Central Africa in December: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect
Climate Map for December
Average temperature across Central Africa in December.
Country Weather in December
| Country | High | Low | Rain | UV | Feels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Democratic Republic of the Congo | 30° | 22° | 181 mm | very high | Warm |
| Cameroon | 31° | 23° | 32 mm | very high | Hot |
| Chad | 33° | 16° | 0 mm | very high | Warm |
| Republic of the Congo | 30° | 22° | 183 mm | very high | Warm |
| Central African Republic | 32° | 19° | 26 mm | very high | Warm |
| Gabon | 30° | 24° | 299 mm | very high | Warm |
| Equatorial Guinea | 30° | 21° | 102 mm | very high | Warm |
| São Tomé and Príncipe | 29° | 22° | 170 mm | very high | Warm |
Representative figures from each country's largest city. High / low are average daily temperatures (°C); “Feels” allows for humidity.
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.
Great Lakes & Albertine Rift Highlands (Rwanda, Burundi, eastern DRC - Goma, Bukavu, Virunga, and surrounding highlands)
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.