Tanzania Safari in December
By the Foot Slopes Tours and Safaris team
Written by our Arusha-based guides and private safari planners from first-hand experience in Tanzania.
A Tanzania safari in December combines the end of the short rains with the return of the Great Migration to the southern Serengeti and Ndutu, where the herds graze fresh green grass ahead of the calving season. Showers usually fall in the afternoon, mornings are often bright, and Palearctic migrant birds are present. Early December is quiet and good value, while the festive weeks are among the busiest of the year. Zanzibar turns hot and sunny, making bush and beach easy to combine. This guide covers weather, wildlife, crowds, costs, packages and lodges to plan a private tailor-made safari.
Yes. December is a very good month for a Tanzania safari. The migration herds return to the southern Serengeti and Ndutu, the plains are green after the short rains, migrant birds are present and Zanzibar is hot and sunny. Early December is quieter, while festive dates need booking well ahead.
Why Visit Tanzania Safari in December
December rewards travellers with green landscapes, returning herds and an easy bush-and-beach combination. After the short rains the southern Serengeti and Ndutu plains are covered in fresh grass, and the migration herds settle there for the coming months, with predators close behind. Migrant birds are present, many antelope and birds are breeding, and Zanzibar enters its hot, dry season. Early December offers quiet parks and good value, while the festive season suits families and celebrations, making December an excellent month for a private tailor-made safari. Each highlight below explains when and where to look.
The Migration Returns to the South
By December the migration herds usually arrive on the short-grass plains of the southern Serengeti and the Ndutu area, drawn by grazing that greens after the short rains. Wildebeest and zebra spread across open country, often in very large numbers. Exact timing depends on rainfall, so your private guide tracks the herds day by day.
Lush Landscapes and Clear Air
The short rains leave the northern parks green and fresh in December, with wildflowers, full rivers and very little dust. Afternoon clouds and occasional storms create dramatic skies, while mornings are often clear and bright. For photographers, the combination of vivid colour, soft light and abundant wildlife makes this a beautiful month in the bush.
Lions, Cheetahs and Hyenas Follow
As the herds settle on the southern plains, lions, spotted hyenas, cheetahs and jackals follow closely. The open short-grass country around Ndutu is excellent for watching cheetahs, and lions often rest near the herds. A private vehicle lets you wait patiently for natural behaviour, such as a hunt, without rushing on to the next stop.
Christmas and New Year in the Bush
Spending Christmas or New Year on safari is a memorable experience, and many lodges mark the festive season with special dinners and a warm atmosphere. School holidays make December popular with families, and multi-generational trips work well with a private vehicle and flexible timings. Festive dates book out early, so plan well ahead. Ask us about festive programmes.
Excellent Birdwatching Season
Palearctic migrants from Europe and Asia are present in December, joining Tanzania’s resident birds, and many residents are breeding in bright plumage. Storks, raptors, rollers, bee-eaters and waders are widespread. Lake Manyara, Tarangire and the southern Serengeti all deliver long bird lists, rewarding keen birders and photographers throughout the month, whatever the weather. Bring good binoculars.
Safari Followed by Zanzibar Sunshine
December marks the start of Zanzibar’s hot, dry season, with sunny days, warm water and calm conditions for swimming and snorkelling. It is an ideal way to finish a safari, especially over the holidays. We link the northern parks and the island with light-aircraft or domestic flights in one smooth private itinerary. Allow three to five nights.
Weather & Climate during a Tanzania Safari in December
December usually sees the short rains continue in northern Tanzania, often easing as the month progresses. Rain mostly falls as afternoon or evening showers or thunderstorms, and mornings are frequently clear and sunny. Days are warm, typically in the mid to high twenties Celsius in the Serengeti, Ndutu and Tarangire, with some humidity. The Ngorongoro highlands are cool at night and early morning. Some black-cotton tracks become muddy after heavy rain. Zanzibar turns hot and largely dry. Pack light layers, a warm fleece and a compact rain jacket for showers. Mornings are usually the best time for game drives.
Wildlife and Animals
December wildlife viewing centres on the southern Serengeti and Ndutu, where the migration herds return to graze the nutritious short-grass plains after the short rains. Wildebeest and zebra spread across the open country, and lions, cheetahs, spotted hyenas and jackals follow them closely. Calving is still ahead, usually from late January. Ngorongoro Crater offers dependable Big Five sightings, including black rhino, while Seronera’s river valleys keep resident leopards and lions. Tarangire is green and quiet as its herds disperse, though elephants and giraffes remain. Many antelope have young, and Lake Manyara is lush and lively. Young animals appear everywhere.
- Wildebeest
- Zebra
- Lion
- Cheetah
- Spotted hyena
- Leopard
- Black rhino
- Elephant
- Giraffe
- Buffalo
- Thomson’s gazelle
- Eland
- Hippo
- Golden jackal
Tanzania Safari in December Birds
December is one of the best months for birding in Tanzania. Palearctic migrants from Europe and Asia are present in good numbers, alongside more than a thousand resident species recorded in the country. The rains trigger breeding, so weavers, widowbirds and bishops display bright plumage and busy nesting colonies. White storks and Abdim’s storks gather on the green plains, and raptors follow insect hatches. Lake Manyara and the soda lakes around Ndutu attract flamingos, pelicans and waders, while Tarangire is rich in parrots, hornbills and barbets. Ask your private guide to plan a dedicated birding morning. Bring good binoculars.
- White stork
- Abdim’s stork
- European roller
- Steppe eagle
- Montagu’s harrier
- Lesser flamingo
- Great white pelican
- Kori bustard
- Secretarybird
- Fischer’s lovebird
- Grey crowned crane
- Lilac-breasted roller
Where to go during a Tanzania Safari in December
Where you go in December makes a real difference. The migration herds usually return to the southern Serengeti and Ndutu during the month, so the best itineraries spend several nights in the south, then add the Ngorongoro Crater and one or two quieter parks. The central Serengeti offers excellent resident predators, Lake Manyara is lush after the rains, and Tarangire is green and peaceful. Choose the areas below to match your interests, travel style and the time you have available. Each option below includes ideal nights and the main reasons to go.
Ndutu Plains
Ndutu lies in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area on the edge of the southern Serengeti. In December the migration herds usually arrive on its short-grass plains, drawn by fresh grazing after the short rains. Off-road driving is permitted in parts of the area, allowing close, respectful viewing of herds and predators with an experienced private guide.
Explore Ndutu Safaris →
Southern Serengeti
The plains south of Seronera, around Naabi Hill and the Gol Kopjes, carry large herds once the rains have greened the grass. Granite kopjes give lions and cheetahs lookout points, and wide horizons make dramatic photographs. Combining the southern Serengeti with Ndutu gives flexibility as the herds move between short-grass areas throughout the month. Lions often rest on kopjes.
Explore the Serengeti →
Seronera and the Central Serengeti
Seronera has year-round water and excellent resident wildlife, including lions, leopards along the river valleys and plenty of plains game. Early in December, some herds may still be passing through central areas on their way south. It sits within easy reach of the southern plains, adding variety to a December itinerary. It also offers comfortable permanent lodges.
Plan Your Serengeti Days →
Ngorongoro Crater
The crater floor is green in December, with buffalo, zebra, wildebeest, lions, hyenas and one of the best chances of seeing black rhino in Tanzania. A full day inside the crater fits neatly between Ndutu and Lake Manyara or Tarangire. Nights on the forested rim are cool, so bring warm layers for early starts. Arrive early for quieter viewing.
Explore Ngorongoro Crater →
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara is lush in December, with groundwater forest, flowing streams and waterfalls on the escarpment after the rains. Elephants, baboons, hippos and giraffes are regular sightings, and the park’s lions sometimes rest in trees. The lake shore is busy with pelicans, storks and migrant waders. It is ideal for a half or full day.
Explore Lake Manyara →
Tarangire National Park
Tarangire is quieter in December because many animals spread out once water is easy to find, yet resident elephants, giraffes, lions and abundant birdlife remain. Baobabs are in full leaf against green grass and stormy skies, and the park makes a relaxed start to a northern circuit route. Visitor numbers are usually low. Birders will especially enjoy it.
Explore Tarangire →Things to do in Tanzania Safari in December
December offers far more than classic game drives. Green landscapes, returning herds and the festive season create a wide choice of experiences for a private safari. You can follow the migration on the southern plains, float over the Serengeti in a hot-air balloon, walk with an armed ranger, meet local communities, celebrate Christmas in the bush or end your trip on Zanzibar’s sunny beaches. Mix active and relaxing days to suit your energy and interests, and let your planner arrange timings, permits and transfers. Each activity below includes where it happens and how long it takes.
Full-Day Drives on the Southern Plains
Spend full days on the Ndutu and southern Serengeti plains with a picnic lunch, following the herds as they settle into their grazing grounds. A private vehicle means you choose how long to stay at each sighting. Your guide reads the weather and animal behaviour to find the herds and anticipate predator action. Patience is richly rewarded.
Hot-Air Balloon Safari
A sunrise hot-air balloon flight over the Serengeti shows the green plains and scattered herds from above, usually in calm morning air before any clouds build. Flights operate in suitable weather from set launch sites and normally finish with a bush breakfast. Book well ahead for festive dates, as places are limited. Flights depend on the weather.
Guided Walking Safaris
Walking with an armed ranger reveals tracks, insects, flowering plants and birds you would miss from a vehicle. In December the bush is green and full of life, and early-morning walks avoid both the heat and afternoon showers. Walks are available in Arusha National Park and selected areas around Tarangire and the conservation areas. Wear sturdy shoes.
Maasai and Hadzabe Encounters
Visit a Maasai community in the Ngorongoro highlands, or travel to Lake Eyasi to spend a morning with Hadzabe hunter-gatherers and Datoga blacksmiths. These respectful visits, arranged with local guides, add human context to the landscape and are popular with families. They fit well between the crater and the Serengeti or as a relaxed extra day.
Christmas and New Year on Safari
Celebrate Christmas or New Year surrounded by wildlife, with festive dinners at your lodge, sundowners on the plains and stories around the campfire. Many lodges create a special atmosphere over the holidays. A private itinerary lets you choose where to be on the key dates, whether in the bush or on Zanzibar. Children especially love the occasion.
Zanzibar Beach and Stone Town
Finish your trip on Zanzibar, which is hot and mostly dry in December, with warm water and calm seas for swimming and snorkelling. Explore Stone Town’s historic alleys, take a spice tour or simply rest on white sand after early safari starts. A short flight from Arusha or the Serengeti connects bush and beach easily.
What to expect on a Tanzania Safari in December
Knowing what to expect helps you plan a smoother December safari. The month has two distinct halves: early December is quiet, green and good value, while the festive weeks from around Christmas to New Year are among the busiest and most expensive of the year. Expect warm days, afternoon showers that ease as the month goes on, and migration herds settling in the south. Here is what a typical December safari day and trip feel like, from game drives and weather to festive logistics, lodges, roads and photography in the parks. Each point includes practical planning advice for December.
Early Starts and Flexible Afternoons
Most days begin around sunrise, when skies are often clear and predators are active. Many guests take full-day drives with packed lunches to stay near the herds in the south, while others return to camp at midday and head out again later. Afternoon showers are usually brief, and evenings are mild. Your guide adapts the pace to you.
Lush Plains and Dramatic Skies
After the short rains the plains are bright green and dotted with wildflowers, contrasting with dark storm clouds on some afternoons. Dust is low and visibility is excellent after showers. This combination of colour, light and returning herds gives photographers some of the most attractive conditions of the year, especially at dawn. Bring extra memory cards.
Quiet Early, Busy Over the Holidays
The first half of December is calm, with good availability and lower rates at many lodges. From around the third week, families and holiday travellers arrive, and Ngorongoro Crater, Ndutu and Zanzibar become much busier. Festive supplements and minimum stays may apply at some properties, so dates and budget go hand in hand. Plan early for festive dates.
Afternoon Showers, Often Easing
Rain in December usually falls as afternoon or evening showers rather than long downpours, and it often eases toward the end of the month. Black-cotton soil in parts of the southern plains can become muddy after heavy rain, so experienced drivers and four-wheel-drive vehicles are important. A light rain jacket is usually enough. Showers also cool the air.
Road and Air Transfers
Driving from Arusha to Ndutu via Ngorongoro takes most of a day, with wildlife along the way. Light-aircraft flights to Ndutu or Serengeti airstrips save time and are popular over the holidays. Many private itineraries drive one way and fly the other, balancing scenery, cost and comfort for everyone travelling together. Your planner will recommend the best combination.
Seasonal Camps and Permanent Lodges
Many seasonal tented camps reopen in Ndutu and the southern Serengeti for the season, offering en-suite tents and quick access to the herds. Permanent lodges stand on the crater rim, in Karatu and around Tarangire. Over the holidays, expect a festive atmosphere, early breakfasts and limited connectivity in remote camps. Charging is usually available, sometimes only at set hours.
Tanzania Safari in December crowds
Crowd levels in December depend heavily on the week. The first half of the month is one of the quieter periods of the year, with peaceful parks and good availability. From around the third week, the festive season brings families and holiday travellers, and Ngorongoro Crater, Ndutu and the southern Serengeti become busy, along with Zanzibar’s beach hotels. Tarangire, Lake Manyara and Arusha National Park stay relatively quiet throughout. A private vehicle, early starts, full-day drives and a guide who knows the side tracks help you enjoy quiet sightings, even during the busiest festive days. Book festive dates early.
- Ngorongoro CraterBusy
- Ndutu & southBusy late
- Central SerengetiModerate
- TarangireQuiet
- Lake ManyaraQuiet
- Arusha NPVery quiet
Best Time for a Tanzania Safari in December
Within December, timing depends on your priorities. The first two weeks are quiet and often better value, though showers are more frequent and some herds may still be arriving in the south. Mid-December usually finds the herds settled on the southern plains, with fresh grass and active predators. The festive period from around Christmas to New Year is ideal for families and celebrations, but it carries peak rates and needs early booking. Zanzibar is hot and sunny throughout. Kilimanjaro climbs are possible, though showers are likely and January usually offers drier trails and clearer summit views. Plan accordingly.
Tanzania Safari in December: Pros and cons
Every month has trade-offs, and December has a very different feel at the start and end of the month. It offers the return of the migration to the southern Serengeti and Ndutu, green landscapes, excellent birding, quieter parks early on and an easy combination with Zanzibar’s sunny beaches. On the other hand, afternoon showers remain likely, and the festive weeks bring peak rates, minimum stays and busier sightings. Weighing these points against your budget, dates and interests helps you decide whether December suits your private tailor-made safari. The six points below summarise the main advantages and drawbacks to consider.
Herds Back on the Southern Plains
The migration herds usually return to the southern Serengeti and Ndutu during December, so finding them becomes more predictable as the month goes on. You can spend whole days among wildebeest and zebra with predators close by. This is a strong advantage over November, when the herds are travelling and harder to locate. Predators are never far away.
Lush Scenery and Excellent Birding
Green plains, clear air and dramatic skies make December beautiful for photography, and migrant birds are present alongside breeding residents. Birders can build long lists in Lake Manyara, Tarangire and the southern plains. Many antelope have young, adding extra interest to game drives and creating chances for predator action on the plains. Bring binoculars for everyone.
Hot, Sunny Zanzibar
Zanzibar begins its hot, dry season in December, with sunny days and warm, calm water for swimming and snorkelling. This makes bush and beach easy to combine in a single trip. Over the holidays, a few relaxing days on the island are a wonderful way to celebrate after early safari starts. Book beach hotels early for festive dates.
Peak Rates Over the Holidays
From around Christmas to New Year, many lodges charge peak festive rates, and some apply supplements or minimum-night stays. Popular camps, flights and beach hotels fill many months ahead. Booking nine to twelve months in advance gives you the widest choice, while travelling in early December offers better value and availability. Mid-range camps also help manage costs.
Afternoon Rain and Some Mud
Afternoon and evening showers remain likely in December, particularly in the first half of the month. Most mornings are clear, so game drives are rarely affected, but black-cotton tracks can become muddy after heavy rain. Experienced guides, sturdy vehicles and a light rain jacket keep disruption to a minimum on most days. Showers often ease later in December.
Busier Sightings Over Christmas
During the festive weeks, popular sightings in Ndutu, the southern Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater can attract several vehicles. Starting early, staying out during lunch hours and choosing quieter tracks with your private guide greatly reduces the impact. Adding a night in Tarangire or Lake Manyara also balances the busier days. Early December is also noticeably calmer everywhere.
Events during a Tanzania Safari in December
December combines national holidays with natural events that shape a safari. Independence Day on 9 December is a public holiday celebrating Tanzania’s independence, and Christmas Day on 25 December and Boxing Day on 26 December are also public holidays. Parks and lodges operate normally, and many lodges mark the festive season with special dinners. In nature, the biggest event is the return of the migration herds to the southern Serengeti and Ndutu. Palearctic migrant birds are present, and many antelope have young. Religious holidays such as Eid follow the lunar calendar, so check dates for your travel year.
- 9 DecemberIndependence DayPublic holiday across Tanzania
- All monthHerds return southNdutu & southern Serengeti
- 25–26 DecemberChristmas & Boxing DayPublic holidays; festive peak
- All monthMigrant birds presentStorks, raptors, rollers
Safari Prices & Costs
December spans two very different price levels in northern Tanzania. Early in the month many lodges still offer lower rates, while the festive weeks bring peak pricing. The biggest factors in the cost of your private safari are your travel dates, the lodges and camps you choose, how many nights you spend near the herds, whether you drive or fly, park fees, and how many people travel together. We quote each tailor-made itinerary individually rather than publishing fixed prices. The points below explain how each element affects your total budget.
Lodge and Camp Rates
Accommodation is usually the largest part of a safari budget. In December, rates often rise from lower early-month levels to peak festive pricing over Christmas and New Year, sometimes with supplements for special dinners. Travelling in early December, or mixing luxury and mid-range properties, helps balance comfort and cost for your private trip. We explain every option clearly.
Park and Conservation Fees
Each national park and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area charge entry and concession fees, usually per person per day, and Ngorongoro Crater has a separate vehicle descent fee. Ndutu falls within the conservation area. Fees are set by the authorities and can change, so we include current fees in every private quote we prepare. We pay these on your behalf.
Private Vehicle and Guide
A private safari includes your own four-wheel-drive vehicle with a pop-up roof and a professional driver-guide throughout. The daily vehicle cost is divided among the people travelling together, so families and friends pay less per person than solo travellers. Fuel, guide fees and vehicle park fees are included in every quote. Your guide stays with you throughout.
Domestic and Light-Aircraft Flights
Flying between Arusha, the Serengeti and Zanzibar saves time but adds to the budget, and festive seats sell out early. Light-aircraft flights have baggage limits, usually soft bags only. A drive-in, fly-out itinerary is a popular December compromise, combining a scenic road journey through Ngorongoro with a quick flight to Zanzibar. Book flights early for festive dates.
Number of Nights
Total cost grows with each night, but rushing makes December less rewarding. Three nights near the herds in the south, one or two at the crater and one in Tarangire or Manyara is a balanced plan. Some lodges require minimum stays over the holidays, which can affect the overall length and budget. We help match length to budget.
Optional Activities and Tips
Optional extras include balloon flights, cultural visits, walking safaris, festive dinners where charged separately, Zanzibar excursions and travel insurance. Gratuities for guides and lodge staff are customary and at your discretion. We list exactly what is included and excluded in your quote, so there are no surprises once you arrive. Optional activities are paid only if chosen.
Tanzania Safari Packages in December
The best December packages focus on the southern Serengeti and Ndutu as the herds return, then add the Ngorongoro Crater and a quieter park such as Tarangire or Lake Manyara. Every itinerary below is a starting point for a private tailor-made safari: we adjust nights, lodges, flights and activities to your dates, budget and interests. Choose a migration route, a family holiday safari, a premium Serengeti trip or a luxury bush-and-beach escape, and we will refine the plan with you for December conditions. Each package lists its length and style, and every one can be adjusted.
7-Day Serengeti Migration Safari
This seven-day route combines Tarangire, the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater, timed to follow the herds wherever they are grazing. In December your guide focuses on the southern plains and Ndutu as the herds arrive. It suits travellers who want the migration plus classic northern circuit highlights in about a week. Lodges can be adjusted to suit any budget.
View This Safari →
6-Day Serengeti and Ngorongoro Family Safari
A family-friendly route through the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater with a private vehicle, flexible timings and family rooms. December’s school holidays and abundant young animals make it ideal for children of all ages. We can add a Zanzibar beach extension for a relaxed festive finish, with shorter drives built in for younger travellers. Book early for school holidays.
View This Safari →
7-Day Best of Serengeti Safari
A premium Serengeti-focused trip that can run as a fly-in or drive safari, suitable for couples, families, solo travellers and seniors. In December we position your stays to make the most of the southern plains and the central Serengeti, giving you more time with the returning herds and less time on the road. Light-aircraft flights can replace long drives.
View This Safari →
8-Day Tanzania Big Five Luxury Safari
This eight-day luxury safari covers Tarangire, the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater, three of the best places to look for the Big Five. In December the crater offers one of your best chances of black rhino, while the Serengeti adds big cats near the returning herds. Lodges are chosen for comfort and location. It suits honeymoons and celebrations.
View This Safari →
10-Day Ultra-Luxury Tanzania Lodge Safari
This ten-day ultra-luxury safari is designed for travellers who want the finest lodges and seamless service. In December it makes a memorable way to celebrate Christmas or New Year in the bush, with time near the herds in the south and the Ngorongoro Crater. Festive dates require very early booking. Every detail is tailored to your celebration.
View This Safari →
15-Day Luxury Safari & Zanzibar Beach Escape
This luxury itinerary spends three days in Tarangire, four in the Serengeti and two in the Ngorongoro area before ending on Zanzibar. In December it balances time with the returning herds and hot, sunny beach days with calm seas, making it ideal for honeymoons, family celebrations and festive holidays. Lodges and beach resorts are chosen to suit you.
View This Safari →Accommodations during a Tanzania Safari in December
Where you stay in December matters, because the herds return to the south and the best-located camps fill quickly over the holidays. Tented lodges and seasonal camps in Ndutu place you close to the herds, crater-rim lodges give early access to Ngorongoro, Karatu lodges are comfortable stops along the route, and Arusha and Zanzibar properties frame the trip. Below are a selection of properties we often use in December. Seasonal opening dates, availability and festive rates vary, so we confirm options when we quote. Ask us which properties suit your dates and route best.
Lake Masek Tented Lodge
Overlooking Lake Masek in the Ndutu area, this tented lodge sits in the heart of the southern plains where the herds gather from December. Rooms are spacious tents with lake views, and the location means short drives to the wildlife. It is a strong choice for comfort close to the action. Book early for festive dates.
View Lodge →
Ndutu Kati Kati Tented Camp
A seasonal tented camp set up in the Ndutu area for the months when the herds are in the south. Simple, comfortable en-suite tents, hearty meals and a genuine bush atmosphere suit travellers who want to be near the wildlife at good value. Opening dates vary by season, so we confirm them for December travel.
View Camp →
andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge
Perched on the crater rim, andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is a renowned luxury lodge with a dramatic setting high above the caldera. It gives convenient access for an early crater descent. In December it makes a memorable festive stay for honeymooners and special celebrations, but availability is very limited. Book as early as you possibly can.
View Lodge →
Kitela Lodge
Kitela Lodge is located in the Karatu highlands within easy reach of the Ngorongoro gate, making it a convenient base before or after a crater day. The green surroundings are at their freshest in December, and cool evenings are comfortable after warm game drives. It also suits families travelling over the school holidays. Ask us about family room options.
View Lodge →
Arusha Coffee Lodge
Set on a coffee estate on the edge of Arusha, Arusha Coffee Lodge is a peaceful place to rest before or after your safari. It is convenient for Arusha Airport and light-aircraft flights to the parks. In December it offers a calm first night after international travel, or a relaxed festive finish. It suits honeymooners and families alike.
View Lodge →
Kendwa Rocks Beach Hotel
Kendwa Rocks Beach Hotel sits on the beach at Kendwa in northern Zanzibar, ideal for a relaxing finish after your safari. December brings hot, sunny weather and warm water for swimming. The festive season is popular on the island, so booking early secures your preferred rooms and dates for a bush-and-beach holiday. Sunsets over the ocean are memorable.
View Hotel →Safari Accommodation Styles in December
December welcomes the herds back to the green southern plains, and every safari we create is private. Select the accommodation style that matches your plans, or mix styles across one tailor-made festive itinerary.
Budget Camping Safari in December
Camping in December is a wonderfully affordable way to see the plains turn green. Your own guide and cook set up tents at public campsites in central Serengeti and on the Ngorongoro rim, within reach of returning herds. Brief showers can still fall, yet sunny mornings are common. Book early, because festive season demand grows quickly.
Explore Budget Camping →
Mobile Tented Camps in December
Mobile tented camps settle on the Ndutu and southern Serengeti plains in December, ready for the herds arriving to graze the new grass. Staying here puts you among wildebeest, zebra and their predators from the moment you step outside. Calving often begins late in the month in good years. Popular festive dates sell out early.
Where to Stay for the Migration →
Lodge Safari in December
Permanent lodges suit December travellers who want dependable comfort over the holidays, with restaurants, pools and festive dinners. We often base guests on the Ngorongoro rim, in Karatu and near Lake Manyara, with full-day drives to the southern plains. Lodges work well for families travelling during school holidays and for anyone celebrating Christmas on safari.
Explore Lodge Safaris →
Tented Lodge Safari in December
Permanent tented lodges combine canvas charm with en-suite bathrooms, comfortable beds and welcoming lounges. In December we choose tented lodges near Lake Masek and Ndutu to keep you close to the herds, alongside options in Tarangire and Karatu. Lush scenery and newly arrived migrant birds make these stays especially rewarding for couples and keen photographers.
Explore Tented Safaris →
High-End Luxury Safari in December
A high-end luxury safari in December brings exclusive camps, attentive private guiding and light-aircraft transfers between parks. Picture a stylish Ndutu camp among the returning herds, followed by a grand crater-rim lodge for a memorable Christmas or New Year celebration. Festive demand is high, so we recommend securing the best suites and flights many months ahead.
Explore Luxury Safaris →How Much Does a Safari in Tanzania Cost in December?
A private Tanzania safari in December typically ranges from about $200 to $2,500 per person per day, depending mainly on your accommodation. Early December follows the short rains and can still be calm, but demand climbs steeply towards Christmas and New Year, when the festive peak brings the season's highest rates and scarce availability. Herds return to Ndutu and the southern Serengeti, and mobile camps reopen there. Your tailor-made trip covers a private 4x4, guide, park fees and meals. Compare the five styles below and book festive dates early.
Budget Camping Safari Cost in December
$200 – $390per person per day
Budget-minded families and adventurous couples
Budget camping keeps a December safari affordable, with a private 4x4, your own guide and a camp cook. You sleep in dome tents at public campsites in the Serengeti, Tarangire and on the Ngorongoro rim. Occasional early-month showers mean good waterproof gear helps. Festive dates book quickly, so travel dates and safari length shape the cost.
- Private vehicle and guide
- Public campsite fees
- Festive travel dates
- Waterproof camping gear
Mobile Tented Camps Cost in December
$550 – $590per person per day
Wildlife lovers wanting to greet the returning herds
By December, mobile tented camps have relocated to Ndutu and the southern Serengeti as the herds return to the short-grass plains. Early December can offer easier availability, but the Christmas and New Year weeks are among the most requested of the year. Expect en-suite tents, full-board meals and short drives to the gathering herds and their attendant predators.
- Ndutu camp location
- Festive week demand
- Full-board en-suite tents
- Length of stay
Lodge Safari Cost in December
$590 – $750per person per day
Families on school holidays and first-time visitors
A lodge safari uses permanent properties with comfortable rooms, restaurants and often a pool, typically on the Ngorongoro rim, in Karatu and near Tarangire. December is popular with families travelling over school holidays, so festive dates fill early. Lodges further from Ndutu mean longer drives to the herds. Lodge category, room type and dates determine the price.
- Lodge category and views
- Family room options
- Festive season dates
- Distance to the herds
Tented Lodge Safari Cost in December
$590 – $990per person per day
Couples wanting a festive escape with a bush feel
A tented lodge safari blends canvas character with permanent comforts such as proper beds, private decks and en-suite bathrooms. In December, tented lodges around Lake Masek and Ndutu cost more as herds arrive nearby, while Tarangire and Karatu options are usually more moderate. Christmas and New Year dates carry the highest rates and sell out first.
- Location near Ndutu
- Tent size and private decks
- Meals and drinks package
- Christmas and New Year demand
High-End Luxury Safari Cost in December
$990 – $2,500per person per day
Honeymooners and families celebrating the festive season
A high-end luxury safari combines exclusive lodges, personal service, fine dining and expert private guiding. In December, the finest suites on the crater rim and near Ndutu are in heavy demand over Christmas and New Year, and festive stays may carry special requirements. Light-aircraft flights save driving time between parks. Reserving many months ahead is essential.
- Exclusive lodges and suites
- Festive season stays
- Light-aircraft flights
- Private guiding and extras
Tanzania Destinations in December
December is a rewarding month across much of northern Tanzania, from the green plains of the southern Serengeti to the hot, sunny beaches of Zanzibar. Each destination below explains what conditions are like in December, what you can expect to see or do, and how it fits into a private tailor-made itinerary. Use these notes to decide which places to combine, how long to spend in each, and whether to add a climb or beach extension. We also suggest how many days to allow so your route flows naturally.
Kilimanjaro Climbing in December
December falls at the end of the short rains, so Kilimanjaro climbs are possible but showers are likely, especially lower down and earlier in the month. Conditions often improve toward late December, and the holiday period is popular. Longer routes such as the Lemosho aid acclimatisation. Summit night is very cold, so pack warm layers.
Explore Kilimanjaro Climbs →
Zanzibar in December
Zanzibar begins its hot, dry season in December, with sunny days, warm water and good conditions for swimming, snorkelling and diving. The festive weeks are among the island’s busiest, so beach hotels fill early. Explore Stone Town, take a spice tour or relax on the north and east coast beaches after your safari. Allow three to five nights.
Explore Zanzibar Holidays →
Ngorongoro Crater in December
The crater floor is green and full of grazing animals in December, with good chances of black rhino, lions, hyenas, buffalo and elephants. The rim is cool and sometimes misty in the mornings, so take warm clothing for the early descent. It is busy over the festive weeks, so early starts help. Ndutu is close by.
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Tarangire in December
Tarangire is quieter in December because many herds disperse into the surrounding landscape after the rains. Resident elephants, giraffes, lions and leopards remain, and birding is excellent with migrants present. Baobabs in full leaf and green grass make the scenery beautiful, and fewer vehicles mean a peaceful experience, even during the holidays. One night is usually enough.
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Arusha National Park in December
Arusha National Park is green and peaceful in December, with morning views of Mount Meru and sometimes Kilimanjaro before clouds build. Game drives, guided walks and canoeing on the Momella Lakes when conditions allow make it an easy first or last day. Colobus monkeys, giraffes and buffalo are regular sightings throughout the park. It suits Meru climbers too.
Explore Arusha National Park →
Lake Manyara in December
Lake Manyara is lush in December, with green groundwater forest, flowing streams and waterfalls on the escarpment after the rains. Elephants, baboons and hippos are common, lions sometimes rest in trees, and migrant birds crowd the lake shore. It is compact and close to Karatu and Ngorongoro, so a half day fits neatly. Birders will love it.
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Serengeti in December
In December the Serengeti’s migration herds return to the south, grazing the short-grass plains toward Ndutu after the short rains. Calving usually follows from late January. Central Seronera adds big cats and leopards, and seasonal camps reopen in the south. Flights to southern airstrips make access easier for shorter trips. Plan at least three nights in the south.
Explore the Serengeti →
Mount Meru in December
Mount Meru can be climbed in December, although showers are likely on the forested lower slopes, especially early in the month. The three or four day climb passes buffalo and giraffe before reaching a dramatic crater rim with views of Kilimanjaro on clear mornings. Armed rangers accompany climbers because of the wildlife. Pack waterproof layers for the forest.
Explore Mount Meru Climbing →Travel Tips
A little preparation makes a December safari easier and more rewarding. If you plan to travel over Christmas or New Year, the most important step is booking very early, especially for camps near the herds, light-aircraft flights and Zanzibar hotels. It also helps to plan around the southern plains, pack for showers as well as heat, check holiday minimum stays, and organise visas and health precautions in advance. These practical tips come from our Arusha-based guides and planners, who run private safaris every December. Use them alongside the rest of this guide when planning.
Reserve Festive Dates Nine to Twelve Months Ahead
Christmas and New Year dates are among the first to sell out in Tanzania, especially camps in Ndutu, crater-rim lodges and Zanzibar beach hotels. Booking nine to twelve months ahead secures the best locations, flights and guides. If your dates are flexible, early December is much easier to arrange and often better value. Flights also sell out quickly.
Spend Enough Nights in the South
Plan at least three nights in Ndutu or the southern Serengeti so your guide can follow the herds as they settle on the short-grass plains. Their arrival depends on the rains, so a flexible plan helps. Full-day drives with picnic lunches let you stay with the animals and wait for predator activity. Mid-December is often a good balance.
Dress for Warm Days, Cool Nights and Showers
Bring breathable neutral clothing for warm days, a fleece or light down jacket for early mornings and evenings on the Ngorongoro rim, and a compact rain jacket for afternoon showers. Sun hat, sunglasses and high-factor sunscreen are essential. For Zanzibar, add light cotton clothing, swimwear and reef-safe sunscreen for the hot days. Laundry service is offered at many lodges.
Organise Visas and Documents
Most visitors need a Tanzanian visa, which can be applied for online through the official immigration e-visa system before travel. Check that your passport is valid for at least six months with blank pages. Carry proof of yellow fever vaccination if you arrive from, or transit through, a risk country. Allow time for holiday delays.
Plan Health Precautions Early
Visit a travel clinic several weeks before you travel to discuss malaria prevention and recommended vaccines, as mosquitoes are active after the short rains. Use insect repellent and long sleeves in the evenings, stay hydrated in the heat and carry personal medication in your hand luggage. Insurance with evacuation cover is strongly recommended. Carry a small first-aid kit.
Get the Best December Photos
Bring a telephoto lens for predators and herds, plus a wider lens for green landscapes and stormy skies. A beanbag steadies the camera in the vehicle, and a rain cover protects it during showers. Spare batteries and memory cards are essential, as remote camps may limit charging times. Early light is wonderful. Ask your guide to position the vehicle.
What to Bring
Packing for a December safari means preparing for warm days, cool highland nights and afternoon showers, followed by hot beach weather if you add Zanzibar. Choose light, breathable clothing in neutral colours such as khaki, olive or beige, and avoid bright white and dark blue or black in tsetse areas. Add a warm fleece for the Ngorongoro rim and early drives, plus a packable rain jacket. If flying in light aircraft, use a soft duffel bag within the weight limit. Beach extensions call for swimwear and reef-safe sunscreen, and festive dinners may suit a smart-casual outfit. Pack binoculars too.
- Neutral, breathable clothing
- Warm fleece or light down
- Packable rain jacket
- Wide-brim hat & sunglasses
- High-factor sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Binoculars
- Camera, spare batteries
- Soft duffel bag
- Swimwear & reef-safe sunscreen
- Personal medication
- Smart-casual festive outfit
How to get there
Most December safaris begin at Kilimanjaro International Airport, which lies between Moshi and Arusha and receives international flights via major hubs in Africa, Europe and the Middle East. Your guide meets you on arrival and transfers you to Arusha, the gateway to the northern parks. From Arusha you can drive through Tarangire or Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro highlands to Ndutu, or fly by light aircraft to a Serengeti airstrip. Zanzibar is reached by a short domestic flight. International flights fill quickly over the holidays, so book early. Your planner arranges every transfer and flight connection for you.
- Fly into Kilimanjaro (JRO)International arrival near Arusha and Moshi
- Private transfer to ArushaMeet-and-greet with your guide; overnight in Arusha
- Drive or fly to the parksRoad via Ngorongoro, or light aircraft to Serengeti airstrips
- Optional flight to ZanzibarShort domestic flight for a beach extension
Malaria & safety
Malaria is present in most safari areas and on Zanzibar, and the warm, wet conditions after the short rains suit mosquitoes, so prevention matters in December. Speak to a travel clinic about suitable antimalarial medication, use repellent, wear long sleeves in the evening and sleep under nets where provided. Tanzania is a welcoming country and private safaris are well organised, but sensible precautions still apply. Follow your guide’s instructions around wildlife, stay inside the vehicle unless told otherwise, keep valuables secure in busy towns and drink only bottled or filtered water. Comprehensive insurance is recommended. Travel well prepared.
- Ask a travel clinic about antimalarials
- Use repellent and long sleeves at dusk
- Drink bottled or filtered water
- Carry yellow fever proof if required
- Follow your guide around wildlife
- Stay in the vehicle unless advised
- Keep valuables secure in busy towns
- Get insurance with evacuation cover
Tanzania Safari in December: FAQs
Is December a good time for a Tanzania safari?
Yes. December is a very good month for a Tanzania safari. The migration herds return to the southern Serengeti and Ndutu, the plains are green, migrant birds are present and Zanzibar is hot and sunny. Early December is quieter and better value.
Where is the Great Migration in December?
In December the wildebeest and zebra herds usually return to the southern Serengeti and the Ndutu area of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, grazing fresh short grass after the short rains. Exact timing varies with rainfall each year.
Does it rain in Tanzania in December?
December is usually the tail end of the short rains. Showers mostly fall in the afternoon or evening and often ease as the month goes on. Mornings are frequently clear, so game drives are rarely affected.
Is a Tanzania safari busy at Christmas?
Yes. The festive weeks from around Christmas to New Year are among the busiest of the year, especially in Ndutu, Ngorongoro Crater and Zanzibar. Lodges charge peak rates, so book nine to twelve months ahead.
Can you see wildebeest calving in December?
Calving usually begins in late January and peaks in February, so December is generally too early. However, the herds are already gathering on the southern plains, and predator activity around them is excellent.
Is Zanzibar good in December?
Yes. December marks the start of Zanzibar’s hot, dry season, with sunny days and warm, calm water for swimming and snorkelling. The festive period is very popular, so book beach hotels well ahead.
Is December a good month to climb Kilimanjaro?
Kilimanjaro can be climbed in December, but showers are likely, especially early in the month. Conditions often improve toward late December. For the driest trails and clearest views, January to early March is usually better.
Design Your Private December Safari
Tell us your December dates, interests and travel style, and our Arusha team will design a private tailor-made safari around the returning herds, with the right camps, flights, festive celebrations and Zanzibar extensions.
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