Best Time to Visit Uganda

When Is the Best Time to Visit Uganda?

Uganda is a fantastic year-round travel destination, but the best time to visit is during the dry seasons — from December to February and June to August. These months offer the best conditions for activities like gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking in Uganda’s lush forests. Wildlife viewing is also excellent during the drier periods, especially from February to March and September to early October, when animals gather around waterholes in Uganda’s savannah national parks.

Uganda’s Climate: What to Expect

Thanks to its position along the equator and the presence of Lake Victoria, Uganda enjoys a relatively stable and pleasant climate all year long. Temperatures typically average around 21°C (70°F) during the day and can drop to about 12°C (54°F) at night. Annual rainfall ranges between 1,000–2,000 mm, with skies often clear enough to enjoy safari adventures.

Uganda has two rainy seasons:

• March to May (long rainy season)

• October to November (short rainy season)

Even during the wet months, sunshine often breaks through between showers, meaning most safari activities still go ahead as planned — including mountain gorilla trekking and chimpanzee encounters.

Dry Season Highlights: Prime Time for Safaris

The dry months, especially from June to September, are ideal for trekking and game drives. During this period, the trails are less muddy, wildlife is easier to spot near waterholes, and access to Uganda’s remote parks is much smoother. If you’re planning a trip over the Christmas holidays, keep in mind that December is one of the busiest times of year, so be sure to book your lodges and gorilla permits early.

Low Season Travel: Fewer Crowds and Lower Prices

Uganda’s low season, particularly in March, April, May, October, and November, sees fewer tourists and more affordable accommodation. While these months tend to be wetter, they still offer great experiences, especially for travelers who prefer quieter trekking trails and want to enjoy gorilla trekking without the crowds.

Some tour operators and lodges offer discounted rates during this time, including lower gorilla permit prices, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers.

Game Drives and Wildlife Viewing

For those interested in wildlife game drives, the best sightings are usually during the dry seasons — especially February to March and September to early October. Animals tend to gather near rivers and lakes during these months, offering spectacular opportunities for photography and observation.

Birdwatching in Uganda

Uganda is a paradise for birders, and the best time for bird watching is from November to April, when migratory species join the country’s already rich avian diversity. If birding is your passion, avoid the peak rainy season in April and May when heavy downpours can make travel and spotting birds more difficult.