Weather in Mombasa in December

How December compares

December is the 4th warmest month of the year in Mombasa and ranks 3rd of 134 destinations we compare for December - see where else is hot in December. Against London's average high of 7.7°C in December, Mombasa is 22.7°C warmer by day and 21.7°C warmer at night.

Daytime and night-time in December

The typical December day in Mombasa peaks at 30.4°C, but that is an average: the warmest 10% of days reach 31.6°C or more. About 100% of days top 25°C and 1 in 2 pass 30°C. Nights average 24.4°C; one night in ten drops to 23.3°C or lower, so pack a layer for evenings. Between 1991 and 2020 the hottest December day here reached 33.7°C (2003-12-13) and the coldest night 22.0°C (1996-12-27).

Rain in December

Wet (more than 8 rainy days): about 17 days with 1 mm or more, 73 mm in total. Year to year it varies a lot - the wettest December was 1997 with 170 mm, the driest 2005 with 22 mm. Humidity averages 79%, which makes the heat feel heavier than the thermometer suggests.

Sea temperature in December

The sea averages 27.7°C - warm enough to swim (22°c+). Depending on the year it ranges from 27.3°C to 28.3°C. For the warmest sea here, come in April (28.8°C).

Sunshine and daylight

Around 5.9 hours of sunshine a day (estimated from cloud cover), 12.2 hours of daylight: the sun rises about 06:06 and sets about 18:27 local time in mid-December. Average cloud cover is 52%.

Is December a good time to visit Mombasa?

It is a reasonable choice: hot days but expect showers. The best months for Mombasa on our scoring are February, January, September; months averaging 25°C or more: Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec.

Hot days, warm nights and comfortable swimming

Mombasa suits travellers who enjoy heat rather than those looking for gentle warmth. With 66% of days reaching 30°C and humidity at 79%, light, loose clothing and breaks from the midday heat make sense. Plan anything energetic for earlier or later in the day, and choose accommodation where you can cool down comfortably at night: average lows of 24.4°C offer little relief. The sea averages 27.7°C, making swimming a strong reason to come in December, though it will feel warm rather than sharply refreshing. Pack mainly for the heat, with sun protection and clothes that are comfortable in humid conditions.

Expect sunshine, but leave room for rain

The catch is that December is wet, so it is not a reliable choice for uninterrupted outdoor plans. About 17 rainy days means rain is a regular consideration, although that does not mean those days are wet throughout. Average sunshine of 5.9 hours within 12.2 hours of daylight leaves scope for time outside, but you should not expect clear skies from morning to evening. Keep swimming and other outdoor time flexible rather than tying everything to a fixed schedule. A light waterproof is sensible, but avoid heavy rainwear that will be uncomfortable in the heat. This month rewards flexibility more than a packed itinerary.