Botswana safari in December

Monthly Safari Guide

Botswana Safari in
December

Green Season 20-33°C 90mm rain 1779 tours
December brings festive season cheer to Botswana's green season. While much of the country receives regular afternoon thunderstorms, the mornings are clear and game viewing is productive. The Makgadikgadi Pans continue to attract migrating zebra, and the Central Kalahari is lush and productive for desert-adapted wildlife. Christmas and New Year safaris push prices up from standard green-season rates, but they remain well below peak-season levels. This is a special time for families seeking a unique holiday experience.

Season overview

Green Season in Botswana

December falls within Botswana's green season, characterised by daytime highs of 33°C and overnight lows of 20°C. Average rainfall is 90mm, making this a moderately wet period.

The green season transforms the landscape into a lush paradise. Expect afternoon thunderstorms, exceptional birdwatching, baby animals, and the lowest prices of the year. Morning game drives are often productive with clear skies before the rains arrive.

Wildlife & nature

Wildlife Highlights in December

  • Makgadikgadi zebra migration building
  • Flamingos arrive at flooded pans
  • Green Kalahari at its most beautiful
  • Festive season safaris in luxury camps

Where to go

Best Parks in Botswana for December

Makgadikgadi Pans

Top pick this month

Central Kalahari

Recommended for December

Nxai Pan

Recommended for December

Chobe

Recommended for December

Planning

Crowds & Pricing in December

Crowd Level

Moderate

Price Level

Shoulder

Average price per person

Budget

$2949

from $80 · 167 tours

Mid-range

$3454

from $100 · 335 tours

Luxury

$6381

from $530 · 101 tours

Ultra-Luxury

$13031

from $3923 · 12 tours

December offers moderate pricing in Botswana, sitting between the low and high seasons. This represents good value with generally favourable conditions and reasonable availability.

Preparation

What to Pack for December

Rain gear
Insect repellent
Sunscreen
Festive outfit for camp dinners
Light quick-dry clothing

Waterproof gear is essential for December in Botswana. Pack a good rain jacket and waterproof bag for electronics. Quick-dry fabrics are more practical than cotton. Despite the rain, sunscreen is still necessary for the strong tropical sun between showers. Neutral safari colours remain the best choice.

Book your adventure

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Frequently asked questions

Botswana Safari in December FAQ

Is December a good time for a safari in Botswana?

December falls in Botswana's green season, with temperatures of 20-33 degrees Celsius and 90mm average rainfall. Crowd levels are moderate, and pricing is at shoulder rates. Makgadikgadi zebra migration building. Overall, December is a solid choice for a Botswana safari.

How much does a Botswana safari cost in December?

Botswana safari costs in December vary by comfort level. Budget safaris average $2949/person from $80. Mid-range options average $3454/person. Luxury safaris average $6381/person. Ultra-luxury experiences average $13031/person. Prices are moderate in December. Compare 1779 tours on SafariPicked.

What wildlife can I see in Botswana in December?

December wildlife highlights in Botswana include: Makgadikgadi zebra migration building. Flamingos arrive at flooded pans. Green Kalahari at its most beautiful. Festive season safaris in luxury camps. The best parks to visit this month are Makgadikgadi Pans, Central Kalahari, Nxai Pan, Chobe.

What should I pack for a Botswana safari in December?

Essential packing for a December Botswana safari: Rain gear, Insect repellent, Sunscreen, Festive outfit for camp dinners, Light quick-dry clothing. Temperatures range from 20 to 33 degrees Celsius with 90mm rainfall, so waterproof gear is essential.

Which parks are best to visit in Botswana in December?

The top parks in Botswana for December are Makgadikgadi Pans, Central Kalahari, Nxai Pan, Chobe. During the green season, these parks offer the best game viewing conditions. Makgadikgadi Pans is particularly recommended this month. Browse all Botswana park guides and tour options on SafariPicked.