The Best Time to Visit Uganda

Planning your safari adventure, but unsure when to visit Uganda? Although Uganda enjoys a warm, tropical climate throughout the year, understanding the dry and rainy seasons can help you make the most of your trip. Knowing when gorilla trekking is at its best or when the peak travel season begins ensures a smooth and memorable journey. Here’s everything you need to know before setting off.

Uganda’s Weather at a Glance

Uganda boasts a pleasantly mild climate throughout the year. It never gets extremely hot or cold, making it one of the most comfortable destinations in East Africa. Unlike the coastal regions of Kenya and Tanzania, the humidity here is moderate.

The warmest parts of Uganda are located in the north and northwest, including areas around Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, Karamoja, and Kidepo Valley National Park. If you prefer cooler weather, it’s best to avoid these areas in January and February when temperatures can soar.

Higher-altitude destinations such as the Rwenzori Mountains, Mount Elgon, Lake Bunyonyi, and the rainforests of Kibale and Bwindi are noticeably cooler. These regions are perfect for gorilla or chimpanzee trekking but can get chilly, especially in the evenings—so pack a warm jacket or jumper for comfort.

The Best Months to Visit Uganda

If you’re seeking fewer crowds and great value, plan your visit between April–May or November. These months fall within the rainy seasons, when some lodges offer discounted rates. Expect more frequent showers, particularly around Entebbe, Jinja, Sipi Falls, and southwestern Uganda.

Rainfall tends to be heavy but brief, often followed by bright sunshine. The lush landscapes during this time are breathtaking—vibrant green hills, blooming flowers, and clear, fresh air. However, it’s not the ideal season for mountain hiking in the Rwenzoris or on Mount Elgon, as trails can become slippery.

For those who prefer dry conditions, December–February and June–September are the best months to explore. These are the warmest and driest periods of the year. In the savannah parks such as Kidepo, Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, and Lake Mburo, the thinning vegetation and shrinking water sources make wildlife viewing excellent.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking can be done all year round, as rainforests are naturally moist environments. Even during the so-called dry seasons, showers are common in Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks.

The dry months (June–September and December–February) are generally preferred because forest trails are less muddy and easier to hike. Still, the rain brings a different kind of beauty to the jungle—misty scenery, fresh air, and fewer tourists on the trails. Just remember to bring waterproof clothing and sturdy hiking boots.

Understanding Uganda’s High and Low Seasons

Tourism in Uganda operates year-round, but July–September and December–January are considered peak seasons. This is when many international travelers take their holidays. Although Uganda’s national parks rarely feel crowded, accommodations, gorilla permits, and self-drive rental cars can book up fast. To avoid disappointment, we recommend making reservations several months in advance.

If you’d like a quieter and more affordable experience, visit during the shoulder or low seasons (April–May or November). You’ll still enjoy fantastic game viewing and a more peaceful safari atmosphere.

Safari Drive Uganda Tip

No matter when you visit, Uganda offers something special every season—lush landscapes after the rains, dramatic wildlife encounters during the dry months, and comfortable year-round temperatures.

Whether you’re planning a self-drive adventure or a guided safari, Safari Drive Uganda will help you time your journey perfectly so you can experience the very best of the Pearl of Africa.