Thinking about a trip to Maputo around Christmas? You’ll get summer at full blast in southern Mozambique. Days usually feel warm or even hot, with average highs close to 30°C. Nights stay mild, generally hovering around 22–23°C. Expect a mix of sunshine and some passing showers, since December lands right in the wetter part of the year.
Humidity stands out, though the coastal breeze takes the edge off the heat. Rain tends to show up in short bursts, not all-day downpours, so you’ll still have time to get outside. The sea feels warm and welcoming, which makes swimming and beach days especially tempting during the holidays.
If you’re curious about more than just the basics—like how much daylight you’ll get, how strong the winds feel, or what kind of temperature extremes Maputo has seen in past Decembers—keep reading. You’ll find details to help you plan with a bit more confidence.
Overview of Maputo’s Climate in December
December brings hot days, warm nights, and frequent rain showers to Maputo. High humidity and breezy conditions set the tone, with the Indian Ocean adding to the tropical vibe. Temperatures don’t fluctuate much, and rain becomes part of the daily rhythm.
Savanna Climate Characteristics
Maputo sits in a savanna climate zone, so you get warm weather all year and clear shifts between wet and dry periods. December really brings out the tropical side.
Daytime highs often hit 29–31°C (84–88°F), and nights stay mild at 21–23°C (70–73°F). The sea temperature averages 25–26°C (77–79°F), which makes coastal activities comfortable.
Humidity climbs, and the air gets heavier than in the drier months. Winds usually blow at 20–25 km/h, which helps with the heat but can make things feel a bit breezy. Sunshine is still common, though you’ll notice more clouds than you would in the middle of the year.
This blend of warmth, rain, and ocean influence really defines Maputo’s savanna climate as the wet season starts.
Wet and Dry Season Patterns
December kicks off the wet season in Maputo. You’ll see frequent showers—often short, sometimes heavy. Rainfall averages 100–110 mm for the month, spread across 15–20 days.
Rain usually comes in bursts, with sun breaking through between showers. You can plan outdoor activities, but you’ll need to stay flexible for those sudden storms.
Compared to the dry months, December feels more humid and unpredictable. The land greens up fast, and travelers notice lush scenery, but also more rain that can affect transport and plans.
You won’t see constant rain, but it’s regular enough that you should pack for wet weather most days.
Comparison to Other Months
If you line up December against other months in Maputo, the changes are pretty clear. The dry season from May to September brings cooler nights, lower humidity, and barely any rain. December, on the other hand, gets warmer, wetter, and more humid.
Average highs in July are about 24°C (75°F), while December jumps into the 30°C (86°F) range. Rainfall in July often stays under 20 mm, but December goes over 100 mm.
November acts as a transition, with rising temps and more showers. By January and February, rain peaks, so December sits between the drier spring and the heart of the wet summer.
This seasonal swing shapes your experience, whether you like dry, cool weather or the warm, rainy feel of December.
Typical Weather Conditions Around Christmas
Late December in Maputo means warm temperatures, sticky humidity, and frequent rain. The city’s savanna climate brings a mix of sunny hours and wet spells, which definitely affects how you plan your days and what ends up in your suitcase.
Average High and Low Temperatures
Around Christmas, Maputo’s daytime highs usually land at about 29°C (84°F). Nights cool a bit to 23°C (73°F), but it still feels warm and comfortable.
You won’t see much swing between day and night temps, thanks to the coastal location. Extremes are rare.
This steady warmth lets you enjoy outdoor activities, but afternoons can get hot. Light, breathable clothes are a must, and you’ll want a hat and sunscreen for those peak sunlight hours.
Humidity Levels
Humidity averages 70–75% this time of year, which can feel heavy if you’re not used to it. The warm, moist air often makes the heat feel stronger than the thermometer says.
Maputo’s spot near the Indian Ocean means the air rarely feels dry. You might notice sticky conditions, especially in the evenings or after a rain.
To stay comfortable, drink plenty of water and stick with light fabrics. Most hotels have air conditioning, but if you’re outside a lot, pace yourself to avoid the worst heat.
Rainfall and Chance of Rain
December sits right in Maputo’s wet season, and Christmas falls during one of the rainier stretches. The city averages about 110 mm of rain for the month, usually over 10–12 rainy days.
Showers come fast and heavy, but skies often clear once the rain stops. You’ll face about a 30–40% chance of rain on any given day.
A small umbrella or lightweight rain jacket makes sudden showers easier to handle. Roads can get slick, so give yourself extra time if you’re moving around. Despite the rain, you still get over 200 hours of sunshine in December, so there’s no shortage of bright days.
Daylight, Sunshine, and Wind in Late December
Late December brings Maputo long daylight hours, steady sunshine, and moderate winds. These factors shape how you plan everything from sightseeing to beach trips.
Daylight Hours
Around Christmas, Maputo enjoys some of its longest days. You’ll get 13 to 13.5 hours of daylight, with the sun up early and setting in the evening.
This extra daylight gives you more time for outdoor plans, whether you’re exploring the city or relaxing on the beach. Longer evenings make it easier to fit in activities without rushing.
Day length barely changes in December, so you can count on steady light for your whole trip. That reliability helps with planning tours, day trips, or just evening walks by the water.
Sunshine Duration
Even though it’s the wet season, Maputo still sees plenty of sun. On average, you get about 7 to 8 hours of sunshine per day, adding up to around 220 hours for the month.
Rain usually falls in short bursts, not all day, so you can expect clear skies before or after storms. The sun and rain together make for humid conditions, so be ready for both.
The sun sits high in the sky, so UV levels run strong. You absolutely need sunscreen, sunglasses, and light clothing to stay comfortable. A hat or umbrella helps if you’re out for long stretches.
Wind Patterns
December winds in Maputo stay pretty steady. Average speeds run about 10 to 11 miles per hour, enough to keep air moving but not so strong that it disrupts daily life.
You’ll feel breezes along the coast, especially in the afternoons. These winds take some of the edge off the heat and humidity, making outdoor time more comfortable.
Wind direction generally follows seasonal patterns from the Indian Ocean. During storms, gusts can pick up, but calm spells are common too. This steady, moderate airflow is just part of summer in Maputo.
Historical Extremes: Record Highs and Lows
Maputo’s December weather usually stays warm, but records show the city can swing hotter or cooler than average. These extremes give you a sense of the full range of what you might experience during the holidays.
Record High Temperatures in December
December afternoons can get pretty hot, and record highs have sometimes shot well above the usual range. The city’s coastal, humid climate means heat can feel even more intense when humidity spikes.
Maputo has seen December highs reach the mid- to upper-30s °C (about 95–100 °F). These peaks aren’t common, but they happen when hot inland air moves toward the coast.
Heat waves don’t strike as often here as in inland southern Africa, but they’re possible. When they hit, daytime highs can stay up for several days.
If you’re outdoors, plan on light clothing and drink lots of water. The Indian Ocean breeze usually cools things off at night, but daytime heat can still throw a wrench in your plans.
Record Low Temperatures in December
December counts as the warm season, but Maputo has seen some cool nights. These lows stay mild compared to most places, but they can fall below the average.
The coldest December nights have dropped into the upper teens °C (about 64–68 °F). These dips are rare and usually happen when cool air drifts north from South Africa.
Humidity and clouds usually keep nights warmer, so these record lows don’t happen often. If you’re staying near the coast, breezes might make evenings feel cooler than inland.
Packing a light layer for night outings is a good idea, especially if you’ll be outside by the water. That way, you’ll stay comfortable even if temps drop a bit.
Travel Considerations for Christmas in Maputo
Christmas in Maputo means hot, humid weather with frequent showers. You’ll need to prep for both sunshine and quick downpours, all while thinking about the city’s festive buzz and coastal setting.
What to Pack
Daytime temps often reach 29°C (85°F), and nights stay warm at 23°C (73°F). Bring light, breathable clothes like cotton shirts, shorts, and dresses. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essentials for the strong sun.
Rain is pretty common, averaging about 111 mm over 11 days, so pack a compact umbrella or light waterproof jacket. Shoes that dry quickly or sandals with good grip help when the streets get wet.
Air-conditioned spots like buses or restaurants can feel chilly, so a light sweater or shawl might come in handy. If you’re hitting the beaches, toss in swimwear, flip-flops, and a beach towel. Don’t forget insect repellent—bugs love the humidity.
Keep your packing simple and flexible, so you’re ready for heat, rain, and sun.
Best Activities for the Season
December falls in the rainy season, but you still get about 220 hours of sunshine all month. Mornings and early afternoons usually work best for outdoor plans, since showers tend to show up later.
You might relax at Costa do Sol Beach or wander through the Maputo Central Market for seasonal treats and crafts. If rain interrupts, head indoors to places like the Iron House or Maputo Fortress.
Christmas brings energy to the city—think music, family gatherings, and church services. You can soak in the festive mood and maybe even take a day trip to nearby islands if the weather’s clear.
Staying flexible with your schedule lets you enjoy both the coast and the city, even with the rain.
Climate Trends and Year-to-Year Variability
Maputo’s December weather reflects its tropical savanna climate—warm, humid, and rainy. Each year brings a little something different, thanks to bigger climate systems and ongoing regional changes that shift rainfall and heat patterns.
Recent Weather Patterns
In December, you’ll usually see daytime highs hit 30°C (86°F). Nights tend to cool off to about 22°C (72°F).
Rainfall comes in at 100–120 mm, so December stands out as one of the wetter months. Humidity often sits above 70%, which can definitely make the air feel muggy.
Rain doesn’t follow a predictable pattern every year. Some Decembers bring quick, scattered showers, while others just seem to pour for hours.
The Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) and El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) play a big role in this. They really shape how much moisture hits Mozambique’s coast.
During El Niño years, you’ll probably notice things feel drier with fewer storms rolling in. La Niña, on the other hand, tends to bring heavier rain and, honestly, a higher chance of flooding.
Local winds shift too. December breezes average about 19 mph, but storms can push those gusts even higher.
Long-Term Changes in December Weather
Over the past few decades, December in Maputo has started to feel noticeably warmer. Average daytime temperatures have climbed by about 1–2°C compared to older climate records.
Nights bring less cooling relief now, since temperatures stay higher even after sunset.
Rainfall trends jump around quite a bit. Some years bring heavy downpours, while others end up drier than usual.
This unpredictability makes it tough to plan for water needs, and honestly, it can mess with agriculture or travel plans.
Researchers looking at Mozambique’s climate say extreme weather events, like intense rainstorms or long dry spells, might pop up more often.
So if you’re visiting, December just isn’t as easy to pin down as it used to be. You could get stuck in a heatwave or caught in heavy rains—sometimes both, all in the same season.