Kenya Safari in December

Yes, December is excellent — especially mid-to-late December when the short rains have ended. Green landscapes, warm weather, and festive lodge events make it a favourite for families and holiday travellers.

Christmas week (Dec 20–Jan 2) rates range from $500–$1,300+ per person per day depending on luxury level. Early December (Dec 1–19) is 20–30% cheaper. A 7-day Mara + Diani Beach holiday costs $4,000–$10,000+ per person.

Absolutely — it's the most popular December itinerary. Fly Nairobi → Maasai Mara (3–4 nights) → fly to Diani Beach (4–5 nights) → fly back to Nairobi. Total trip: 7–10 days.

Early December may have light showers from the fading short rains. By mid-December, conditions are dry and sunny. Late December typically has clear skies, warm temperatures, and excellent safari conditions.

Kenya Safari in December is a planning resource, not a fixed package. We use the advice in this guide to shape a custom itinerary around your dates, budget, accommodation level, and the kind of wildlife or pace you want.

The trips most closely related to kenya safari in december include 2 Nights Laikipia and Nanyuki Conservancy Fly-in Safari from Nairobi, 2 Nights Meru National Park Fly-in Safari from Nairobi, 2 Nights Loisaba Conservancy Fly-in Safari from Nairobi, 5 Nights Luxury Kenya Fly-in Safari: Maasai Mara, Samburu & Lewa. If you want, we can turn the ideas in this guide into a route that matches your dates and travel style.

Most nationalities need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), which you can apply for online before travel. The process is straightforward and typically approved within 72 hours. The eTA costs approximately $30 USD. Check the Kenyan immigration website for the latest requirements for your nationality.

Yellow fever vaccination is required if travelling from an endemic country. We recommend consulting your travel doctor about Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, and malaria prophylaxis at least 6 weeks before travel. A tetanus booster is also advisable. Malaria prophylaxis (such as Malarone or Doxycycline) is recommended for most safari areas.

The dry seasons (July–October and January–February) offer the best wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources. The Great Migration in the Maasai Mara peaks between July and October with dramatic river crossings. The short rains (November–December) bring lush landscapes and fewer crowds at lower prices, making it excellent value.

Yes! Kenya is one of the best places in Africa to see all Big Five — lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino. The Maasai Mara is renowned for big cat sightings, Amboseli for elephants with Mount Kilimanjaro as a backdrop, and Ol Pejeta Conservancy for both black and white rhinos. Our experienced guides know the best locations and times.