The world often perceives Africa as a single entity, but it's a vastly diverse continent comprising 54 distinct countries. Each region experiences unique weather patterns, making it crucial to understand the climate variations before planning a trip.
For many countries in Africa, seasons don't follow the same pattern that they do in Europe and the United States. Instead of spring, summer, fall, and winter, most countries south of the Sahara Desert have dry and rainy seasons.
Understanding these regional differences is key to planning the perfect African adventure. Let's explore the weather conditions in various parts of Africa during December.
South Africa in December: Embracing Summer
December marks the beginning of summer in South Africa, a time characterized by warm to hot weather across the country. The scenery is vibrant, adorned with a multitude of blooming flowers, and the climate provides an idyllic scene for both serene countryside relaxation and lively city walks.
South Africa is large and has a diverse climate, making it hard to classify. Unlike Africa's equatorial countries, South Africa does experience four distinct seasons, albeit reversed from what most Americans might be used to: Summer lasts from November through January, while winter spans June through August. Rain is usually abundant during the summer, except for Cape Town.
Read also: Traveling to South Africa in December
December falls in South Africa's high season, and the country is especially busy during the Christmas and New Year's period. In December, South Africa celebrates the Day of Reconciliation on December 16 every year. This day marks the end of apartheid, and was set up to foster unity and reconciliation across the country. The same goes for Christmas and the Day of Goodwill (celebrated on December 25 and 25 every year), which are also national holidays.
Here's what you can expect in different regions:
- Cape Town and the Western Cape: This region experiences less chance of rain and mostly temperate weather and sunny skies in the summer months. It can be hot, dry and windy. Keep in mind that Cape Town’s weather can vary greatly any day of the year, so these norms should be used only as a guideline.
- Johannesburg: Days on safari are warm to hot and are often accompanied by heavy afternoon thunderstorms that clear quickly. Daytime temperatures are likely to reach the upper 70s to mid-80s F, and nighttime and early morning temperatures remain in the upper 50s to low 60s F.
- Kruger National Park: Similar to Johannesburg, expect warm to hot days with afternoon thunderstorms.
For travelers looking to visit South Africa in December, we recommend lots of natural fabrics and light-colored clothing to keep cool during your travels. We do also recommend bringing sunscreen, your sunglasses, a hat to protect your face, and mosquito spray.
How to Plan a Trip to South Africa | SOUTH AFRICA TRAVEL GUIDE
Cape Town in the summer.
Destinations in South Africa
For visitors planning to head over to South Africa in December, we recommend visiting these places:
Read also: Your Guide to Johannesburg Weather in December
- Cape Town has endless activities and things to see, and you could easily spend days wandering around. There are many different routes that vary in difficulty, the steeper the hike, the sooner you will get to the top. Other sights not to miss include Robben Island, the Cape of Good Hope, Cape Point Nature Reserve, and a variety of museums including Iziko Bo-Kaap Museum and District Six Museum.
- Durban is one of South Africa's top beach destinations. Head over to Durban Beach Front, Addington Beach, or Ushaka Beach to soak up those summer rays and enjoy swimming in the ocean.
- Knysna, located on South Africa's south coast, is known for its shimmering blue lagoon and delicious oysters. Knysna's beautiful waters are best seen from a boat, particularly from a sailboat. There you can see the Knysna Heads, two soaring cliffs separated by the lagoon. A cove just outside Knysna, Noetzie, is home to castles and the Sinclair Nature Reserve.
- Johannesburg is South Africa's second-biggest city, providing many insights into life in a South African city. Not too far from the city there is also the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to 15 major sites across limestone caves filled with fossils.
East Africa: Dry Season
In East Africa, climate variations are determined by altitude, but in essence the area is dry except for the months of April and May, during the long rains, and November, which is the short rainy season. The Central Highlands and Rift Valley have a pleasant climate, averaging about 20 degrees centigrade with cool nights.
Generally speaking, the dry season is best for game-viewing in the wildlife reserves of Kenya and Tanzania. If you're planning a visit to the Serengeti or the Masai Mara, this is the time to do is, as animals are out in abundance. If you're going on safari, your packing list should include T-shirts, trousers, cotton underwear, sports bras, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat. Look for fabrics that are light (in color and material) moisture-wicking and quick-drying.
Masai Mara during the dry season.
Other Regions in Africa
Africa's weather can also be relatively accurately categorized by region.
- North Africa has an arid desert climate, with high temperatures and very little precipitation (although temperatures in the mountains and the Sahara at nighttime can drop below freezing).
- Equatorial West and Central Africa have a monsoon climate defined by high temperatures, soaring humidity, and heavy seasonal rains.
Best Weather in Africa
The concept of “best weather” can be subjective, as different people prefer different climates and weather conditions. However, some African countries are known for their pleasant and mild climates, making them popular choices for travelers seeking enjoyable weather year-round.
Read also: Kenya December Travel Guide
Here are a few countries often considered to have some of the best weather in Africa:
- Uganda: Uganda’s weather is characterized by a mild and equatorial climate due to its location near the equator. The average temperatures are generally comfortable, and the country experiences two rainy seasons (March to May and October to November) and two dry seasons (December to February and June to August). The highland areas, such as Kampala and parts of southwestern Uganda, have a cooler and more temperate climate, making it a popular choice for visitors.
- Mauritius: This island nation in the Indian Ocean boasts a tropical climate with pleasant temperatures and plenty of sunshine. The coastal regions enjoy a refreshing sea breeze.
- Namibia: Namibia is known for its desert landscapes, and while the days can get quite hot, the nights are often cool and refreshing, creating a pleasant contrast.
- Tanzania: Coastal areas of Tanzania, including Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam, experience tropical weather with warm temperatures throughout the year, making it an attractive destination for beach lovers.
- Morocco: Morocco offers a diverse climate, ranging from Mediterranean along the northern coast to desert conditions in the south. The coastal areas have mild winters and warm summers, while the inland regions can have hot and dry summers.
- Kenya: Kenya’s climate varies depending on the region. Coastal areas, such as Mombasa, have a tropical climate with warm temperatures, while highland areas like Nairobi have a more moderate climate with cooler temperatures.
- Cape Verde: This island nation off the west coast of Africa enjoys a year-round warm and tropical climate, making it an attractive destination for those seeking pleasant weather.
It’s important to note that weather patterns can vary within each country, and seasonal fluctuations can affect the climate experienced during your visit.
Average Temperatures in December
Here's a look at the average temperatures in some key locations during December:
| Location | Average High (°F) | Average Low (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| Johannesburg | 80 | 60 |
| Cape Town | 75 | 60 |
| Durban | 80 | 70 |
These are just averages, so be sure to check the forecast for your specific destination before you travel.
Packing Tips for December in Africa
- Light, breathable clothing
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Mosquito repellent
- Rain gear (depending on the region)
With careful planning and the right information, you can make the most of your African adventure in December!
Popular articles:
tags: #Africa
