Uganda is one of the most truly unique travel destinations in the world. Where else can you go on a gorilla trek and see the magnificent creatures in their natural habitat? Very few places!
I recently went on a gorilla trek in Uganda and it was absolutely unforgettable. If you’ve added this experience to your bucket list, you might be wondering just when the right time to visit is.
Uganda is a destination that you can truly visit throughout the year due to its climate very rarely changing. However, the country does have wet and dry seasons which can make or break your trek.
Here is my guide to the best time to travel to Uganda!
December to February
While you may see some rainfall in December, it won’t be enough to rain on your parade.
December through February is considered to be one of the best times to visit Uganda. The dry season has begun (so much so that locals even call January “Januworry”) meaning the roads are passable and the skies are clear, making for beautiful photos.
If you’re looking to see some wildlife, this is the ideal time. The gorillas are out and about and the birds are soaring.
If your itinerary allows it, visit Kampala in February for the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo where you’ll see a true showcase of what Uganda has to offer. The three-day expo touches on everything from wildlife to tourism (both adventure and culture).
You’ll be able to experience local cuisine, quad bikes, horseback riding, and more.
March to May
March to May is considered to be one of Uganda’s wettest seasons. Because of this, the low season also begins which means prices lower as well.
If you don’t mind a little rain, a visit during the spring months means you’ll be met with lush green parks and the chance to see infant gorillas along with migratory birds.
If you don’t mind getting muddy, go quad biking along the banks of the Nile. Or test out your athletic abilities in the annual Kyaninga Triathalon in the Rwenzori mountains.
Regardless of what you choose to do, don’t forget to pack umbrellas and great hiking boots (that you don’t mind getting dirty).
Sanctuary Retreats Gorilla Forest Camp in Uganda
June to August
Come June, the rain clouds clear and the sun reappears once again. Animals roam freely, making them extremely easy to spot yet again. With that comes another surge in tourism making lodging and permit prices rise.
All reservations should be made far in advance to ensure you snag a permit along with a reasonable rate for accommodation.
If you’re looking to see more of Uganda outside of gorilla trekking, June through August is packed full of events. From Uganda Martyrs Day on June 3rd to National Heros Day on June 9th to the Bayimba Festival of the Arts at the beginning of August.
There’s never a dull moment in these months and it’s a wonderful time to visit if you’re looking to experience an authentic African experience.
September to November
As the months continue on and it gets later into the year, the rain begins to pick up once again. However, there are still excellent opportunities to experience Uganda’s wildlife.
This is another chance to save a little money if you’re wanting to visit on a budget.
These months are also jam-packed with events. In September, experience Uganda’s Coachella known as MTN Nyege Nyege. It always rains and gives people from all over the world the chance to dance in the rain to music from over 200 artists.
In October, the Kampala City Festival takes place. The 3-day festival celebrates culture and unity with performances, a street market, and food stalls. And in November, the Milege World Music Festival is another 3-day event showcasing art from all over the world!
Are you planning to visit Uganda? If so, when are you thinking of going?
