Uganda’s weather stays warm throughout the year, but the rain makes all the difference. There are two wet seasons, from March to May and from September to November, when heavy downpours can flood roads and turn forest trails into a slippery mess. For gorilla tracking and easier travel, the best time to visit Uganda is during the dry months. Aim for June to August or December to February, when conditions are more reliable and wildlife is easier to spot. Travel during the rains is still possible if you’re prepared, but expect delays, mud, and fewer guarantees.
If you're planning to track mountain gorillas, go on safari, or hike the Rwenzori Mountains, your timing matters more than your route. Uganda has a tropical climate with two dry seasons and two rainy ones. Conditions can shift quickly, especially in remote parks, so it's worth factoring the weather into your Uganda itinerary.
The best months to visit are June to August and December to February, when trails are firmer, roads are more reliable, and wildlife is easier to find. Some seasons are better suited for trekking, while others are ideal for birdwatching or game drives. The best places to visit in Uganda depend on what you want to do and when you plan to visit.
This is Uganda’s biggest draw, with treks in Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks. You can visit at any time, but some months are far more comfortable than others.
Dry months are better for spotting animals and navigating unpaved roads in parks like Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth and Kidepo Valley.
Uganda’s mountains and forests offer some of East Africa’s best hiking. Wet trails can turn treks into slogs, so it helps to pick your moment.
Uganda is a birdwatcher’s dream with over 1,000 recorded species. Rainy months bring even more activity, especially in wetlands and forests.
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg temp. (°F) | 73 | 74 | 74 | 73 | 72 | 71 | 70 | 71 | 72 | 72 | 72 | 73 |
| Avg rain (inches) | 1.3 | 1.6 | 4.3 | 6.7 | 5.9 | 2.8 | 2.4 | 3.9 | 4.7 | 5.5 | 5.0 | 2.4 |
Tips from Kellen
Uganda Travel Expert
"For the best mix of clear skies and easy travel, plan your visit between June and August. Trails are dry, wildlife is easier to spot, and you won’t spend half your trip stuck in the mud."
Crater Lakes in the Albertine Rift, Uganda
Wondering about the best time to visit Uganda? We’ve broken down the weather month by month to help you decide the best time to go. Uganda doesn’t have dramatic seasonal swings, but rain can seriously affect travel, especially if you're heading to remote parks or into the mountains. Here’s what each month looks like across the country.
January falls in the middle of Uganda’s short dry season. Expect warm days, cool mornings and good conditions for both safaris and mountain treks. Trails in Bwindi and Mgahinga are firm, and wildlife viewing is excellent. It’s a busy month, so book gorilla permits and accommodation early.
Still dry, still reliable. February is ideal for game drives in Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls. Animals tend to cluster near water, making them easier to spot. Roads in remote areas are more passable, and chimpanzee tracking in Kibale is also popular now.
The first rains usually arrive in March, especially in the south and west. Trekking is still possible but paths start to get muddy. On the upside, forest and wetland birdlife becomes more active, making it a great time for spotting rare species.
April is one of the wettest months in Uganda. Travel slows down, and many trails in highland areas become difficult or unsafe. However, it’s one of the best times for birdwatching, with thick greenery and fewer tourists around. Prices drop too.
Golden monkey, Uganda @ Shutterstock
In May, expect continued rain, especially in the southwest. Some lodges offer discounts, and national parks are quiet. Gorilla tracking is still open, but more physically demanding. If you’re well prepared and don’t mind the mud, May can be a rewarding time to visit.
Rain tapers off in most regions in June, marking the start of the longer dry season. Trails firm up, skies clear, and wildlife viewing improves. This is one of the best times for gorilla trekking, so permits can be harder to get. Book well in advance.
July is peak season for a reason. Conditions are ideal for hiking in the Rwenzoris and climbing Mount Elgon. Game viewing is excellent across major parks, and road travel is easier. It’s cooler in the highlands, especially at night, so bring layers.
The dry season continues, making August a strong choice for travelers who want to mix trekking, wildlife, and cultural visits. Rain is minimal, landscapes are green, and wildlife is active. Expect crowds at popular lodges and higher prices in tourist hotspots.
Murchison Falls, Victoria, Nile river, Uganda @ Shutterstock
Rain starts to return, especially toward the end of September. Gorilla tracking is still manageable early on, and bird activity increases in wetlands. Visitor numbers begin to drop, and you may find more availability and flexibility in mid-range accommodations.
October brings heavier rains and cloudier skies. Safari conditions are less predictable, but birdwatching improves dramatically. Trails are muddy, but forest and wetland areas are alive with migratory species. It’s a quieter month with fewer tourists and more room to explore slowly.
November is still wet, especially in the south and west. That said, some days stay dry, and it’s another great month for birders. Fewer travelers mean fewer vehicles on safari drives and more peaceful lodge stays. Be ready for some disruption and pack waterproof gear.
Rain fades, and the second dry season begins. December is a popular time to visit Uganda, especially around the vacations. Wildlife viewing picks up again, and forest trails become more stable. Lodges fill quickly, so plan early if you’re visiting over Christmas or New Year.
Shoebill bird, Uganda @ Shutterstock
Uganda has two rainy seasons, which can significantly impact your travel plans. Expect heavy downpours, muddy roads, and slow journeys, especially if you're heading into the mountains or remote national parks. Some days stay dry, but when the rain comes, it usually hits hard and fast.
If you’re planning to hike, track gorillas, or travel long distances by road, aim for the dry months. But if you’re here for birds, fewer crowds, and greener views, the rainy season can still work, as long as you're ready to get wet.
If you’re planning a trip to Uganda, it’s worth checking the calendar for local festivals and public vacations. Most national celebrations are rooted in religious or political history, while others highlight music, dance, and cultural identity. Some festivals can cause transportation slowdowns or business closures, but others remain open to visitors and are worth seeking out.
The biggest events happen in Kampala, but you’ll also find community-led celebrations in rural regions, especially during harvest or religious vacations. Local events are often informal, so details may change: ask around once you arrive.
