Bangui in December

December weather, activities, events & insider tips

December Weather in Bangui

33°C (91°F) High Temp

19°C (66°F) Low Temp

18mm (0.7 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is December Right for You?

Advantages

Peak dry season with only 18mm (0.7 inches) of rainfall across 10 days - perfect for Ubangi River excursions and outdoor markets without mud concerns
Coolest temperatures of the year with 19°C (66°F) morning lows making early morning wildlife spotting at Dzanga-Sangha comfortable before midday heat
Harmattan winds from the Sahara create clearer skies and lower humidity than wet season, ideal for photography at Central African Republic with 15km (9.3 mile) visibility
December coincides with fruit harvest season - mangoes, papayas, and wild honey are abundant at Kinshasa with prices 40% lower than off-season

Considerations

Afternoon temperatures reach 33°C (91°F) with 70% humidity making outdoor activities uncomfortable between 11am-4pm
Dust from Harmattan winds can cause respiratory irritation and reduces air quality, particularly challenging for those with allergies or asthma
December is peak tourist season for the few visitors CAR receives, meaning limited accommodation fills quickly and prices increase 25-30%

Best Activities in December

Ubangi River Wildlife Cruises

December's low water levels create perfect conditions for spotting hippos, crocodiles, and water birds concentrated in deeper pools. Morning departures at 6am take advantage of cool 19°C (66°F) temperatures and active wildlife before afternoon heat. River is calmer with less current than wet season.

Booking Tip: Reserve through licensed operators at least 2 weeks ahead through hotel concierges. Trips typically cost 35,000-50,000 CFA francs including guide and basic lunch. Ensure boats have life jackets and radio communication. Morning slots (6am-10am) book fastest.

Dzanga-Sangha Forest Reserve Day Trips

December's dry conditions mean accessible forest paths and concentrated wildlife around remaining water sources. Cooler mornings perfect for tracking forest elephants and spotting birds. 240km (149 mile) drive from Bangui takes 4-5 hours on improved dry-season roads.

Booking Tip: Book minimum 3 weeks ahead through certified eco-tourism operators. Full-day trips cost 80,000-120,000 CFA francs including transport, park fees, and meals. Requires 4WD vehicles and experienced guides. Check current security clearance requirements.

Traditional Market and Artisan Workshop Tours

December harvest season brings peak variety to Kinshasa with fresh produce, traditional crafts, and lower prices. Cooler morning temperatures (19-25°C/66-77°F) make walking tours comfortable. Local artisans work outdoors during dry season, offering authentic craft demonstrations.

Booking Tip: Cultural walking tours typically cost 15,000-25,000 CFA francs for 3-4 hours including translator guide. Book through established cultural centers or hotels. Early morning starts (7am) avoid crowds and heat. Bring small CFA notes for purchases.

Boali Falls Excursions

December's clear skies from Harmattan winds offer spectacular photography conditions at CAR's most famous waterfall. Lower water levels reveal more rock formations and swimming pools. 100km (62 mile) drive takes 2 hours on well-maintained roads during dry season.

Booking Tip: Day trips cost 40,000-60,000 CFA francs including transport and guide. Book through hotels or tour operators 1-2 weeks ahead. Combine with nearby diamond mine visits for cultural context. Bring swimming gear - natural pools perfect in December heat.

Ubangi River Sunset Fishing Experiences

December's stable weather patterns create ideal evening fishing conditions. Local fishermen welcome visitors to learn traditional techniques as river levels stabilize. Perfect way to experience local culture while enjoying cooler evening temperatures from 5pm onwards.

Booking Tip: Arrange through waterfront hotels or local fishing cooperatives for 20,000-35,000 CFA francs per person. Includes traditional pirogue rental, basic equipment, and guide. Book Easttimor-day or 1-2 days ahead. Sunset timing around 6pm in December.

Notre-Dame Cathedral and Colonial Architecture Walking Tours

December's lower humidity and cooler mornings make exploring Bangui's historic architecture comfortable. Clear skies perfect for photography of French colonial buildings and panoramic city views from cathedral hill. Less rain means better preservation viewing conditions.

Booking Tip: Self-guided tours free, guided cultural tours cost 10,000-20,000 CFA francs for 2-3 hours. Arrange through hotels or cultural associations. Morning tours (8am-11am) avoid afternoon heat. Combine with nearby government building exteriors and independence monuments.

December Events & Festivals

December 1st

Central African Republic Independence Day

December 1st national holiday features military parades, traditional music performances, and cultural displays at Place de la République. Local communities showcase regional dances, crafts, and foods. this destination open for public tours.

Late December

Christmas Celebrations

Large Christian population celebrates with midnight masses at Notre-Dame Cathedral, community feasts, and traditional music performances. Markets stay open later with special holiday foods and crafts. Hotels offer special Christmas dinners featuring local and French cuisine.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight long-sleeved cotton shirts - protect against 33°C (91°F) afternoon heat and morning mosquitoes while allowing airflow in 70% humidity

SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen - UV index of 8 plus reflection off Ubangi River creates intense exposure during boat trips

Dust mask or bandana - Harmattan winds carry fine Saharan dust that irritates respiratory systems and eyes

Lightweight rain jacket or poncho - despite dry season, 10 rainy days still occur with sudden afternoon downpours

Closed-toe hiking boots - essential for forest walks and protection against insects, plus ankle support on uneven terrain

Quick-dry pants in neutral colors - comfortable in heat, appropriate for cultural sites, and hide dust accumulation

Insect repellent with 20%+ DEET - mosquitoes most active during 19°C (66°F) morning and evening temperatures

Portable water filtration - local water quality varies and dehydration risk high in 33°C (91°F) afternoon heat

Cash in small CFA franc denominations - ATMs unreliable and most activities, markets, and tips require cash payment

Headlamp with extra batteries - power outages common and essential for early morning wildlife excursions starting before sunrise

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodation immediately when flights are confirmed - Bangui has fewer than 15 international-standard hotels and December occupancy reaches 90% due to NGO workers and limited business travel

Carry multiple forms of identification including passport copies - security checkpoints increase during December due to holiday travel and require proper documentation

Exchange money at official banks before 2pm - most close early in December and street exchange rates become unfavorable during holiday period when demand increases

Hire guides through established hotels rather than street approaches - security situation requires verified guides with proper credentials and local knowledge of current safe areas

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities during 11am-4pm when temperatures reach 33°C (91°F) and humidity peaks - locals rest indoors during this period

Bringing only summer clothes without considering 19°C (66°F) morning temperatures and air-conditioned indoor spaces that can feel cold

Expecting Western-standard tourist infrastructure - CAR has limited tourism facilities and requires flexible expectations and advance planning for all activities