Best East African Tropical Destinations to Visit This December
December offers a perfect opportunity to take a trip and celebrate the holiday season in style in East Africa. It’s no secret that the African region offers some of the most beautiful destinations with pretty awesome beach spots for a tropical holiday. Whether you want to relax and unwind, spend a day on the beach or on a secluded private island or maybe enjoy a bit of romance with your loved one, you will be thrilled to explore any of these destinations. They are full of adventure and activities, luxury accommodation and endless ocean views – you’ll definitely find something to suit your tropical holiday style.
Here are some of the best East Africa tropical destinations you should visit this December.
1. Mombasa, Kenya
Located on the coast of Kenya, along the Indian Ocean, Mombasa is an obvious choice for tropical vacations in East Africa. It’s steeped in history and culture, full of natural beauty and offers a wide range of tropical activities during the holiday season. The East African tropical destination offers spectacular ocean views, pristine beaches and a range of coastal accommodation options. Thus, if you are looking for a tropical getaway this December, Mombasa has got you covered.
Relax on the coast of Mombasa, Kenya
2. Lamu Island, Kenya
If you are looking for an amazing tropical destination to spend the holiday season, Lamu Island might just be the place for you. Located in the Indian Ocean, northeast of Mombasa, it’s a part of the Lamu Archipelago and it’s a perfect place to slow down your pace, relax and unwind. You’ll have access to beautiful sandy beaches and even take day trips to the nearby islands. With a rich history dating back to the 12th century, Lamu Island is a culture and architecture haven. There are no vehicles used on the island and the only means of transport is via donkey rides. There is a stretch of white sandy beaches and stunning resorts for you to enjoy and dhow rides are also a beautiful way to enjoy Lamu sunsets.
Lamu Island, Kenya
3. Zanzibar Island, Tanzania
What’s not to like about the good old Zanzibar? You are spoilt for choice whether it’s a honeymoon vacation, a blissful private vacation, tropical activities or an after safari relaxation. Zanzibar has it all. This island is awash with beach resorts along its long stretch of white sandy beaches and blue crystal waters. It is similarly a historic town where history lovers can learn about Swahili culture and enjoy super spicy Swahili cuisine.
Aerial View of Zanzibar Island, Tanzania
4. Watamu, Kenya
Watamu is an ultimate holiday getaway in Kenya, a small and laid back town yet full of history and natural beauty, with a tropical setting. It has some of the most prolific coral reefs and the palm trees laden white sandy beaches make for stunning backdrops. For water sports lovers, you can go scuba diving and deep sea fishing; and for culture and history lovers, a visit to the Gedi ruins is recommended.
Watamu Beach, Kenya
5. Lake Kivu, Rwanda
Located in the western part of Rwanda, Lake Kivu is shared with neighbouring Congo and it is a great spot for relaxing. With beautiful lake views, and a wide range of outdoor activities to enjoy, Lake Kivu is a perfect place to spend your December holiday. You can go for boat trips, swimming, kayaking or even visit the hot springs.
Serene Views at Lake Kivu, Rwanda
6. Mnemba Island, Tanzania
Located on the East coast side of Zanzibar, this little heart-shaped island inspires romance, and it’s a perfect place to enjoy privacy and seclusion. It’s perfect for a honeymoon break or just a romantic getaway. There are regular sightings of turtles and dolphins for the nature lover. You can dive or snorkel or just sunbathe on the sandy beaches and take in the cool Tanzanian breeze.
Romantic setting on Mnemba Island, Image Source: YellowZebraSafaris.Com
7. Ssese Islands, Uganda
This is a wonderful archipelago of a stunning group of 84-islands located in the northwest of Lake Victoria. With a wide range of activities to enjoy, green forests, and white sandy beaches with crystal clear waters, you can never go wrong with the Ssese Islands. You will find a variety of beach resorts and lodges for accommodation while on the island. The Islands offer stunning sceneries, spectacular views, and laid-back atmosphere, perfect for those looking to relax and unwind.
Ssese Islands, Uganda, Image Source: GrandToursAfrica.Com
8. Ngamba Island, Uganda
Together with destinations on this list, Ngamba is one of the best tropical destinations to explore in East Africa although it’s not well-known. It is a forested island on Lake Victoria and offers a wide range of interesting tropical activities such as chimpanzee, bird watching, fishing, and sunset boat cruises.
Ngamba Island, Uganda, Image Source: UgandaTravelGuide.Com
