Short rains turn the landscape green, with festive-season demand at the end of the month.
December starts with the tail of the short rains and ends in a dry, sunny spell. Early December is quieter and cheaper; Christmas and New Year book out early.
Quick FactsShowers early, drier later.
Migrant birds are present.
Possible all month; trails muddy early.
Very high at Christmas.
Fresh grass and calves bring beauty; wildlife can be harder to see in tall grass. Migrant birds add interest to birding trips.
See Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda weather.
Book months ahead for 20 December to 5 January.
Zanzibar is hot and humid; see Zanzibar weather.
Frequently Asked QuestionsYes, especially late December to January.
Yes, early in the month.
Very.
Yes.
Kenya’s two dry seasons give the best game viewing; the coast is hot and humid.
Explore →June to October is the classic dry season; the green season offers quieter parks.
Explore →Uganda’s equatorial climate is mild, with two rainy seasons that rarely stop a safari.
Explore →Uganda holds over 1,000 recorded bird species — a genuine rarity even within East Africa.
Explore →Tell us your dates and interests and we will design the route around you.
