Kenya Safari in December: Weather, Wildlife, Christmas & New Year Guide

Planning a Kenya safari in December? If you’re looking for a special way to spend Christmas, New Year or the festive season, a safari in Kenya can be an unforgettable experience.

December is a beautiful time to explore Kenya. The landscapes are green, temperatures are generally warm, wildlife is still abundant, and many travellers combine their safari with a relaxing beach holiday on the Kenyan coast.

However, December is also part of Kenya’s short-rains season, so it is important to know what to expect before booking.

In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about a Kenya safari in December, including the weather, wildlife, Maasai Mara, Christmas and New Year travel, safari prices, what to pack and how to plan your trip.

Is December a Good Time for a Kenya Safari?

Yes, December can be an excellent time for a Kenya safari, particularly if you don’t mind occasional rain and want to experience Kenya during the festive season.

December falls within Kenya’s short-rains period. Rainfall varies by region, and showers can be brief rather than continuous. The rain also brings fresh green vegetation, which can make the scenery particularly beautiful.

One of the advantages of travelling in December is that you can enjoy Kenya’s wildlife without needing to wait for the Great Migration season.

The Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, Tsavo and other parks continue to offer wildlife viewing throughout the year.

December can be particularly appealing if your holiday dates are fixed around Christmas and New Year.

Reasons to consider a December safari

Green and beautiful landscapes
Warm temperatures
Excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing
Festive atmosphere
Christmas and New Year safari options
Possibility of combining safari with the Kenyan coast
Fewer crowds in some destinations compared with the busiest periods

However, December is also a popular holiday period, so accommodation availability can become limited around Christmas and New Year.

Kenya Weather in December

Kenya has different climates depending on the region, so December weather isn’t exactly the same everywhere.

In general, December is warm, with the possibility of rainfall in many safari destinations.

You may experience sunshine for most of the day followed by a short afternoon or evening shower.

This is one reason we recommend being flexible with your expectations when planning a December safari.

A little rain doesn’t mean your safari is cancelled or that you won’t see wildlife.

In fact, the rain can transform the landscape into a beautiful shade of green and provide excellent photography opportunities.

Does it rain every day in Kenya in December?

No.

December is not necessarily a month of continuous rain.

Rainfall patterns vary considerably by location and year. Some days can be mostly sunny, while others may have a few showers.

It’s also worth remembering that weather forecasts for safari destinations can change quickly.

If you’re travelling in December, pack for both sunshine and rain rather than planning your entire holiday around one weather forecast.

What Is the Maasai Mara Like in December?

The Maasai Mara remains one of Kenya’s most popular safari destinations in December.

Although the famous Great Migration is generally associated with the Mara between around July and October, you don’t need the migration to enjoy an incredible Maasai Mara safari.

The Mara is home to an impressive variety of wildlife throughout the year, including:

Lions
Leopards
Cheetahs
Elephants
Buffalo
Giraffes
Zebras
Hippos
Hyenas
Numerous antelope species

December can also bring beautifully green scenery following rainfall.

If you’re hoping to see a particular animal, remember that wildlife is wild and sightings can never be guaranteed. A good safari guide will use their knowledge of the reserve, recent sightings and animal behaviour to give you the best possible opportunities.

Is the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara in December?

The main phase of the Great Migration is generally not in the Maasai Mara during December.

The exact movement of the herds varies from year to year, but travellers choosing December should not book their safari expecting the dramatic river crossings commonly associated with the peak migration period.

If your main reason for visiting Kenya is the Great Migration, discuss your dates with your safari operator before booking.

If your priority is general wildlife viewing, landscapes and a quieter safari experience, December can still be a wonderful choice.

Amboseli in December

Amboseli is another excellent destination to consider during a December safari.

The park is famous for its large elephant populations and spectacular views towards Mount Kilimanjaro.

A typical Amboseli experience can include:

Large elephant herds
Lions and other predators
Giraffes
Zebras
Buffalo
Birdlife
Beautiful views of Mount Kilimanjaro when conditions are clear

December’s greener scenery can make Amboseli particularly attractive for photographers.

However, visibility of Mount Kilimanjaro depends on weather and cloud conditions, so it is never something that can be guaranteed.

Lake Nakuru in December

Lake Nakuru is a great addition to a Kenya safari if you want to experience a different landscape from the Maasai Mara.

The area is known for:

Rhinoceros
Flamingos and other birdlife
Giraffes
Buffalo
Lions
Beautiful lake and escarpment scenery

Combining Maasai Mara + Lake Nakuru is particularly practical for travellers who have around four or five days for their safari.

Tsavo in December

Tsavo is one of Kenya’s largest protected areas and offers a very different safari atmosphere.

The park is famous for its vast landscapes, elephants and wilderness.

If you prefer a safari that feels more remote and expansive, Tsavo can be an excellent option.

It can also work well for travellers who want to combine their safari with a beach holiday on the Kenyan coast.

Christmas Safari in Kenya

If you’re travelling over Christmas, you can spend the festive season somewhere very different from home.

Imagine waking up on Christmas morning in the African bush, enjoying breakfast at your camp and heading out for a game drive while elephants, zebras and giraffes move through the landscape.

For many travellers, this becomes one of the most memorable Christmas experiences they’ve ever had.

Christmas safari packages can be arranged for couples, families, friends and solo travellers.

Depending on your dates and budget, you can choose from:

Group joining safaris
Private safaris
Mid-range tented camps
Lodges
Luxury safari camps
Short Maasai Mara safaris
Longer multi-park itineraries

Is Christmas a busy time for safari in Kenya?

Christmas and New Year are popular travel dates, so some camps and lodges can fill up early.

If you already know your dates, we recommend starting your safari planning early.

This gives you more choice when selecting your preferred accommodation and itinerary.

New Year Safari in Kenya

Starting the New Year in the Kenyan wilderness is another memorable option.

You could spend New Year’s Eve at a safari camp, enjoy a special dinner and wake up on New Year’s Day surrounded by nature.

A New Year safari can also be combined with a few days at the Kenyan coast.

For example:

Maasai Mara → Amboseli → Diani Beach

or:

Maasai Mara → Tsavo → Diani Beach

This gives you a combination of wildlife, scenery and relaxation.

How Much Does a Kenya Safari Cost in December?

The cost of a Kenya safari in December depends on several factors, including:

Number of days
Number of travellers
Private or group safari
Accommodation
Destinations
Safari vehicle
Exact travel dates
Activities included

December prices can also vary around the Christmas and New Year period because accommodation demand increases during the festive season.

Rather than looking only at the advertised price, compare what is actually included.

A safari quotation may include:

Accommodation
Meals
Safari vehicle
Professional guide
Game drives
Park or reserve fees
Drinking water
Nairobi pickup and drop-off
Government taxes

Some experiences may cost extra, such as:

Hot-air balloon safari
Maasai village visit
Boat ride
Special bush breakfast
Bush dinner
Flights

If you have a specific budget, tell your safari operator before they create the itinerary. A good safari company can often adjust the accommodation and number of destinations to create an itinerary that fits your budget.

Is a December Safari More Expensive?

It can be.

Christmas and New Year are popular holiday dates, and accommodation rates may be higher around the festive period.

However, December is not one single price category.

The cost depends heavily on the camp or lodge you choose, your exact dates and whether you travel privately or as part of a group.

If you are flexible with your dates, ask your safari operator whether travelling slightly before or after the main Christmas and New Year period could give you more accommodation options.

Both options are available.

Private Kenya Safari

A private safari means the vehicle is dedicated to your group.

It is particularly useful if you’re travelling as:

A couple
A family
A group of friends
A honeymoon couple
A small group

You have greater flexibility with your itinerary, game-drive schedule and accommodation choices.

Group Joining Safari

A group safari allows you to share the safari vehicle and costs with other travellers.

This can be a good option if you’re travelling on a tighter budget or enjoy meeting other travellers.

The exact group size and vehicle arrangement depend on the safari operator and itinerary.

How Many Days Do You Need for a December Safari?

It depends on your available time.

3 Days

A 3-day Maasai Mara safari is a popular choice for travellers with limited time.

It gives you the opportunity to travel from Nairobi to the Mara, enjoy game drives and return to Nairobi.

4–5 Days

Four or five days gives you more flexibility.

You could combine:

Maasai Mara + Lake Nakuru

or:

Maasai Mara + Lake Naivasha/Hell’s Gate

6–7 Days

With a week, you can create a more varied Kenya safari.

For example:

Maasai Mara → Lake Nakuru → Lake Naivasha/Hell’s Gate → Amboseli

Alternatively, you could spend more nights in fewer destinations instead of trying to see everything.

There is no need to squeeze every Kenyan national park into one holiday.

Sometimes fewer destinations with more time in each place creates a much more enjoyable safari.

Can You Combine a December Safari With the Beach?

Absolutely.

One of the advantages of visiting Kenya is that you can combine a safari with time on the coast.

After several days in the bush, you can head to the Kenyan coast for some relaxation.

Popular beach destinations include:

Diani Beach
Watamu
Mombasa
Malindi

A popular combination could be:

Maasai Mara → Amboseli → Diani Beach

or:

Maasai Mara → Tsavo → Diani Beach

You can also fly from some safari destinations to the coast, depending on your itinerary and budget.

What to Pack for a Kenya Safari in December

Because December can bring both sunshine and rain, it’s best to pack versatile clothing.

We recommend bringing:

Clothing

Lightweight trousers
T-shirts
Long-sleeved shirts
Light jacket or fleece
Comfortable walking shoes
Hat or cap
Sunglasses
Light rain jacket

Other essentials

Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Camera
Binoculars
Power bank
Reusable water bottle
Small day bag
Any personal medication you need

Neutral-coloured clothing is often practical for safari because it blends naturally into the environment.

And don’t forget your swimsuit if you’re combining your safari with the coast!

What Wildlife Can You See on a December Safari?

December is still a good month for wildlife viewing.

Depending on the destination and conditions, you may encounter:

The Big Five

Lion
Leopard
Elephant
Buffalo
Rhino

You may also see:

Cheetahs
Giraffes
Zebras
Hippos
Hyenas
Warthogs
Antelopes
Crocodiles
Numerous bird species

However, no ethical safari company should promise that you will see a particular animal.

Wildlife sightings depend on nature, weather, animal movements and many other factors.

That’s part of what makes a safari so special — every game drive is different.

Kenya Safari in December: Pros and Cons

Why choose December?

✓ Festive-season travel

Perfect if Christmas or New Year is when you have time off work.

✓ Green scenery

The short rains bring fresh vegetation and beautiful landscapes.

✓ Excellent wildlife opportunities

Kenya’s wildlife can be viewed throughout the year.

✓ Flexible itineraries

You can combine safari destinations with the coast.

✓ Special Christmas experience

Spend Christmas in the African wilderness instead of at home.

What should you consider?

• Rain is possible

December is part of the short-rains season.

• Festive demand

Popular camps can become fully booked around Christmas and New Year.

• Prices can vary

Accommodation prices may increase around peak festive dates.

• Migration isn’t the main attraction

If your main goal is the Great Migration and river crossings, December is not the period you should specifically choose for that experience.

When Should You Book a December Kenya Safari?

If you’re travelling during Christmas or New Year, don’t leave your booking until the last minute if you have specific accommodation in mind.

The earlier you plan, the more options you generally have for:

Accommodation
Safari vehicle
Preferred dates
Room types
Special experiences
Multi-destination itineraries

This is especially important for families and larger groups who need multiple rooms.

However, if you’re already planning a last-minute December trip, don’t assume it’s impossible.

A safari operator can check current availability and suggest alternatives based on what is still open.

Why Book Your Kenya Safari With Jenny’s Adventure Safaris?

At Jenny’s Adventure Safaris, we believe your safari should be designed around you.

We organise private and group safaris across Kenya, including the Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha, Hell’s Gate, Tsavo and Samburu.

Whether you’re travelling for Christmas, New Year, a honeymoon, a family holiday or simply want to experience Kenya during the festive season, we’ll help you create an itinerary based on your:

Travel dates
Number of travellers
Budget
Preferred accommodation
Interests
Safari style

Our safaris can be customised, so you don’t have to choose a one-size-fits-all itinerary.

Planning a Kenya safari for December?

Tell us your dates, number of travellers and approximate budget, and we’ll help you plan your safari.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Kenya Safaris in December

Is December a good month for a Kenya safari?

Yes. December can be a rewarding time for a Kenya safari, with green scenery, warm weather and opportunities for wildlife viewing. It is also a popular time for Christmas and New Year holidays. December falls within Kenya’s short-rains period, so occasional rain should be expected.

Does it rain all day in Kenya in December?

No. Rainfall varies by region and year, and showers can be brief. You can still have plenty of sunshine during your safari.

Can I see the Big Five in Kenya in December?

Yes, the Big Five can be seen in Kenya throughout the year. However, wildlife sightings are never guaranteed because animals are wild.

Is the Great Migration in Kenya in December?

The main Great Migration period in the Maasai Mara is generally earlier in the year. December should not be chosen specifically for the famous Mara river crossings.

Is December expensive for a Kenya safari?

Prices vary depending on accommodation, itinerary and travel dates. Christmas and New Year can be more expensive because they are popular holiday periods.

Should I book my Christmas safari early?

Yes, particularly if you want a specific camp, lodge, room type or itinerary. Early planning gives you more accommodation options.

Can I go on a safari on Christmas Day?

Yes. Your safari itinerary can include game drives and accommodation over Christmas, subject to the specific camp or lodge arrangements.

Can I combine a Kenya safari with a beach holiday in December?

Yes. Safari and beach combinations are popular, and you can combine destinations such as the Maasai Mara or Tsavo with Diani, Watamu, Malindi or Mombasa.

What should I wear on safari in December?

Pack lightweight, comfortable clothing together with a light jacket and rain protection. Comfortable closed shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat are also useful.

How many days should I spend on safari in December?

Three days can work for a short Maasai Mara safari, while five to seven days gives you more time to combine destinations such as the Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Naivasha and Amboseli.

Ready for Your December Kenya Safari?

Christmas in Kenya doesn’t have to mean choosing between wildlife and relaxation.

You can wake up in the Maasai Mara, spend the morning watching elephants or lions, enjoy a beautiful meal at your camp and finish your holiday on the Kenyan coast.

Let Jenny’s Adventure Safaris help you create your December adventure.

Your dates. Your budget. Your safari.

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