December often brings drier and slightly cooler conditions across several Central African areas, improving accessibility for parks and trekking. It's a commonly recommended time for travel where road and trail conditions are a concern.
SeasonHigh SeasonTemperature 72-85°F / 22-29°CCrowds HighPrices High
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall, from each country's largest city. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Temperature map
-30°-20°-10°0°10°20°30°40°
Average temperature across Central Africa in December.
Where to Go in Central Africa in December
Gulf of Guinea Coast & São Tomé
coastal Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Republic of the Congo, western DRC, São Tomé & Príncipe
December brings a clearer drier spell along parts of the coast - especially around Libreville and southern Cameroon - with warm, less oppressive days that suit beaches and city sight-seeing. São Tomé and otherwise sheltered coves can feel delightful now; however, humidity and mosquitoes remain, and occasional coastal showers occur. This is one of the most convenient months for combining coastal sightseeing with a short jungle or river trip.
Congo Basin Rainforest
central DRC, northern Republic of the Congo, southern Central African Republic
December often offers a short window of somewhat reduced rainfall in places while still being generally humid and wet across the basin; daytime temperatures remain steady in the high 20s°C. River transport can be active and some lodges reopen or prepare for the holiday season, but expect sporadic showers and residual flooding in lowlands. Pack for moisture management, sturdy boots and continued malaria protection.
Northern Sahelian Fringe
northern Cameroon, Chad, northern Central African Republic
December returns to stable, dry harmattan-influenced weather: cool mornings, dusty air and very low humidity across the Sahelian fringe. Days are sunny and travel is straightforward on main roads, though thirst and sun exposure remain concerns. This is a prime period for festivals and market visits; pack a face covering for dust and warm layers for chilly nights.
December typically becomes drier once more with cool, fresh mornings and more predictable weather for trekking and lake cruises; the festive season brings an uptick in visitor numbers around Kigali and national parks. Volcano climbs and gorilla treks are easier as paths firm up, though occasional showers still occur at higher elevations. Reserve permits and accommodation early and pack for cool nights at altitude.
Cameroon Highlands & Mount Cameroon
Bamenda Plateau, Mount Cameroon, western highlands
December returns to a consistently drier pattern with cool nights and pleasant daytime temperatures across the highlands; this is one of the best months for summit attempts and for visiting highland markets. The trails on Mount Cameroon are generally in good condition and travel logistics are more reliable. Early booking is recommended for highland lodges during the holiday season, and bring warm clothing for altitude.
Events & Festivals in December
National celebrations (various)
Year-end holidays and local cultural events across the region.
Planning a trip to Central Africa?
See how December compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.
