Antananarivo in December
Not the best time
Rainy season returns with a vengeance, bringing floods and humidity. Holiday closures add extra complications to an already challenging month.
Weather
December kicks off the serious rainy season with heavy afternoon downpours and climbing humidity. Expect about 15 rainy days with storms that can flood the lower parts of the city. The air gets thick and sticky again.
26°C high16°C low15 rain days
Crowds & Cost
low crowds
~$48/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Christmas celebrations
- •New Year's Eve festivities
December Tips
- •Book covered accommodation near Analakely Market to avoid walking in floods
- •Christmas means many restaurants and sites close unexpectedly
- •Carry cash since ATMs sometimes go down during storms
All Months
April through October brings Tana's dry season — perfect weather with cool mornings (15°C/59°F) and warm afternoons (25°C/77°F). The highland climate means no oppressive heat, even in peak season.
May and June offer the sweet spot. Tourist crowds haven't arrived yet, but the weather stays consistently pleasant. Hotel prices drop 20-30% compared to July-August peak season.
July through September sees the most visitors, especially French tourists escaping European summer. Book accommodations early — decent hotels fill up, forcing you into sketchy options.
Avoid November through March unless you love mud. The rainy season turns Tana's unpaved roads into slip-and-slide courses. Some rural day trip destinations become completely inaccessible.
But here's a secret — December can work if you don't mind afternoon showers. The city turns green, prices stay low, and you'll have major attractions to yourself. Just pack a good rain jacket and waterproof shoes.
Antananarivo Scores
Solo
6/10
Couples
4/10
Families
5/10
Adventure
6/10
Budget
8/10
Luxury
3/10
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