Tanzania Safari in December: A Festive Safari Adventure in the Wild 2026 & 2027
Planning a Tanzania safari in December is an exciting way to end the year with adventure, wildlife, and unforgettable landscapes. December marks the start of the green season, with short rains having refreshed the land, offering lush scenery, fewer crowds (in early December), and excellent wildlife sightings. It's also a festive season, ideal for family safaris, romantic getaways, and once-in-a-lifetime holiday experiences.
This guide covers everything you need to know about going on safari in Tanzania in December, including weather, wildlife movements, the Great Migration, top parks to visit, prices, packing tips, and travel advice.
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Contact Our Safari ExpertWhy Go on Safari in Tanzania in December?
- Green landscapes make for stunning scenery and photos.
- The Great Migration is active in Southern Serengeti and Ndutu.
- Newborn animals begin to appear—especially wildebeest calves toward late December.
- Fewer crowds in early December (high demand from mid-December onwards).
- Festive specials for Christmas and New Year – great for family holidays.
- Excellent birdwatching with migratory species in full display.
December’s lush plains teem with wildlife
Tanzania Weather in December
- Season: Start of the green season (short rains taper off by mid-December).
- Rainfall: Light and scattered; often in the evening.
- Temperature: Warm and humid. Day temperatures range from 24°C to 30°C (75°F–86°F); nights are comfortable.
- Landscape: Lush, green, and vibrant—perfect for photographers.
The Great Wildebeest Migration in December
Where Is the Migration in December?
In December, the Great Wildebeest Migration settles in the southern Serengeti and Ndutu region (shared with Ngorongoro Conservation Area). These fertile plains are rich in fresh grass, attracting huge herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles. This is the pre-calving season, and predators are close behind.
Best Areas to See the Migration in December:
- Ndutu Plains – Great game viewing and classic safari scenery.
- Southern Serengeti (Seronera to Ndutu) – Wildebeest herds gather for the calving season starting soon.
Ndutu’s migration herds in December
Best National Parks to Visit in December
1. Ndutu Area (Ngorongoro Conservation Area)
Best for: Wildebeest migration, big cats, and photographic safaris.
December Highlights: Huge herds on the move, predator-prey action.
2. Southern Serengeti
Best for: Migration viewing, lions, cheetahs, and open savannah.
December Highlights: Iconic wildlife scenes and fewer crowds than peak months.
3. Ngorongoro Crater
Best for: Year-round Big Five viewing.
December Highlights: Rich wildlife density in a compact area, with lush views.
4. Tarangire National Park
Best for: Elephants and birding.
December Highlights: Wildlife scatters due to water abundance, but birdlife is vibrant.
5. Lake Manyara National Park
Best for: Tree-climbing lions, flamingos, and forest animals.
December Highlights: Lush landscapes, active monkeys and birdlife.
Safari Activities in December
- 🦁 Game drives (excellent all day due to mild temperatures)
- 🐦 Birdwatching (excellent – many migratory birds arrive)
- 🌍 Cultural visits (Maasai villages, Hadzabe bushmen)
- 🚶 Walking safaris (where allowed, such as in Ndutu and private concessions)
- 🌅 Hot air balloon rides (available in Serengeti, weather permitting)
- 🎄 Christmas and New Year safari specials at select lodges
Accommodation and Safari Costs in December
- Early December (1st–14th): Considered low or mid-season → more affordable rates and fewer tourists.
- Mid-December to Early January (15th–3rd): Peak holiday season → high demand, especially for family lodges and migration camps.
Lodging Options:
- Mobile Migration Camps in Ndutu – best access to the herds.
- Luxury Tented Camps and Lodges – often offer festive dinners and events.
- Mid-range Lodges – great value in early December.
- Budget Campsites – ideal for adventure seekers and group safaris.
👉 Book early for mid-December safaris to secure space during the holiday rush.
What to Pack for a December Safari in Tanzania
- Lightweight clothing for warm days (neutral colors)
- A waterproof jacket or poncho for unexpected showers
- Warm fleece or sweater for early mornings and evenings
- Good walking shoes or hiking boots
- Sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen
- Insect repellent and personal medications
- Camera, binoculars, and extra SD cards
- A daypack and reusable water bottle
Travel Tips for December Safaris
- Fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport for northern circuit safaris.
- Avoid last-minute bookings if traveling mid-late December.
- Plan early game drives – wildlife is more active in the morning.
- Combine safari with Zanzibar for a tropical beach holiday.
Recommended Itinerary for Tanzania Safari in December (7 Days)
- Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
- Day 2: Lake Manyara National Park
- Day 3: Ngorongoro Crater game drive
- Day 4: Drive to Southern Serengeti (Ndutu) – game drive en route
- Day 5: Full-day safari in Ndutu (Migration herds)
- Day 6: Morning game drive, return to Karatu or Arusha
- Day 7: Departure or extension to Zanzibar
Explore Our December Safari Packages
Rede Tours and Safaris crafts unforgettable December safaris with private 4x4 Land Cruisers, expert guides, and customizable itineraries to match your style and budget, focusing on the Great Migration in Ndutu and festive holiday experiences.
7-Day Private Migration Safari – $2,800 per person
Starting Point: Arusha
This 7-day private safari follows the Great Migration in Ndutu and Southern Serengeti, including Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara. Enjoy game drives, festive lodge experiences, and luxury or mid-range accommodations tailored to your preferences.
Highlights: Migration herds, Big Five, lush landscapes, festive dinners.
Accommodation: Ndutu Safari Lodge or Serengeti Serena Lodge.
5-Day Budget Migration Safari – $1,800 per person
Starting Point: Arusha
Explore Ndutu and Southern Serengeti on this 5-day budget-friendly safari, with a day trip to Ngorongoro Crater. Enjoy shared game drives and budget accommodations for an affordable festive adventure.
Highlights: Wildebeest herds, predator action, green scenery.
Accommodation: Ndutu Campsite or similar.
4-Day Luxury Ngorongoro & Tarangire Safari – $2,200 per person
Starting Point: Arusha
Experience the Big Five in Ngorongoro Crater and vibrant birdlife in Tarangire on this 4-day luxury safari, with festive lodge experiences and private 4x4 game drives.
Highlights: Big Five, elephants, festive holiday events.
Accommodation: Ngorongoro Serena Lodge or Tarangire Safari Lodge.
Why Choose Rede Tours and Safaris?
Rede Tours and Safaris crafts personalized December safaris with expert guides, comfortable 4x4 vehicles, and flexible itineraries. Whether you seek festive lodge experiences, budget camps, or migration-focused adventures in Ndutu, we ensure a seamless, thrilling holiday tailored to your dreams.
Rede Tours and Safaris
Highlights: Custom itineraries, expert local guides, 4x4 vehicles with panoramic windows, seamless airport transfers, festive holiday packages.
Cost Range: $1,800–$2,800 per person (based on package and duration).
Inclusions: Transfers, lodging, game drives, meals, park fees, guided tours.
Is December a Good Time for a Tanzania Safari?
Yes! December is a fantastic time for:
- Migration safaris in Ndutu/Southern Serengeti
- Lush scenery and dramatic skies
- Birdwatching and predator activity
- Family holidays and festive getaways
If you want a mix of great wildlife, beautiful green backdrops, and an unforgettable Christmas or New Year in the African wild, Tanzania in December is the perfect destination.
Final Thoughts
A Tanzania safari in December offers a magical blend of wildlife adventure, seasonal beauty, and festive warmth. Whether you’re chasing the Great Migration in Ndutu or seeking relaxation after a thrilling safari, December is a great time to experience the best of Tanzania.
Let your year end with the roar of lions, the thunder of hooves, and the serenity of Africa’s endless skies.
