Last updated: August 28, 2025
December in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, is characterized by warm and humid conditions, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 31°C (89°F) and an average of 27°C (82°F). Nighttime brings a slight reprieve with minimum temperatures around 24°C (75°F). However, this month is also marked by significant rainfall, totaling 148 mm (5.8 in) over approximately 23 days, resulting in an 85% humidity level that envelops the city. Visitors should prepare for a tropical ambiance as they experience both vibrant city life and the lushness brought about by frequent showers.
In December, Dar es Salaam experiences a delightful blend of warmth and humidity that characterizes its tropical climate. As the year draws to a close, temperatures register a minimum of 24°C (75°F) and reach up to a maximum of 31°C (89°F), with an average hovering around 27°C (82°F). This warm finish to the year is in line with the consistent temperatures seen from January to March, where similar warm averages can be expected. As the city transitions into the rainy season, December brings a sweet balance before the downpours, making it an ideal time for outdoor explorations or enjoying the vibrant local culture. The gradual drop in temperatures from the preceding months hints at the shifting weather patterns typical for this time of year, setting the stage for the lush landscapes to follow.
In December, Dar es Salaam experiences a notable increase in precipitation, with 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain falling over 23 days. This uptick in rainfall marks a continuation of the wet season that peaks in the months prior. Compared to November's 126 mm and 21 days of rain, December showcases a pattern of increasing precipitation that reaches a crescendo before the onset of the drier months. As the city transitions from the heavy rains of April and May, which see averages exceeding 300 mm, the gradual decrease towards the lighter rains in the early part of the year begins. Despite this month being one of the wetter periods, it reflects a shift where rainfall begins to taper off as January approaches, hinting at a subtle shift towards the dry season.
In Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, December brings a slight increase in humidity, reaching 85%, which is a peak for the month. This follows a notable trend where humidity levels rise after the drier months of August and September, where the readings dip to 74% and 73%, respectively. As the year progresses, December's humidity reflects a return to the warmer, more humid conditions typical of the coastal climate, aligning closely with November's 84%. The months leading to December show a gradual rise, with May registering the highest at 86%, creating a seasonal rhythm that envelopes the city in a muggy embrace as the new year approaches. Overall, December's humidity complements the vibrant atmosphere of the city, making it a crucial part of the tropical climate experience.
Throughout the year, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania experiences consistently high UV Index levels, reflecting a trend of extreme sun exposure. From January to April, the UV Index peaks at 14 to 15, requiring only 10 minutes of unprotected sun exposure before burns can occur. Even as the months transition into the slightly milder period of June and July, where the Index drops to 10 and burn time increases to 15 minutes, the sun's intensity remains very high. By December, the UV Index stabilizes at 13, maintaining its classification as extreme with a burn time of just 10 minutes. This continuity emphasizes the importance of sun protection year-round. For more details on sun safety, check the Dar es Salaam UV Index for up-to-date information.
UV Risk Categories
December in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, marks a peak in sunshine with an impressive 354 hours of sunlight, reflecting the trend of increasing daylight as the year draws to a close. Following a steady climb from 287 hours in January to nearly 350 hours in October, December caps off the year with the highest sunlight hours, showcasing a vibrant tropical climate. This consistent increase through the months not only highlights the allure of Tanzania's coastal weather but also invites both locals and tourists to bask in the warmth of the African sun as the festive season approaches. The sun-soaked days add a special charm to outdoor activities, making December an ideal time to explore the beauty of this bustling city.
In December, Dar es Salaam experiences a moderate chance of sunny weather, with a 48% likelihood of sunshine gracing the city. This month marks a transition as the region approaches its rainy season, capturing a glimpse of shifting climatic patterns. Notably, the sunniest months unfold from August to October, where sunlight dances with over 60% chances. Following the peak of November's 64%, December reflects a slight dip but remains relatively promising compared to the earlier months of the year, where chances of sun were considerably lower, particularly in April at just 22%. As the year draws to a close, December provides a balanced blend of light and cloud, making it a fascinating time for visitors and locals alike.
In Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, December brings a return to longer days, with daylight durations stretching to a delightful 12 hours. This trend of consistent daylight begins in January and continues through most of the year, maintaining an average of 12 hours until April, when it dips to 11 hours for the cooler months. As the year progresses, daylight duration fluctuates between 11 and 12 hours, creating a rhythm that enhances the vibrant energy of the city. By December, residents and visitors alike can enjoy the ample sunshine, perfect for exploring the beautiful coastlines and lively markets. This consistency not only highlights the tropical charm of Dar es Salaam but also adds a sense of stability to the changing seasons throughout the year.
As December settles over Dar es Salaam, the wind begins to whisper a gentler tune, with average speeds dipping to 2.7 m/s (6 mph), the lowest of the year. This shift marks a contrast from the gusty peaks of previous months, particularly July, which sees winds soar to 5.1 m/s (11 mph). The decreasing trend in wind speed from November onward suggests a transition into the quieter, warmer heart of the rainy season. Travelers and locals alike can enjoy a more serene atmosphere, as the once brisk breezes give way to a soothing calm, painting a tranquil picture of life in this vibrant coastal city.
Weather in Dar es Salaam varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Dar es Salaam, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
December and January in Dar es Salaam showcase a shift in weather patterns, with January generally experiencing slightly warmer conditions. December sees temperatures ranging from a minimum of 24°C (75°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F), with an average of 27°C (82°F). The month is also characterized by significant precipitation of 148 mm (5.8 in) over 23 days, contributing to high humidity levels around 85%. In contrast, January offers a more temperate climate, with temperatures reaching a minimum of 24°C (75°F) and a maximum of 32°C (91°F), averaging 28°C (82°F). The rainfall decreases to 60 mm (2.4 in) spread over just 12 days, lowering the humidity to 82%. For more detailed information, check Dar es Salaam weather in January.
In December, the weather in Dar es Salaam tends to be warmer and more humid, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 24°C (75°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F) and an average of 27°C (82°F). December also sees significant precipitation, with 148 mm (5.8 inches) falling over 23 days and an average humidity of 85%. In contrast, February experiences slightly higher temperatures, with a minimum of 24°C (76°F), an average of 28°C (82°F), and a maximum of 33°C (91°F). Precipitation decreases significantly to 71 mm (2.8 inches) over just 12 days, and the humidity drops to 78%. For more details, check out Dar es Salaam weather in February.
In December, the weather in Dar es Salaam features temperatures ranging from a minimum of 24°C (75°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F), with an average temperature of 27°C (82°F). During this month, the region experiences significant rainfall, totaling 148 mm (5.8 in) over 23 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 85%. In contrast, March offers slightly warmer conditions, with temperatures peaking at 33°C (91°F) and an average of 28°C (82°F), while the minimum remains consistent at 24°C (75°F). The precipitation in March is marginally higher at 157 mm (6.2 in), distributed across 20 days, but humidity is lower at 76%. For a more detailed look at what to expect, you can check Dar es Salaam weather in March.
When comparing the weather in December and April, we notice some intriguing similarities and differences. Both months exhibit similar average temperatures, with December seeing a minimum of 24°C (75°F) and an average of 27°C (82°F), while April has a slightly lower minimum of 23°C (73°F) and the same average. However, April tends to be wetter, accumulating 317 mm (12.5 in) of precipitation over 29 days compared to December's 148 mm (5.8 in) over 23 days. Additionally, humidity is slightly lower in April at 79%, compared to December's high of 85%. For a more detailed outlook on April's conditions, you can visit Dar es Salaam weather in April.
In comparing the weather between December and May, we find that both months experience warm temperatures, but May tends to be slightly cooler on average. December's temperatures range from a minimum of 24°C (75°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F), while May sees a minimum of 22°C (72°F) and a maximum of 30°C (86°F). While December has a moderate level of precipitation at 148 mm (5.8 in) over 23 days, May is wetter, with 229 mm (9.0 in) falling over 24 days. The humidity remains quite high in both months, with December at 85% and May slightly higher at 86%. For those looking for more detailed information, you can check Dar es Salaam weather in May.
When comparing the weather in December and June, December tends to be warmer and wetter. The minimum temperature in December is 24°C (75°F), while June's minimum is slightly cooler at 21°C (70°F). Additionally, December boasts an average temperature of 27°C (82°F) and can reach a maximum of 31°C (89°F), whereas June has an average of 25°C (78°F) and a maximum of 29°C (85°F). Precipitation levels are significantly higher in December, with 148 mm (5.8 in) spread over 23 rainy days compared to June's 45 mm (1.8 in) over just 13 days. Both months have similar humidity levels, with December at 85% and June at 84%. For more specific details about June weather, you can check Dar es Salaam weather in June.
The weather in December in Dar es Salaam is notably warmer and more humid than in July. With minimum temperatures around 24°C (75°F) and an average of 27°C (82°F), it experiences maximum highs up to 31°C (89°F). This month also sees significantly more rainfall, totaling 148 mm (5.8 in) over 23 days, contributing to a muggy humidity level of 85%.
In contrast, July offers slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 21°C (70°F), an average of 25°C (77°F), and maximums reaching 29°C (84°F). The precipitation is much lighter, at just 34 mm (1.4 in) spread over 12 days, along with a lower humidity of 80%.
For a detailed guide on the weather in July, you can visit Dar es Salaam weather in July.
December and August weather in Dar es Salaam present a notable contrast. In December, temperatures are generally warmer, with a minimum of 24°C (75°F) and an average high reaching 31°C (89°F). The month experiences significant rainfall, with 148 mm (5.8 in) spread over 23 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 85%. In contrast, August offers milder conditions, with a minimum temperature of 20°C (69°F) and an average high of 29°C (85°F). Precipitation is much lighter in August, totaling just 37 mm (1.5 in) over 14 days, and humidity is lower at 74%. For more details on August weather, you can visit Dar es Salaam weather in August.
In comparison to September, December experiences warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 24°C (75°F) and a maximum of 31°C (89°F), while September's temperatures range from 21°C (70°F) to 29°C (85°F). December also sees significantly more precipitation, with 148 mm (5.8 in) over 23 days, compared to September's 37 mm (1.5 in) over 14 days. Additionally, the humidity in December is higher at 85%, compared to 73% in September. For a more detailed look at September weather, you can visit Dar es Salaam weather in September.
In comparing the weather between December and October, December tends to be slightly warmer with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 24°C (75°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F), while October shows a narrower range of 22°C (72°F) to 30°C (87°F). Additionally, December is characterized by higher humidity levels at 85%, compared to October’s 75%, making it feel more tropical. Precipitation is also more frequent in December, with 148 mm (5.8 in) recorded over 23 days, compared to October's 112 mm (4.4 in) over 17 days. For more detailed information, you can check Dar es Salaam weather in October.
In comparing the weather of December to that of November, we find that both months share similar temperature ranges, with minimums around 24°C (75°F) and maximums reaching 31°C (89°F). However, December experiences slightly higher humidity at 85% and increased rainfall, totaling 148 mm (5.8 in) over 23 days, compared to November's 126 mm (5.0 in) over 21 days. This means that while the temperatures remain consistent, December tends to feel more humid and rainy. For more information on November weather specifics, you can check Dar es Salaam weather in November.
In December, Dar es Salaam experiences a noticeable transition, characterized by higher humidity levels and increased precipitation, making it one of the wettest months of the year. Unlike the relatively dry heat of previous months, December's weather brings about a muggy warmth, with average temperatures hovering around 27°C. The frequent rain showers, occurring on nearly three-quarters of the days, not only refresh the air but also contribute to the city's lush landscapes. If you're curious about the overall climate trends and how December compares to other months, be sure to explore the comprehensive details at Dar es Salaam Climate.