Explore the best African countries to visit in December for an unforgettable journey of discovery. Discover the unique beauty, rich culture, and diverse wildlife of Africa during the festive season. Plan your December getaway to Africa with this comprehensive guide.
Best African Countries to Visit in December: A Journey of Discovery
What better way to usher in the new year than a journey of discovery to the continent of Africa? With its diverse cultures, languages, and landscapes, there’s so much on offer in Africa. From the breathtaking mountain ranges of Ethiopia to the vibrant cities of South Africa, there are so many places that should be on your African bucket list.
But maybe you’re stumped as to where you should start. After all, with 54 countries to choose from, it can be difficult to narrow it down. Don’t worry! We’ve done the research for you and rounded up our top picks for the best African countries to visit in December.
Whether you’re looking for incredible wildlife experiences or stunning beaches, we’ve got you covered. In this article, you’ll find all the information you need about what each destination has to offer, from recommended itineraries to safety measures and even budget tips. Let’s get planning!
Overview of Top African Countries for December Travel
The continent of Africa is a treasure trove of unique cultures, stunning landscapes and incredible experiences for any traveler. December is the perfect time to explore this diverse region – its warm temperatures, festivals and beautiful wildlife viewing opportunities make it the ideal month for an unforgettable journey of discovery.
Each country has its own drawcard – from the vibrant markets of Morocco to the stunning beaches of Mozambique, there are so many reasons to visit Africa in December. Here are some of the best African countries to check out:
- Tanzania – with the Serengeti National Park offering superb game viewing opportunities, a visit here will be an unforgettable experience.
- South Africa – with its stunning coastline, vibrant cities and unparalleled wine region, South Africa has something for everyone.
- Kenya – with its spectacular wildlife reserves and friendly people, Kenya is one of the most popular safari destinations in Africa.
- Namibia – from towering sand dunes to vast desert plains and some of the best wildlife viewing in southern Africa, Namibia is an explorer’s paradise.
From vibrant cities to untouched wildernesses, December is a great time of year to explore all that Africa has to offer. So why not start planning your journey today?
The Best Beaches in Mozambique
Best African Countries to Visit in December
Mozambique is home to some of the best beaches in Africa, making it an ideal destination for a December vacation. From white sand beaches and warm turquoise waters to stunning coastal cliffs, Mozambique’s coastlines are nothing short of breathtaking.
Let’s take a look at some of the top beaches you should visit in this tropical paradise:
- Tofo Beach: located in Inhambane Province, Tofo Beach promises a beautiful ocean view and plenty of activities for travelers. The beach is known for its excellent kitesurfing and diving opportunities, as well as its fresh seafood restaurants.
- Barra Beach: situated at the entrance of the Quirimbas Archipelago, Barra Beach features powdery white sand and crystal clear waters. There are plenty of activities to choose from here too, such as fishing trips, dolphin watching tours and sailing excursions.
- Vilanculos Beach: known for its rich coral reef and vibrant marine life, Vilanculos Beach is a great spot for snorkeling or SCUBA diving. It’s also ideal for basking in the sun or having a barbecue right on the beach!
Experience the Natural Beauty of Mauritius
Best African Countries to Visit in December
Now let’s talk about Mauritius. This island nation is full of tropical beauty, with an average temperature of 28°C and plenty of beaches to explore. But that’s not all, there are also lagoons and coral reefs, plus a unique landscape of volcanoes, rainforests, and waterfalls.
In December, Mauritius is in the middle of the dry season which means you won’t have to worry about getting stuck in a downpour during your visit. It’s also the perfect time to experience some of the country’s best outdoor activities such as scuba diving and snorkeling, hiking, kayaking and more!
What’s more, with its diverse culture — rooted in African heritage but with French and Indian influences — you can explore a range of cultures through music, art galleries, workshops and events. The locals will be more than happy to share their culture with you and will make your trip even more memorable!
There’s so much to see and do in Mauritius during December. You’ll get the chance to take in its natural beauty as well as immerse yourself into its vibrant culture—all while making some unforgettable memories!
Adventure Through the Serengeti in Tanzania
Best African Countries to Visit in December
If you’re looking for an exciting and unique adventure, why not take a journey through the stunning Serengeti National Park in Tanzania? This incredible national park is known for its abundant wildlife, including the great wildebeest migration, which takes place between June and October. December is the perfect time to explore this magnificent landscape as temperatures are milder, vegetation is thick, and the animals are coming down from their summer migration.
Explore a Unique Wildlife Ecosystem
Tanzania’s Serengeti offers a uniquely diverse ecosystem that you won’t find anywhere else. In addition to the wildebeest migration, you can spot predators like lions, cheetahs, leopards and hyenas, as well as plenty of other incredible wildlife like elephants, zebras and giraffes. You may even get a chance to encounter some of Africa’s most exotic birds!
Safari Experiences Tailored to Your Needs
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or an animal lover at heart, Tanzania has something for everyone. You can choose from a variety of safari experiences tailor-made to fit your needs and preferences—explore the plains on foot or take a game drive through the park in an open-air vehicle and get up close with some of Africa’s most majestic inhabitants.
Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park offers one of the best December holiday destinations for those who want to experience an unforgettable African adventure. With its abundant wildlife and spectacular scenery, exploring the great wildebeest migration in Tanzania makes for an unforgettable experience!
Take a Cultural Tour in Ethiopia
Best African Countries to Visit in December
You’ll want to add Ethiopia to your itinerary if you’re looking for a culturally immersive experience on your African trip in December. Ethiopia has one of the oldest civilizations in the world, with records of settlements dating back more than 3,000 years.
Historic Sites
The ancient capital of this country is just one of the many historic sites to explore when you’re here. The city was founded during the early Aksumite kingdom and by many, it is said to be the home of the Arc of Covenant. Tourists can also explore some of the old churches and monasteries that still stand, giving us a glimpse into Ethiopia’s history.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site
This country has something for architectural and religious enthusiasts alike — Lalibela is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its 11 rock-cut churches from the 12th century. You’ll also find some spectacular tombs, fortresses and other cultural attractions worth exploring in Ethiopia.
Head over to Debre Damo Monastery—one of the oldest monasteries in Africa which sits atop an outpost surrounded by cliffs—for a unique cultural experience in Ethiopia. Be sure to take an insight into everyday life when you visit markets or villages around this country too!
Explore Cape Town’s Vibrant Nightlife
Best African Countries to Visit in December
Why not explore the vibrant nightlife scene in Cape Town? One of South Africa’s most beautiful cities, Cape Town is home to a variety of bars, pubs and nightclubs. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner or an all-night party, there’s something to suit everyone.
Explore the trendy food and drink scene with a visit to popular hotspots like Kirstenbosch Gardens or Long Street. Or grab a drink at one of the city’s famous craft breweries, like Devil’s Peak Brewing Co. or Drifter Brewing Co., and enjoy spectacular views of Table Mountain while you sip on local brews.
If you’re looking for something a bit more raucous, check out some of the city’s hottest clubs. For example, the upper-class Shimmy Beach Club is known for its banging tunes and chilled vibe; get ready for drinks by the pool in this luxurious club that overlooks Table Bay. Club 27 hosts popular themed nights every weekend, as well as lots of special events—head here for pop music fans looking to make an entrance!
In Conclusion, Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or a little bit of both, December is the perfect time to explore Africa. With its beautiful nature, fascinating wildlife, and diverse cultures, there’s something for everyone in this continent. From the Serengeti in Tanzania to the mystical Atlas Mountains in Morocco, you’re sure to find an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home. So, why not take the plunge and discover what this captivating continent has to offer? Africa awaits!
