December brings a good chance of rain, with heavy showers usually popping up in the afternoons before letting up. While the game life might not be as bustling this month, the zebra migration in the Linyanti Reserve is a must-see! Imagine watching these beautiful creatures splash through the water on a lively Botswana safari – it’s truly a sight to behold. Plus, for all photography lovers, December is a fantastic time for a safari, giving you the chance to capture unique moments you won’t find in other months.
If you’re looking for an exciting spot to explore, don’t miss Nxai National Park! It’s a lovely place to see giraffes, springbok, and hartebeest in their natural habitat.
Weather in December
Temperatures start to drop from the previous high months. Rain is much more prevalent, and the wet weather makes viewing wildlife more difficult. Heavy thunderstorms occur for short periods.
Average Weather in December
Temperature Celsius Fahrenheit Rainfall
Min 19℃ 66℉ 66 mm Max 33℃ 91℉ 161 mm
Pro
- Unique sightings – wildlife viewing is limited in rainy weather, but the zebra migration is a beautiful sight during this time
Con
- Heavy thunderstorms – the weather can limit outdoor activities
National Parks to Visit in Botswana and Why
Linyanti Reserve
The Linyanti Reserve houses four of the Big Five.
In December, animals such as zebras are more prevalent, as the zebra migration tends to occur during the wet months.
What to do:
- Game drives
Nxai Pan National Park
During the wet months, the animals migrate to the plains, and since the parks in Botswana aren’t fenced, the wildlife experience is much better. Elephants and lions are present here, as well as giraffes, springbok, hartebeest, impala, and oryx. While December is part of the wet season, this month is the best time to see wildlife in Nxai Pan National Park.
What to do:
- Game drives
Makgadikgadi Pans
The rainy weather makes it a perfect time to visit Makgadikgadi Pans if you want to go on a safari to see birds. At this time, flamingos are thriving, and the wet weather is always an excellent opportunity for photography.
What to do:
- Birding