Things to Do in Harare in December

December Weather in Harare

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Is December Right for You?

Advantages

Jacaranda blooms peak in December - purple canopies line Josiah Tongogara Avenue and Enterprise Road, creating stunning photography opportunities that only last 3-4 weeks
Perfect hiking weather with cool mornings (16°C/60°F) warming to comfortable afternoons - ideal for Domboshava rocks and Ngomakurira Mountain without extreme heat
Festive season brings vibrant street life - Christmas markets on First Street, extended shopping hours in Avondale, and locals celebrating outdoors until late evening
Rainy season starts gradually with short afternoon showers (20-30 minutes) that clear the air and cool temperatures, unlike the heavy downpours of January-February

Considerations

December 16-26 accommodation prices increase 40-60% due to diaspora returning home for holidays - book by October or pay premium rates
Afternoon thunderstorms 60% of days can disrupt outdoor activities between 2-5pm, requiring flexible scheduling and indoor backup plans
Some restaurants and attractions have reduced hours between December 25-January 2, particularly in industrial areas like Workington and Graniteside

Best Activities in December

Mana Pools Wildlife Viewing

December marks the start of the best wildlife viewing season as animals concentrate around permanent water sources during early rains. Temperatures are perfect for game drives at 16°C (60°F) morning starts, and afternoon rains create dramatic skies for photography. Elephants are particularly active, and migratory birds begin arriving.

Booking Tip: Book 6-8 weeks ahead as this is peak safari season. Operators typically charge USD 280-450 per person per day including park fees. Choose operators with wet weather contingency plans and covered vehicles. See current safari options in booking section below.

Victoria Falls Day Trips

December offers the last chance to see the falls at moderate water levels before peak flow season. The 1.7 km (1.1 mile) walk along the falls provides excellent views without excessive mist, and afternoon storms create dramatic lighting. Morning visits (8-11am) avoid both crowds and afternoon rains.

Booking Tip: Day trips from Harare typically cost USD 180-250 including flights and transfers. Book domestic flights 3-4 weeks ahead as holiday demand increases prices. Licensed operators offer rain date guarantees during December. Current tour options available in booking widget below.

Harare City Heritage Walking Tours

Cool December mornings (16-20°C/60-68°F) are perfect for exploring central Harare's colonial and post-independence architecture. The Africa Unity Square Christmas decorations and jacaranda-lined streets create unique seasonal backdrops. Tours avoid afternoon rains and showcase local Christmas traditions.

Booking Tip: Self-guided tours work well, but guided options cost USD 15-25 per person for 3-hour walks. Start by 9am to finish before afternoon weather. Local history societies offer specialized tours during December school holidays. Check current guided options below.

Ewanrigg Botanical Garden and Mukuvisi Woodlands Nature Walks

December brings summer flowering and increased bird activity as intra-African migrants arrive. Morning temperatures of 16-18°C (60-64°F) make the 3 km (1.9 mile) nature trails comfortable, while afternoon rains refresh vegetation. Perfect for photographers and birders during peak breeding season.

Booking Tip: Entry fees around USD 3-5 per person. Private nature guides available for USD 20-30 for 2-hour walks. Best visited 7-10am before heat builds and afternoon storms arrive. Rain ponchos recommended for afternoon visits.

Domboshava Rock Art and Hiking

December's moderate temperatures make the 45-minute hike to ancient rock paintings ideal - cool morning start at 16°C (60°F) warming to comfortable climbing weather. The 30 km (18.6 mile) drive from Harare passes through granite kopjes and communal lands showing rural Christmas preparations.

Booking Tip: Combine with cultural village visits for USD 25-40 per person including transport and guide. Start early (7am departure from Harare) to complete hike before afternoon rains. Local guides essential for rock art interpretation and cultural context.

Chitungwiza Arts and Crafts Markets

December brings expanded Christmas markets with local artisans selling stone sculptures, wooden crafts, and textiles. The 20 km (12.4 mile) journey south of Harare showcases Zimbabwe's largest high-density suburb during festive season. Morning visits offer better selection and cooler shopping weather.

Booking Tip: Budget USD 20-100 for authentic crafts depending on pieces selected. Negotiate prices but respect artisan work. Guided cultural tours including transport cost USD 30-45 per person. Avoid afternoon visits during rainy periods.

December Events & Festivals

Throughout December

Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA) Planning Events

December features pre-festival workshops, artist showcases, and venue preparations for the upcoming May festival. Local theaters host preview performances and community arts groups hold fundraising events throughout the month.

Early to Late December

Christmas Markets on First Street

Local vendors set up extended markets selling traditional crafts, Christmas decorations, and local foods. The markets run from early December through New Year, with peak activity December 16-24 when diaspora shopping increases significantly.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Light rain jacket or windbreaker - afternoon showers last 20-30 minutes and occur 60% of December days

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 even on cloudy days at 1,483m (4,865 ft) elevation

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester in 70% humidity conditions

Light sweater for 16°C (60°F) early morning game drives and evening air conditioning

Comfortable walking shoes with grip - December rains create slippery surfaces on granite pavements

Small umbrella - more practical than large rain gear for brief afternoon storms

Insect repellent with DEET - standing water from rains increases mosquito activity

Cash in USD small denominations - many vendors and guides prefer dollars over local currency

Power bank - afternoon storms can cause brief power outages affecting phone charging

Quick-dry clothing for outdoor activities - humidity stays high after rain showers

Insider Knowledge

Jacaranda petals create slippery surfaces on First Street and Josiah Tongogara Avenue after morning cleaning - wear appropriate footwear during peak bloom weeks

Most locals do grocery shopping and errands before 2pm to avoid afternoon thunderstorms - follow this pattern for smoother experiences

December 16-26 sees massive diaspora return from UK, South Africa, and Australia - accommodation books out and prices spike, but cultural celebrations are at their peak

Harare's elevation at 1,483m (4,865 ft) means December temperatures feel cooler than expected - nights can drop to 16°C (60°F) requiring light layers