18 Amazing Countries for Best Safari Planing in December

1. South Africa Safari in December

Overview: December is one of the best months to visit South Africa for a safari, particularly in the Cape region and along the Garden Route, due to favorable weather conditions. South Africa offers a diverse range of safari experiences, from private reserves to national parks, each offering unique wildlife encounters.

Key Highlights:

Top Safari Destinations: Some of the best safari destinations in South Africa include Tswalu Kalahari Private Reserve, Pafuri Walking Safaris, Kruger National Park, Samara Karoo Private Reserve, and Phinda Private Game Reserve. These locations offer diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife sightings.

Ideal Season: While May through October is considered the prime safari season in South Africa, December still offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Animals are often concentrated near water sources during this time, making them easier to spot amidst the thinning foliage of the dry season.

Private Reserves: Even though December may not offer the same safari experience as earlier months, private reserves like those in Kruger still provide exceptional game-viewing opportunities. With fewer crowds and personalized experiences, private reserves remain a top choice for safari enthusiasts.

2. Ethiopia Safari in December

Overview: Ethiopia, known for its dramatic landscapes and unique wildlife, offers a different safari experience compared to traditional African safaris. While large game viewing may not be as prominent, Ethiopia’s highlands are home to several rare and endemic species, making it a captivating destination for nature lovers.

Key Highlights:

Unique Wildlife: Ethiopia is home to unique species such as the Ethiopian Wolf, Mountain Nyala, Gelada Baboons, and Walia Ibex. These rare and endemic animals can be found in the country’s highlands, offering a distinct safari experience.

Safari Options: Popular safari options in Ethiopia include exploring the Simien Mountains, known for its population of Gelada Monkeys, and the Bale Mountains, where the Sanetti Plateau provides an opportunity to spot the Ethiopian Wolf. Gambella National Park is another option for wildlife enthusiasts.

Scenic Beauty: In addition to its wildlife, Ethiopia boasts stunning landscapes and cultural heritage sites. Safari-goers can enjoy breathtaking views of the highlands and explore ancient rock-hewn churches and archaeological sites.

While South Africa offers a more traditional safari experience with its abundance of wildlife, Ethiopia’s highlands provide a unique opportunity to encounter rare and endemic species amidst spectacular scenery. Both destinations promise unforgettable safari adventures in December.

7. Mauritius Travel in December

Overview: December is an excellent month to visit Mauritius, offering peak temperatures and ideal beach weather. While there may be some scattered tropical showers and windy breezes in the evenings due to the summer monsoon, visitors can still enjoy plenty of sunshine and outdoor activities.

Key Highlights:

1. Peak Temperatures: December marks the peak of summer in Mauritius, with temperatures reaching their highest levels of the year. This makes it perfect for sun worshippers and beach enthusiasts looking to soak up the sun and enjoy the warm weather.
2. Beach Weather: With humidity levels not yet as high as in January, December provides great beach weather with comfortable conditions for swimming and water sports. Visitors can relax on the pristine beaches or explore the crystal-clear waters for snorkeling and diving opportunities.
3. Sunshine Hours: Despite the possibility of scattered tropical showers, December still offers around 5 hours of guaranteed sunshine daily. This allows plenty of time for outdoor activities and exploring the island’s natural beauty.

8. Tanzania Safari in December

Overview: Tanzania experienced light rainfall in December, which has a significant impact on wildlife movement in its game reserves. While lesser-known reserves like Katavi, Ruaha, and Selous attract large concentrations of wildlife during this time, the Northern Circuit remains a great safari destination, especially with the Serengeti’s Great Migration in full swing.

Key Highlights:

1. Wildlife Viewing: December offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing in Tanzania, with the migration of animals to lesser-known reservoirs resulting in dramatic changes in the game parks. Visitors can witness large concentrations of big game, including elephants, lions, and giraffes, in various reserves.
2. Northern Circuit: Tanzania’s Northern Circuit, which includes iconic parks like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, is particularly attractive during December. The Serengeti’s Great Migration is a highlight, with herds of wildebeest and zebras moving across the plains in search of water and grazing grounds.
3. Safari Experience: December provides a memorable safari experience in Tanzania, with opportunities for game drives, guided walks, and cultural interactions with local communities. Visitors can witness the natural beauty and biodiversity of Tanzania’s landscapes while enjoying comfortable weather conditions for outdoor activities.

9. Botswana Safari

Overview: Botswana offers a truly untamed safari experience, with diverse game-viewing opportunities both on land and in water-based excursions. The Okavango Delta, one of the most popular safari destinations in the world, features stunning rivers, abundant birdlife, and a unique atmosphere near the water. Botswana is renowned for its rewarding safari experiences and is considered one of the safest safari destinations in Africa, although it may not be the cheapest option.

Key Highlights:

1. Okavango Delta: The Okavango Delta is a must-visit destination, boasting the largest inland marsh in the world surrounded by a desert covered in millions of fine diamonds. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking scenery and encounters with a variety of wildlife in this pristine wilderness.
2. Safari Costs: Safari costs in Botswana can vary depending on the type of accommodation and duration of the trip. Guests booking a 6-night safari at two separate camps should budget between $4000 and $4,500 per person, excluding international travel and airport transfers. Alternatively, a 6-night mobile camping trip may cost around $2,500 per person.

Best Time to Visit: Botswana’s blue skies signal the birthing season, creating a colorful contrast to the green landscapes teeming with life. The ideal time to visit is during the dry season, from May to October, stretched up to December when wildlife viewing is at its best.

10. Chile Adventure

Overview: Chile is an ideal destination for adventurous travelers seeking natural beauty and a variety of outdoor activities. From the Atacama Desert in the north to the pristine wilderness of Patagonia in the south, Chile offers diverse landscapes and experiences for visitors to enjoy.

Key Highlights:

1. Atacama Desert: The Atacama Desert is one of the driest places in the world and offers unique opportunities for adventure, including walking, horseback riding, cycling, and exploring the Los Flamencos reserve and salt flats. Visitors can witness stunning landscapes and otherworldly beauty in this remote desert region.
2. Cultural Attractions: Chile boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with a rich history, diverse cuisine, and lively cities. Santiago, the capital city, offers a mix of museums, theaters, art galleries, bustling markets, and impressive architecture for visitors to explore.
3. Natural Wonders: From the Pacific coast to the Andes mountains, Chile offers breathtaking natural scenery and panoramic views. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, wildlife watching, and exploring untouched wilderness areas in Chilean Patagonia.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Chile depends on the region and activities planned. Generally, the summer months (December to February) are ideal for exploring the Atacama Desert and southern regions, while the winter months (June to August) are best for skiing in the Andes mountains.

11. Colombia Wildlife Safari

Overview: Colombia offers a rich diversity of wildlife and natural landscapes, making it an ideal destination for wildlife safaris. From the lush rainforests of the Amazon to the palm-fringed beaches of the Caribbean Sea, Colombia provides opportunities for thrilling wildlife encounters and outdoor adventures.

Key Highlights:

1. Tirana National Park: December is an excellent time to explore Tirana National Park, where visitors can spot howler monkeys and TT monkeys amidst the lush rainforest. The park also offers sparkling snorkeling and diving opportunities along the Caribbean coast.
2. Safari Locations: Colombia boasts a variety of safari locations, including Los Llanos, the Amazon, and the Napoles theme park. Popular safari spots include La Piscinita, Parque Arvi, Desierto de la Tatacoa, Kasaguadua Natural Reserve, Parque Natural Chicaque, and Aviario Nacional de Colombia. These destinations offer diverse wildlife and stunning natural scenery for visitors to enjoy.
3. Safety: While Colombia has experienced security challenges in the past, it has made significant progress in recent years. Overall, Colombia is considered safe for visitors, but it’s essential to remain vigilant and avoid recognized risk zones.

12. Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari

Overview: Rwanda is renowned for its astounding biodiversity and highland rainforests, which are home to the endangered mountain gorillas. Gorilla trekking safaris in Rwanda offer visitors the chance to observe these majestic creatures up close in their natural habitat, making it a unique and unforgettable experience.

Key Highlights:

1. Mountain Gorilla Trekking: Rwanda’s gorilla trekking excursions allow visitors to encounter mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and other primates in their natural habitat. With more habituated mountain gorilla groups than Uganda, Rwanda offers relatively easier access to gorilla trekking permits.
2. Other Activities: In addition to gorilla trekking, Rwanda offers a variety of activities for visitors, including hiking, birding, traditional game drives, nature walks, and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the country’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage while enjoying a range of outdoor adventures.

Safety: Rwanda is considered a safe destination for travelers, with a stable political environment and a well-developed tourism infrastructure. However, it’s essential to follow local guidelines and regulations, especially when trekking in national parks and protected areas.

13. Sri Lanka Wildlife Safari

Overview: Sri Lanka is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, offering a wealth of national parks and diverse ecosystems. From elephants and leopards to a myriad of bird species, the island nation boasts an impressive array of flora and fauna. The best time to visit varies depending on the region, with December through April being ideal for the west and south coasts, as well as the Cultural Triangle, while May through October is best for exploring the east coast.

Key Highlights:

1. National Parks: Sri Lanka’s national parks, including Yala, Kumana, Udawalawe, Horton Plains, Kaudulla, Minneriya, and Gal Oya, offer fantastic opportunities for wildlife safaris. Visitors can spot elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and a variety of bird species in these protected areas.
2. Diverse Wildlife: Sri Lanka is home to an astounding variety of plants and animals, making it a haven for wildlife aficionados. From the dense jungles of Sinharaja Forest Reserve to the coastal wetlands of Bundala National Park, there’s no shortage of opportunities to observe the island’s rich biodiversity.

14. Maldives Beach and Adventure Experience

Overview: The Maldives is renowned for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, making it an idyllic destination for beach lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. November through April is the best time to visit, with hot and tropical weather ideal for enjoying water-based activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and island hopping.

Key Highlights:

1. Beachfront Resorts: Stay in a beachfront resort or water villa to fully appreciate everything the Maldives has to offer. Spend five days indulging in luxury accommodations and engaging in activities like snorkeling, diving, and relaxing on the beach.
2. Dry Season: The Maldives experiences its dry season from January through April, with the least amount of rain and humidity. This period is the busiest for the resort industry, offering perfect conditions for enjoying outdoor activities and soaking up the sun.

Cost Considerations: While the Maldives can be pricey, especially during the peak season, the experience of staying in luxury accommodations and exploring the stunning marine environment is well worth the cost for many travelers.

15. Zambia Safari Adventure

Overview: Zambia is a hidden gem in the world of safari destinations, offering breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a sense of adventure unlike any other. From the majestic Victoria Falls to the vast Kafue National Park, Zambia has something to offer every explorer. Renowned for its walking safaris, Zambia provides an intimate and immersive wildlife experience, all while being rated as one of the safest places to travel in Africa.

Key Highlights:

1. Walking Safaris: Zambia is a pioneer in walking safaris, allowing visitors to explore the wilderness on foot and get up close to wildlife in their natural habitat. South Luangwa National Park is famous for its walking safaris over its wildlife-rich plains, offering a unique and unforgettable experience.
2. Untamed Scenery: Zambia boasts some of the most untamed and wild landscapes in Africa, without the crowds found in other popular safari destinations. National parks like Kafue offer the perfect setting for a week-long safari adventure, with opportunities for game drives and encounters with a variety of animals.
3. Victoria Falls: No visit to Zambia is complete without experiencing the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Whether you’re admiring the falls from the ground or taking a helicopter ride for a bird’s-eye view, Victoria Falls is a must-see destination.

16. Uganda Safari Expedition

Overview: Uganda stands out as a top safari destination, offering lush environments, diverse wildlife, and unique attractions like the Silverback Mountain Gorillas. From the stunning Sipi Falls to the renowned Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda provides an unforgettable safari experience, whether by boat, vehicle or on foot. How AI, ChatGPT maximizes earnings of many people in minutes

Key Highlights:

1. Mountain Gorilla Trekking: Uganda is famous for its mountain gorilla trekking experiences, allowing visitors to encounter these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Permits are required for gorilla viewing and are typically priced at $700 per person per day.
2. Scenic Attractions: Uganda is home to a variety of scenic attractions, including the picturesque Sipi Falls and the majestic Murchison Falls. Visitors can also spot tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park, adding to the diversity of wildlife experiences available.
3. Safety: Safaris in Uganda are generally safe and secure, thanks to the efforts of the Uganda Peoples Defense Forces (UPDF) in preserving peace and ensuring national security. While crime exists in urban areas, safari destinations are typically safe for travelers.

Cost Considerations: A safari in Uganda typically costs around $200 per person per day, with additional fees for gorilla viewing permits and other activities. Budget accommodations are available for around $100 per night, providing options for travelers with varying budgets. Motivation – Mind – Success – Thinking – Productivity – Happiness

17. Zimbabwe Safari Expedition

Overview: Zimbabwe is a hidden gem among safari destinations, offering unparalleled opportunities to witness unspoiled nature and encounter diverse wildlife. While Zimbabwe is a great safari location year-round, the dry season from June to September is particularly ideal for wildlife viewing, as animals gather near waterholes, providing excellent opportunities for sightings.

Key Highlights:

1. Breathtaking Wildlife: Zimbabwe is renowned for its incredible wildlife, including elephants, lions, cheetahs, black rhinos, leopards, and a variety of indigenous species. Visitors can witness these majestic animals in their natural habitat, creating unforgettable safari experiences.
2. Varied Scenery: From the lush landscapes of Hwange National Park to the majestic Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe offers a diverse range of scenery for safari enthusiasts. The country’s varied terrain provides a stunning backdrop for wildlife safaris, with opportunities to explore savannahs, woodlands, and rivers.
3. Safety Considerations: While Zimbabwe offers incredible safari experiences, travelers should exercise caution due to opportunistic crime, including theft, carjacking, and pickpocketing. By taking appropriate safety measures and staying vigilant, visitors can enjoy their safari adventures safely. Business – Money Making – Marketing – E-commerce

18. Namibia Safari Adventure

Overview: Namibia boasts some of the most breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife in Africa, making it an ideal destination for safari enthusiasts. With the highest population of cheetahs in Africa and an array of other iconic species like black rhinos and leopards, Namibia offers unparalleled opportunities for wildlife sightings.

Key Highlights:

1. Abundant Wildlife: Namibia is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including cheetahs, black rhinos, leopards, zebras, gemsbok, and wildebeests. Visitors can spot these magnificent animals in national parks like Etosha, where sightings of lions and other predators are common.
2. Self-Drive Safaris: Namibia’s convenient transportation infrastructure makes it well-suited for self-drive safaris, allowing visitors to explore the country’s breathtaking scenery at their own pace. From the rugged landscapes of Sossusvlei to the vast expanses of Etosha National Park, self-drive adventurers can experience Namibia’s natural beauty up close. Health books, guides, exercises, habits, Diets, and more
3. Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Namibia is from July to December when temperatures are mild, and there is minimal rainfall. This period coincides with the peak wildlife viewing season, making it ideal for safari enthusiasts. However, travelers should plan their trips well in advance due to high demand during this time.

Safety Note: While Namibia is generally a safe destination for travelers, it’s essential to take precautions against opportunistic crime, particularly in urban areas. By staying informed and exercising caution, visitors can enjoy their safari adventures in Namibia safely.