A Christmas cracker in East Africa
As temperatures in the northern hemisphere drop to zero and the pressures of wrapping presents and stuffing the turkey rise, jetting off somewhere warm and relaxing can be just the ticket. If this sounds like you, may we point you in the direction of East Africa for your next festive getaway?
Kenya and Tanzania – Christmas Safaris in East Africa
With sociable flights times and minimal time difference, Kenya and Tanzania experience mostly hot and sunny weather in December, with the occasional rains bringing refreshing relief and greenery. Christmas on safari in East Africa is magical, and with fabulous wildlife viewing and balmy temperatures, there are few better places in which to celebrate.
Sundowners at Kicheche Valley Camp
Masai Mara safari
Forget the classic Christmas films and experience the wildlife theatre of the Masai Mara itself. Africa’s iconic wildlife is found in high densities with the never ending cycle with predators and prey engaged in a never ending cycle of cat and mouse. Enjoy a balloon flight over herds of animals from Kicheche Valley Camp or work up an appetite on electric bikes at Cottar’s 1920’s Safari Camp.
Fabulous family tent at Cottar’s 1920’s Safari Camp
Laikipia safari
Laikipia now has some of the most varied populations of large mammals in the country, co-existing with the human population in a wonderful celebration of African diversity. More than half of Kenya’s black rhino live here, as well as a large number of the hugely endangered Grevy’s zebra.
Grevy’s Zebra at Borana Lodge
Even wild dog – perhaps the most endangered of all carnivores – can be found roaming the Laikipia region. This is a blissful place to bring the family; at Laikipia Wilderness and Borana Lodge children can make bows and arrows, go fishing, swim in the nearby river and spend a night fly-camping under the stars.
Meet new friends at Laikipia Wilderness
Serengeti wildebeest and zebra migrations safari
December is a fantastic time of year to visit northern Tanzania, with the wildebeest migration in full swing. The herds, accompanied by several hundred thousand zebra, congregate on the short grass plains in the south around Christmas time to give birth, attracting many predators as they go. The action is best spotted when staying in one of the mobile camps that will have moved down from the north to gain prime location.
Wildebeest migration in full swing at Serengeti Safari Camp
From Serengeti Safari Camp on Christmas Eve not only can you listen out for Santa’s sleigh but also the cackle of the nearby hyena and fierce roar of a pride of lion. Or, stay in one of only six tents at Serian’s Serengeti South Camp which has views over the wildebeest calving grounds. Apart from the usual game drives, experience the magic of the Serengeti on a night drive and go on a walking safari with Hadzabe hunter-gathers, an indigenous ethnic group living around Lake Eyasi.
Sundowners at Serian’s Serengeti South Camp
Zanzibar’s idyllic white sand beaches
A safari in either Kenya or Tanzania is easily combined with a few days on the idyllic white sandy beaches of the Kenyan coast or Zanzibar. Family run, Kinondo Kwetu is on a peaceful beach to the south of Mombasa. From kayaking to kite surfing there are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained.
Pretty gardens and beach at Kinondo Kwetu, Kenya
With its rich history, Zanzibar is very much your archetypal Indian Ocean destination. Zuri Zanzibar offers Afro-chic style in an assortment of thatched villas with the premier villas having outdoor Jacuzzis and ocean views.
Luxurious villas at Zuri Zanzibar
Any questions on Christmas safaris in East Africa?
If you’ve got this far and not found an answer to a question you have that we should have included, please ask in the comments section below, or pop us an email. We’ll be sure to reply and may amend the article to include our answer.
What next?
We would be delighted to help you plan a holiday, or answer any questions if you’re at an earlier stage. Our team of experts have travelled widely throughout Africa. They can offer expert advice on every type of safari from family and beach holidays to riding and primate safaris. If you would like to talk to someone who has been there and done it, please just send us an email or give us a call.
Hello
I’m interested in a Christmas walking safari for adults or winter season
As I will be travelling alone other single explorers will be a bonus
I’m interested in the camp