SAFARI GUIDE TO UGANDA
The Best Times for Safari in Uganda
Discover the best times to explore the diverse landscapes and vibrant wildlife of Uganda with our comprehensive guide on when to travel.
As a premier safari destination, Uganda offers unique experiences throughout the year, from thrilling gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to breathtaking wildlife encounters in Murchison Falls National Park. Each month presents its own charm, influenced by the weather, wildlife movements, and cultural events.
Whether you’re seeking dry, sunny days for game drives or lush green scenery for birdwatching, this guide will help you choose the perfect time to visit Uganda and make the most of your adventure in this East African gem. Explore the seasonal highlights, weather patterns, and insider tips to plan your unforgettable journey in Uganda.
At a Glance: Uganda Weather & Climate
Uganda can generally be visited year-round, as its location on the equator and higher altitude give it a pleasant climate. The most popular time to visit Uganda is during the dry season, between June-September or January-February.
16° C | 27° C
June-September
DRY SEASON
16° C | 28° C
October-November
SHORT RAINS
16° C | 27° C
December-February
DRY SEASON
16° C | 28° C
March-May
LONG RAINS
Safari in Uganda: Month-by-Month
January
January is one of the best months to visit Uganda, as it falls within the dry season. The weather is generally warm and sunny, making it ideal for gorilla trekking in Bwindi and Mgahinga. Wildlife sightings are also great in savanna parks like Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth, where animals congregate around water sources.
February
February continues the dry season, making it a popular time for visitors. It’s an excellent month for wildlife viewing, particularly in the northern parks like Kidepo Valley and Murchison Falls, as animals are more active. Birdwatching is also rewarding, with many species in breeding plumage.
March
March marks the transition into the wet season, with occasional rains that can make some roads more challenging. However, the landscape becomes lush and green, providing beautiful scenery. It’s still a good time for gorilla trekking, and fewer tourists mean a more intimate experience.
April
April is part of the wet season, with increased rainfall. While this may deter some travelers, it can be a wonderful time for birdwatchers, as migratory species are abundant. Accommodations are often less crowded, and trekking permits may be more readily available.
May
May sees continued rainfall, making it a quieter time for tourism in Uganda. However, the lush landscapes make it a hidden gem for those who don’t mind the wet weather or muddy roads, and primate trekking is available year-round.
June
June marks the beginning of the dry season, and conditions improve for travel. It’s an excellent month for gorilla trekking, as trails are drier, and wildlife is more visible. It’s also a great time to visit Queen Elizabeth National Park for game drives and boat safaris on the Kazinga Channel, along with other savanna and Acacia woodland parks for the classic game drive experience.
July
July is one of the peak months for safari in Uganda, as the dry weather continues. Expect great wildlife sightings in parks like Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth, with clear visibility for game drives. This is a prime time for both gorilla and chimpanzee trekking. Accommodations may book up quickly, so early planning is recommended.
August
August continues to be an excellent month for travel, with dry conditions and plentiful wildlife. It’s a popular time for gorilla trekking, as well as seeing the dramatic landscapes of Kidepo Valley and Mgahinga. Accommodations may book up quickly, so early planning is recommended.
September
September offers similar conditions to August, with warm weather and great wildlife viewing opportunities. The dry trails make for enjoyable trekking experiences, and birdwatching remains vibrant as migratory species are still present. This is a popular month for travel.
October
October begins the transition back to the wet season, with occasional rain showers. While the weather can be unpredictable, it’s still a good time for gorilla trekking and exploring Uganda’s parks, as they remain lush and vibrant. Wildlife viewing continues to be rewarding.
November
November is a rainy month, but it can be a great time for visitors who appreciate fewer crowds and vibrant landscapes. Birdwatching is particularly rewarding, with many migratory species present.
December
December brings the return of the dry season, making it a popular month for travel. The festive atmosphere in Uganda adds to the experience, and wildlife viewing opportunities improve as animals are more visible. This is an ideal time for festive season safaris and enjoying Uganda’s natural beauty before the year ends.
I recently returned from spending an incredible nine days exploring Uganda, all organized by Hornbill. They were incredibly helpful in the pre-trip stage with visa support, suggested packing lists, and useful destination info. My on-trip experience couldn't have been better. We had several incredible safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park, and of course the ultimate bucket list item - gorilla trekking in Bwindi. Our guides Milton and Medi were super knowledgeable and friendly. I would recommend Hornbill to anyone looking for a well rounded and seamless travel experience in Uganda. Webale!
MARY C.