Christmas in Mombasa really brings warm tropical weather—it’s nothing like the chilly holiday climates some folks might expect. Daytime temperatures usually hover around 32°C (about 90°F), and nights stay pretty mild, close to 25°C (77°F).
The Indian Ocean just adds to the whole experience, with water temps near 27°C (81°F). You can swim or hang out at the beach all season without a second thought.
Rain does show up in December, but it tends to fall in quick bursts. You might see rain on about a dozen days, but honestly, sunshine takes over most of the month.
Long daylight hours and plenty of blue sky give you time for outdoor fun or just chilling by the coast. It’s a nice balance.
The mix of heat, humidity, and those ocean breezes creates a vibe that’s hard to beat. Instead of bundling up, you’ll probably reach for light clothes, swim gear, and sunscreen.
This steady warmth and festive buzz make Christmas in Mombasa both comfortable and unforgettable.
Typical December Weather Patterns in Mombasa
You can count on hot days, warm nights, and a mix of sun with occasional rainfall during December in Mombasa.
The air feels humid a lot of the time, and with long daylight hours, you get loads of time outside—even if a shower passes through.
Temperature Trends During Christmas
Most December days reach 30–32°C (86–90°F). Nights stay warm, averaging 24–25°C (75–77°F), so you really don’t need heavy clothes, even late at night.
The gap between day and night isn’t huge, so the warmth sticks around into the evening. Sea temperatures stay near 28°C (82°F), so swimming feels good all day.
If you’re in town for Christmas week, expect steady warmth without any big drops. The hottest time usually lands in the early afternoon, so maybe plan outdoor stuff for mornings or later on.
Rainfall and Precipitation Levels
December comes right after the short rainy season, so you’ll still get some showers. Rainfall averages about 65–70 mm (2.5–2.7 inches) for the month, spread over roughly 8–12 days.
Showers pop up in short bursts, not long storms. They often arrive in the late afternoon or evening and clear out fast.
That means you can enjoy most of your day without much hassle from the rain. Compared to November, rain drops off, and the ground dries up faster.
Roads and tourist spots stay open, so outdoor adventures like safaris or beach trips rarely get canceled for long.
Humidity and Atmospheric Conditions
Humidity sticks around at about 75–80% in December. The coastal air feels heavy, especially when the sun is high.
When light winds blow, you might notice the humidity even more. Breezes off the Indian Ocean often cool things down, especially along the beaches.
Daylight lasts about 12 hours and 20 minutes each day, which is as long as it gets in Mombasa. This long light, mixed with high humidity, gives the city a truly tropical feel all month.
If humidity gets to you, take breaks indoors or find some shade during the hottest part of the day. Lightweight, breathable clothes definitely help.
Daytime and Nighttime Temperatures
December keeps Mombasa warm, with daytime heat and cooler evenings. You get steady tropical conditions—great for outdoor plans, but you’ll still want light clothes at night.
Average Highs and Lows
During Christmas, daytime highs average around 31°C (88°F). It’s in line with Mombasa’s usual warmth, though December is a bit less humid than the rainiest months.
The early afternoon brings the most heat, but sea breezes often cool things off. Nighttime lows average about 23°C (73°F), so even after sunset, a light shirt is enough.
Nights aren’t cold, but the drop from daytime highs makes evenings nice for a walk or dinner outside.
The difference between day and night is usually 7–8°C (12–14°F). That means you won’t deal with big swings in temperature, and the cooler nights give some relief after hot afternoons.
Temperature Variability Near the Coast
Mombasa’s spot on the Indian Ocean keeps local temps pretty steady. The sea holds daytime highs down around 31–32°C (88–90°F).
Inland areas at the same latitude get hotter, but the coast stays more comfortable. Humidity can make it feel warmer, but the ocean breeze helps a lot.
This breeze is strongest late in the afternoon and evening. You’ll probably feel cooler by the water than if you’re inland.
At night, the ocean keeps things from cooling off too much. Temperatures usually stay above 22°C (72°F), so you don’t need heavy bedding.
That steady warmth and those cooling breezes make packing for Christmas in Mombasa pretty simple.
Rainfall and Chances of Showers
Mombasa’s coastal location brings warm, humid air and seasonal rain patterns. December lands in the short rains, so expect some showers, but they’re usually short and not a big deal for your plans.
Rainy Days Frequency
In December, Mombasa gets 8 to 10 rainy days. These aren’t all-day affairs—just quick bursts, often later in the day.
Monthly rainfall totals hit about 60–80 mm (2.4–3.1 in), which is pretty moderate compared to the heavier long rains earlier in the year.
Showers might last an hour or two, leaving most of the day dry and sunny. Humidity stays up, usually around 75–80%, making the air feel warmer.
Still, you get plenty of sunshine, with clear mornings before clouds roll in later.
Since rain is spotty, one neighborhood might get soaked while another stays dry. It’s smart to plan flexible outdoor activities and keep a light rain jacket handy.
Short Rains Season Characteristics
The short rains in Mombasa run from October through December. By Christmas, rain is already easing up compared to November, but showers still happen.
These rains come from shifts in the Indian Ocean monsoon winds. Warm, moist air rises along the coast, causing brief but sometimes heavy showers.
Thunder can happen, though storms aren’t usually as strong as inland. Unlike the long rains in April and May, these short rains rarely soak the city all day.
You often get sun in the morning, clouds in the afternoon, and showers in the evening. December feels pretty comfortable—slightly cooler temps, fewer mosquitoes than the wettest months, and lots of sunshine for outdoor fun.
Sunshine and Daylight Hours
Mombasa gives you steady sunlight and consistent daylight in late December. Being close to the equator, the city doesn’t see big changes in day length or sunshine, so you can count on reliable weather for your plans.
Average Hours of Sunshine
Mombasa averages 8 to 9 hours of sunshine per day in December. It’s one of the brighter months, so there’s plenty of time for the beach or sightseeing.
Clouds show up less often than during the rainy months of April and May. When showers do come, they’re quick, and the sun pops back out soon after.
The city logs about 275 to 280 hours of sunshine in December, which is higher than most other months. December is a favorite for visitors who want reliable weather.
Just to compare:
- December daily average: ~9 hours
- May daily average: ~6–7 hours
- Annual average: ~8 hours
So, December is definitely one of the sunniest times to visit. You get dependable daylight for whatever you want to do.
Day Length Around Christmas
Day length in Mombasa barely changes all year, thanks to its spot near the equator. Around Christmas, you get about 12 hours of daylight each day.
The longest day hits just over 12 hours in late December. The shortest day in June is only a bit shorter, at about 11 hours and 45 minutes.
You probably won’t notice much difference. Around December 25, sunrise happens at 6:15 a.m., and sunset is around 6:30 p.m.
This makes it easy to plan your day—no early darkness to worry about. With sunrise and sunset times staying steady, you get nearly equal day and night hours, which is classic Mombasa.
Sea and Water Temperatures
The Indian Ocean along Mombasa’s coast stays warm in December, with water temperatures that make swimming and other activities easy. You get steady conditions and only small changes from day to day.
Swimming and Water Activities Conditions
Swimming in Mombasa during December feels great, since the sea is warm and inviting. Water temps usually sit between 27°C (81°F) and 29°C (84°F).
Most people don’t need wetsuits, and the temperature is perfect for snorkeling, diving, or just floating around. The sea is usually calm, though sometimes the wind will kick up small waves.
Diving visibility is often solid in December, so you can really enjoy the coral and marine life. If you’re into kayaking or paddleboarding, the steady sea temp means you’ll stay comfortable.
Just remember, the tropical sun can be strong. Wear protective clothing or sunscreen, especially if you’re out for a while.
Monthly Sea Temperature Averages
Mombasa’s sea temperature stays high all year, but December is up near the top. Long-term records put the average at about 28.4°C (83.1°F), with lows around 27.3°C (82°F) and highs near 29.6°C (84.3°F).
This small range means the sea doesn’t cool off much at night or heat up too much in the day. December is one of the most reliable months for good water conditions.
Here’s a quick look at December sea temps:
| Measurement | °C | °F |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum | 27.3 | 82.0 |
| Average | 28.4 | 83.1 |
| Maximum | 29.6 | 84.3 |
These numbers come from long-term data, so they’re a pretty safe bet for what you’ll get during your trip.
Winds and Breezes in December
December in Mombasa brings light to moderate breezes that help balance out the warm, humid air. These winds rarely cause problems, but they really do shape how comfortable you feel outside.
Typical Wind Speeds
Mombasa’s average wind speed in December is about 4 meters per second (around 14 km/h). That’s enough for a steady breeze, but not enough to mess with your plans.
Some days feel calmer, some a bit windier. Breezes usually pick up in the afternoon when things are hottest, while mornings and evenings tend to be more still.
The winds mostly blow in from the northeast monsoon system, which dominates the coast at this time of year. This brings consistent airflow across the Indian Ocean, making the coast feel fresh—even though humidity is usually around 77–80%.
These breezes won’t disrupt travel, but they do make walking the beach or exploring the city a lot more pleasant.
Impact on Outdoor Activities
December winds in Mombasa really set the scene for outdoor fun. If you’re into water sports, you’ll probably love how the steady breeze lets you sail, kitesurf, or windsurf without making the sea too rough.
Beachgoers, you’ll notice the airflow takes the edge off that 32°C daytime heat. It makes sunbathing bearable and, honestly, you might find yourself staying outside longer than you planned.
When you’re wandering around town, the light winds offer a nice break from the humidity. Still, it’s smart to carry some water and wear breathable clothes, because on windless days, the air can feel pretty heavy.
If you’re thinking about boat rides or snorkeling, you’ll usually get calm enough waters thanks to the moderate winds. Sometimes you might run into a gusty day that stirs up the surface or messes with visibility, but that’s not too common in December.
Clothing and Travel Tips for Christmas in Mombasa
December brings hot days, warm nights, and the occasional rain shower. You’ll want to pack light, comfy clothes and toss in a few extras so you’re ready for anything, whether you’re hitting the beach or checking out the local culture.
Recommended Attire for the Weather
Daytime highs hit around 32°C (89°F), and nights don’t cool off much, staying close to 25°C (77°F). Humidity? It’s up there. So, cotton or linen—anything that breathes—will make life easier.
For casual outings, go for short-sleeved shirts, knee-length shorts, or skirts. If you’re planning to visit religious or cultural spots, bring modest options like a long skirt, trousers, or a light long-sleeved shirt.
Evenings stay warm, so heavy layers just take up space. Maybe throw in a thin sweater or light jacket for indoor spots where the AC is cranked up.
Since December can surprise you with rain, a compact umbrella or lightweight rain jacket will come in handy. For walking around, grab some comfy sandals or breathable shoes, and keep flip-flops for the beach.
Packing Essentials for December Visits
The coastal sun really packs a punch, and daylight sticks around for hours. Definitely toss sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat into your bag to shield yourself from those UV rays.
The Indian Ocean water averages 27°C (81°F), so swimming feels amazing this time of year. Grab your swimwear, a quick-dry towel, and maybe some snorkel gear if you’re up for exploring underwater.
Rain showers hit about 12 days in December, which isn’t nothing. I’d suggest waterproof storage for your electronics or any important papers. A small daypack with a rain cover helps keep things dry while you’re out and about.
You might also want to bring insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, and a light scarf—it works for sun protection or as a modesty cover. Packing both casual clothes and something a bit dressier lets you roll with whatever the evening brings.