For many of us, the winter months are long and cold. Since that’s the case, why not spend some of this time away in warmer places, enjoying all that nature has to offer in the most unique and wondrous settings?
How about watching a beautiful sunset over the Serengeti, or listening to the bird calls over breakfast at the foot of one of the most impressive, naturally formed volcanic structures: Mount Kilimanjaro?
Take a few weeks out of the cold season to enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime safari in Tanzania. You will be surprised at what is on offer.
Why travel in December?
Picture a vibrant setting of lush green plants, towering trees providing shade from the hot sun in the afternoon, and watching the steam rise from the ground in the morning as the early sun warms up the early dew.
Now, continue this picture by imagining an elephant crossing the road in front of you, lazily continuing with its day, or view the lions sleeping in a tree after a hearty lunch. Can you hear the birds calling as they gather around the lake’s edge?
Snap back to reality for a moment. None of this needs to be in your imagination. December is a great time to visit Tanzania and enjoy all its rich wildlife and environment.
The temperature is hot, the rains have ended, and the plains are bursting with life. December is a fantastic time to escape the cold Canadian weather and enjoy this wonderland’s warm climate and amazing scenery.
Tanzania’s Climate in December
While December is cold in many parts of the world, Tanzania sees temperatures that range from 30 ℃ in the day to a low of 27 ℃ at night.
These warmer temperatures can feel amazing when you arrive from cooler climates. They also provide a nice boost to your overall health, helping to stave off seasonal disorders by allowing you to enjoy the warmth and sunshine for longer. There will still be some rainy days, of course, but they will feel refreshing.
During this time, the rainy season has already ended. Typically, the rain falls heaviest in fall, ending between November and December. This doesn’t mean you won’t get any rain at all, but you won’t get it constantly.
The rains bring life to the plains, refreshing the wildlife and vegetation. Thus, the barren, desolate imagery often associated with the African Plains is simply wrong; they are vibrant and lush in the winter.
More Holiday for Your Money
The winter months will often see a dip in travel ticket prices. It’s almost considered the “off season”, as the majority of vacationers travel in the spring and summer. So, you can still enjoy the summer climate, but at lower prices.
Even the rainy season can still work in your favour because many people will avoid Africa, fearful of the heavy rains. However, such people often miss out on the most amazing wildlife encounters.
Booking your African safari packages for December allows you to enjoy more for your budget. Keep in mind, however, that the beach resorts will likely book fast because of those who like to go away for Christmas.
Experience the African Wildlife
December marks the tail end of the great migration, during which all the animals in Africa travel from one side of the continent to the other and then return.
This naturally occurring phenomenon means you have an increased chance of seeing more than your average number of animals. You don’t have to travel a vast distance to view the various animals, since you can see them from your cabin door.
From the Big Five and their prey to the varied bird life, many of these amazing creatures will be easier to view due to feeding and sheltering from the rains. Aside from the migration event, though, December is another great time of year to see all the wildlife in close proximity.
New Life After the Rainy Season
December is typically the start of the calving season for the wildebeests. Their numbers will be larger following the rains as the life-giving water encourages the grasses to grow, thus feeding the large herds.
From now until March, these giant beasts increase their numbers by birthing new calves. Witnessing this is a magical experience, knowing that the herds will survive as their numbers increase.
Mount Kilimanjaro
For the adventuring hiker, now is a great time to test your endurance and stamina, and challenge yourself to hike up this awe-inspiring natural volcanic formation.
There is a range of different routes you can traverse, many taking from a few days to two weeks, and all bursting with life. However, don’t let this lush, green paradise fool you. The atmosphere will prove challenging upon the ascent as it thins, and it will require longer breaks and oxygen assistance. Still, the views are worth every moment.
The Beach Resorts
If hiking is not your thing, then check out the beach resorts. Some of the most amazing beaches are in Africa, such as Zanzibar and Lake Tanganyika.
The sandy beaches are clean and stunning, but that’s not all. Take a peek at the views and marine life under the surface. Scuba diving is a great way to explore the stunning reefs and marine life that call the ocean home in these regions.
You can take time out to relax on the beach, have a cocktail, or enjoy a game of volleyball. The beaches are certainly meant for relaxing and playing on, and can provide a change of scenery from the safari adventures.
Festivals
Are you looking to enjoy the nightlife and explore other cultures in Africa? In December, you can experience Swahili Fashion Week in Dar Es Salaam, which is an exciting opportunity to learn more about African culture and diversity.
Consider, as well, the Zanzibar Beach and Watersports Festival. This event spans three days and is quite the spectacle to participate in.
Discover a new appreciation for experiencing new adventures and expanding your worldly knowledge with different food, fashion, music, and dance. Christmas will never be the same after this.
Contact Zara Tanzania Adventures for African Safari Packages
Book your next African safari package with the company that knows Tanzania the best: Zara Tanzania Adventures. We can get you the best rates and packages, and we have the expertise to guide you on the best places to see and experience.
You can call us at 1-866-550-1098 and speak to one of our travel experts, or visit us online to see what African safari packages await to turn your dreams into reality.
