Uganda Travel Guide

Best Time to Visit

885 Uganda Safaris

Expert

By Ariadne van Zandbergen

Ariadne and her husband form a team who author the Bradt guide to Uganda.

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The best wildlife viewing months in Uganda are during the Dry seasons from June to August and December to February. Primate walks in the forest are a big part of any safari in Uganda. The habitat of rainforests is, by default, very wet, and one can't avoid rain completely. However, after heavy rain, the skies often open up to bright sunshine.

Best Time June to August and December to February (All parks)

High Season June to September (It's rarely crowded, but you'll need to book your gorilla permits long in advance)

Low Season March, April, May, October, November (Some lodges and camps in high rainfall areas close down; roads and forest trails can be in poor condition)

Best Weather June-July and January-February (Little rainfall)

Worst Weather March, April and May (Peak of Wet season)

June to August and December to February –Dry Season

This is the best time for gorilla tracking because these are the drier months
In the savannah reserves, vegetation is less and animals gather around water sources, making wildlife easier to spot
Even during the high season (June to September) the parks don't feel crowded
The skies are clear; there is less rain and more sunshine
Gorilla permits need to be booked very far in advance

Wildlife Photos

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+21 Photos

March to May and September to November –Wet Season

The scenery of the savannah reserves is greener – it's low season, resulting in lower rates
Although wildlife in the savannah reserves is easier to spot in the Dry season, you'll still see plenty, including newborn animals
Some of the roads get very bad and cars often get stuck; forest trails can become slippery and challenging
You won't be able to change your expensive gorilla permit if it pours with rain; departures go as scheduled