Celebrate the Wilderness: Tanzania Safari in December

Overview – December in Tanzania

December is a month of renewal, transformation, and quiet magic in Tanzania. As the short rains, which usually begin in November, taper off in early December, the entire landscape awakens with fresh life. The once-dry savannahs are reborn into emerald-green carpets, dotted with blooming wildflowers and shimmering under dramatic skies. Rivers and waterholes fill once again, nourishing the land and drawing animals in large numbers. Across the national parks, the air feels cleaner, the scenery brighter, and the wilderness more alive than ever.

For safari-goers, December is a hidden gem of the calendar. Unlike the crowded peak season of June to October, December offers a calmer rhythm, with fewer tourists and more exclusive encounters. Game drives feel more personal, and there is a greater sense of wilderness as you watch animals in their natural behaviors without the bustle of too many vehicles. Lodges and camps provide attentive, personalized service, making every moment feel tailored to you.

Wildlife is still in full abundance. Herds of elephants can be seen wading through fresh grasslands, giraffes feeding gracefully among green acacia trees, and lions basking under the softer December sun — many with cubs born in recent months. Predators remain highly active, as the rains bring grazing animals closer, ensuring dramatic encounters on the plains. This is also the time when birdlife is at its most spectacular, with migratory species joining Tanzania’s already diverse residents. Flocks of flamingos glow pink against volcanic lakes, while rollers, storks, pelicans, and raptors fill the skies with color and movement.

December also carries a unique cultural and festive charm. Being the holiday season, it is a popular time for families and couples seeking to combine wildlife adventures with celebration. Many travelers choose to extend their safari with a visit to Zanzibar’s beaches, where turquoise waters and spice-scented breezes offer a perfect contrast to the wild plains.

Climate-wise, December is comfortably warm, with daytime temperatures averaging 25–30°C (77–86°F) and cooler mornings and evenings. The rains that remain are usually brief and refreshing, often arriving in the afternoon before clearing into brilliant sunsets. Far from being disruptive, they add drama to the skies, cleanse the air, and make the scenery more photogenic.

In short, December in Tanzania is a time when life flourishes, landscapes shine, and wildlife thrives. It’s a season of color, freshness, and intimacy, offering travelers a chance to witness nature at its most vibrant while enjoying a quieter, more personal safari experience. For those seeking a journey that blends adventure, tranquility, and holiday spirit, December is one of the most rewarding times of year to visit Tanzania.

Why December is a Special Month for Safari in Tanzania

Lush, Green Landscapes

The short rains bring life to the land. Plains that were once dusty and brown are transformed into fertile grazing grounds. This new growth attracts large herbivores like wildebeest, zebras, buffaloes, and antelopes, which in turn draw predators. The scenery is at its most photogenic, with dramatic skies, colorful flowers, and fresh greenery providing a stunning backdrop for photography.

Active Wildlife Everywhere

December is a prime month for wildlife activity. Predators such as lions, cheetahs, and leopards remain highly visible, often with cubs born during this season. Large herds gather to feed on fresh vegetation, while elephants and giraffes move gracefully across the rejuvenated plains. The Ngorongoro Crater is especially rewarding, offering year-round density of wildlife with added vibrancy in December.

Calving Season Begins

By late December, the southern Serengeti and Ndutu plains start welcoming the first wildebeest calves of the Great Migration. This marks the beginning of the famous calving season, when over 500,000 young wildebeests are born in just a few weeks. It’s one of the most dramatic spectacles in nature — a time of both abundance and vulnerability, as predators take advantage of easy prey.

World-Class Birdwatching

December is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. Migratory species from Europe and Asia arrive, joining Tanzania’s resident birds. Expect to see brilliant flocks of flamingos on soda lakes, colorful bee-eaters, lilac-breasted rollers, kingfishers, storks, and raptors. For photographers, the combination of lush landscapes and diverse birdlife makes December unforgettable.

Comfortable Climate

Despite the rains, Tanzania’s weather in December is generally mild and enjoyable. Showers are usually brief and localized, leaving plenty of time for game drives. Daytime temperatures average 25–30°C (77–86°F), while mornings and evenings are cooler — ideal for safari activities. The air feels fresh and clean, with dramatic cloudscapes adding atmosphere.

Fewer Tourists, More Exclusivity

December sits between the busy summer holidays and the January calving peak. This means fewer crowds in many parks, lower vehicle traffic, and more personalized service in lodges and camps. For travelers who prefer a peaceful and authentic experience, December is perfect.

Best Safari Destinations in December

Serengeti National Park – The Great Migration’s Southern Shift

By December, the herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move south toward the Ndutu plains, where short grasses flourish after the rains. This area becomes the stage for the early calving season, a time when predators like cheetahs and hyenas are highly active. With its lush scenery and thrilling predator-prey interactions, December in the Serengeti is both dramatic and beautiful.

Ngorongoro Crater – Wildlife Concentration at Its Best

The Ngorongoro Crater is a spectacular year-round destination, but in December its landscapes are especially green and vibrant. With around 25,000 animals within its basin, including the endangered black rhino, elephants, buffalo, zebras, and large prides of lions, game viewing is always rewarding. The surrounding highlands also glow with wildflowers after the rains.

Tarangire National Park – Elephants in Green Splendor

While Tarangire is best known for its dry-season wildlife concentration, December offers a different charm. The baobab-dotted landscapes become lush, and elephants thrive on the fresh vegetation. Birdwatching peaks here too, making it a rewarding stop on your safari circuit.

Lake Manyara National Park – Bird Paradise

Lake Manyara is at its most stunning in December, with its alkaline waters filled with flamingos and migratory birds. Its forests are alive with monkeys and colorful birdlife, while lions, giraffes, and elephants roam the surrounding plains. This compact park is perfect for a one-day December safari.

Selous (Nyerere National Park) – Remote and Wild

For travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures, Selous Game Reserve is ideal in December. The Rufiji River swells with life, making boat safaris particularly rewarding. Expect to see hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and wild dogs in this vast wilderness with minimal crowds.

Ruaha and Katavi – True Wilderness Experiences

Remote parks like Ruaha and Katavi are spectacular for seasoned safari-goers in December. While access can be trickier during rains, those who venture here are rewarded with incredible predator sightings, huge buffalo herds, and some of the most untouched landscapes in Africa.

Wildlife Highlights in December

• Wildebeest and Zebra Migration moving into southern Serengeti and Ndutu.

• Predator Action as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas take advantage of calving season.

• Elephants enjoying lush vegetation in Tarangire and Serengeti.

• Bird Migration with thousands of species, including flamingos, storks, and raptors.

• Rare Black Rhino sightings in Ngorongoro.

• Hippos and Crocodiles thriving in swollen rivers and lakes.

Tips for Your December Safari

• Pack for Mixed Weather: Bring lightweight clothing for warm days, layers for cool evenings, and a waterproof jacket for showers.

• Protect from the Sun: Even with rain, the equatorial sun is strong. Carry hats, sunglasses, and SPF sunscreen.

• Insect Repellent: Mosquito activity can increase after rains — bring strong repellent.

• Footwear: Choose waterproof, sturdy shoes for game drives and walks.

• Photography Gear: A camera with zoom lenses, extra batteries, and binoculars is essential for capturing both wildlife and landscapes.

• Stay Hydrated: Carry a reusable water bottle on drives to stay refreshed.

• Health Prep: Malaria prophylaxis and recommended vaccinations are advised. Consult your doctor before travel.

Frequently Asked Questions About December Safaris

1. Is December a good time for safari in Tanzania?
Yes. December offers lush scenery, abundant wildlife, fewer tourists, and the start of the wildebeest calving season.

2. Will rain ruin my safari?
No. Rains usually fall in short bursts, often in the afternoon or evening, leaving plenty of time for game drives.

3. Which parks are best to visit in December?
The Serengeti (southern and Ndutu areas), Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, Tarangire, and Selous are excellent choices.

4. Can I see the Great Migration in December?
Yes. The herds are usually in the southern Serengeti and Ndutu, preparing for calving.

5. What animals are most visible in December?
Elephants, giraffes, buffalo, zebras, wildebeests, antelopes, lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, rhinos, and hippos are common.

6. Is December good for birdwatching?
Absolutely. December is one of the best months, with migratory birds arriving and resident species nesting.

7. Are lodges and camps open in December?
Yes, most remain open year-round and offer excellent service.

8. Is December crowded?
No. It is quieter compared to the dry season, so you’ll enjoy more exclusive game drives.

9. What’s the weather like?
Warm days, cooler nights, with occasional short rains. Temperatures average 25–30°C (77–86°F).

10. What should I pack for a December safari?
Light clothing, layers, waterproof jacket, insect repellent, sun protection, sturdy shoes, and photography gear.

11. Can families travel in December?
Yes. Many lodges are family-friendly, and the lush conditions make safaris comfortable for kids.

12. Is malaria a concern?
Yes, mosquitoes are more active after rain. Malaria prophylaxis and repellent are recommended.

13. How many days should I plan for a December safari?
6–10 days allows you to explore multiple parks and maximize your experience.

14. Can I combine safari with Zanzibar in December?
Yes. December is an excellent time for beach extensions in Zanzibar after safari.

15. What about Kilimanjaro in December?
Climbing is possible, but trails can be slippery. The views and challenge are still rewarding.

16. Do lodges provide rain gear?
Some do, but it’s best to bring your own lightweight waterproofs.

17. Will I see predators with cubs?
Yes. December is a great month to spot lion, cheetah, and hyena families.

18. How is photography in December?
Spectacular. The green landscapes, dramatic skies, and active wildlife provide perfect opportunities.

19. Are safaris more affordable in December?
Yes. Mid-December often has lower rates before the Christmas/New Year holiday period.

20. Is December better than dry season safaris?
It depends on preference. December offers lush beauty, fewer crowds, and unique wildlife spectacles, while dry season has easier animal spotting but busier parks.

Conclusion

A December safari in Tanzania is a celebration of life, growth, and renewal. With landscapes at their most vibrant, wildlife thriving, and fewer tourists in the parks, it’s a season that offers both intimacy and adventure. From the calving wildebeest of the southern Serengeti to the bird-filled wetlands of Manyara and the predator action in Ngorongoro, every day brings new wonders.

At Tanzaniatrail Experience Limited, we design safaris that make the most of December’s magic. With our expert guides, carefully chosen lodges, and personalized itineraries, you’ll not only witness Tanzania’s wilderness — you’ll connect with it in a way that stays with you forever.

👉 Ready to celebrate the wild beauty of Tanzania this December? Contact Tanzaniatrail today and let us craft your unforgettable safari journey.