Gaborone in December

December weather, activities, events & insider tips

December Weather in Gaborone

32°C (90°F) High Temp

18°C (65°F) Low Temp

71 mm (2.8 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is December Right for You?

Advantages

Peak game viewing season - animals concentrate around permanent water sources as seasonal pans dry up, making wildlife spotting dramatically easier at Mokolodi Nature Reserve and nearby conservancies
Perfect temperatures for outdoor activities - mornings start cool at 18°C (65°F) warming to comfortable 32°C (90°F) by afternoon, ideal for walking tours and outdoor markets
Jacaranda season transforms the city - purple blooms peak in December, creating spectacular natural canopies along Independence Avenue and residential areas
Summer rain pattern brings dramatic afternoon thunderstorms that clear quickly, leaving fresh air and spectacular sunset photography opportunities

Considerations

Accommodation prices increase 25-40% as South African families arrive for summer holidays, particularly affecting mid-range guesthouses and lodges
Afternoon thunderstorms (typically 3-5pm) can disrupt outdoor plans, though they rarely last more than 45 minutes
Higher humidity at 70% makes midday heat feel more intense than the actual temperature, requiring strategic timing for walking activities

Best Activities in December

Mokolodi Nature Reserve Game Drives

December's dry conditions concentrate wildlife around permanent water sources, offering exceptional game viewing opportunities just 12 km (7.5 miles) from the city center. Morning drives at 6:30am provide cooler temperatures and peak animal activity before the day's heat builds.

Booking Tip: Reserve morning slots 2-3 weeks ahead during December peak season. Prices range from BWP 150-300 per person depending on duration. Book through the reserve directly or see current tour options in the booking section below.

Gaborone Game Reserve Walking Safaris

The 5 km² (1.9 square mile) fenced reserve offers guided walking safaris perfect for December's moderate morning temperatures. Wildlife viewing peaks as animals seek shade and water during midday heat, making 7am starts ideal.

Booking Tip: Walking tours typically cost BWP 80-150 per person for 2-3 hour experiences. Book 7-10 days ahead through licensed guides. Early morning slots (7-9am) provide best wildlife activity and comfortable temperatures.

Kgale Hill Sunrise Hiking

The 1,287m (4,222 ft) summit hike is perfect in December's moderate morning temperatures before humidity builds. Start at 5:30am for spectacular sunrise views over the city and avoid afternoon thunderstorms that typically begin around 3pm.

Booking Tip: Self-guided hikes are free, but guided options cost BWP 200-400 per group. The 3.2 km (2 mile) trail takes 90 minutes up. Avoid hiking after 10am when temperatures and humidity make the ascent uncomfortable.

Three Chiefs Monument Cultural Tours

December's jacaranda blooms create impressive purple backdrops for photography at this central landmark. Guided cultural walks through the CBD work best in early morning (8-10am) or late afternoon (4-6pm) to avoid midday heat.

Booking Tip: Walking cultural tours range BWP 150-300 per person for 2-3 hours. Book through certified cultural guides who provide historical context about Botswana's independence. See current cultural tour options in booking section below.

Oodi Weavers Craft Village Day Trips

Located 22 km (13.7 miles) from Gaborone, this cooperative showcases traditional Botswana textiles. December visits coincide with summer weaving demonstrations when artisans work in cooler morning hours before afternoon heat builds.

Booking Tip: Day trips typically cost BWP 300-500 including transport and demonstrations. Morning departures (8am) return before afternoon storms. Book 5-7 days ahead through cultural tourism operators or see options in booking widget below.

Gaborone Dam Sunset Boat Cruises

December's afternoon thunderstorms create dramatic cloud formations perfect for sunset photography over the 140 million liter reservoir. Evening cruises (5:30-7:30pm) avoid midday heat and catch post-storm golden light.

Booking Tip: Sunset cruises range BWP 250-450 per person including refreshments. Book 3-5 days ahead as December is peak season for evening activities. Operators typically cancel during active storms but reschedule easily.

December Events & Festivals

Early to Mid December

Maitisong Festival

Botswana's premier performing arts festival features local and international artists across theater, music, and dance. Venues include outdoor stages that take advantage of December's pleasant evening temperatures and dramatic storm-cleared skies.

December 19th

President's Day Celebrations

National holiday on December 19th features cultural displays, traditional dancing, and public celebrations at the National Stadium. The event showcases Tswana culture with food stalls and craft vendors taking advantage of summer weather patterns.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or poncho - December thunderstorms are intense but brief, lasting 30-45 minutes with little warning

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8, and December's clear post-storm skies offer no natural protection

Moisture-wicking shirts in cotton or bamboo blend - 70% humidity makes synthetic fabrics uncomfortable during midday heat

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - afternoon rains make pavements and trails temporarily slippery

Light sweater or long sleeves - morning temperatures at 18°C (65°F) can feel cool, especially on early game drives

Insect repellent with DEET - standing water after rains increases mosquito activity in evening hours

Waterproof phone case or bag - protect electronics during sudden afternoon downpours

Sunglasses with UV protection - post-storm light is brilliant and December sun reflects intensely off wet surfaces

Quick-dry shorts or pants - humidity at 70% means regular fabrics take much longer to dry

Small daypack with waterproof cover - essential for hiking Kgale Hill's 3.2 km (2 mile) trail before morning dew evaporates

Insider Knowledge

Shop at Broadhurst Mall between 10am-2pm during weekdays - locals avoid these hours due to heat, meaning shorter queues and better service at banks and cellular stores

Book restaurant tables for 6:30-7:30pm - this timing allows meals to finish before typical 8:30pm evening thunderstorms that locals expect in December

Withdraw cash before weekends - South African holidaymakers create long ATM queues, especially at Mall of Botswana and Riverwalk locations during December peak season

Use Combis (shared taxis) during morning rush hour 7-8am when air conditioning works best - afternoon humidity makes these budget transport options uncomfortable after 2pm

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning outdoor activities between 12-4pm when afternoon thunderstorms typically develop - locals schedule important outdoor activities before 11am or after 5pm

Underestimating how quickly weather changes - carrying umbrellas instead of rain jackets, when December storms include strong winds that render umbrellas useless

Booking accommodation less than 3 weeks ahead - December is peak season due to South African school holidays, and mid-range options fill up by early November