December is one of the most underrated months to visit Masai Mara. While many travelers rush to Kenya for the Great Migration in July–October, those who come in December discover a different side of the Mara—lush green landscapes, newborn wildlife, fewer crowds, and fantastic birdwatching.
Having spent extensive time in Masai Mara setting up Kambu Mara Camp, I’ve experienced firsthand what December has to offer—and let me tell you, it’s nothing short of magical. From dramatic storms rolling over the savannah to the sight of baby animals taking their first steps, December is a hidden gem for safari lovers.
In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know about visiting Masai Mara in December, including:
✅ Weather conditions and what to pack
✅ Wildlife sightings and photography opportunities
✅ Safari activities and unique experiences
✅ Crowd levels and pricing
✅ Where to stay for the best experience
Let’s dive in!
1. Weather in Masai Mara in December
December in Masai Mara falls within the short rainy season (November–December), but don’t let that discourage you! Unlike the heavy rains of April and May, the December rains are brief, refreshing, and often in the late afternoon or evening.
| Weather Factor | December Conditions |
|---|---|
| Temperature (Daytime) | 20°C – 28°C (68°F – 82°F) |
| Temperature (Nighttime) | 10°C – 15°C (50°F – 59°F) |
| Rainfall | Light afternoon showers, mostly sunny |
| Humidity | Moderate |
| Sunshine Hours | 8–9 hours per day |
Pros of Visiting in December
✔ Lush Green Landscapes – The Mara transforms from golden brown to vibrant green, making for breathtaking scenery.
✔ Fewer Tourists – Compared to peak season (July–October), December is less crowded.
✔ Excellent Photography – The dramatic skies and soft light make December one of the best months for photography.
✔ More Affordable Safari Packages – Many lodges offer discounts before the Christmas/New Year rush.
📌 Personal Note: One of my favorite moments at Kambu Mara Camp was watching a storm approach from the west. The golden sunset contrasted against dark rain clouds, creating an unforgettable photographic masterpiece.
2. Wildlife in Masai Mara in December
December marks the start of the “Green Season”, bringing plenty of newborn animals, active predators, and excellent birdwatching.
1. Baby Animals Everywhere! 🦓🐘
- December is the birthing season for antelopes, zebras, and wildebeest.
- You’ll see wobbly-legged calves, foals, and fawns trying to keep up with their mothers.
- Predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas are more active, taking advantage of the easy prey.
📌 Personal Note: I once saw a baby giraffe taking its first steps, only for a cheetah to suddenly appear in the distance. Luckily, the mother giraffe stood her ground, and the cheetah backed off!
2. Big Cats (Lions, Cheetahs, Leopards) 🦁🐆
- Lions are more active in December, especially around prey-rich areas like Musiara Marsh and Olare Motorogi Conservancy.
- Cheetahs hunt frequently, taking advantage of the abundance of newborn prey.
- Leopard sightings are excellent, especially along the Talek and Mara Rivers, where they love to lounge on tree branches.
📌 Pro Tip: If you want exclusive big cat sightings, stay in a private conservancy where off-road driving is allowed.
3. Elephants, Buffalos & Other Large Mammals 🐘🐃
- Large elephant herds roam freely, enjoying the fresh vegetation.
- Buffalos, giraffes, and zebras are plentiful and easier to find in open grasslands.
4. Amazing Birdwatching Opportunities 🦜
December is peak birdwatching season in Masai Mara, as migratory birds from Europe and Asia arrive.
- Over 470 species, including colorful ones like the Lilac-breasted roller, Fischer’s lovebird, and Malachite kingfisher.
- Raptors like martial eagles and bateleurs are often seen hunting.
📌 Pro Tip: If you’re a birdwatching enthusiast, visit early morning (6 AM – 9 AM) when bird activity is highest.
3. Safari Activities in Masai Mara in December
December isn’t just about game drives—it’s a time for unique experiences you won’t get during the dry season.
1. Game Drives 🚙
- Early morning and late afternoon are best for wildlife viewing.
- December’s cloud cover creates soft lighting, making it ideal for photography.
2. Walking Safaris 🥾
- Only available in private conservancies (not the main reserve).
- Get up close to smaller animals, tracks, and insects.
3. Night Game Drives 🌙
- Only available in conservancies like Olare Motorogi, Mara North, and Naboisho.
- See nocturnal animals like aardwolves, honey badgers, bush babies, and serval cats.
4. Cultural Visits to Maasai Villages 🏡
- Visit a Maasai village and learn about their traditional lifestyle, jumping dances (Adumu), and beadwork.
- A great way to support local communities.
📌 Personal Note: At Kambu Mara Camp, we once had Maasai warriors share ancient folktales around the campfire—a truly unforgettable experience!
5. Hot Air Balloon Safari 🎈
- One of the best times for a balloon safari, thanks to dramatic cloud formations and lush landscapes.
- Watch the sunrise over the Mara, followed by a champagne breakfast in the wild.
4. Crowd Levels & Pricing in December
- Early December (1st–20th): Fewer tourists, lower prices.
- Christmas & New Year (21st–31st): Peak season prices return as holiday travelers arrive.
- Lodges offer great discounts in early December before the festive rush.
📌 Pro Tip: Book your December safari 6 months in advance if traveling during Christmas/New Year.
5. Where to Stay in Masai Mara in December
| Lodge / Camp | Why Stay Here? | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Kambu Mara Camp | Great location, eco-friendly, intimate experience | $$ |
| Entim Camp | Perfect for Big Cat sightings | $$$ |
| Mara Serena Safari Lodge | Luxury lodge with amazing views | $$$$ |
| Rekero Camp | Close to migration river crossings | $$$ |
| Olare Mara Kempinski | Exclusive & luxurious experience | $$$$ |
📌 Personal Note: Kambu Mara Camp offers a perfect balance of comfort, privacy, and close wildlife encounters—an excellent choice for December travelers!
Is December a Good Month for a Masai Mara Safari?
Yes, December is an excellent time to visit Masai Mara, offering a unique blend of lush green landscapes, abundant wildlife, and fewer crowds, especially in the first half of the month. Despite occasional short rains, game viewing remains exceptional with active big cats, resident wildlife, and even the tail end of the Great Migration in some areas. Birdwatching peaks with migratory species adding to the already rich avian diversity, while photographers enjoy dust-free air and vibrant scenery. Early December offers budget-friendly rates and quiet safaris, while the festive season brings lively camp atmospheres—making December a hidden gem for an unforgettable Masai Mara safari.
In the next section, we delve deep into why its a great month to visit the Mara:
1. Wildlife Sightings in December: Surprisingly Rewarding
Contrary to the misconception that December is “off-season” for wildlife, game viewing remains exceptional. The short rains (which typically start in November) taper off by mid-December, leaving the landscape lush, green, and photogenic—a stark contrast to the dusty plains of the dry season.
- Big Cats: Predators like lions, cheetahs, and leopards are still highly active, as the dense prey population thrives in the fresh grasslands. In fact, some safari guides argue that December sightings of big cats can be more thrilling because cubs born earlier in the year are now more visible as they start venturing out.
- Resident Wildlife: The Masai Mara’s resident wildlife—elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and the famous Mara lion prides—are present year-round. Unlike the migratory wildebeest herds, these animals do not leave the reserve, so your chances of spotting the Big Five remain high.
- The “Tail End” of the Great Migration: Depending on rainfall patterns, you might still catch the tail end of the Great Migration, especially around the Mara Triangle. Some wildebeest stragglers linger, providing dramatic predator-prey interactions.
2. Bird Watching Paradise: December’s Hidden Gem
If you’re a birding enthusiast, December is arguably the best month for birdwatching in Masai Mara. The short rains attract an influx of migratory bird species from Europe and Asia, complementing the over 470 resident species already present.
Expect to spot:
- Colorful species like bee-eaters, kingfishers, rollers, and storks.
- Birds of prey such as martial eagles, bateleurs, and secretary birds.
- Wetland species around the Mara and Talek Rivers, including herons, egrets, and crowned cranes.
3. Weather Conditions: Green, Pleasant, and Refreshing
While short rains can occur, they are typically brief, often in the late afternoons or evenings, and rarely disrupt game drives. Mornings are usually clear and crisp, perfect for safaris. Daytime temperatures range between 25°C to 28°C (77°F to 82°F), with cooler nights around 12°C to 15°C (53°F to 59°F)—ideal conditions for both game drives and camping.
- Pro Tip: The rains rejuvenate the grasslands, creating vivid backdrops for photography. The dust-free air enhances clarity, making December safaris a dream for wildlife photographers.
4. Fewer Crowds, More Personal Experiences
One of December’s underrated advantages is the relative lack of tourists, especially in the first half of the month. Compared to the bustling peak season (July–October), you’ll enjoy:
- Uncrowded game drives, allowing for more intimate wildlife encounters.
- Peaceful accommodations, with better chances of securing prime locations at camps and lodges.
- Flexible itineraries, as guides can adapt routes without worrying about competing safari vehicles.
However, note that the holiday season from mid-December onwards (especially around Christmas and New Year) does attract more visitors, so it’s wise to book early if traveling during that period.
5. Budget-Friendly with Luxury Perks
If you’re cost-conscious, early December is more budget-friendly compared to peak seasons. Many camps offer discounted rates or special packages before the Christmas rush. Interestingly, some luxury camps maintain their premium service levels but at reduced rates—giving you a taste of luxury without the peak-season price tag.
Even during the festive period, while prices rise, the atmosphere at camps is often lively with special holiday events, making it a memorable time to visit.
6. Real Traveler Experiences: What Do Safari-Goers Say?
Browsing through TripAdvisor forums, travel blogs, and safari review sites, many travelers rave about their December safari experiences:
- “I visited Masai Mara in December, and the scenery was breathtaking. The green landscape, dotted with wildlife, was more beautiful than I expected. We saw lions on almost every game drive and had an incredible sighting of a leopard with cubs!” — Samantha K., Safari Enthusiast
- “December was perfect for birding. The Mara River was teeming with life, and the guides knew exactly where to find rare migratory species. Plus, there were hardly any other cars around!” — John D., Birdwatcher
- “We booked a luxury tented camp at half the price we’d pay in August. The service was impeccable, and the weather was fantastic—only one short rain shower in three days.” — Ahmed L., Budget Luxury Traveler
✅ Pros of Visiting Masai Mara in December:
- Abundant wildlife with active predators.
- Lush, green landscapes perfect for photography.
- Ideal birdwatching season with migratory species.
- Lower crowds in early December.
- Budget-friendly rates (before the festive period).
- Mild, pleasant weather with brief, manageable rains.
⚠️ Considerations:
- Sporadic rain showers, mainly in the afternoons (bring waterproof gear).
- Holiday season (mid-late December) can get crowded and more expensive—book early.
Final Verdict: Is December Worth It?
Absolutely! December is a hidden gem for Masai Mara safaris. The combination of dramatic wildlife, vibrant scenery, fantastic birdwatching, and fewer crowds offers a rich safari experience that rivals peak season. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, photographer, birder, or a family looking for a unique holiday getaway, December in the Masai Mara delivers an unforgettable adventure.
Final Thoughts: Is December a Good Time to Visit Masai Mara?
✅ Lush landscapes & dramatic skies
✅ Plenty of baby animals & predator activity
✅ Fewer tourists before Christmas
✅ Excellent birdwatching
✅ Lower prices in early December
If you want a unique, quieter, and budget-friendly safari, December is one of the best times to visit Masai Mara. 🎄🐆
🚙✨ Planning a December safari? Book early and prepare for an unforgettable adventure!