Planning a Ugandan safari? One of the most important questions to ask is, “When is the best time to visit Uganda?” Uganda’s beauty shines year-round, but some months are more ideal for game viewing, gorilla trekking, and weather conditions than others. In this month-by-month guide, we break down the seasons to help you choose the perfect time for your adventure with Siyabonge Tours and Travel Company LTD.
🌞 Uganda’s Safari Seasons at a Glance
Uganda experiences two main seasons:
- Dry Seasons: June to August and December to February
- Rainy Seasons: March to May and September to November
While wildlife safaris and gorilla trekking are available all year round, the dry seasons are generally considered the best for ease of travel and clearer wildlife viewing.
🗓️ Month-by-Month Safari Breakdown
January & February – Prime Safari Season
- Weather: Hot and dry
- Best for: Wildlife viewing in national parks like Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth NP
- Gorilla trekking: Excellent visibility in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
- Travel tips: Book early permits and lodges get snapped up fast
March to May – Green Season (Rainy)
- Weather: Wet and lush with heavy rains
- Best for: Bird watching (migratory birds arrive), fewer tourists
- Challenges: Roads can get muddy; trekking trails become slippery
- Travel tip: Great deals on accommodation during the low season
June to August – Peak Gorilla Trekking Time
- Weather: Cool, dry, and comfortable
- Best for: Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, Big-5 safaris
- Travel tip: Permits for gorilla trekking sell out quickly; plan at least 3 – 6 months in advance
September to November – Short Rains Begin
- Weather: Intermittent rain showers, especially in the afternoons
- Best for: Fewer crowds, budget-friendly travel
- Safari bonus: Beautiful landscapes, baby animals born during this season
- Travel tip: Bring waterproof gear and insect repellent
December – Festive Safari Experiences
- Weather: Beginning of the dry season
- Best for: End-of-year safaris, family holidays, gorilla tracking
- Safari vibe: Parks and lodges come alive with festive experiences
- Travel tip: Great time for combining safaris with cultural tours or boat cruises on Lake Victoria
🦍 When Is the Best Time for Gorilla Trekking?
- Best Months: June to August and December to February
- Why: Drier trails and less dense undergrowth improve visibility and trekking comfort
- Note: Uganda offers gorilla trekking year-round permits are always required.
✈️ Plan Your Ugandan Safari With Confidence
At Siyabonge Tours and Travel Company LTD, we help you choose the perfect time to visit based on your preferences and expectations, whether you want to witness the Great Nile, meet gorillas face to face, or cruise through national parks teeming with wildlife.
Let’s make your safari unforgettable one season at a time.
📞 Ready to plan your dream safari? Contact us today to tailor your adventure.
📸 Don’t forget your camera Uganda’s wonders await!
