December in Zambia is a time of lush transformation. The rains that began in November have now swept across the country, painting the landscape in deep greens and reviving every leaf, blade, and branch. The dry, dusty plains of just weeks before are now vibrant, alive with growth and dotted with wildflowers. Rivers swell, clouds build and break in dramatic skies, and the bush feels fresh and wild in a new, quieter way.

It’s not the classic dry-season safari experience—but that’s precisely its charm. December is for those drawn to the poetic side of the wild: life emerging, rain falling on thatched roofs, and a landscape bursting into song.

Weather in Zambia in December

December is firmly within the rainy season. Expect regular rainfall, especially in the afternoons and evenings, with occasional thunderstorms. Mornings are often clear and bright, while clouds gather later in the day. Daytime temperatures range from 22°C to 30°C (72°F to 86°F), with high humidity.

The rains can make some roads muddy and certain remote areas inaccessible, but they also cleanse the air and bring relief from the heat of the preceding months. The skies are dynamic—layered with clouds, shifting light, and occasional rainbows that make every horizon photogenic.

Wildlife in December: Young Animals and a New Energy

While wildlife is more dispersed due to the abundance of water, game viewing is still rewarding, particularly in parks that remain open year-round. The biggest shift is in the greenery—tall grasses and thick leaves provide more cover for animals, making sightings more challenging but also more rewarding when they happen.

The real magic, however, lies in the birthing season. This is the time when you’ll see baby impalas wobbling beside their mothers, young warthogs darting through the grass, and the first zebra foals finding their feet. These tender scenes are beautiful—and they also draw in predators. Lions, leopards, and hyenas continue to hunt, especially at dawn and dusk when activity is highest.

Birdwatching is exceptional in December. With the arrival of migrants from Europe and northern Africa, Zambia becomes a birding paradise. Bright plumage, nesting activity, and a chorus of birdsong fill the trees and wetlands. Carmine bee-eaters, kingfishers, and paradise flycatchers are just a few highlights.

Where to Go in December

Many bush camps close during the rains, but key areas remain accessible:

South Luangwa National Park is still open, and while some roads become muddy, the central parts of the park are navigable. Some lodges offer special green season rates, and walking safaris may still be possible when weather permits.

Liuwa Plain National Park is at its peak in December. This remote, rain-fed grassland in western Zambia becomes a watery haven for birds and wildebeest. If you’re seeking something wild and off the beaten path, Liuwa delivers an unforgettable wet-season adventure.

Victoria Falls is regaining its power. The rains feed the Zambezi upstream, and the falls begin their journey back to full flow. While not at their peak yet, they’re certainly gaining momentum—and the surrounding rainforest is lush and atmospheric.

Why Visit Zambia in December?

December is Zambia at its most vibrant and alive. The bush is transformed, the wildlife dynamic, and the atmosphere one of renewal. It’s a quieter, more soulful safari season—ideal for those who appreciate green landscapes, fewer crowds, and the rhythms of nature without filter.

It’s also a photographer’s dream, offering moody skies, newborn wildlife, and explosive natural color. Birders will find December unbeatable, and adventurous travelers will enjoy exploring a side of Zambia that few others see.

So if you’re drawn to the softer edges of safari, where rain kisses the earth and every corner hums with life, December might just be your perfect time.