Optimal travel periods depend on weather and specific travel seasons in Uganda.
Like Kenya, the DR Congo, and several other countries, Uganda lies on the equator, resulting in minimal temperature fluctuations throughout the year. In the capital, Kampala, and surrounding areas, the average high temperature seldom exceeds 29°C (84°F).
In the northern regions, however, daytime temperatures typically range from 24-33°C (52-91°F), occasionally peaking up to 40°C (104°F) near Kidepo National Park during January and February.
Uganda’s tropical climate features two main seasons: a dry season and a wet season.
In northern Uganda, the dry season runs from December to February, while the wet season spans from March to November, affecting areas like Murchison Falls National Park, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Kidepo National Park, and Pian Upe Game Reserve.
The southwestern region, located between the Rwenzori Mountains, Virunga Massif, and Lake Victoria, experiences two wet seasons: the first from mid-September to November and the second from March to May. Visitors to this region should be prepared for potential rain showers at any time of the day.
The dry season occurs from June to August and December to February.
During the dry season in Uganda, average temperatures range from 16°C (61°F) in the morning to 27°C (81°F) in the afternoon. In high-altitude areas, such as where gorillas reside, it can be quite chilly at 1,300 meters (4,265 feet).
June, July & August
June and July are the driest months in the southwestern region, though occasional rains can occur due to the area’s rainforests. In contrast, these months fall within the wet season in northern regions. However, in the far north, such as Pian Upe or Kidepo Valley, the region’s semi-arid climate may experience droughts during this period.
December, January & February
The southwest region sees slightly more rainfall in December, January, and February compared to June and July. Meanwhile, the north remains predominantly dry with little to no rainfall.
Travelling To Uganda in the dry season?
The ideal time to visit Uganda for a safari is during its two dry seasons from December to January and June to August. These periods offer optimal conditions for gorilla trekking, as the forest floors are less wet, trails are more accessible, and your photography equipment is less likely to be soaked in rain. However, keep in mind that you’re in a rainforest, so occasional showers are still possible.
The dry seasons also provide excellent opportunities to explore Uganda’s savannah reserves, as clear skies, abundant sunshine, and less vegetation make wildlife easier to observe. Animals are drawn to water holes, creating prime opportunities for wildlife sightings. Additionally, you can enjoy boat safaris on the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park and the Victoria Nile in Murchison Falls National Park during this time.
The peak travel season in Uganda spans June to September and December to January. Unlike Kenya and Tanzania, Uganda’s savannah parks tend to be less crowded during this period, allowing you to enjoy the open plains with fewer visitors.
Given that the prime time for mountain gorilla viewing in Uganda coincides with the dry seasons, gorilla trekking permits can be hard to come by. It’s advisable to book your permits several months in advance, ideally between 4 to 12 months before your trip, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
When it comes to booking the gorilla permit:
The Uganda Wildlife Authority offers gorilla permits at USD 800 per person and limits each group to eight visitors. Uganda has 20 gorilla groups available for tourism and two more groups for the habituation experience, which means there are only 160 gorilla permits and eight habituation permits available each day. This limited availability adds to the importance of booking your permit well in advance. Book A Gorilla Permit Here>>
Travelling To Uganda In Wet Season: March to May and September to November
During the wet season in Uganda, average temperatures range from 16°C (61°F) in the morning to 28°C (82°F) in the afternoon. In higher altitudes, such as the gorilla mountains, it can be chilly, while the northern regions are warmer.
Uganda’s wet season occurs in two periods: March to May and September to November.
March, April & May
The wet season from March to May sees increased rainfall throughout the country, particularly peaking in April in the southern region. This period can make some trails challenging to navigate due to the rain, though there are still warm, sunny days mixed in.
September, October & November
These months, known as the period of short rains, are similar to March, April, and May but generally experience slightly less rainfall on average.
Travelling to Uganda in the wet season?
Uganda experiences its low season (off-peak) during the wet season, leading hotels, camps, and lodges to offer lower rates due to decreased travel traffic. If you’re comfortable with a daily downpour and want to travel on a budget, this period is an excellent time to visit Uganda.
The wet seasons showcase Uganda’s natural beauty, with lush green vegetation enhancing the country’s stunning landscape features. The southwestern highlands boast captivating emerald landscapes, while the snow-capped Rwenzori mountains add a majestic touch to the western and southern borders. Photography enthusiasts will enjoy capturing the scenery, particularly when the afternoon sun brightens the landscapes.
While the wet season brings challenges such as overgrown vegetation and animals dispersed across the savannah plains, there are still plenty of wildlife sightings, including newborns. You’ll witness dramatic encounters as predators hunt while vigilant mothers protect their young.
However, some roads may deteriorate, bridges may wash away due to heavy rains, and cars might get stuck, especially in the gorilla mountains where roads are not yet paved. Rainforest trails can become damp, slippery, and challenging to navigate.
For adventurous travelers, November offers a unique opportunity for gorilla trekking in Uganda. During this time, mountain gorillas tend to stay close to trailheads since food is abundant and lower altitudes provide more comfort. This makes trekking easier, even though rain is a possibility.
