Best Time to Visit Uganda for Safaris and Gorilla Trekking

Best Time to Visit Uganda for Safaris and Gorilla Trekking. Uganda, known as the “Pearl of Africa,” is a land of endless beauty — a place where lush rainforests, open savannahs, snow-capped mountains, and shimmering lakes combine to create one of Africa’s most enchanting safari destinations.
But to get the very best out of your safari or gorilla trekking adventure, timing is everything.

At Kenlink Tours, we want to help you plan your journey perfectly. Here’s everything you need to know about the best time to visit Uganda for wildlife safaris and unforgettable gorilla encounters.


Uganda’s Climate Overview

Uganda has a warm, tropical climate all year round, thanks to its equatorial location.
However, the country experiences two main seasons:

  • Dry Seasons:

    • December to February (Short dry season)

    • June to September (Long dry season)

  • Wet Seasons:

    • March to May (Long rains)

    • October to November (Short rains)

Each season offers its own unique experiences, but for easier travel, better wildlife sightings, and more comfortable trekking conditions, the dry seasons are the top choice.


Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Tracking endangered mountain gorillas through the misty forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is often the highlight of a Uganda trip.

Best Months for Gorilla Trekking:

  • June to September (Peak season)

  • December to February (High season)

During these dry months, the trails are less muddy and slippery, making the trekking experience much easier and more enjoyable.
Visibility is better, and you are likely to get clearer photographs of the gorillas in their lush habitats.

Important Tip:
Because permits are limited and demand is high during dry seasons, book your gorilla permits early — at least 6 months in advance with Kenlink Tours.


Best Time for Wildlife Safaris in Uganda

Uganda’s national parks are brimming with wildlife, from tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park to massive elephant herds in Murchison Falls National Park.
The best safaris happen when animals congregate around water sources and the bush is less thick.

Best Months for Wildlife Safaris:

  • June to September

  • December to February

During these dry months:

  • Wildlife is easier to spot since animals gather near rivers and waterholes.

  • Roads within parks are more accessible (important for remote parks like Kidepo Valley).

  • There’s less vegetation, making animal spotting a lot easier.

Top Safari Parks for the Best Wildlife Viewing:

  • Murchison Falls National Park

  • Queen Elizabeth National Park

  • Kidepo Valley National Park

  • Lake Mburo National Park

Pro Tip:
Combine a traditional game safari with a boat safari (like on the Kazinga Channel or Nile River) to double your chances of seeing abundant wildlife.


What About the Wet Season? Should You Still Visit?

While most travelers prefer the dry season, visiting during the wet months March to May and October to November has its own unique charms:

  • Fewer tourists, meaning you can enjoy parks in peace.

  • Stunning green landscapes and vibrant flowers.

  • Birdwatching is spectacular — many migratory bird species arrive.

  • Some lodges and safari camps offer discounted rates during the low season.

However:

  • Gorilla trekking becomes much tougher because the trails are muddier and more slippery.

  • Some roads, especially in remote areas, might become challenging to navigate.

Kenlink Tip:
If you’re a seasoned traveler or photographer looking for lush, dramatic scenery, the green season could be a magical time!


Best Month-by-Month Guide for Uganda Safaris and Gorilla Trekking

MonthConditionsSafari & Gorilla Trekking Tips
January – FebruaryDry and sunnyPerfect for both safaris and gorilla trekking
March – MayWet, green seasonFewer tourists; trails can be muddy
June – JulyPeak dry seasonExcellent game viewing and gorilla tracking
August – SeptemberStill dry, slightly coolerBest overall for wildlife spotting
October – NovemberShort rainsGood for birding; some discounted rates
DecemberDry, festive seasonPopular for holidays and family safaris

Why Book Your Safari with Kenlink Tours?

✅ We know Uganda’s seasons inside and out.
✅ We arrange your permits, accommodations, and transport hassle-free.
✅ We personalize your safari to match your travel dates and dreams.
✅ Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, family, or group, we create magical, memorable adventures.

From planning your perfect gorilla trekking day to designing an entire Big Five safari across Uganda’s best parks, we are here to help make your African dream come true — in the best season for you.


Plan Your Perfect Trip Now!

🌿✨ Ready to experience the best of Uganda?
Contact Kenlink Tours today, and let’s start planning your ultimate safari and gorilla trekking adventure — with the perfect timing for unforgettable memories! Book now: Email us now: info@kenlinktours.com or inquiries@kenlinktours.com

Uganda Private Safari Holidays

Tour Packages
Tour 1
7 Days Chimpanzee & Gorilla Trekking tracking
Destination: Mgahinga NP
Duration: 7 Days
Type: Primate Tour
Tour Details
Tour 2
20 Days Ultimate Uganda Safari
Destination: Uganda
Duration: 20 Days
Type: Primate Wildlife Tour
Tour Details
Tour 3
10 Days Uganda-Rwanda Safari
Destination: Kenya
Duration: 10 Days
Type: Wildlfie I Primate
Tour Details
Tour 4
25 Days Uganda Lifetime Safari
Destination: Uganda
Duration: 25 Days
Type: Wildlife I Primate I Wildlife
Tour Details
Tour 4
6 Days Gorilla, Chimpanzee Adventure
Destination: Uganda I Rwanda
Duration: 6 Days
Type: Priamte Trekking
Tour Details
Tour 4
5 Days Uganda Primate Safari Experience
Destination: Uganda
Duration: 5 Days
Type: Primate Safari
Tour Details
Tour 4
3 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari
Destination: Uganda
Duration: 3 Days
Type: Gorilla Safari
Tour Details
Tour 4
18 Days Ultimate Uganda Safari
Destination: Uganda
Duration: 18 Days
Type: Wildlife, Primate, Culture
Tour Details

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