENGETI, NGORONGORO CRATER, AND LAKE EYASI

Reviews

Reviews by travellers who did a Tanzania safari tour with us in December.

Marguerite Q The trip of a lifetime made possible by Monkey Adventures and their excellent staff. Family

Monkey Adventures is the best travel company for a Tanzania safari. We had a private group and Monkey Adventures worked extensively with us to plan the perfect trip. Our guide, Nixon, surpassed all our expectations. On our first day in Serengeti, in the first hour, he spotted a leopard! We spent the next four days together in Serengeti, Ndutu and finally Ngorongoro Crater and saw the “big five”and then some. We stayed at Ang’ata camps that were fantastic. The nights got chilly and the hot water bottles to warm the bed were a delight! The service was fantastic, every night, bon fires were built for our enjoyment. Most importantly Monkey Adventures representatives were available to us if needed. I really trusted their recommendations. Also the box lunches were delicious! I highly recommend Monkey Adventures!

*Jason Excellent safari in Tanzania for 10 days Couplesb

Our original plan to go on a safari with monkey adventures in 2020 was postponed due to COVID-19 first to 2021 and then to early 2022 and finally to November 2022. Monkey adventures was very patient and made changes to our booking thrice without any rescheduling fees.

About the tour itself, it was just the way we imagined. Having used their services in the past, my partner and I had high expectations from monkey adventures and we are glad they were met. Our guide Mr. Albert has done an excellent job and patiently took us to the southern corners of Tarangire and to eastern Serengeti that we couldn't visit on our previous safaris. His wildlife knowledge and communication were remarkable and could keep us interested for the whole of 10 days that we toured with him.

Discover32746776483 Amazing 5-day Safari with Pilot Felix Friends

From the outset, this journey was nothing short of extraordinary. Felix’s precision and wealth of knowledge about the wildlife and environment in behavior were unparalleled. His skill in locating animals was astounding, making each moment on the safari an adventure filled with awe-inspiring sightings. The attention to detail and dedication to providing an enriching experience truly made this safari unforgettable. Kudos to Pilot Felix for an outstanding and unforgettable expedition!