Rwanda safari in December

Monthly Safari Guide

Rwanda Safari in
December

Short Rains Ending 15-27°C 70mm rain 2284 tours
December marks the end of Rwanda's short rains and the beginning of the festive holiday rush. Conditions improve through the month as rainfall decreases. Christmas and New Year gorilla treks are among the most sought-after safari experiences in Africa, commanding peak pricing and requiring months of advance booking. The improving weather, holiday atmosphere, and world-class wildlife create an unforgettable combination. Rwanda's small size makes it possible to combine gorilla trekking with a festive lake retreat at Lake Kivu.

Season overview

Short Rains Ending in Rwanda

December falls within Rwanda's short rains ending, characterised by daytime highs of 27°C and overnight lows of 15°C. Average rainfall is 70mm, making this a moderately wet period.

This transitional period offers a mix of conditions as Rwanda shifts between seasons. You may experience both dry and wet days, but game viewing is typically good and crowds are manageable. Pricing often offers good value compared to peak months.

Wildlife & nature

Wildlife Highlights in December

  • Improving conditions as short rains end
  • Festive season gorilla treks extremely popular
  • Golden monkey troops on lower slopes
  • Akagera game viewing strengthening

Where to go

Best Parks in Rwanda for December

Volcanoes NP

Top pick this month

Akagera

Recommended for December

Nyungwe Forest

Recommended for December

Planning

Crowds & Pricing in December

Crowd Level

High

Price Level

High Season

Average price per person

Budget

$2490

from $160 · 345 tours

Mid-range

$2965

from $80 · 605 tours

Luxury

$4426

from $350 · 103 tours

Ultra-Luxury

$7679

from $1111 · 14 tours

December commands high-season pricing in Rwanda due to excellent conditions and strong demand. Booking 3-6 months ahead is recommended for the best selection of camps and lodges.

Preparation

What to Pack for December

Light rain jacket
Hiking boots
Festive attire
Camera gear
Warm layers for altitude

With temperatures between 15 and 27 degrees Celsius, layering is essential. Early morning game drives can be cold, while midday is warm. Neutral colours (khaki, olive, brown) are best for safari. Avoid bright whites and dark blues which attract tsetse flies in some areas.

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Frequently asked questions

Rwanda Safari in December FAQ

Is December a good time for a safari in Rwanda?

December falls in Rwanda's short rains ending, with temperatures of 15-27 degrees Celsius and 70mm average rainfall. Crowd levels are high, and pricing is at high season rates. Improving conditions as short rains end. Overall, December is a solid choice for a Rwanda safari.

How much does a Rwanda safari cost in December?

Rwanda safari costs in December vary by comfort level. Budget safaris average $2490/person from $160. Mid-range options average $2965/person. Luxury safaris average $4426/person. Ultra-luxury experiences average $7679/person. Prices are moderate in December. Compare 2284 tours on SafariPicked.

What wildlife can I see in Rwanda in December?

December wildlife highlights in Rwanda include: Improving conditions as short rains end. Festive season gorilla treks extremely popular. Golden monkey troops on lower slopes. Akagera game viewing strengthening. The best parks to visit this month are Volcanoes NP, Akagera, Nyungwe Forest.

What should I pack for a Rwanda safari in December?

Essential packing for a December Rwanda safari: Light rain jacket, Hiking boots, Festive attire, Camera gear, Warm layers for altitude. Temperatures range from 15 to 27 degrees Celsius with 70mm rainfall, so layering is key for variable temperatures.

Which parks are best to visit in Rwanda in December?

The top parks in Rwanda for December are Volcanoes NP, Akagera, Nyungwe Forest. During the short rains ending, these parks offer the best game viewing conditions. Volcanoes NP is particularly recommended this month. Browse all Rwanda park guides and tour options on SafariPicked.