Thinking about an African safari Christmas? These are the WORST destinations to visit over the festive season, and some excellent alternatives!
There's something irresistible about spending Christmas in Africa, waking up to sun-drenched sands or the ribcage-rattling roar of a lion. It’s the kind of soul-stirring adventure many dream of ticking off their bucket list.
While there are some incredible festive-season safaris to choose from, not every destination delivers. December brings heavy rains, blistering heat, and muddy roads to certain areas, turning your dream trip into a potential travel nightmare.
To help you avoid the pitfalls, we’ve highlighted the worst safari destinations for December—along with the top alternatives that offer unforgettable wildlife encounters without the discomfort.
December isn’t the same across Africa, especially when it comes to the weather. Some regions face intense heat or heavy rain that disrupts travel and wildlife viewing, while others enjoy mild conditions and easy game sightings.
Broadly speaking, southern Africa enters its summer season in December, accompanied by increased humidity, rainfall, and a rise in mosquito activity. Meanwhile, East Africa experiences lighter “short rains”, brief afternoon showers that rarely interfere with safaris and often leave the landscape lush and photogenic.
Africa is a huge continent, and these are the best times to go on an African Safari.
Below are some popular safari spots that, while magical, are best avoided in December.
In their place, we’ve included some stellar alternatives that will provide top Christmas wildlife experiences and come highly recommended for December trips.
But don’t wait too long... the top Christmas safari destinations often sell out fast, so booking ahead of the crowds is key for nabbing good prices and having the best choice of tours.
Sossusvlei's dunes are a stunning sight year-round, but the heat can be punishing from October to March/April.
December temperatures often climb towards 40°C, making outdoor exploration uncomfortable during several hours of the day.
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This natural bowl is home to an extraordinary concentration of wildlife that stays resident year-round.
December technically falls within the short rainy season, but it does mean the crater is green, alive, and spectacular at this time.
December light rains also mean game viewing remains easy and plentiful.
Etosha's summer is not for the faint of heart!
From November to March, temperatures often rise into the 40°C range here, creating sweltering and difficult safari conditions.
The Serengeti is huge and full of life throughout the year.
In December, wildlife can be seen grazing across the plains, and the climate remains far more tolerable than Etosha's searing heat.
Towards the end of December, wildebeest begin to gather in the southern Serengeti's Ndutu Plains, leading to a festival of predator action and incredible wildlife sightings.
Thinking of adding the great migration to your bucket list? These are our insider tips for a great Great Migration safari.
Though undeniably beautiful, Mozambique in December is hot, humid, and most notably, wet.
Rainfall between December and March often comes in large bursts, making beach adventures here (the very thing Mozambique is most renowned for) far less appealing.
Bush travel is also less enjoyable in Mozambique during December, with destinations such as Gorongosa National Park and Maputo Special Reserve, hard to access with frequently obscured wildlife.
Cape Town enjoys a Mediterranean-like summer in December, with sunshine, blue skies, and comfortable temperatures.
One of the world’s most loved cities, it offers a slice of everything from hiking Table Mountain and wine tasting at local vineyards to visiting Robben Island and learning about the important history of this nation and its political father, Nelson Mandela. In addition to amazing weather, Cape Town is also home to some of the Best Beaches in South Africa, perfect for surfing santas of all ages.
Cape Town is also the perfect city to mix with an incredible safari… or 2!
Just a few hours from Cape Town, you can experience a Big Five safari at top spots such as Aquila, Sanbona, and Inverdoorn.
Nearby Addo Elephant Park is also a fantastic option for family-friendly safaris.
Madagascar's tropical cyclone season runs from November to March, resulting in frequent storms and travel disruptions during the festive period.
It’s generally ill-advised to plan a Christmas escape here because of unpredictable weather, restricted access, and difficult conditions.
Though water levels are low in December, this is the best time to swim in the iconic Devil's Pool at the top of the Falls and explore the amazing rocky formations of this natural wonder.
It may be hot, but unique experiences like this make Vic Falls worth a visit in December … plus you can get some amazing snaps too!
Check out 10 of the best African safaris that visit the Victoria Falls.
Expect heavy rains, high humidity, and mosquitoes in Malawi in December.
Many roads also become impassable and, with temperatures hovering in the high 30s, make safari logistics, safety, and comfort a serious challenge.
Ethiopia's high season runs from October to January, just after the rains, which means the landscapes are still lush.
Cultural highlights like Orthodox Christmas in Lalibela (which runs from the 5th-7th January) add a fascinating cultural layer to your time in this unique nation.
Here are a few more African safari destinations that are still excellent in December.
These spots might not always be the first choice for December (i.e., their peak viewing seasons are in another month), but they’re hard to beat as memorable Christmas safari spots.
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Kruger National Park is a reliable year-round safari destination, and December is no exception.
Though it's the start of the rainy season, showers usually arrive in short afternoon bursts and are often followed by clear skies.
The bush is also lush and green in December, creating great photography opportunities too.
Keep in mind that game-viewing does become a little more challenging with the thicker vegetation, but that prices are lower as a result.
December in Chobe is hot and rainy, but it is also green and full of life!
As such, it’s a perfect time for standout photography and birdwatching in particular.
The end of the year also marks the birthing season for many species here, such as the impala, which means you'll witness loads of infant and predator activity.
Sunrise and sunset drives are cooler and often more productive during the festive period.
Due to its proximity to Chobe, the Okavango Delta also enters its green season in December.
Though water levels are not at their highest, the landscape is still accessible in many areas, and wildlife viewing remains strong.
The summer rains help rejuvenate the region, and the birdlife is spectacular.
If a mokoro safari (traditional canoe) is your priority during this time, make sure to check ahead for availability.
Uganda's December weather marks the start of the dry season, making it an excellent time to go gorilla trekking in Bwindi National Park.
Trails are drier and more accessible, while the mountains still maintain their ethereal, misty beauty.
Although Uganda is tropical and can still see some rain during this time, conditions in December are typically stable enough. If you are curious about gorilla trekking, check out our FAQ Quick Guide to gorilla trekking safaris.
Just make sure to book your permits early, as December is a popular month for gorilla encounters; they can sell out.
The Masai Mara rarely disappoints, regardless of the time of year!
Its temperate climate and healthy wildlife populations ensure fantastic sightings, even in December.
While the region does experience short rains during this time, they’re often limited to brief afternoon thunderstorms, followed by sunshine and clear skies.
The plains are green and less crowded than in peak migration months, too, offering a more peaceful safari experience and often, better prices as well.
For more Masai Mara travel information, check out our month-by-month guide to the Masai Mara.
Safari season over Christmas isn't one-size-fits-all. Not sure which destination is right for you?
Our safari experts are here to help you choose the perfect place for your Christmas safari adventure, one that fits your budget, comfort, and travel dreams.
Talk to us today to secure your safari spot this festive season.
Explore these destinations mentioned in this post.
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