When to Uganda
Climate guide & best times to travel
Best Time to Visit
Month-by-Month Guide
January
January marks the heart of the dry season with minimal rainfall and excellent wildlife viewing conditions. This is peak season for gorilla trekking as trails are dry and accessible. Warm days and cool nights make it comfortable for all outdoor activities, though popular parks and attractions can be crowded.
February
February continues the dry season with warm, sunny days ideal for safari adventures and trekking. Wildlife congregates around water sources, making game viewing exceptional in parks like Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls. The month remains busy with international visitors, particularly those seeking gorilla permits.
March
March signals the beginning of the long rainy season with increasing precipitation, particularly in the second half of the month. While mornings often start clear, afternoon showers become more frequent. Tourist numbers decline and accommodation prices drop, making it attractive for budget travelers willing to embrace wetter conditions.
April
April is the wettest month of the year with heavy rainfall throughout the country, making it the low season for tourism. Roads can become muddy and challenging, particularly in rural areas and national parks. However, the landscape transforms into busy green, birding is exceptional, and gorilla permits are easier to secure.
May
May continues the rainy season though precipitation begins to taper off toward month's end. The countryside is lush and beautiful, waterfalls are at their most impressive, and wildlife viewing remains good despite wet conditions. This is an excellent time for photographers seeking dramatic skies and verdant landscapes at lower prices.
June
June marks the transition to the dry season with decreasing rainfall and improving trail conditions. This is one of the best months to visit Uganda, offering excellent wildlife viewing, comfortable temperatures, and manageable tourist numbers. Gorilla trekking becomes easier as forest paths dry out.
July
July is peak dry season with minimal rainfall and optimal conditions for all activities. Wildlife viewing is superb as animals gather at water sources, and trekking conditions are excellent. This is high season with increased visitor numbers and higher prices, so advance booking for gorilla permits and accommodations is essential.
August
August continues the excellent dry season conditions with warm days, cool nights, and clear skies. This is arguably the best month for gorilla trekking and wildlife safaris. The month sees peak tourist numbers, particularly from European and North American visitors during summer holidays.
September
September maintains dry season advantages with excellent visibility and comfortable temperatures. Wildlife viewing remains outstanding, and trails are in prime condition. Tourist numbers begin to decrease slightly toward month's end, offering a good balance of favorable weather and fewer crowds.
October
October brings the short rainy season with increased precipitation, particularly in the second half of the month. While showers are common, they're typically shorter and less intense than the long rains. Tourist numbers drop significantly, and accommodation rates become more negotiable.
November
November continues the short rainy season with frequent afternoon showers, though mornings often remain clear. The landscape is beautifully green, and birding is excellent as migratory species arrive. This is low season with fewer tourists and reduced prices, ideal for flexible travelers.
December
December marks the return of the dry season with improving weather conditions and increasing tourist numbers for the holiday period. Rainfall decreases significantly, and by mid-month conditions are excellent for all activities. This is a popular time for family travel, so booking in advance is recommended.