Best African Countries to Visit in December – 5 Expert Picks

The very first thing is language and as long as you speak English, you shouldn’t encounter many problems. A major part of African countries have adopted speaking English and French. It has been noted that 130 million Africans speak English and 115 million Africans speak French. So when you are thinking of African countries to visit, language should not be a problem. However, if for any reason reason you even need a translator, it will always be provided by your tour guide.

Also, contrary to popular belief, not all African delicacies are spicy. The most interesting thing about going on a vacation in African countries is trying out the various cuisines to experience their unique taste and flavour. Nevertheless, you will not be missing home as Africa has adopted some of the most popular intercontinental dishes and snacks.

Most people ask questions like is December a good time to visit Africa? Now, if this question is in the context of weather then our answer is use. In December, there is usually little or no rain and the sun is not at its hottest temperature then. This makes the weather perfect for a lot of outdoor activities.

Top African Countries To Visit In December

From wildlife safaris to beach getaways, Africa offers a wide range of experiences in December. These are some of the top African countries you should consider visiting in December.

Kenya

Kenya is a country in East Africa which has Nairobi as its capital. The total area is 58,000 sq. km and the population is estimated to be 51,903,301 million (2018). There are over 40 different ethnic groups in Kenya and it is the 47th-largest country in the world.

Additionally, Kenya is one of the top African countries to visit in December due to its dry season, which makes it an excellent time for wildlife enthusiasts to visit. In Kenya, there are so many cities and places to explore like;

Nairobi

Nairobi is the capital and the largest city of Kenya. It is one of the most popular Kenya tourist places which is known for its legendary colonial history, sprawling infrastructure, tea and coffee industry, and wildlife parks. One should definitely visit this city to capture a glimpse of the historical heritage of Kenya, peep into its vibrant culture, spectate its vivid wildlife, and witness its stunning contemporary art.

Things to do in Nairobi in December

There are a lot of interesting things to do in Nairobi during the festive season but one thing one should understand is that Nairobi doesn’t have many beaches like some other countries so you may not need to come with a lot of beach wear. Because Nairobi is a city you should expect to see a lot of museums, markets, parks etc.

However, there are still a lot of fun things to do during your stay and we’ve taken our time to list out a few of the best things to experience

1. Nairobi National Park
2. Explore Karura Forest
3. Visit the Masai Market
4. Take a Historical Nairobi City Tour
5. Picnic in Nairobi’s Uhuru Park
6. Learn About the History of Kenya at the National Museum

Top African countries to visit in December – Places to stay in Nairobi

Restaurants to try out in Nairobi 

Mombasa

Another popular African country to visit this December is Mombasa. Occasionally Mombasa has been considered a tourist magnet that attracts all sorts of travelers because of its amalgamated culture. Also, it is one of the most famous places in Kenya because of the beautiful blend of various cultures, traditions, art, architecture, and cuisines.

Fun things to do in Mombasa this December

This city is also famous for its beaches, corals, old monuments, and bustling street markets. Unlike in Nairobi, you finally have the opportunity to put on that beach wear, but aside from visiting Nyali beach, there are still some awesome things to do and below are just a few that have been listed.

1. Explore Nyali beach
2. Relax at the Mama Ngina Waterfront
3. Explore The Fort Jesus Museum
4. Stroll Around Mombasa Old Town
5. Check out Mandhry Mosque
6. Take Photos With The Mombasa Tusks

Places to stay in Mombasa in December

Restaurants to try out in Mombasa

South Africa- Popular African countries to visit In December

To begin with, the National Animal of  South Africa is called the Springbok. South Africa has 11 official languages, IsiZulu, Afrikaans, Isihosa, SiSwati, Sesotho, Xotsonga, Sepedi, Isindebele, Setswana, Tshivenda and English. Also, about 80% of South Africa’s Population is Christian while 20% make up for other religions.

Just as the name suggests, South Africa is a country located in the southern part of Africa. As of 2021, South Africa ranked as the second richest country in Africa, after Nigeria. Subsequently, tourism remains a key driver in the South African economy and also contributes to Job creation in the country. Moreover, the tourism industry in South Africa thrives as a result of its culture, geography and Wildlife. South Africa is probably the only country that has 3 capital cities- Pretoria, Cape Town and Bloemfontein.

Cape Town

Continually voted as one of the world’s top cities to visit, Cape Town remains one of the best places to visit in Africa in December. With picturesque mountains, bottle-green wine valleys and gorgeous beaches all within easy reach, the ‘Mother City’ is one of South Africa’s best-loved travel destinations and at her prettiest in December.

The weather is hot and Martini-dry, the beaches buzzing and the mood infectiously cheerful – perfect for Christmas in Africa. We recommend hiring a private villa to have a prime position at the best beaches, exclusive use of swimming pools and parking, plus housekeeping and 24-7 security.

Fun things in Cape Town when visiting in December

Cape Town is a cool place where you can do a lot of awesome things. First, you can climb really big mountains, like Table Mountain, and see the whole city from way up high. It’s like an exciting adventure! And after that, you can head to the beaches with soft sand and blue water. You can swim, play in the waves, and watch the sun go down in the evening, which is really pretty. So, here are a few things you can do in Cape Town.

1. Climb Table Mountain
2. Catch the ferry to Robben Island
3. Sunbath on Clifton Beach
4. Go mountain biking in Elgin
5. Visit the boulders beach penguins
6. Surf at Muizenberg

Hotel/Places to stay in Cape Town- Top African countries to visit in December

Restaurants To Try Out in Cape Town

Johannesburg

Welcome to Johannesburg, a city of wonders! Just like opening a treasure chest, this city is bursting with exciting secrets. From soaring skyscrapers to colourful markets, Johannesburg is a world of adventure waiting to be explored. So, grab your imagination and let’s dive into the magic of this amazing place. Get ready for a journey filled with surprises!

Fun Things to Do in Johannesburg during Your Vacation in December

Johannesburg is a super fun place because it’s like a giant playground just waiting for you! Imagine towering buildings to check out, plus parks with swings and slides that are a blast. And don’t forget about the markets packed with delicious treats! What’s more, the city has cool roads and colourful lights that make it extra exciting for cars. So, if you’re up for an adventure, here are some things to do in Johannesburg.

1. Visit the Apartheid Museum
2. Explore The Gold Reef City
3. Take A Day Trip To Lion & Safari Park
4. See Pilanesberg National Park
5. Plan a Day Trip To Pretoria
6. Explore the South African National Museum of Military History

Fun Places to stay In Johannesburg- Best African countries to visit in December

Places to eat in Johannesburg – popular African countries to visit in December

Tanzania – Best African Countries to Visit in December

Let’s set off to Tanzania, a land of amazing wonders! Like turning the pages of a magical book, Tanzania is a country in East Africa that’s part of the Great Lakes region. It’s home to some of the most famous places in Africa, like Lake Victoria and Kilimanjaro, which is the highest mountain in Africa.

Tanzania is filled with exciting stories. From the towering Mount Kilimanjaro to the wild safaris in national parks, there’s an adventure around every corner. So grab your explorer’s hat, and let’s uncover the mysteries of this incredible country. Get ready for a journey full of surprises!”

On the other hand, December is a great time to visit Tanzania because it is mostly sunny and the rains have left which would give you a nice opportunity to see the lakes without worrying about Tides. And then it offers a stunning diversity of landscapes and wildlife.

Zanzibar

I know you have seen so many beautiful pictures and videos about Zanzibar and you’re so excited to finally cross it off your bucket list. The First thing to know about Zanzibar is that it is one of the biggest surprises in Tanzania, It is very easy to forget that it is a city in Tanzania, and most time I’m very sure I also forget.

Indeed Zanzibar is a breathtaking destination and there are so many things to see and do ranging from its iconic wildlife safaris to its beautiful landscapes and its vibrant culture. Let’s explore some of the fun things to do.

Want to know more about going on a vacation in Zanzibar? Check out Vacation in Tanzania

Fun things to do in Zanzibar in December

Zanzibar in December is awesome. You can play on the warm beaches first. After that, go see the colourful fish by snorkelling in the clear water. Walk in the old town’s narrow streets to find cool things. And of course, try yummy local food for a tasty adventure. Some of the fun things to do include:

1. Visit Jozani Forest
2. Go to the House of Wonders (Bait Al Ajaib)
3. Visit the Paje Beach
4. Dine at Forodhani Gardens
5. Go on a cruise at the Safari Blue
6. Visit Prison Island

Top Places/hotels to stay in Zanzibar

Restaurants to try out in Zanzibar

Arusha

Arusha is a bustling African city that often serves as the starting point for safaris to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara and Tarangire National Parks. It is locally known as ‘A-Town’, has a lot of charm of its own and is a great place to experience Tanzanian life.

However many people just stay a night or two here before moving on, but if you have time, I’d suggest staying at least a few days. So if you are looking for reasons why Tanzania should be on the list of top African Countries to visit, Arusha is one.

Fun Things to do in Arusha

In December, Arusha is full of exciting stuff to do. First, check out the colorful markets with cool crafts. Then, go on a super fun safari in the parks to see amazing animals. You can also visit a Maasai village to learn cool things and don’t forget to splash around in beautiful waterfalls to end your day with a big smile. That being said let’s explore the list of things you can do in Arusha.

1. Climb Mount Meru
2. Explore Arusha National Park
3. See the Cultural Heritage Center
4. Book a Northern Circuit Safari
5. Go Canoeing on Lake Momella
6. Take a Nature Walk at Lake Duluti

Hotels to try out in Arusha – Popular African countries to visit in December

Restaurants to try out in Arusha – Best African countries to visit in December

Egypt – Top African Countries to Visit in December

Egypt is a country located on the northeast side of Africa and the capital is Cairo. It’s one of the oldest and largest civilizations in the world. It is a country that stands out from the rest of Africa when it comes to tourism. Even though there are not of wildlife parks or forests like the other parts of Africa, it is still one of the best African countries to visit.

Equally important the best time to visit is between November and February because of the warm weather, and then it is a great time and place to escape from chills in winter

Indeed Egyptians are known for their warmth and hospitality. Egyptians are very friendly towards tourists in fact be rest assured that you will feel most definitely at home in Egypt. People still love to visit the pyramids and also experience the magic of a Nile cruise, you can experience the beauty of Egypt from a whole new angle.

Cairo

Cairo is the capital of Egypt. It is located on the Nile River, right where the desert transitions into the Nile Delta. In addition, Cairo is known as the “City of a Thousand Minarets” because it has a lot of Islamic-style architecture. Most of the people living there are Muslim, but there’s also a small Christian population. So, if you are looking for African countries to visit in a bid to learn more about Islam, this should be your choice.

Fun Things to Do In Cairo- Best African Countries to Visit in December

Get ready to have a blast in Cairo, where the ancient meets the awesome! You can explore the mysterious Pyramids, like stepping into a time machine. Then, cruise along the Nile River, spotting cool sights from the water. Don’t miss the bustling markets called bazaars, where you can find treasures and treats. With vibrant streets and tasty food, Cairo is a non-stop adventure for all explorers! Let’s dive into some of the places to have fun in Cairo.

1. See The pyramids of Giza
2. See One of the World’s Great Collections in the Egyptian Museum
3. Cruise on the Nile River
4. Visit the Admire Al-Azhar Mosque
5. Spend Time Exploring Saqqara & Dahshur
6. Shop amid the Maze of Khan el-Khalili

Places to stay in Cairo

Restaurants to try out in Cairo

Aswan

First Aswan is a relaxed and friendly town which is also in Egypt close to the Nile River. Aswan is the best place to visit and is the best city for exploring the temples, monuments, and other tourist attractions in the southern reaches of Upper Egypt. If you are looking for something outside the very normal Cities people visit In Egypt then Aswan is the best for you.

Top things to do in Aswan

December in Aswan is a real treat for everyone who loves to travel. You can explore ancient temples, feeling like a time traveller. Plus, you can hop on a boat for a Nile River ride and enjoy the beautiful views. The weather is just right for discovering colourful markets and finding unique souvenirs because what is Christmas without shopping? Fun things to do in Aswan include:

1. Explore Elephantine Island
2. Take a boat to Philae Temple
3. Plan a day trip to Abu Simbel Temples
4. Sail on a Felucca
5. Visit the Monastery of St. Simeon
6. Climb up to the Tombs of the Nobles

Places to stay In Aswan- Best African countries to visit in December

Top Restaurants to Visit In Aswan- Top African Countries to Visit in Winter

Morocco – Popular African countries to visit in December

You cannot ignore Morocco when looking for African countries to visit whether it is in December or August. The Kingdom of Morocco is a North African Country. Sharing borders with the Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean Sea, the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria and the disputed territory of Western Sahara.

In addition, Morocco is an ethnically diverse country that has a rich culture and is civilised. Without a doubt, Morocco has some of the finest open-air markets in all of North Africa Now, let’s dive into some of the fun cities in Morocco.

Read More: Vacation in Morocco – The Best Cities to Have it

Marrakesh

Marrakech is special because of the colourful mix of Arab and Berber cultures. Furthermore, Marrakech is more than just an ancient city in Morocco. It’s a sensory experience of vibrant colours, flavours, smells, sounds, and unique sights. 

Fun things to do in Marrakech

December in Marrakech is a magical adventure for all. You can Roam through lively markets, called souks, and find treasures like a true explorer. You can visit historic palaces, feeling like a time-travelling hero. Plus, the pleasant weather makes it perfect for exploring and discovering the city’s colourful charm. Here is a list of some fun things to do during your stay in Marrakech.

1. Go shopping in the souk of Marrakech
2. Visit the Spice Market in Marrakech
3. Visit the Koutoubia Mosque and gardens
4. Go to Le Jardin Secret
5. Visit the Dar El Bacha Museum
6. Visit El Badi Palace

Places to stay in Marrakech

Restaurants to try out in Marrakech

Fes

Fes was once the capital of Morocco and is still seen as the cultural centre of the country. Also, the city of Fes is one of the last remaining medieval cities in the world. Indeed there is an impressive history that dates back over a thousand years but nevertheless, the city is filled with bustling souks, crowded cafes, captivating Marinid architecture, extraordinary mosques, and authentic madrasas (Islamic schools).

The Best Things To Do In Fes, Morocco

In December, Fes offers a bundle of exciting activities for people who love to experience culture differently. Firstly, explore the vibrant medina, where you can wander through narrow alleys filled with colourful shops. Afterwards, hop on a traditional horse-drawn carriage, known as a “caleche,” to feel like you’re on a magical adventure. Don’t miss the chance to visit fascinating historical sites like the Bou Inania Madrasa, transporting you back in time. Lastly, savour Moroccan treats at local markets, giving your taste buds a delightful journey. Here is a short list of some of the things you can do in Aswan.

1. Take a Walking Tour of the Old Medina
2. See the Al-Attarine Madrasa
3. Visit Nejjarine Museum
4. Get Lost amid the Alleys of Fes el Bali
5. Explore the Mellah District
6. Admire the Medersa Bou Inania

Places to stay in Fes

Restaurants to try out in Fes

Conclusion

As December ushers in a time of joy and reflection, seize the opportunity to embrace the warmth, beauty, and cultural richness that Africa has to offer. There are still so many fun things to do, places and cities to see when thinking of African countries to visit in December like exploring the Savannahs of Masai Mara and Serengeti.

You can also enjoy breathtaking views over Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania or spot wild animals on an unforgettable journey through Ngorongoro Crater. For a cultural experience, head toward Morocco’s cities, such as Fez and Marrakech. Or Egypt’s pyramids, which bestow a feeling of disbelief and awe or explore the vibrant markets of Zanzibar