Located in the heart of East Africa, Kenya is a country known for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. With its unique geography, which includes savannas, forests, and mountains, Kenya is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for tourists and wildlife enthusiasts. The country’s climate is generally warm and sunny throughout the year, with two rainy seasons: the long rains from March to May and the short rains from October to December. However, the dry season, which typically runs from June to October, is the best time to visit Kenya for most tourists. But is December a good time to visit Kenya? In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of visiting Kenya in December and help you decide if it’s the right time for your trip.
Weather in December
The weather in December is generally warm and sunny in Kenya, with average high temperatures ranging from 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F) throughout the country. However, the temperatures can drop significantly at night, especially in the highlands, so it’s essential to pack accordingly. December is also a dry month in Kenya, making it an excellent time to visit the country’s national parks and wildlife reserves.
Here’s a breakdown of the average temperatures in different parts of Kenya in December:
| Location | Average High Temperature (°C) | Average Low Temperature (°C) |
|---|---|---|
| Nairobi | 22 | 14 |
| Mombasa | 28 | 20 |
| Naivasha | 22 | 10 |
| Kitale | 20 | 8 |
Pros of Visiting Kenya in December
There are several advantages of visiting Kenya in December:
- Good weather: December is a dry month in Kenya, making it an excellent time to visit the country’s national parks and wildlife reserves.
- Less crowds: Since it’s not peak season, you’re likely to encounter fewer tourists, making it easier to explore popular attractions.
- Lower prices: December is considered off-season, so you can expect lower prices for accommodations, tours, and activities.
- Christmas celebrations: Kenya celebrates Christmas with great enthusiasm, and you can experience the local culture and traditions during this time.
- End of the year festivities: December is a great time to experience the end-of-year festivities in Kenya, including New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Cons of Visiting Kenya in December
While December has its advantages, there are also some disadvantages to consider: (See Also: Is December A Good Time To Visit Rome?)
- Some attractions may be closed: Some national parks and wildlife reserves may be closed for maintenance or renovations during December.
- Less wildlife activity: Since it’s the dry season, some animals may be less active or have migrated to other areas in search of water and food.
- Higher risk of dust storms: December is a dry month, and the dry soil can lead to dust storms, which may affect your travel plans.
- Increased risk of malaria: December is a high-risk month for malaria, so it’s essential to take necessary precautions and consult your doctor before traveling.
Best Places to Visit in Kenya in December
Kenya has a wide range of attractions and activities to offer, and December is an excellent time to visit many of them. Here are some of the best places to visit in Kenya in December:
- Maasai Mara National Reserve: This world-famous reserve is home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo) and offers excellent game viewing opportunities.
- Amboseli National Park: Located at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, this park offers stunning views of the mountain and is home to a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and cheetahs.
- Lake Nakuru National Park: Known for its pink flamingos and white pelicans, this park is a must-visit for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
- Nairobi National Park: Located just outside Nairobi, this park offers a unique opportunity to see wildlife in a urban setting.
- Mombasa: This coastal city offers a relaxing beach vacation, with opportunities to try water sports, visit historical sites, and experience the local culture.
Things to Do in Kenya in December
Kenya offers a wide range of activities and experiences, and December is an excellent time to try many of them. Here are some things to do in Kenya in December:
- Go on a safari: Kenya is famous for its safaris, and December is an excellent time to go on a game drive or a walking safari.
- Visit a national park or wildlife reserve: Kenya has many national parks and wildlife reserves, each offering a unique experience and opportunities to see a wide range of wildlife.
- Go birdwatching: Kenya is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 1,000 species of birds to spot.
- Take a cultural tour: Kenya has a rich cultural heritage, and December is an excellent time to experience the local culture and traditions.
- Go on a beach vacation: Kenya’s coast offers a relaxing beach vacation, with opportunities to try water sports, visit historical sites, and experience the local culture.
Conclusion
December is a good time to visit Kenya, with good weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices. However, it’s essential to consider the pros and cons of visiting Kenya in December and plan your trip accordingly. From the Maasai Mara National Reserve to the beaches of Mombasa, Kenya has a wide range of attractions and activities to offer. Whether you’re interested in wildlife, culture, or relaxation, Kenya has something for everyone.
Recap
Here are the key points to remember when planning your trip to Kenya in December: (See Also: Best Time of Year to Visit Giverny – Spring Blooms)
- Good weather: December is a dry month in Kenya, making it an excellent time to visit the country’s national parks and wildlife reserves.
- Less crowds: Since it’s not peak season, you’re likely to encounter fewer tourists, making it easier to explore popular attractions.
- Lower prices: December is considered off-season, so you can expect lower prices for accommodations, tours, and activities.
- Some attractions may be closed: Some national parks and wildlife reserves may be closed for maintenance or renovations during December.
- Less wildlife activity: Since it’s the dry season, some animals may be less active or have migrated to other areas in search of water and food.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is December a good time to visit Kenya?
Q: What are the advantages of visiting Kenya in December?
A: December is a good time to visit Kenya, with good weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices. It’s also an excellent time to experience the local culture and traditions during the Christmas celebrations.
Q: Are there any disadvantages of visiting Kenya in December?
A: Yes, some national parks and wildlife reserves may be closed for maintenance or renovations during December, and the dry season may lead to less wildlife activity. Additionally, the risk of dust storms and malaria is higher during this time.
Q: What are the best places to visit in Kenya in December?
A: Some of the best places to visit in Kenya in December include the Maasai Mara National Reserve, Amboseli National Park, Lake Nakuru National Park, Nairobi National Park, and Mombasa.
Q: What are the things to do in Kenya in December?
A: Some of the things to do in Kenya in December include going on a safari, visiting a national park or wildlife reserve, going birdwatching, taking a cultural tour, and going on a beach vacation. (See Also: When Is The Best Time To Visit Connecticut – Discover Now)
Q: Is it safe to visit Kenya in December?
A: Yes, Kenya is generally a safe country to visit, but it’s essential to take necessary precautions and consult your doctor before traveling. Additionally, be aware of the local conditions and take necessary measures to stay safe.