Tanzania in December: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect
Climate Map for December
Average temperature across Tanzania in December.
City Weather in December
| City | High | Low | Rain | UV | Feels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dar es Salaam | 32° | 23° | 122 mm | extreme | Hot |
| Mwanza | 27° | 18° | 143 mm | extreme | Mild |
| Dodoma | 30° | 18° | 122 mm | extreme | Warm |
| Zanzibar City | 32° | 23° | 173 mm | extreme | Hot |
| Arusha | 27° | 15° | 93 mm | extreme | Mild |
| Mbeya | 25° | 14° | 214 mm | extreme | Mild |
| Morogoro | 32° | 22° | 136 mm | extreme | Hot |
High / low are average daily temperatures (°C). “Feels” reflects how hot or cold it feels, allowing for humidity.
Northern Circuit (Arusha, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Kilimanjaro)
December often combines warm, clear days with scattered showers as the short rains continue into early month before easing; holiday travel to Serengeti and Ngorongoro rises around Christmas. Kilimanjaro is drier at altitude than the lowlands but the lower trails can be wet and slippery - summit nights remain very cold. The festive season increases bookings, so arrange park permits and accommodations early, and bring insect repellent for coastal stops after the circuit.
Zanzibar & the East Coast (Stone Town, Nungwi, Mafia, Dar es Salaam)
December brings warmer, moister weather with a mix of sunshine and intermittent rains before the holiday peak picks up later in the month. Festive travel increases prices and ferry seats - book early for Christmas/New Year stays in Nungwi or Stone Town. Sea conditions can be calm on good days but brief storms remain possible. Carry light breathable layers for evenings and be ready for high humidity.
Lake Victoria & Northwest (Mwanza, Bukoba, Kagera)
December combines warm, humid days with intermittent heavy showers as the short rains continue; holiday travel around the lake increases late in the month. Mwanza’s waterfront and beaches along the lake are busy on dry spells, but expect rainfall interruptions to daytrips. The combination of holiday demand and wet roads can complicate itineraries, so book ferries and guesthouses early. Bring quick-drying clothing and a small umbrella.
Southern & Eastern Parks (Nyerere/Selous, Ruaha, Mikumi)
December is a warm, humid transition month as short rains continue into early December and then ease; holiday travel affects availability at popular riverside camps. Boat trips on the Rufiji are attractive when water levels are up, but expect occasional schedule changes due to storms. Wildlife viewing is variable where water is abundant and animals disperse; however, newer lodges often run special festive-season programs. Pack light breathable clothing and a compact rain shell for spells of rain.
Southern Highlands (Mbeya, Iringa, Rungwe, Lake Nyasa/Malawi border)
December continues the short-rain pattern with warm, wet afternoons; highland nights remain notably cooler than the coast, providing relief from humidity. Holiday travel increases mid- to late-December, so book accommodation early if visiting during Christmas. Trails can be slippery after storms but the scenery is spectacularly green. Carry a light waterproof, sturdy shoes, and insect repellent for riverside areas.
Central Plateau & Dodoma Region (Dodoma, Singida, Tabora)
December is a warm, humid month with scattered heavy showers and increasing holiday travel around Dodoma; cultural events and market activity are robust late in the month. Roads can be unpredictable after storms, and ferry or river crossings in peripheral regions may be affected temporarily. If traveling during the festive season, book accommodation and transport in advance. Light breathable clothing and a compact rain jacket make day trips manageable.