Uganda in June

June weather, activities, events & insider tips

June Weather in Uganda

27°C (81°F) High Temp

18°C (64°F) Low Temp

95mm (3.7 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is June Right for You?

Advantages

Peak dry season continues with minimal rainfall - only 95mm (3.7 inches) across 10 days, making it excellent for gorilla trekking and outdoor activities
Cool morning temperatures of 18°C (64°F) create perfect conditions for wildlife viewing when animals are most active at dawn
Clear mountain air and reduced haze provide exceptional photography conditions, especially in Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park
Post-harvest season means local markets overflow with fresh produce, and cultural experiences showcase traditional farming celebrations

Considerations

Peak tourist season drives accommodation prices up 40-60% compared to rainy months, with gorilla permits often booked 4-6 months ahead
Afternoon temperatures can reach 27°C (81°F) with high UV index of 8, making midday activities uncomfortable without proper sun protection
Popular gorilla trekking groups fill quickly, and you'll encounter more tourists on trails compared to shoulder months

Best Activities in June

Bwindi Mountain Gorilla Trekking

June's dry conditions make forest trails less muddy and more accessible, with cooler morning temperatures perfect for the 2-8 hour treks. Gorillas are easier to spot as they venture into clearings more frequently during dry weather. The reduced canopy from less rainfall improves photography opportunities.

Booking Tip: Permits cost $700 and must be booked 4-6 months ahead for June. Book through Uganda Wildlife Authority or licensed operators. See current trekking packages in the booking section below. Start treks at 8am when temperatures are coolest.

Queen Elizabeth National Park Wildlife Safaris

Dry season concentrates animals around permanent water sources, making wildlife viewing exceptional. Cool mornings offer the best game drives when lions, elephants, and hippos are most active. The famous tree-climbing lions in Ishasha sector are easier to spot in dry conditions.

Booking Tip: Game drives typically cost $40-60 per person plus park fees. Book 2-3 weeks ahead for guaranteed vehicle availability. Morning drives (6-10am) and evening drives (3-6pm) offer best wildlife viewing. See current safari packages in booking section below.

Murchison Falls Nile River Cruises

June's lower water levels create dramatic cascades at Murchison Falls, with the Nile compressed through a 7m (23ft) gap. Dry weather ensures reliable boat schedules, and cooler temperatures make the 3-hour upstream journey comfortable. Wildlife viewing along riverbanks peaks as animals come to drink.

Booking Tip: River cruises cost $30-45 per person, typically departing at 2pm and 4pm. Book 1-2 weeks ahead during peak season. Combine with top-of-falls hike for best experience. Current cruise options available in booking section below.

Rwenzori Mountains Hiking Expeditions

June offers the clearest mountain weather for multi-day treks in the 'Mountains of the Moon.' Dry trails and minimal cloud cover provide impressive views of glaciated peaks. Temperatures range from 18°C (64°F) at base to -5°C (23°F) at peaks, perfect for challenging high-altitude hiking.

Booking Tip: Multi-day treks cost $200-400 per day including guides and accommodation. Book 3-4 weeks ahead for peak season. Minimum 5-day commitment for summit attempts. See current trekking packages in booking section below.

Lake Bunyonyi Island Hopping Adventures

Africa's second-deepest lake offers perfect conditions in June with calm waters and clear skies. Cool mornings are ideal for dugout canoe trips between the 29 islands, while warm afternoons allow comfortable swimming. Cultural encounters with Batwa communities are enhanced by post-harvest celebrations.

Booking Tip: Canoe rentals cost $15-25 per day, guided island tours $30-50. Book accommodation 2-3 weeks ahead as lakeside lodges fill quickly. Best visited as recovery stop after gorilla trekking. Current island tour options in booking section below.

Kampala Cultural and Historical Walking Tours

June's manageable temperatures make walking tours of Uganda's capital comfortable. Visit Kasubi Tombs, explore bustling Nakasero Market filled with seasonal produce, and experience local life in neighborhoods like Mengo. Cooler evenings are perfect for rooftop dining with views over the seven hills.

Booking Tip: Walking tours cost $20-40 per person for half-day experiences. Book 1 week ahead for specialized cultural tours. Combine with craft market visits and local cooking classes. Current city tour options available in booking section below.

June Events & Festivals

Throughout June

Imbalu Circumcision Ceremonies

Traditional Bagisu ceremonies in eastern Uganda occur during even-numbered years (not 2025), but cultural demonstrations and museum exhibits in Mbale showcase this UNESCO-recognized tradition year-round

Early to Mid June

Post-Harvest Thanksgiving Celebrations

Rural communities across Uganda celebrate successful harvests with traditional dance, music, and feasting. Visitors can participate in authentic cultural exchanges, especially around Masaka and Fort Portal regions

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Waterproof hiking boots rated for 1,600m+ (5,249ft+) elevations - essential for gorilla trekking on muddy forest floors even in dry season

Lightweight long pants in neutral colors (khaki, brown, green) - required for gorilla trekking and protect against thorns and insects

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8 at altitude, and mountain sun burns quickly

Insect repellent with 25%+ DEET - malaria risk exists year-round, and forest activities increase exposure

Layered clothing system: t-shirts for 27°C (81°F) days, fleece for 18°C (64°F) mornings, rain jacket for occasional showers

Sturdy daypack (30-40L capacity) for carrying water, snacks, and camera gear during 2-8 hour gorilla treks

Quick-dry clothing materials - humidity remains at 70% even in dry season, cotton takes hours to dry

Headlamp with extra batteries - early morning game drives start before dawn, and lodges may have limited electricity

Binoculars (8x42 recommended) - essential for wildlife viewing and bird watching, Uganda has 1,000+ bird species

Portable phone charger/power bank - limited electricity at remote lodges, and you'll use phone extensively for photos

Insider Knowledge

Book gorilla permits through Uganda Wildlife Authority's online system exactly 6 months before travel - permits released on specific dates and sell out within hours for June visits

Hire porters ($15-20) for gorilla trekking even if you're fit - they know shortcuts, carry equipment, and providing employment supports local communities

Stay overnight near park headquarters rather than driving from distant towns - gorilla group assignments happen at 8am sharp, and late arrivals forfeit permits

Combine Uganda with Rwanda for gorilla trekking - permits are $700 in Uganda vs $1,500 in Rwanda, but Rwanda offers shorter, easier treks for less mobile travelers

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking accommodation only 2-3 weeks ahead in June - popular lodges near national parks fill 6-8 weeks in advance during peak season

Wearing bright colors or perfume for gorilla trekking - rangers will refuse entry as it disturbs wildlife and attracts insects

Underestimating gorilla trek difficulty - some groups require 8+ hours of hiking through dense forest at altitude, bring proper gear and fitness preparation