Best Time to Visit Uganda with Nova Afrika Kenya Safaris
Uganda is one of East Africa’s best-kept secrets. Known as the “Pearl of Africa,” it offers a rich blend of biodiversity, adventure, and cultural depth. From gorilla trekking in Bwindi to safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park, hiking the Rwenzori Mountains, or cruising the Nile in Murchison Falls, timing your trip right enhances the experience. At Nova Afrika Kenya Safaris, we’ve helped hundreds of travelers discover Uganda at its finest. Here’s your complete guide to the best time to visit Uganda based on climate, wildlife activity, and travel goals.
Uganda’s Climate – A Quick Overview
Equatorial climate with temperatures ranging between 21°C to 29°C
Two main dry seasons:
✅ December to February
✅ June to August
Two rainy seasons:
🌧️ March to May (long rains)
🌧️ September to November (short rains)
Despite the rains, Uganda is a year-round destination, especially for travelers seeking gorilla and chimpanzee encounters.
Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Uganda is home to more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, found in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
🦍 Best Time:
June to August
December to February
These are the dry seasons, making forest trails more accessible and trekking easier.
🎒 Pro Tip: Gorilla permits sell out quickly during peak season—book at least 3–6 months in advance.
Best Time for Wildlife Safaris in Uganda
Top safari destinations include:
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Murchison Falls National Park
Kidepo Valley National Park
🐾 Dry Season Highlights (June–August & Dec–Feb):
Animals gather around water sources
Easy wildlife spotting on game drives
Ideal conditions for boat safaris, photography, and chimpanzee tracking
✅ Best for: First-time visitors, photographers, and big game seekers
Travel During Uganda’s Rainy Seasons – Is It Worth It?
Yes! The green season (March–May and September–November) offers lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and discounted lodge rates.
🍃 Rainy Season Benefits:
Excellent for birdwatching (over 1,000 species in Uganda!)
Beautiful waterfalls and vibrant scenery
More budget-friendly options
⚠️ Some roads in rural parks may be muddy or impassable—consider 4×4 safaris and guided treks.
Best Time for Adventure Travel in Uganda
Mountain hiking (Rwenzori, Elgon): June–August is driest and safest
White water rafting on the Nile (Jinja): Year-round, but best during dry season
Cultural festivals and community tourism: Many occur during drier months for easier access
Uganda Travel by Month – Quick Guide
| Month | Weather | Travel Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| January | Dry & warm | Great for safaris & gorilla trekking |
| February | Dry & hot | Best for adventure, rafting, birding |
| March | Rain begins | Fewer crowds, lush landscapes |
| April | Heavy rains | Budget safaris, birding paradise |
| May | End of rains | Forests lush, good for nature photography |
| June | Dry season starts | Ideal gorilla trekking, game viewing |
| July | Dry & cool | Peak for wildlife and primate tracking |
| August | Dry | Best overall month to visit Uganda |
| September | Short rains begin | Lower crowds, migratory birds return |
| October | Rainy | Scenic, peaceful, and quiet parks |
| November | Short rains | Gorilla permits more available |
| December | Dry & festive | Great for family holidays and safaris |
Recommended Experiences by Season
Dry Season (June–August & Dec–Feb):
Gorilla & chimpanzee trekking, Queen Elizabeth & Murchison Falls safaris, Boat safaris on Kazinga Channel or Nile & Rwenzori Mountain hiking
Green Season (March–May & Sept–Nov):
Budget-friendly wildlife safaris, Spectacular birdwatching, Cultural encounters & photography tours, Waterfall visits and forest treks
Plan Your Uganda Safari with Nova Afrika Kenya Safaris
Whether you’re looking to lock in gorilla permits, embark on a multi-country East Africa safari, or experience authentic community tourism, we’ll match your dream Uganda trip to the right season.
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: www.novaafrikasafaris.com
📍 Let’s take you deep into the Pearl of Africa—responsibly, affordably, and expertly.
