The short rains should clear from around the middle of December, paving the way for drier conditions and an unbeatable Christmas or New Year’s holiday.

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Overview

• Compared to the longer rainy season experienced earlier in the year, the short rains that carry through from November will mostly dissipate as December rolls on.
• Days and nights in December are warm to hot, increasing in temperature as the days pass by.
• Following the short rains early in the month, the latter half of December will see Kenya’s landscape flush with greenery, and with water sources beginning to dry up at this time, wildlife-viewing will become easier.
• This is also a great month for wildlife photography as a result, with animals able to be photographed amidst thriving foliage.

 

Where to Go

• The migratory bird species that arrived in November can still be spotted in many locations, including the lakes of Nakuru, Naivasha and Bogoria.
• Temperatures will be high along the coast, which is ideal for those hoping to celebrate Christmas or New Year’s on the beach.
• Although humidity is high in coastal areas, ocean breezes help to temper the heat, and the constant warm water temperature is a big plus.

 

Things to Remember

• To avoid the Christmas crowds, try booking an exclusive-use property such as a safari house to ensure an intimate holiday with friends and family.
• Some properties – especially those in the north of Kenya – will close during December. Bear this in mind as a decrease in availability tends to lead to an increase in prices.
• However, December is generally a cheaper and quieter month in which to travel to Kenya than the long dry season of July – October.
• Make sure to book ahead if you’re hoping for a Christmas or New Year’s getaway, as tourist numbers will swell towards the end of the month.