Best Time to Visit Uganda

Uganda’s climate is largely tropical with two rainy seasons per year, March to May and September to December. The northern region, which forms one-quarter of the country lies outside the tropical belt and hence experiences only one rainy season, March to October.

Depending on what your travel reason is, Uganda is an all-year-round travel destination with most safari camps and lodges open all year round though most of the lodges will take on renovation during the rainy seasons which is also the low tourism season.

The best time to visit Uganda largely depends on what you want to experience. However, the two main dry seasons are generally considered the best times for wildlife viewing and trekking:

1. June to August:

This is the peak tourist season in Uganda. The weather is generally dry, making it ideal for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Wildlife viewing in savannah parks like Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls National Park is also excellent during this time.

2. December to February:

Another dry season is when the weather is favourable for wildlife viewing and trekking. This period is also great for birdwatching as migratory birds flock to Uganda.

For those looking to venture into tropical rainforests for primate trekking in Bwindi forest and Mgahinga for gorillas and Kibale forest for chimpanzee trekking, the best time to visit Uganda would be during the country’s two dry seasons from June to September and from December to February which will see the country receive low rainfall hence making trekking easier and for those looking out for wildlife viewing in Uganda savannah parks would aim for the end of the rainy season from May to June and from September to October when the grass is short and green and wildlife is abundant.

Tips for Traveling in Uganda:

Pack Accordingly: Depending on the time of year, pack clothes for both warm and cool weather, especially if you plan to visit different regions with varying climates.

Health Precautions: Check with your healthcare provider for any required vaccinations or health precautions before travelling to Uganda.

Respect Wildlife: When on safari or trekking, follow the guidelines provided by your guides to ensure the safety of both yourself and the wildlife.

Respect Local Customs: Uganda is a culturally diverse country, so it’s important to respect local customs and traditions during your visit.

Best Time

Planning a safari to Uganda may require a piece of expert advice as there are many tourist attractions to look out for while planning your safari. These range from Gorilla trekking safari holidays in Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks. Chimpanzee trekking holidays in Kibale National Park, mountain Climbing in Rwenzori and Mount Elgon. Wildlife viewing in Kidepo, Queen Elizabeth, Murchison falls and Lake Mburo national park and exceptional birding adventures in Semuliki national park. Adventure activities in Jinja, Sipi falls and fort portal, cultural tours to the Karamojong semi-arid region of northeastern Uganda. And beach holidays in the white sandy beaches of Ssese island. Sport fishing in on the Nile River in Murchison falls making it a diverse holiday destination.