The Best Africa Safaris in December: Top Destinations, Wildlife & Travel Guide
Planning an African safari in December? December can be an exciting time to explore Africa, with green landscapes, abundant birdlife, young animals, dramatic skies, gorilla trekking opportunities and excellent wildlife experiences across different countries.
But where should you go?
The answer depends on what you want to experience. The best Africa safaris in December can be found across East Africa and Southern Africa, with Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana and South Africa offering very different safari experiences.
For travellers looking for gorillas and chimpanzees, Uganda is an outstanding choice. For the Great Migration, Tanzania is highly attractive. For Big Five wildlife, Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana and South Africa offer excellent options.
At World Blossom Safaris, we help travellers plan private and customized African safari holidays based on their interests, budget, travel dates and preferred accommodation.
Ready to plan your December safari? Contact World Blossom Safaris for a personalized itinerary and quotation.
Why December Is a Good Month for an African Safari
December is a fascinating month to visit Africa because different regions experience different seasonal conditions.
In East Africa, December can bring green landscapes and short rains, while some parts of Southern Africa are in the green season. These conditions can create beautiful scenery, excellent birding and opportunities to see young animals.
December is also a popular holiday period, particularly around Christmas and New Year. This means accommodation, permits, flights and safari vehicles can become limited, so early planning is important.
According to safari travel information, Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda and Botswana can all offer worthwhile safari experiences in December, although the exact experience varies by destination.
This variety is exactly why the best Africa safaris in December depend on what you want to see and do.
1. Uganda – Best for Gorillas, Chimpanzees and Big Five Wildlife
Uganda is one of the most exciting destinations for travellers who want to combine primates and classic African wildlife.
A December safari in Uganda can combine:
- Gorilla trekking
- Chimpanzee tracking
- Big Five wildlife
- Boat safaris
- Game drives
- Bird watching
- Cultural experiences
- Scenic landscapes
- Community tourism
For many travellers, Uganda is one of the best Africa safaris in December because you can combine several different experiences within one trip.
Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is famous for mountain gorilla trekking.
A typical gorilla safari begins with a briefing before trekkers enter the forest with trained guides and trackers. The trek can take several hours depending on where the gorillas are located.
Seeing a mountain gorilla family in its natural habitat is one of Africa’s most memorable wildlife experiences.
December can be a good time to plan a gorilla trip, although Bwindi is a rainforest and rain can occur at any time.
Chimpanzee Tracking in Uganda
Kibale National Park is one of Uganda’s leading destinations for chimpanzee tracking.
Travellers can walk through tropical forest with experienced guides while searching for chimpanzees and other primates.
You may also encounter:
- Red-tailed monkeys
- Black-and-white colobus monkeys
- L’Hoest’s monkeys
- Forest birds
- Butterflies
- Other forest wildlife
Big Five Safaris in Uganda
Uganda also offers excellent savannah wildlife experiences.
You can visit destinations such as:
Murchison Falls National Park for elephants, lions, buffaloes, giraffes, hippos and Nile boat cruises.
Queen Elizabeth National Park for lions, elephants, buffaloes, hippos, leopards and the famous Kazinga Channel.
Kidepo Valley National Park for remote wilderness, dramatic landscapes and unique wildlife.
This combination makes Uganda a particularly strong option when comparing the best Africa safaris in December.
2. Tanzania – Best for the Great Migration
Tanzania is one of Africa’s most famous safari destinations.
In December, the Great Migration is generally moving toward the southern Serengeti and Ndutu areas as the annual calving period approaches.
The exact location of the herds depends on rainfall and grazing conditions, so migration movements cannot be guaranteed on a specific date.
Why Visit Tanzania in December?
A December Tanzania safari can include:
- Serengeti National Park
- Ngorongoro Crater
- Tarangire National Park
- Lake Manyara
- Zanzibar
The southern Serengeti can be particularly interesting because large herds begin gathering on the short-grass plains.
Predators such as lions, cheetahs and hyenas follow the herds, creating exciting wildlife-viewing opportunities.
Tanzania is therefore one of the best Africa safaris in December for travellers whose priority is migration, predators and classic savannah scenery.
3. Kenya – Best for Classic Safari Wildlife
Kenya is another excellent option for December.
The Maasai Mara remains home to resident wildlife even after the main migration has moved south toward Tanzania.
Travellers can search for:
- Lions
- Leopards
- Cheetahs
- Elephants
- Buffaloes
- Giraffes
- Zebras
- Hippos
- Many bird species
December can also bring green scenery and strong birding opportunities.
The Maasai Mara can be combined with other Kenyan destinations such as Amboseli, Lake Nakuru or Samburu depending on your interests.
For travellers who want classic African wildlife combined with green landscapes, Kenya deserves consideration among the best Africa safaris in December.
4. Botswana – Best for Green-Season Safari Experiences
Botswana is famous for luxury safaris, remote wilderness and extraordinary wildlife.
December falls within the green season, bringing rain, fresh vegetation, migratory birds and young animals.
Destinations to consider include:
- Okavango Delta
- Chobe National Park
- Moremi Game Reserve
- Central Kalahari
The green season can produce spectacular photography because thunderstorms, fresh vegetation and dramatic skies transform the landscape.
Botswana is particularly appealing to experienced safari travellers and photographers who enjoy seasonal changes rather than only traditional dry-season game viewing.
For this reason, Botswana can be included among the best Africa safaris in December, particularly for travellers who appreciate scenery, birding and green-season wildlife.
5. South Africa – Best for Safari and City Holidays
South Africa offers something different from many East African destinations.
You can combine a safari with Cape Town, the Winelands, beaches and other attractions.
Kruger National Park and surrounding private reserves are popular safari destinations where travellers can search for the Big Five.
December is summer in South Africa, and many areas become lush and green.
A South African holiday could include:
Cape Town -Winelands – Kruger National Park → Private Game Reserve
This combination makes South Africa a great option for couples, families and first-time Africa travellers.
If you want a safari combined with city sightseeing and coastal experiences, South Africa should be on your list of the best Africa safaris in December.
6. Rwanda – Best for Gorilla Trekking and Volcano Landscapes
Rwanda is another excellent destination for travellers interested in mountain gorillas.
Volcanoes National Park is home to mountain gorillas and golden monkeys.
A Rwanda safari can be combined with:
- Gorilla trekking
- Golden monkey tracking
- Kigali city tours
- Cultural experiences
- Lake Kivu
- Akagera National Park
December can offer rewarding trekking opportunities, although conditions in mountain forests can change quickly.
Rwanda is especially attractive to travellers who prefer a compact itinerary with gorilla trekking and comfortable accommodation.
7. Zimbabwe – Best for Wildlife, Birds and Green Landscapes
Zimbabwe offers excellent wildlife experiences and spectacular wilderness areas.
In December, the country is entering its green season.
Hwange National Park is famous for elephants and diverse wildlife, while Mana Pools offers a different wilderness experience.
December can also be interesting for birdwatchers because migratory birds are present.
However, travellers should understand that wildlife can become more dispersed during the rainy season as temporary water sources appear.
For travellers looking for a greener and quieter safari experience, Zimbabwe can be another option among the best Africa safaris in December.
8. Namibia – Best for Landscapes and Desert Adventures
Namibia is famous for dramatic landscapes, deserts and open spaces.
Popular destinations include:
- Etosha National Park
- Sossusvlei
- Namib Desert
- Damaraland
- Skeleton Coast
December can be hot and rainy in some areas, but the landscape can become beautifully green following rainfall.
Namibia is particularly appealing to travellers who want to combine wildlife with spectacular scenery and road-trip adventures.
Where Should You Go for the Best Africa Safaris in December?
The right destination depends on your interests.
Choose Uganda if you want:
- Mountain gorillas
- Chimpanzees
- Big Five wildlife
- Boat safaris
- Birding
- Cultural experiences
- Private customized safaris
Choose Tanzania if you want:
- Great Migration
- Serengeti
- Ngorongoro Crater
- Big cats
- Large herds
- Zanzibar extensions
Choose Kenya if you want:
- Maasai Mara
- Big Five
- Beautiful landscapes
- Birding
- Private conservancies
- Classic safari experiences
Choose Botswana if you want:
- Okavango Delta
- Green-season wildlife
- Photography
- Remote wilderness
- Luxury safari camps
Choose South Africa if you want:
- Big Five
- Kruger National Park
- Cape Town
- Beaches
- Wine regions
- Family-friendly travel options
What Animals Can You See on an African Safari in December?
December can provide opportunities to see many iconic African animals.
Depending on the country and park, you may see:
- Lions
- Leopards
- Cheetahs
- Elephants
- Buffaloes
- Giraffes
- Zebras
- Wildebeest
- Hippos
- Rhinos
- Hyenas
- Wild dogs
- Gorillas
- Chimpanzees
- Antelopes
- Warthogs
- Crocodiles
- Monkeys
- Flamingos
- Numerous bird species
Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed because animals move freely in their natural habitats. However, experienced guides understand animal behaviour, seasonal conditions and the best areas to search.
Is December a Peak Season for African Safaris?
December needs careful planning because Christmas and New Year can be busy.
Demand can increase around the festive period, especially from approximately mid-December through early January.
Some lodges and camps can become fully booked, while prices may also increase.
For this reason, travellers planning the best Africa safaris in December should begin planning as early as possible.
Early booking is particularly important if your trip includes:
- Gorilla permits
- Chimpanzee permits
- Luxury lodges
- Family rooms
- Private vehicles
- Christmas travel
- New Year travel
How Much Does an African Safari in December Cost?
There is no single price for an African safari in December.
Your final cost depends on:
- Destination
- Number of travellers
- Number of safari days
- Accommodation level
- Gorilla or chimpanzee permits
- Transportation
- Domestic flights
- Activities
- Park fees
- Private versus shared safari
- Christmas and New Year travel dates
A budget safari can be very different from a luxury private safari.
At World Blossom Safaris, we can design your itinerary around your available budget rather than forcing you into a standard package.
How Many Days Do You Need for an African Safari in December?
The ideal length depends on your destination and interests.
3–4 Days
Good for a short wildlife safari.
5–7 Days
Ideal for combining two major destinations.
8–10 Days
Excellent for a more comprehensive Uganda, Kenya or Tanzania safari.
12–14 Days
Perfect for combining wildlife, primates, culture and relaxation.
For example, a 10-day Uganda safari could combine:
Kampala – Murchison Falls -Kibale -Queen Elizabeth – Bwindi → Kampala/Entebbe
Alternatively, travellers can create a longer East African adventure combining Uganda with Kenya or Tanzania.
Uganda or Tanzania: Which Is Better in December?
There is no universal winner.
Choose Uganda if your priority is gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking and combining primates with savannah wildlife.
Choose Tanzania if your priority is the Serengeti, the Great Migration and classic open-plains wildlife viewing.
If you have enough time, you can even combine destinations.
A professional safari operator can help you determine which route provides the best experience for your dates and budget.
Why Book Your December Safari Early?
December is a popular holiday month.
Waiting until the last minute can make it harder to secure your preferred:
- Gorilla permit
- Chimpanzee permit
- Lodge
- Safari vehicle
- Driver-guide
- Internal flight
- Christmas accommodation
Booking early also gives your safari operator more time to create a well-organized itinerary.
This is especially important for travellers planning the best Africa safaris in December during Christmas and New Year.
Why Book Your African Safari With World Blossom Safaris?
At World Blossom Safaris, we are a Uganda-based tour operator specializing in personalized East African adventures.
We can organize:
- Gorilla trekking in Uganda
- Chimpanzee tracking
- Big Five safaris
- Uganda wildlife safaris
- Rwanda gorilla tours
- Kenya and Tanzania extensions
- Birding safaris
- Cultural experiences
- Airport transfers
- Private 4×4 safari vehicles
- Driver-guided tours
Our team can build your safari around your interests, travel dates, accommodation preferences and budget.
Instead of giving you a generic itinerary, we listen to what you want to experience and create a practical safari plan around it.
Book the Best Africa Safari in December
December can be an incredible month to explore Africa.
Whether you dream of standing in a Ugandan rainforest with mountain gorillas, watching elephants in the savannah, following the Great Migration in Tanzania, exploring the Maasai Mara or experiencing Botswana’s green season, there is an African safari for you.
The key is choosing the right destination for your travel dates and interests.
If you are searching for the best Africa safaris in December, don’t wait until the last minute.
Contact World Blossom Safaris today and let us design your private December African safari.
Tell us:
- Your preferred travel dates
- Number of travellers
- Your nationality
- Your safari interests
- Your preferred accommodation level
- Your approximate budget
- Whether you want a private or shared safari
We will help you create a personalized itinerary and quotation.
Start Planning Your December African Safari Today
Let’s blossom together to the Pearl of Africa.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Africa Safaris in December
Is December a good month for an African safari?
Yes. December can be an excellent month for an African safari, depending on your destination. East Africa can offer green landscapes and excellent wildlife, while Southern Africa experiences its green season.
What is the best African country to visit in December?
There is no single best country for everyone. Uganda is excellent for gorillas and chimpanzees, Tanzania for the Great Migration, Kenya for classic safari wildlife, Botswana for green-season wilderness and South Africa for combining safari with Cape Town and other attractions.
Is Uganda good for a safari in December?
Yes. Uganda is a strong December destination for travellers interested in gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, wildlife safaris and birding. Several safari travel guides rate Uganda as a good December destination.
Can I see the Great Migration in December?
Yes. The Great Migration typically moves toward the southern Serengeti and Ndutu area around this period, although the exact location varies with rainfall and grazing conditions. December is generally a build-up to the main calving season rather than its peak.
Should I book my December safari early?
Yes. Christmas and New Year can be particularly busy, so early booking is recommended, especially if you need gorilla permits, specific lodges, family rooms or a private safari vehicle.
Can I combine gorilla trekking with a wildlife safari?
Absolutely. Uganda is particularly suitable for combining gorilla trekking with chimpanzee tracking and classic savannah wildlife experiences in destinations such as Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls National Parks.
Are December safaris expensive?
Prices vary considerably. December holiday periods can attract higher demand, but the overall cost depends on the country, accommodation, safari length, activities and whether you choose a private or shared safari.
What should I pack for a December African safari?
Pack lightweight clothing, comfortable walking shoes, a waterproof jacket, sun protection, insect repellent, a hat, binoculars, a camera and a small daypack. For gorilla trekking, sturdy waterproof hiking shoes and rain protection are particularly useful.
Ready to plan your trip? Talk to our experts.
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