Christmas and New Year on Safari: Planning the Festive Season
Spend Christmas and New Year on safari. Learn where to go, what the weather is like, how to book early and how camps celebrate.
The festive season is a wonderful time for safari, especially for families who want to celebrate together in the sun. Many camps put on special dinners, decorations and activities. It is also very popular, so planning early is essential.
Why spend the festive season on safari?
Summer in the southern hemisphere means warm days and long evenings. Wildlife is active, and young animals are often visible after the first rains. Families can gather in a quiet, beautiful place without the usual holiday stress.
Where should you go in December?
- South Africa: Cape Town is at its summer best, and private reserves offer lush landscapes and birdlife. See Three Perfect Days in Cape Town.
- Tanzania and Kenya: Parts of the Serengeti begin calving, and the landscape is green. See Kenya vs Tanzania.
- Seychelles and Zanzibar: Warm seas for a beach finish. See Zanzibar vs Mauritius.
- Rwanda and Uganda: Gorilla trekking is possible year-round.
What is the weather like?
Southern Africa is warm to hot, with afternoon storms in many areas. East Africa is warm, with showers. Pack light, breathable layers and a rain jacket. See what to pack.
How do camps celebrate?
Many camps offer festive dinners, decorated tents and special activities, from bush Christmas breakfasts to New Year's Eve under the stars. Tell us your preferences in advance.
Is the festive season busy?
Yes, it is a peak period for many camps, with minimum stays. We suggest booking a year ahead for the best choice.
Is it a good time for children?
Absolutely. School holidays line up, and many camps have family programmes. See Safari with Young Children.
Plan your festive journey
Every journey we design is private, from two guests. Exclusive-use camps are especially popular for family gatherings. Read What Is an Exclusive-Use Camp?. Talk to a specialist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Christmas a good time for safari?
Yes, though it is busy and requires early booking.
Will it rain?
Short storms are common in many regions. They often pass quickly.
Do camps close at Christmas?
Most open camps stay open, with special programmes.
Are there minimum stays?
Often, at peak periods. We confirm for each camp.
Is it good for families?
Yes, with the right camp.
The festive season is a wonderful time for safari, especially for families who want to celebrate together in the sun. Many camps put on special dinners, decorations and activities. It is also very popular, so planning early is essential.
Why spend the festive season on safari?
Summer in the southern hemisphere means warm days and long evenings. Wildlife is active, and young animals are often visible after the first rains. Families can gather in a quiet, beautiful place without the usual holiday stress.
Where should you go in December?
- South Africa: Cape Town is at its summer best, and private reserves offer lush landscapes and birdlife. See Three Perfect Days in Cape Town.
- Tanzania and Kenya: Parts of the Serengeti begin calving, and the landscape is green. See Kenya vs Tanzania.
- Seychelles and Zanzibar: Warm seas for a beach finish. See Zanzibar vs Mauritius.
- Rwanda and Uganda: Gorilla trekking is possible year-round.
What is the weather like?
Southern Africa is warm to hot, with afternoon storms in many areas. East Africa is warm, with showers. Pack light, breathable layers and a rain jacket. See what to pack.
How do camps celebrate?
Many camps offer festive dinners, decorated tents and special activities, from bush Christmas breakfasts to New Year's Eve under the stars. Tell us your preferences in advance.
Is the festive season busy?
Yes, it is a peak period for many camps, with minimum stays. We suggest booking a year ahead for the best choice.
Is it a good time for children?
Absolutely. School holidays line up, and many camps have family programmes. See Safari with Young Children.
Plan your festive journey
Every journey we design is private, from two guests. Exclusive-use camps are especially popular for family gatherings. Read What Is an Exclusive-Use Camp?. Talk to a specialist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Christmas a good time for safari?
Yes, though it is busy and requires early booking.
Will it rain?
Short storms are common in many regions. They often pass quickly.
Do camps close at Christmas?
Most open camps stay open, with special programmes.
Are there minimum stays?
Often, at peak periods. We confirm for each camp.
Is it good for families?
Yes, with the right camp.
YOUR NEXT JOURNEY
YOUR NEXT JOURNEY
Where will Africa take you next?
Where will Africa take you next?
Where will Africa take you next?
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