Where To Go On December Safari In East Africa
where to go on december safari in east africa
where to go on december safari in east africa

December is a fantastic month for safaris in East Africaโ€”it marks the start of the festive season, wildlife is abundant, landscapes are lush after the short rains (Nov), and birdwatching is at its peak with migratory species arriving.

๐ŸŒฟ Top Safari Destinations in East Africa โ€“ December

Kenya

โœ… Masai Mara National Reserve

  • Resident wildlife is still excellent.

  • Lush plains and fewer tourists than peak migration months.

  • Big cats (lions, leopards, and cheetahs) are easily seen.

โœ… Amboseli National Park

  • Epic views of snow-capped Mt. Kilimanjaro.

  • Huge herds of elephants in a green, refreshed landscape.

โœ… Laikipia Conservancies

  • Great for exclusive luxury safaris and rhino tracking.

  • Excellent for families during Christmas holidays.

Tanzania

โœ… Serengeti (Southern Plains)

  • Start of the Great Wildebeest Calving Season (late Dec โ€“ March).

  • Herds begin returning from the north; predators follow.

  • Dramatic skies and incredible wildlife photography opportunities.

โœ… Ngorongoro Crater

  • Year-round wildlife hotspot.

  • Rain brings lush greenery and ideal conditions for animals inside the crater.

โœ… Lake Manyara & Tarangire

  • Birding is fantastic, and elephants and tree-climbing lions are active.

  • Green season rates availableโ€”fewer crowds.

Uganda

โœ… Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

  • Excellent time for gorilla trekking.

  • The forest is green and misty but very scenic.

โœ… Queen Elizabeth National Park

  • Game drives, boat safaris on the Kazinga Channel, and tree-climbing lions in Ishasha.

โœ… Murchison Falls NP

  • Drier in the north of Uganda, offering solid wildlife viewing with great weather.

๐ŸŒˆ Bonus: Festive Season & Birding

  • Holiday Specials: Many lodges offer Christmas & New Year packages.

  • Migratory birds are present across the regionโ€”a paradise for bird lovers.