In December, the Great Migration herds generally move into the southern Serengeti and Ndutu region, where wildebeest and zebra graze on short-grass plains. Calving usually begins around late January and February, so December is a time of arrival and growing numbers. Exact timing varies with rainfall. Predators such as lions, cheetahs and hyenas follow the herds. Our guides track movements and recommend the best area and camp for your dates, so you spend time close to the action. Private travel makes it easy to move base if the herds shift.

December weather in northern Tanzania is warm, with short rains that usually come as brief showers, often in the afternoon. The landscape turns green and dusty roads become fresher, while skies are often dramatic and ideal for photography. Mornings are generally pleasant for game drives. Nights can be cool at higher altitudes such as Ngorongoro Crater. Pack light layers, a waterproof jacket and closed shoes. Because your safari is private, your guide can adjust drives around the weather. Local knowledge helps us time each day sensibly.

Christmas and New Year safaris are popular, so early planning matters. Many lodges and camps host festive dinners and celebrations in the bush, and families enjoy having a private vehicle with room to relax. Our team recommends properties that suit your style, from comfortable mid-range lodges to luxury tented camps, and arranges transfers and flights. Because every trip is private and tailor-made, we can plan quiet days, flexible meal times and special touches for children or couples. Early requests for cots, special meals or celebrations are always welcome.

A safari followed by a Zanzibar beach stay is a favourite December combination. After the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, you can fly to Zanzibar for warm water, white sand and relaxed days by the sea. December is warm on the coast, with occasional showers. We coordinate domestic flights, hotels and transfers so the journey feels effortless. Your private itinerary can allow a rest day between safari and beach so you arrive refreshed and ready to unwind. Everything stays organised, so your holiday feels smooth and restful.

December is a peak holiday period, so book early for the best choice of lodges and camps, ideally several months ahead. Prices are usually higher around Christmas and New Year, and many properties set minimum stays. As a general guide, mid-range safaris cost about $550 to $990 per person per day and luxury about $990 to $2,500. Share your dates and budget and we will prepare a clear private quote, with honest advice on how to balance cost and comfort.

In December, the Great Migration herds are typically in the southern Serengeti and the Ndutu area, grazing on fresh short grass after the short rains. Numbers build through the month, and calving usually begins around late January and February. Exact timing varies with rainfall. Foot Slopes Tours and Safaris follows the herds and recommends the right region and camp for your dates, then adjusts your private itinerary if the herds move.

Yes, December is a good month for a Tanzania safari. The southern Serengeti and Ndutu are filling with wildebeest and zebra, predators are active, and the landscape is green after the short rains. Temperatures are warm, and showers are usually short. It is also a busy festive period, so early booking is wise. A private tailor-made safari lets you choose your lodges and pace around your holiday plans. Our team will gladly outline how the festive timing affects each lodge and route.

It can rain in Tanzania in December, because the short rains usually run from November into December. Showers are often brief and commonly fall in the afternoon, followed by sunshine, though patterns vary from year to year. Mornings are usually pleasant for game drives. Pack a light waterproof jacket and closed shoes. Your private guide can shift drive times and choose sheltered spots, so weather rarely interrupts a rewarding day.

Yes, many travelers spend Christmas on safari in Tanzania, and it can be a memorable family holiday. Lodges and camps often prepare festive meals and celebrations, and a private vehicle gives families space and flexibility. Because this is a peak period, book several months ahead for the best choice of accommodation. Foot Slopes Tours and Safaris will design a private itinerary that balances wildlife, rest and special festive touches. Ask our team and we will reserve suitable rooms and plan a relaxed holiday pace.

Yes, combining a December safari with Zanzibar is easy and very popular. Many travelers spend four to seven days in the Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Tarangire, then fly to Zanzibar for beach relaxation. We arrange flights, hotels and transfers, and recommend a rest day if you want a slower pace. Because each trip is private, we can adjust the number of safari and beach nights to suit your holiday length. Tell us how many beach nights you would like and we will balance the trip.

Book a December safari as early as possible, ideally six to nine months ahead, because Christmas and New Year are among the busiest periods and the best lodges fill quickly. Early booking also gives you more choice of rooms and routes. If your dates are closer, contact us anyway, since availability varies. We will give you an honest answer and a clear private quote based on your dates and budget.

In December you can see wildebeest and zebra herds in the southern Serengeti and Ndutu area, with predators such as lions, cheetahs and hyenas following them. Elephants, giraffes, buffalo and hippos are present across the northern circuit parks, and migratory birds arrive in good numbers. Calving usually begins around late January and February, so December sightings often include pregnant females. Timing varies with rainfall. Your private guide chooses routes and drive times to match the animals you most want to find. Ask us which month offers the best odds for your wishes.

For December, the southern Serengeti and Ndutu region suit migration lovers, while Ngorongoro Crater offers dependable wildlife at any time of year. Tarangire's landscapes turn greener after the short rains, and Lake Manyara adds forest, birds and tree-climbing lions. A typical private itinerary links three or four of these parks over six to eight days. Foot Slopes Tours and Safaris builds the route around current conditions, your interests and your preferred comfort level, so every night's lodge or camp fits the plan. We also check lodge locations so drives between parks stay short.

Pack lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors, a warm layer for early mornings, a waterproof jacket for occasional showers and a wide-brimmed hat. Sturdy closed shoes, sandals for lodges, sunscreen, sunglasses and insect repellent are also helpful. Bring binoculars, spare camera batteries and a small daypack. Swimwear is useful if your lodge has a pool or you extend to Zanzibar. Soft-sided bags are easier to fit in a safari vehicle, and your private guide can advise on anything you are unsure about. Dress in layers, because mornings in the crater highlands feel cool.

December is a popular travel month because of school holidays, Christmas and New Year, so some lodges and camps fill earlier than usual, especially around the festive dates. The parks are large, and a private vehicle with your own guide helps you avoid the busiest viewpoints and choose quieter corners. Booking early gives you the widest choice of accommodation. Foot Slopes Tours and Safaris will advise on availability, flexible dates and realistic budgets so your festive safari remains relaxed and comfortable. Early planning also helps when you want specific lodges or festive dinners.

Yes, many climbers attempt Kilimanjaro in December, and the Christmas and New Year period is popular. Weather on the mountain can change quickly, with clear spells, cloud and occasional showers on the lower slopes, and the summit is always cold. Routes such as Lemosho and Machame offer good acclimatization. Because Uhuru Peak stands at 5,895 meters, consult your doctor or a travel clinic before booking. Foot Slopes Tours and Safaris can follow your climb with a private safari and Zanzibar rest. Ask us how to schedule rest days after the descent.