Where to go on Safari in December

If you are looking for a Christmas break for the family then Kenya has to be considered. With great safari action and some cosy beach retreats you have the makings of the ideal family getaway and all within one flight distance as well. The thought of safari is often off putting due to the associated costs especially when travelling as a family, nowadays however with the introduction of certain family safari houses (with private chef and guide), you can do all this for great value for money and with something to entertain everyone. Worth considering for the ultimate family retreat are Acacia and Mara Houses, the Serian private camp, and the beach retreat of Funzi Keys. 

Sticking with the value for money idea, Botswana is also one to consider as the month of December enters the shoulder season (as rains start to arrive) making this wildlife rich destination much more affordable than the earlier peak months – you can still be assured of some world class game viewing, you may just have to put up with the odd afternoon shower.

Something slightly out of the ordinary is offered by the Atacama desert of Chile one of the driest places on earth! A variety of activities can be enjoyed whilst you explore the area including walking, horse riding, cycling exploring Los Flamencos Reserve or just marvelling at Chile’s largest salt flat. In Colombia December is a good time of year to search for howler and titi monkeys in Tayrona National Park, where sweeping palms meat the Caribbean Sea which also offers some excellent snorkelling and diving.

Not far away is also the tropical Belize where you will avoid the rains as well as the busier month of January. Make the most of the adventure activities that Belize is renowned for by exploring tropical rainforests brimming with exciting wildlife, from colourful birds and jaguars (if you're lucky) to different monkey species that chatter in the trees. Belize is renowned for it's world class diving and in December, you can really make the most of it. Explore different dive sites off the coast and if you are really brave, why not make your way to the infamous Blue Hole!

In the Galapagos Islands December is the start of the breeding and mating season for many animals including green turtles, marine iguanas and sea lions. The water and air temperatures start to warm up and the skies generally clear making it a popular month with visitors – planning ahead at this time of year is essential.

For the once in a lifetime family getaway and one that you will never forget, why not spend the ultimate white Christmas exploring Antarctica? The month of December provides some of the longest daylight hours (great for photography) and the start of the whale watching season.