If you’re planning a holiday in Moroni during Christmas, you’ll step into warm, tropical conditions—not the typical cold weather you might expect elsewhere this time of year. Daytime temperatures usually hover around 28°C (82°F), and nights stay comfortably mild near 24°C (75°F).
The Indian Ocean stays inviting, with sea temperatures close to 29°C (84°F). Swimming or snorkeling? Absolutely.
Rainfall starts to pick up in December as the wet season begins, so it’s smart to prepare for passing showers. Humidity stays high, but with nearly 13 hours of daylight, you’ll still have plenty of time for outdoor adventures between rain spells.
Sunshine breaks through often enough to balance out the wetter conditions. It’s not all gray skies.
If you’re after a Christmas trip that mixes tropical warmth and a bit of unpredictability, Moroni delivers. The blend of warm seas, lush scenery, and lively atmosphere makes this time of year special—even if you need to pack an umbrella with your swimsuit.
Overview of Moroni’s Climate in December
December in Moroni brings hot, humid weather and frequent rain. You’ll get warm days, muggy nights, and a mix of sunshine and heavy showers.
Location and Climate Classification
Moroni sits along the west coast of Grande Comore, the largest island in the Comoros group. Its spot in the Mozambique Channel puts it firmly in the tropical monsoon climate zone.
So, what does that mean? You’ll experience high humidity, steady warmth, and clear wet and dry seasons. December belongs to the wet season, with northwest monsoon winds bringing heavy rain off the Indian Ocean.
The city’s coastal setting lets sea breezes help cool things down a bit. Still, the air feels sticky most days, and nights don’t get much cooler. The ocean nearby keeps temperatures steady, so you don’t see big swings between day and night.
Typical Weather Patterns in December
In December, you’ll notice average daytime highs around 30–31°C (86–88°F) and nighttime lows near 23–24°C (73–75°F). Humidity often sits above 70%, making the heat feel even stronger.
Rain falls often, with totals around 200–220 mm for the month and about 15–20 rainy days. Showers usually pop up in the afternoon or evening, while mornings often open with sunshine.
Even with the rain, you still get about 210 hours of sunshine in December. That’s several hours of bright skies most days before clouds and storms roll in. The sea temperature stays near 27°C (81°F), so swimming is always on the table.
Comparison With Other Months
December ranks as one of Moroni’s wettest months, along with January and February. Rainfall is much higher now than during the drier months of June through September, when totals often fall below 50 mm.
Temperatures don’t swing much throughout the year. Even in cooler months like July, average highs still reach about 27–28°C (81–82°F). The main shift you’ll notice is rain and humidity.
Compare December with October or November, and you’ll see rainfall jump as the wet season kicks in. Late dry season months feel less humid, with clearer skies and fewer storms.
Average Temperatures Around Christmas
Expect warm, steady tropical temperatures in Moroni during Christmas. The weather stays humid, but ocean breezes help keep things comfortable for both daytime plans and evenings out.
Daytime and Nighttime Temperature Ranges
Daytime highs around Christmas usually reach 28°C to 31°C (82°F to 88°F). The sun makes it feel hotter, but shade and sea winds offer relief.
At night, temperatures rarely drop below 24°C (75°F). You won’t need heavy clothes, not even late at night. Stick to light, breathable fabrics—humidity sticks around.
The small gap between day and night temperatures shows off the island’s tropical climate. Unlike other places, you won’t get sharp drops after sunset, so outdoor dining or evening walks stay pleasant.
Temperature Variations During December
December starts the wetter season, but temperatures barely budge. Average daily highs hover near 29°C (84°F), with lows close to 25°C (77°F).
Clouds build up as the month goes on, which can take the edge off daytime heat. Sea surface temperatures hold steady around 28°C to 29°C (82°F to 84°F), so swimming and snorkeling are always tempting.
Humidity climbs with the rain, so the air feels warmer than it looks on paper. Breezes from the Mozambique Channel help out and keep things from feeling too oppressive.
Historical Highs and Lows
Long-term weather records show barely any extreme swings in Moroni during December. The highest daytime readings usually touch 31°C (88°F), and lowest nighttime values rarely fall below 23°C (73°F).
This narrow range lets you plan outdoor activities without worrying about sudden cold snaps. Moroni’s island setting keeps things consistent.
Even in wetter years, the Christmas period stays warm. The combination of steady highs and mild lows makes December a pretty predictable month for temperature, despite the rain. That stability is a big part of Moroni’s tropical weather.
Rainfall and Humidity During the Christmas Period
December in Moroni kicks off the wet season. You’ll see frequent showers, high humidity, and warm tropical air shaping the city’s holiday vibe.
Average Precipitation Levels
Rainfall in December is pretty significant, averaging about 147 mm (5.8 inches) for the month. That’s among the wetter times of year, though January gets even more.
Showers tend to come in bursts, not steady all-day rain. So, you might wake up to blue skies and get hit with a heavy downpour later.
Compared to July and August, when rainfall can drop below 20 mm, December feels much wetter. If you’re planning outdoor activities, you’ll want to work around these frequent showers.
| Month | Average Rainfall |
|---|---|
| July | ~20 mm |
| August | ~12 mm |
| December | ~147 mm |
| January | ~233 mm |
Number of Rainy Days
In December, expect 15–20 rainy days on average. That sounds like a lot, but it doesn’t mean it rains all day.
Most days bring short, heavy storms instead of hours of drizzle. That’s pretty typical for a tropical rainforest climate. Planning a full-day excursion can be tricky, but mornings are often clearer and better for exploring.
Unlike the dry season, where you’ll see fewer than 10 rainy days a month, December’s higher count reflects the shift into wetter conditions. Carrying a light rain jacket or having indoor backup plans helps you make the most of your time.
Humidity Trends in December
Humidity in December stays high, usually around 76–78%. This much moisture makes the warm daytime temperatures—often 28–29°C (82–84°F)—feel even hotter.
The mix of high humidity and frequent rain creates a muggy atmosphere. Even in the evening, the air feels heavy, with nighttime lows still around 25–26°C (77–79°F).
Light clothing and staying hydrated really matter. Most hotels and guesthouses have air conditioning, which is a relief during the sticky holiday season.
Sunshine and Cloud Cover in Late December
Late December in Moroni brings bursts of strong tropical sunshine, but also plenty of cloud cover. You’ll get bright daylight hours, but overcast skies are common since it’s the wet season. Visibility usually stays pretty good, though humidity and rain can make things look a bit hazy.
Sunshine Hours Per Day
You’ll see about 6 to 7 hours of sunshine per day in Moroni during late December. The sun rises early, around 5:30 a.m., and sets close to 6:20 p.m., which gives you nearly 12 hours and 45 minutes of daylight.
Even with long days, wet season clouds cut down on clear-sky hours. Afternoon showers often block the sun, but when the skies open up, the sunlight is intense—Moroni’s near the equator, after all.
If you’re planning outdoor stuff, mornings usually offer the best shot at stable sunshine before the showers roll in. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and light clothes—UV levels stay high, even with some clouds.
Typical Cloudiness Levels
Cloud cover in late December shows up a lot, with skies swinging between partly sunny and totally overcast. This is one of Moroni’s cloudier times, since the wet season peaks from December through March.
Most days, you’ll see clouds building by mid-morning, leading to short, heavy showers. Sometimes those clouds stick around for hours before breaking up.
Clouds take the edge off the sun’s intensity, but they also make the air feel even more humid. Expect a mix: some days offer bright breaks with scattered clouds, while others stay mostly gray.
Visibility and Atmospheric Conditions
Visibility in Moroni during late December usually stays good, often stretching several kilometers over the coast and sea. Heavy rain and high humidity can make things look hazy, especially in the afternoon.
Moist air sometimes blurs distant views of the mountains or horizon. After a rain shower, things often clear up quickly and the views sharpen again.
Winds tend to be light to moderate, which keeps the air moving but doesn’t fully clear out the tropical humidity. If you’re flying in or planning a boat trip, weather disruptions are rare, though a quick storm might cause a short delay.
Wind and Sea Conditions Around Christmas
In late December, Moroni gets breezy conditions on land and warm seas offshore. The winds shape how comfortable it feels outside, and the ocean stays perfect for swimming and water sports.
Average Wind Speeds
Around Christmas, Moroni usually gets average wind speeds of about 13 km/h (8 mph). That’s a light to moderate breeze, especially noticeable along the coast and in open spots.
Winds mostly come from the east or southeast, thanks to the island’s spot in the Indian Ocean. Those breezes feel refreshing in the sticky heat and help balance out the daytime highs near 28°C (82°F).
Some days bring stronger gusts, but the wind rarely gets in the way of your plans. It adds comfort during walks and helps take the edge off the sun. For boat rides or fishing, the breeze is steady but not strong enough to make the seas rough close to shore.
Sea Temperature and Swimming Conditions
The Indian Ocean waters near Moroni stay super warm in December, averaging around 29°C (84°F). Swimming, snorkeling, or diving? You won’t need a wetsuit. The sea is one of Moroni’s best features at this time of year.
Even with more rain, the water doesn’t cool off much. You might get a quick tropical shower, but the ocean stays stable and inviting.
Underwater visibility is usually good, though heavy rain can muddy things up near shore for a bit. To be safe, stick to designated swimming areas—currents can change depending on where you are.
If you love spending time in the water, conditions are great. Warm seas and gentle breezes make it perfect for relaxing or getting active out on the waves.
Travel Tips for Visiting Moroni During Christmas
December in Moroni means hot, humid weather and frequent rain showers, but you’ll also find warm seas and lively cultural experiences. If you prepare for the climate, plan your outdoor activities wisely, and get a feel for the local rhythm, your visit will be much more comfortable and rewarding.
What to Pack for the Weather
In December, Moroni feels warm and humid almost all the time. Daytime temperatures usually sit around 28–31°C (82–88°F), and even at night, it rarely drops below 27°C (81°F). You’ll probably run into short, heavy rain showers, so don’t let the sun fool you.
I’d pack lightweight, breathable clothes—think cotton shirts, shorts, or easy dresses. Toss in a light rain jacket or poncho too, just in case. Quick-dry sandals or shoes really come in handy when puddles show up out of nowhere.
You’ll definitely want a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection. The sun can get intense, even when it’s cloudy.
Mosquitoes get pretty busy during the rainy season. Bring insect repellent, and maybe a long-sleeve shirt for evenings if you’re sensitive to bites. A small travel umbrella is a smart backup.
If you’re thinking about swimming or snorkeling, just pack a swimsuit, reef-safe sunscreen, and some water shoes. The water shoes protect your feet from sharp coral—trust me, you’ll be glad you brought them.
Best Outdoor Activities for December
Even with the rain, December offers a great chance to experience the Indian Ocean’s warm waters. The sea sits at a comfortable 28°C (82°F), so swimming, snorkeling, or diving off Grande Comore feels pretty amazing.
You’ll find the mornings clearer, which makes them perfect for hiking Mount Karthala or wandering through Moroni’s markets before the afternoon showers hit. If hiking sounds like too much, you could just stroll along Itsandra Beach or get lost in the old medina—those narrow streets and the historic mosque are worth a look.
Humidity can get to you, so try to do outdoor stuff early and leave your afternoons open. Keep a bottle of water handy, and duck into the shade or an indoor spot if a rainstorm suddenly rolls through.
Tourist Season and Local Events
December lands right in the wet season, so Moroni doesn’t really see its peak tourist crowds then. You might notice fewer people at the beaches, markets, and cultural spots. Some hotels might have a smaller staff during this time.
Locals keep things moving at their usual pace, and you could catch holiday gatherings and community celebrations popping up around Christmas. Even though Comoros is mostly Muslim, you’ll spot some Christian festivities in smaller neighborhoods, and maybe even a couple of seasonal events in Moroni.
Weather sometimes messes with flights and ferries, so give yourself extra time if you have connections. It’s still smart to book your place to stay ahead of time, especially if you want a spot near the coast or in the heart of Moroni.