December can be warm and humid on the coast with occasional short showers, while interior areas remain pleasant for safaris. Holiday travel increases around late December and prices rise in popular areas.
John Storr CC BY-SA 4.0 Wikimedia Commons
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Average temperature across Kenya in December.
Mombasa, Diani, Lamu, Malindi
December warms back up under the northeast monsoon; humidity rises and festive-season crowds return to coastal towns for holidays. Sea temperatures climb and snorkel conditions are generally good between showers, though brief tropical downpours occur. Expect busy ferries and higher prices in Mombasa and Diani-book ahead, bring sun protection and plan shore excursions early in the day before potential afternoon clouds.
Nairobi, Naivasha, Nakuru
December settles into a drier, warmer rhythm with bright days and cooling nights-ideal for city breaks in Nairobi and short escapes to the Rift Valley lakes. Holiday crowds increase around the festive season and lakefront lodges are busier; boat trips are generally available and clear skies are excellent for early-morning photography. Pack sun protection for afternoons and a light sweater for cooler nights.
Maasai Mara, Nakuru, Naivasha, Amboseli fringe
December moves toward the drier, warmer season; daytime heat picks up and skies clear after periodic showers, making it comfortable for lodge-based safaris and family holidays. Wildlife viewing remains good outside heavy downpours and camps are busier over the festive period. Book early for holiday weeks and pack sun cream and light layers for cool mornings.
Nanyuki, Mount Kenya, Aberdare Range
December becomes drier and moderately warmer at lower elevations, with improved windows for trekking though summit attempts still need careful planning. Festive-season bookings rise for lodges near Nanyuki, and the mountain views clear between showers. Pack for variable conditions-cool nights, warm midday sun, and possible short storms-especially if attempting higher camps.
Kisumu, Homa Bay, Kakamega, Siaya
December moderates to a drier, warmer pattern with clear mornings and late-afternoon showers less frequent; lakeside festivals and markets pick up for the holiday season. This is a pleasant window for boat trips to Rusinga Island or visits to Kisumu’s museums and markets. Mosquito activity remains a consideration-pack repellents and consider an antimalarial consultation if staying in rural lakeside areas.
Marsabit, Turkana, Samburu, Isiolo
December generally dries out and becomes hot again, with clear skies and cooling nights-this is an easier month for expedition-style travel and cultural visits to communities around Turkana and Samburu. Daytime heat can be intense so schedule outdoor activities early and late. Bring broad-brimmed sun protection, plenty of water and confirm vehicle readiness before long drives on remote sections.
National holiday on December 12 celebrating Kenya's independence as a republic.
See how December compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.