East Africa in December: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect

Horn of Africa (Ethiopia’s lowlands, Somalia, Djibouti, Eritrea)

Cooler, drier conditions dominate in December across much of the Horn: Djibouti and Eritrea see more temperate days and pleasantly cool nights, and Somalia’s coastal districts usually return to dry, sunny weather. Highland Ethiopia is cool in the mornings and evenings with crisp days - excellent for visiting Lalibela and the north once trails firm up. Tourist services and domestic flights pick up for end-of-year travel, so book ahead for any popular cultural festivals or pilgrimages.

Ethiopian Highlands & Rift (Addis Ababa, Lalibela, Simien, Bale)

Cool, dry conditions dominate again in December across the Ethiopian highlands, delivering bright days and chilly nights - ideal for exploring Addis, the rock-hewn churches and highland scenic drives. Nights in high-altitude towns can drop to near freezing; warm clothing is wise for early departures and evening meals. Tourist traffic picks up around year-end festivities, so book lodgings for popular highland hubs in advance.

Kenya & Northern Tanzania Savannas (Nairobi, Maasai Mara, Serengeti, Amboseli, Kilimanjaro)

December tends to dry out progressively, delivering warm days and comfortable evenings across Nairobi and the highlands while coastal humidity increases. The Maasai Mara and northern Serengeti are good for late-year safaris as game settles into predictable patterns near water, and festive-season travel drives up demand. Pack for sun and dust on plains game drives and a light jacket for early-morning starts.

Zanzibar & Tanzanian Coast (Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar Archipelago, Pemba, Mafia)

Moist, hot conditions often continue into December, with mornings that can be humid and afternoons that alternate between sunshine and tropical downpours - Christmas and New Year demand places along the coast and on Zanzibar, so book early. Water temperatures are inviting and diving can still be excellent in calmer windows, but beaches will feel busier and accommodation rates rise. Prepare for festivity-driven crowds and pack breathable fabrics and a light rain jacket.

Uganda, Rwanda & Lake Victoria Basin (Kampala, Entebbe, Kigali, Bwindi, Lake Victoria)

December usually dries out again, offering cooler mornings and bright afternoons that are comfortable for tracking gorillas and exploring cities; it’s a popular time for holiday travel to the region. Lodges regain full service and boat crossings on Lake Victoria become more reliable, though demand around year-end can push prices up. Pack breathable clothing for daytime activities and a warm layer for early starts in high-altitude trekking areas.

Indian Ocean Islands (Seychelles, Comoros, Mauritius, Mayotte)

Marine warmth and an increased chance of heavy showers usually return in December across the islands, with the wet season ramping up and busy holiday travel pushing up prices. Beach activities are still viable between storms, but airlines and ferries may be busier and occasionally weather-disrupted. Pack light, breathable clothing and a rainproof shell, and plan extra transfer time during the high season.