Best time to visit Uganda

ICONIC PLACES TO VISIT  |  SAFARI IDEAS  | THINGS TO DO  |  BEST TIME TO VISIT  |  TRAVEL INFORMATION


Overview

Uganda's climate varies throughout the year, offering different experiences for visitors. While the dry seasons (June-September and December-February) are ideal for game viewing, the country's diverse landscapes and habitats make it a year-round destination. Plan your trip accordingly and make the most of your time in this beautiful country.

Here's a monthly breakdown of what to expect:
January: Great time for tracking Mountain Gorilla& cooling off in the mountains
January is Uganda's warmest month with average temperature of 28°C (84°F) in Kampala and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest at 25°C (77°F) but be prepared for unexpected rain showers throughout the year. This makes it a great time to trek mountain gorillas in Bwindi and chimpanzees in Kibale and Budongo Forest as the cooler mountain temperatures provide a refreshing escape. Wildlife spotting is easy as the vegetation is thinner, more animals are seen congregating around waterholes, making for exciting sightings. Additionally, January is an excellent time for bird watching, with many species active during this period
February: Ideal for Trekking and Wildlife Spotting
February is one of the best months to visit Uganda, with average temperature of 29°C (84°F) in Kampala and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest at 25°C (77°F) offering perfect conditions for gorilla trekking and wildlife spotting. The dry weather ensures comfortable hiking in the dense forests, with minimal mud and humidity. With reduced rainfall and thinner vegetation, spotting game is easier making it an optimal time for Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Wildlife spotting in the national parks, Enjoying clear skies and sunshine. Make the most of Uganda's prime trekking and spotting conditions in February!
March: A Haven for Birdwatchers and Nature Lovers.
As the long rainy season begins in March which lasts through May, however as long as you pack and plan accordingly it will be a great time to visit. The average temperature of 27°C (81°F) in Kampala while the mountainous region of Bwindi Impenetrable at 25°C (77°F). Even so, skies tend to brighten up after the rain allowing plenty of opportunities to explore and relax in the sunshine

Uganda's national parks are at their most vibrant, with lush green landscapes and an abundance of new life. This month animals welcome their young, making it a great time for wildlife enthusiasts. Migratory birds from Europe arrive offering exceptional bird watching opportunities. It’s usually quieter, crowd-free national parks

Queen Elizabeth National Park is a bird enthusiast's dream, with over 1000 unique species to spot. Grab your binoculars and take advantage of the off-season tranquility. Keep in mind that migratory birds will take flight in April, but return by early November.

Please note that frequent heavy rain showers can lead to Challenging road conditions and Bumpier journeys but the rewards far outweigh the challenges. Embrace the beauty of Uganda's rainy season and witness the circle of life in all its glory.
April: A Great Time for a Quiet Adventure
April is the wettest month in Uganda, with daily rains especially in Bwindi National Park you will find a thick mist that settles around the treetops, The rain makes the trails muddy but the cooler temperatures in the mountains has its advantages as there are fewer tourists you can enjoy quieter trails and peaceful parks, lower prices for accommodation, easier to book gorilla trekking permits., the Gorilla treks come to lower altitudes making trekking times shorter.
May: Intimate Wildlife Encounters and Fewer Crowds
May is still part of the rainy season across the country there will be muddy trails with more bumpy rides, although there isn’t quite as much rainfall as April. It’s still a great time to visit Uganda. Take advantage of the off-season benefits and get up close and personal with Uganda's incredible wildlife! With fewer crowds, lower prices, lush landscapes and beautiful scenery, Gorillas are still active in the lower altitudes, making them easier to spot.
June: Peak Season Adventure
June marks the beginning of Uganda's peak season offering stunning landscapes, Lush green scenery, blue skies, and warm temperatures (avg. 27°C) Improved wildlife spotting: Thinning vegetation increases chances of seeing The Big 5 (lion, leopard, elephant, and Cape buffalo)

Please remember to book accommodations and gorilla permits in advance to avoid sold-out situations. Get ready for an unforgettable Ugandan adventure!
July: Experience Uganda's diversity!
July is the perfect time to experience Uganda's diverse wonders, the weather is ideal with daytime temperatures (25°C) and cooler nights (13°C) in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Game drives yield top-notch views as animals gather around watering holes, sunrise and sunset boat cruises are the best, the gorilla treks are more manageable in the dry conditions

Take advantage of Uganda's peak season and indulge in an unforgettable adventure!"

Please remember to book accommodations and gorilla permits in advance to avoid sold-out situations.
August: Prime Month for Wildlife and a Photographers Dream!
August is the driest month ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers! It’s Prime for game drives you will spot lots of elephants, lions, zebras, buffalo, and more in their natural habitat, Leopard sightings are good with the vegetation low. Get ready with your cameras to capture stunning images with unobstructed views and perfect lighting

Remember to pack layers for chilly nights (down to 14°C), but don't miss this incredible opportunity to witness Uganda's wildlife in all its glory!
September: Optimal Chimpanzee Tracking Month
While the second half of September is the beginning of the second season of the year, the first half is great for game drives, experience the ultimate chimpanzee adventure in Uganda's renowned forests of Kibale Forest, Budongo Forest, Kyambura Gorge and Kalinzu Forest

September offers perfect trekking conditions: Dry trails and minimal rain in the first half of the month, thriving chimpanzee communities: Witness over 300 chimps in their natural habitats

Don't miss this incredible opportunity to observe our closest living relatives in their natural environment
October: Last-Minute Travel Steals & Sunshine
October marks the beginning of Uganda's short rainy season, but don't let that deter you! Enjoy last-minute gorilla permits, special deals on accommodations: Take advantage of lower prices and packages

Unpredictable yet beautiful weather: Brief rain showers followed by stunning sunshine and blue skies

Embrace the flexibility and savings that come with traveling during the off-season. You'll still experience Uganda's breathtaking landscapes and incredible wildlife, with the added bonus of smaller crowds and lower costs!
November: Serene Shoulder Season
Unpredictable yet mild weather: Mix of rainy and dry days, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C

Enjoy off-season price, last chance to snag deals on accommodations and tours before peak season

Experience Uganda's serene beauty in November, a hidden gem for travelers. Enjoy peaceful landscapes, fewer crowds and more tranquility, you will witness the return of migratory bird species

Enjoy photography opportunities, late afternoon thunderstorms create breathtaking backdrops
December: Adventure & Relaxation by the Nile
With Uganda's shorter rainy season passed, December brings plenty of sunshine and warm to hot temperatures. You'll still want rain gear on hand as you may encounter a few wet days toward the beginning of the month, especially in the south near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. It’s a good time to enjoy Adrenaline-pumping activities: Rafting, kayaking, tubing, and sunset cruising on the Nile

- Wildlife spotting: Capture stunning photos of Nile crocodiles, hippos, and more in Lake Victoria's ecologically diverse waters

- Relaxation by the river: Unwind in the serene atmosphere of the Nile's shores

Jinja, the "adrenaline capital of East Africa," is the ultimate destination for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. Come and experience the best of Uganda's adventure and relaxation in December!"