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Singita Mara River Tented Camp
Singita Mara River Tented Camp
Singita Mara River Tented Camp
Singita Mara River Tented Camp
Singita Mara River Tented Camp
Singita Mara River Tented Camp
Singita Mara River Tented Camp
Singita Mara River Tented Camp
Singita Mara River Tented Camp
Singita Mara River Tented Camp
Singita Mara River Tented Camp
Singita Mara River Tented Camp
Singita Mara River Tented Camp

Singita Mara River Tented Camp


1°34’7.0"S 34°47’23.8"E

About Singita Mara River Tented Camp

Singita Mara River Tented Camp is set in the wonderfully remote Lamai wedge, a 400km² area of land in the ...

... northernmost tip of the Serengeti National Park. Opened in 2012, this small, luxury camp lies along a sweeping bend of the meandering Mara River. During the wildebeest migration, between July and October, it is not uncommon to see crossings right in front of camp.

Singita Mara River Tented Camp is one of the most stylish camps in the Serengeti, and we were particularly impressed by the attention to detail. The location is ideal for those wanting to experience the Serengeti without the crowds, and during July, August and September, it is hard to think of a camp that is better placed for the wildebeest migration. It certainly meets the need for the discerning traveller, however, the price tag is very high, and for people who prefer simple bush camps the style may be a bit too much.

Our view

Singita Mara River Tented Camp is one of the most stylish camps in the Serengeti, and we were particularly impressed by the attention to detail. The location is ideal for those wanting to experience the Serengeti without the crowds, and during July, August and September, it is hard to think of a camp that is better placed for the wildebeest migration. It certainly meets the need for the discerning traveller, however, the price tag is very high, and for people who prefer simple bush camps the style may be a bit too much.

Jessica Plumb

Jessica Plumb

Tanzania expert

Accommodation

8 tents

Children

Best for children aged 12+

Open

31 May to 15 March

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Birdwatching

Birdwatching

Hot air ballooning

Hot air ballooning

Traveller reviews of Singita Mara River Tented Camp

3 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.


87%
3 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
2
Good
0
Average
1
Poor
0
Terrible
0
T & SfromNorth Carolina

Arrived 14 Sep 2019, 3 nights

"Singita Mara River Tented Lodge - Crossings"

"The accommodations were superb …" Read T & S’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs HfromGuernsey

Arrived 22 Sep 2015, 3 nights

"Singita Mara River Tented Camp review"

"We loved the remote location of this camp where we enjoyed exciting game drives …" Read Mr & Mrs H’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr AfromMadison

Arrived 5 Sep 2014, 4 nights

"Singita Mara River Tented Camp review"

"This is a new camp located along the Mara river. The reason we went there was …" Read Mr A’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Average

See all Singita Mara River Tented Camp reviews

Singita Mara River Tented Camp: Our full report

Singita Mara River Tented Camp is set in the wonderfully remote Lamai wedge, a 400km² area of land in the ...

... northernmost tip of the Serengeti National Park. Opened in 2012, this small, luxury camp lies along a sweeping bend of the meandering Mara River. During the wildebeest migration, between July and October, it is not uncommon to see crossings right in front of camp.

Singita Mara is the first permanent safari camp within the Lamai wedge, which fits between the Mara River to the south and the southern border of Kenya's Maasai Mara National Park. Permission for the camp was granted,by TANAPA (Tanzania National Parks Authority) following Singita's success in the Singita Grumeti Reserve, in the western part of the Serengeti, where they have a number of excellent camps. These include Faru Faru, Sasakwa and Sabora.

Although Mara River Tented Camp is not in a private concession, it is comparable in style, design, and quality with its sister properties. It also – and perhaps most importantly – shares their commitment to giving visitors an authentic safari experience in a secluded location.

Singita Mara is the only camp in this area for most of the year, although a couple of small seasonal camps arrive during the wildebeest migration, between July and October. With permission from TANAPA, Singita's guides have created game-drive routes from scratch. This makes for a really offbeat safari experience, on relatively uncharted routes, with very few other visitors.

The whole camp is designed in the Bohemian-chic fashion with splashes of bold colour, that has become synonymous with Singita properties. Using natural and recycled materials wherever possible, Singita Mara was styled by South African interior design company Cécile & Boyd. A huge amount of thought has gone into the detail, from the modern African wall art, to the cushions, baskets and beadwork. We loved the combination of contemporary design and traditional materials.

The eight tents at Singita Mara make up six separate units. Closest to the main area are two family units, each comprising two tents, with a shared decking area, while a further four double tents are located slightly further along the river. All are set on wooden platforms about a metre off the ground, with a large veranda and seating area; and are sheltered by canvas fly-sheets. In the family units, the two tents – either double or twin – are joined by a covered walkway and a shared deck. All of the tents are made from canvas, have zip entrances and gauze windows which lets a nice cooling breeze through. There are also fans in the rooms to help with really hot nights.

Inside, the tents feel modern and bright, with white, perfectly pressed, sheets and matching mosquito nets draped over the bed. The furniture is very smart with matching, safari-style bedside tables, wardrobe and bureau, and a spotlight that wouldn't look out of place on a film set!

Athough Singita Mara is a tented camp, it provides the same sort of comforts you might expect from a modern hotel: hairdryers, electronic safes, phones for contacting the staff, plug sockets and fans. There has been an incredible level of thought that has gone into providing guests everything that they may need during their stay. Bathrobes, light weights, yoga mats, kettle bells, a set of Vortex binoculars, wildlife guides, water colour paints and pencils, playing cards, safari hats and bags, along with a well-stocked cool box – complete with a selection of soft drinks, spirits, beers, wine sweets and gourmet chocolates! – set Singita Mara apart from most tented camps.

Each of the tents has a well-designed en-suite bathroom with metal flush toilet, rain shower and basin with running hot and cold water. One of the best features is the open-air bath that overlooks the Mara River in front, yet remains completely private.

The views down the river from the tents, as from the main area, are maximised by the camp's setting on a sweeping bend of the Mara River.

In the main area itself, the lounge is beautifully decorated and a really sociable place to relax, with chaise-longues, sofas, board games and a viewing platform. Next to this is a small dining area and bar where breakfasts and lunches are often served. Dinner tends to be served in a variety of locations, often under the stars. In front of the dining area is a firepit, surrounded by chairs, ideal for a pre- dinner drink.

Nearby is a lovely swimming pool with a seating area and sundeck facing the Mara River. Almost reminiscent of a seascape this features ropes, hoops, pebble chairs, modern sunloungers and white sail canvas.

Activities at Mara River Tented Camp primarily focus on twice daily game drives in the surrounding area. In order to minimise environmental impact, private vehicles are not available at Singita Mara. Instead a maximum of six guests share brand new vehicles. Guided walks are also possible .

Singita Mara River Tented Camp provides an excellent opportunity to view river crossings in July, August and September. Although please bear in mind that with so much wildlife surrounding the camp, there can also be quite a distinctive smell of wildebeest! Guests visiting outside of these months will virtually have the whole Lamai wege to themselves and game viewing will be varied because of the permanent water source nearby.

After a game drive relax with a facial, manicure or massage in your tent or on your private deck. Massages from $120 per hour dependent on treatment.

Geographics

Location
Serengeti Migration Area, Tanzania
Ideal length of stay
Stay here for 2–3 nights to enjoy the game viewing of the area.
Directions
Singita Mara is about 1½ hours' game drive from Kogatende airstrip, or 45 minutes from Lamai airstrip. It is around a 2 hour flight from Arusha.
Accessible by
Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Full Board & Activities
Food quality
When we last stayed at Singita Mara River Tented Camp in October 2018 the food was very good. There was a real variety on offer, with dishes deliciously prepared and beautifully presented.

There are no set meal times, and guests are encouraged to be as relaxed as they wish.

Breakfast at Singita Mara usually starts with a selection of granola, cornflakes and other cereals, followed by freshly baked pastries, yoghurt, and – for those who want it – a full cooked breakfast. Breakfast times can be flexible and for those who want to go on game drives early can also take a packed bush breakfast with them.

Lunch is usually something quite light like a fresh salad and homemade bread.

Dinner is either a three-course menu, or maybe a themed evening with multiple small dishes brought to your table. On our latest visit, the camp had a ‘Swahili evening’, where we were served plentiful amounts of barbequed beef, pilau, maharage (beans in coconut) ugali (maize meal) and kachumbari (tomato salad).
On a previous stay we enjoyed goats cheese prepared three different ways, beetroot salad, and an orange reduction to start; pan-fried duck breast, croquette potatoes, braised red cabbage and a thyme jus for main, and a malva pudding to finish. It was all superb.

Singita is one of Africa’s most influential collectors of wine, and so you can expect a good selection of well paired wine with lunch and dinner.
Dining style
Individual Tables
Dining locations
Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
Included
Drinks included
Most drinks (including the mini bar in the tents) are included apart from premium wines and spirits.

Special interests

Wildlife safaris
Singita Mara River Tented Camp is perfectly located to view wildebeest crossing the Mara River in July, August and September. Often guests won’t even need to leave camp to see some of the action!
See ideas for Wildlife safaris in Tanzania
Luxury
As well as making the most of its stunning location, Singita Mara River Camp pairs sumptuous natural fabrics with contemporary details in Bohemian-chic interiors. Incredible attention to detail results in a luxurious, stylish aesthetic with an authentic connection to nature.
See ideas for Luxury in Tanzania

Children

Attitude towards children
Singita Mara accept children over the age of 10.
Property’s age restrictions
10+
Special activities & services
There is a special children’s programme called ‘Watoto Pori‘ which teaches them a number of bush skills. Children are welcomed with an age-appropriate survival kit in a small satchel with to which they are encouraged to attach badges earned for the skills they learn. These can include tracking animals; frogging; butterfly capture and release; astronomy; bush survival techniques; flower-pressing; game-spotting competitions and nature quizzes.
Equipment
None
Generally recommended for children
Singita Mara is a grown up camp and will cater best for older children.
Notes
Singita Mara Tented Camp is an open camp without any fences and big game can, and frequently does, walk straight through camp. You should therefore take the upmost precaution.

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Singita Mara River

Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Singita Mara River Tented Camp have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.

Buffalo

100% success

Eland

100% success

Elephant

100% success

Giraffe

100% success

Hippo

100% success

Lion

100% success

Spotted Hyena

100% success

Striped Hyena

100% success

Wildebeest

100% success

Zebra

100% success

Aardvark

0% success

Black Rhino

0% success

Cheetah

0% success

Leopard

0% success

Oryx

0% success

Pangolin

0% success

Roan antelope

0% success

Wild dog

0% success

Communications

Power supply notes
The camp is proud of their state-of the-art solar panels, which provide energy even on cloudy days. There is a back-up generator, so power is available 24 hours a day. Both European and American plug adaptors are provided.
Communications
There is free WiFi throughout the camp and internal phones in all of the tents. Mobile phone signal is very intermittent.
TV & radio
No
Water supply
Borehole
Water supply notes
There is running hot and cold water in the bathroom that can be used for washing, but filtered water is supplied for drinking. All the toilets have flush systems and are plumbed in.

Sustainability

Singita Mara River Tented Camp sustainability

New, creative uses for old African tools

Opened in 2012, Mara River Tented Camp is the perfect representation of Singita’s philosophy of preserving iconic locations by offering ‘fewer beds in larger areas’. With only 16 beds within 98,000 acres of wilderness, the camp is widely recognized for putting forward the concept of sustainable construction that creates an immersive African experience, and also minimizes the impact of the buildings on the environment.

To create a contemporary African design, the architects used traditional objects that have been converted for new uses. The camp has brought hand crafted African baskets from local designers, and used them as decorative elements. For example, baskets used for filtering traditional beer have been painted and act as a décor element. Similarly, wooden pendant lights, whose shapes are derived from African pots, are manufactured from sustainable jacaranda wood. When it comes to the building’s structure, wooden decks and basket walls and roofs have been used to minimize the pressure of the construction on the ground. The camp also uses custom-designed solar panels on which it relies entirely for electricity, making it 100% ‘off the grid’.

The predominant use of colours black, red and blue pays homage to the Masai culture and the heritage of local Kuria tribes. Guests have the opportunity to explore the interior and invite the staff to share stories of how African culture and design has been reinterpreted.

See more great sustainability projects in Tanzania

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
Yes
Medical care
There are first-aid kits in all of the tents, vehicles and main areas. The guides and managers are trained in first aid. In an emergency it would be a three-hour drive for a paramedic to reach the camp.
Dangerous animals
High Risk
Security measures
Traditionally dressed Maasai, armed with spears, will escort you to and from your room at night
Fire safety
There are fire extinguishers in all of the tents and the main area.

Activities

  • 4WD Safari

    4WD Safari

  • Birdwatching

    Birdwatching

  • Hot air ballooning

    Hot air ballooning

Extras

Disabled access
Not Possible
Laundry facilities
Full Laundry Service included. Machine washed and dried.
Money
There are electronic safes in all of the rooms.
Accepted payment on location
Visa, MasterCard and American Express cards are accepted without surcharge. Cash in US dollars and euros may also be used.

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Singita Mara River Tented Camp's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Singita Mara River.


Excursions from Singita Mara River

Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Singita Mara River. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.


Balloon Safari over the Serengeti

Balloon Safari over the Serengeti

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More about Balloon Safari
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When to go to Serengeti Migration Area

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Singita Mara River in Serengeti Migration Area


Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Serengeti Migration Area in January

January marks the start of the Serengeti’s short dry season. In the southern plains, the wildebeest calving season takes centre stage, drawing both predators and eager wildlife enthusiasts. The weather is generally clear and sunny, with rising temperatures, though occasional rainfall may still occur in the southern areas. Birdwatching is particularly rewarding during this time, with resident species in their breeding plumage and migratory birds adding to the variety.

The far southern plains of Ndutu coupled with the central Seronera area remains a reliable choice for game viewing, with lions and cheetahs frequently sighted on the hunt. While the park can be busier early in the month due to New Year visitors, it often becomes quieter later, providing excellent value and a more peaceful experience. Patience may be needed during game drives, as some wildlife becomes more dispersed.

  • Variable weather: clear, dry or rainy
  • Thunderstorms may occur occasionally
  • Prime birding season with migrant species
  • Wildebeest gathering in southern Serengeti
  • Busy early, quieter later in the month

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in January

Serengeti Migration Area in February

February in the Serengeti is hot, with daytime highs reaching around 33°C/91°F, but cooling down significantly in the evening and overnight. It's an excellent time to visit as the northern circuit is comparatively quieter than during peak seasons. The wildebeest calving season, typically occurring in a two-three week window in early-mid February, is a major attraction. Thousands of calves are born daily, attracting a significant number of predators, creating an intense yet fascinating spectacle.

Birdlife is equally vibrant, as migratory species from the northern hemisphere join the park's resident birds. The Ndutu region is especially active, hosting an abundance of wildlife. Hot air balloon safaris offer unparalleled views of the action below. Despite the midday heat, early morning game drives remain comfortable and highly rewarding.

  • Hot and dry weather conditions prevail
  • Wildebeest calving in southern plains
  • Southern Serengeti busy for migration
  • Lush, green landscapes across the park
  • Ideal for wildlife photography

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in February

Serengeti Migration Area in March

March typically sees the arrival of the long rains in the Serengeti, though the exact timing can vary each year. With water becoming more plentiful, migratory animals begin to spread out, making wildlife spotting a bit more challenging in certain areas. The Seronera Valley remains a reliable choice for sightings, thanks to its consistent water sources.

The rains bring a dramatic transformation to the landscape, with lush greenery emerging across the plains, offering stunning photographic opportunities. Birdwatchers are in for a treat, as many species are in their vibrant breeding plumage. Although some mobile tented camps begin winding down operations in preparation for the next season, visitors can still enjoy the park’s quieter atmosphere and its renewed natural beauty.

  • Hot with increasing humidity pre-rains
  • Wildlife viewing varies as rains begin
  • Park quieter with lower visitor numbers
  • Excellent time for bird watching
  • Green vegetation provides scenic backdrops

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in March

Serengeti Migration Area in April

April tends to be the wettest month in the Serengeti, with rainfall averaging around 250mm. The park is transformed into a verdant oasis, alive with birds, insects, and smaller wildlife. However, the dense vegetation can make spotting animals more difficult. Visitor numbers are at their lowest, allowing for a more exclusive safari experience and there can be some good emerald season bargains to be had.

The wildebeest migration typically begins slowly moving toward the Western Corridor, and patient travellers can witness fascinating sights such as newborn animals and predators on the hunt. Rising water levels make the Retina Hippo Pool particularly active. Birdwatching continues to be excellent, and many lodges offer reduced rates, making it an appealing time for those willing to brave occasional downpours.

  • Heavy rains with impressive thunderstorms
  • Some camps closed due to weather
  • Lowest rates and fewest tourists
  • Vibrant greenery, wildlife more dispersed
  • Not ideal for general wildlife viewing

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in April

Serengeti Migration Area in May

As the month of May progresses, the rains start to taper off across the Serengeti and temperatures drop slightly. Visitor numbers remain low, and lodge rates are often highly competitive, making it a great time for more value-conscious travellers. The wildebeest migration usually still heading towards the Western Corridor, with some herds nearing the Grumeti River and others still milling around the central area of the park. Predator-prey interactions become more frequent as animals navigate the changing environment.

The Moru Kopjes region offers particularly rewarding wildlife encounters, including the chance to spot black rhinos. The park’s vegetation is at its lushest, providing breathtaking backdrops for photographers. Balloon safaris during this time give a spectacular view of the green plains and migrating herds.

  • Rains continue, creating dramatic skies
  • Quiet period, great for avoiding crowds
  • Lush landscapes with long grasses
  • Wildlife more dispersed, fewer sightings
  • Affordable safari options available

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in May

Serengeti Migration Area in June

June signals the end of the rainy season in the Serengeti, with the landscape beginning to dry out. Wildlife starts to gather around permanent water sources, and the Grumeti River becomes a key location for dramatic river crossings. Before the wildebeest migration heads north, the Western Corridor remains a hub of activity.

Many camps will offer shoulder season rates in June, meaning that this is also a more affordable time to visit than later in the year. The Lobo Valley in the north also becomes a productive area for wildlife viewing. With shorter grasses and clearer conditions, June is an excellent time for walking safaris in designated areas. The balance of good weather, exciting wildlife action, and moderate tourist numbers makes it a great month to visit.

  • Weather varies: clear, dry or some rain
  • Migration moving from west to north
  • Parks still green with high grasses
  • Wildlife becoming more concentrated
  • Good value shoulder season prices

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in June

Serengeti Migration Area in July

July is the start of peak season in the Serengeti, with little to no rainfall expected and pleasant daytime temperatures. As the park dries, wildlife congregates in fewer areas, improving game viewing opportunities. The wildebeest migration typically reaches the northern Serengeti, with herds beginning to cross the Mara River. This spectacle draws many visitors, making the northern areas busier.

The Seronera area remains excellent for big cat sightings. In the western corridor, resident game becomes easier to spot as vegetation thins. Balloon safaris are particularly popular this month, offering breathtaking views of the migrating herds. Despite the crowds, July offers some of the year's best wildlife viewing opportunities across the park.

  • Dry days, chilly mornings and evenings
  • Excellent wildlife viewing opportunities
  • Peak season with increasing visitor numbers
  • Highest prices due to prime conditions
  • Great Migration in full swing

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in July

Serengeti Migration Area in August

August in the Serengeti is characterised by clear skies and sunny weather, though cooler nights and mornings call for layered clothing for early morning game drives. It's an extremely popular time to visit, with accommodation prices at their peak. The northern Serengeti is particularly busy as visitors hope to witness migration river crossings – with the Mara and Sand rivers becoming focal points for dramatic wildlife interactions.

In the central Serengeti, predator sightings remain good around the Seronera River. The park's southern regions are now much drier, home to excellent resident game and now fewer visitors. Balloon safaris provide stunning aerial views of the landscape and wildlife. While August is a very busy time, the consistent wildlife activity and reliable weather make it a fantastic month to visit.

  • Dry climate, cool mornings and evenings
  • Superb general wildlife viewing
  • Exciting wildebeest migration period
  • Very busy, camps fill up quickly
  • Dramatic river crossings may occur

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in August

Serengeti Migration Area in September

September continues the Serengeti’s dry season, with wildlife becoming increasingly concentrated around the few remaining water sources. The northern Serengeti still hosts the wildebeest migration, with river crossings at the Mara River offering dramatic predator-prey interactions. The Seronera Valley remains an excellent spot for sightings of resident predators, while the now-parched southern plains offer good chances to see cheetahs.

As the month progresses, visitor numbers begin to drop slightly, making it a quieter time to explore. Birdwatching remains rewarding, and walking safaris provide a more intimate wildlife experience. September’s pleasant weather and exceptional wildlife viewing make it a very good time to visit.

  • Fantastic wildlife viewing conditions
  • Slightly less crowded than peak months
  • Parks becoming dry with less vegetation
  • Pleasant temperatures throughout day
  • Prices remain high for quality safaris

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in September

Serengeti Migration Area in October

October marks the tail end of the dry season in the Serengeti. Wildlife gathers around the last water sources, creating fantastic viewing opportunities. The Mara River may still see some migration activity, while the central Seronera region continues to deliver reliable predator sightings. In the western corridor, large herds of elephants are a highlight, and the dry southern plains can sometimes offer very good opportunities to spot cheetah.

Birdwatching is rewarding, with many resident species easily spotted. Balloon safaris offer breathtaking views of the parched landscape – though photographers need to be prepared for dusty conditions. Prices remain high, but visitor numbers are lower than in July-Sept, providing a more exclusive safari experience.

  • Mostly dry with comfortable temperatures
  • Excellent game viewing opportunities
  • Landscape may appear somewhat barren
  • Lower visitor numbers than earlier months
  • Chance to see predator action at its best

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in October

Serengeti Migration Area in November

November usually signals the start of the short rains in the Serengeti. While lighter and more sporadic than the long rains, they rejuvenate the landscape with fresh grass growth. Wildlife begins to disperse as water becomes more readily available, but game viewing remains strong, particularly in the central Seronera area.

The wildebeest herds start their journey southward from the Mara region, creating opportunities for unique sightings. Birdwatching is excellent, with the arrival of migratory species adding to the variety. Some mobile camps in the north close temporarily, but those who visit in November can enjoy great value with lower rates and quieter conditions.

  • Variable weather: clear, dry or rainy
  • Parks quieter with lower-end prices
  • Some camps close for maintenance
  • Wildlife disperses as rains begin
  • Migration movement less predictable

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in November

Serengeti Migration Area in December

December is a transition month in the Serengeti, falling within the short rainy season. The rains bring life to the southern plains, attracting the wildebeest herds and the predators that follow them. The Ndutu region becomes a focal point for wildlife activity.

Temperatures are comfortable, averaging around 27°C/81°F, with the possibility of occasional thunderstorms. Birdwatching is outstanding, with many migratory species adding to the diversity. Early December offers good value, with lower prices and fewer visitors, but the festive season sees a surge in demand, requiring early bookings. Balloon safaris provide stunning views of the rejuvenated landscape, making December an exciting time to visit the park.

  • Weather varies: dry, rainy, or stormy
  • Good game viewing in central Serengeti
  • Quiet early, extremely busy late month
  • Prices rise sharply for holiday season
  • Green season begins, landscapes refresh

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in December

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