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Best time to visit Uganda: month by month
Short answer
June to September and December to February are the dry seasons, best for gorilla and chimpanzee treks, with highs of 25–27°C. March to May and October to November are wetter, with muddy trails but greener scenery and some lodge discounts. Uganda's altitude keeps temperatures mild all year.
Month by month
| Month | High | Low | Rainy days | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 27°C | 17°C | 14 | high |
| Feb | 27°C | 18°C | 14 | high |
| Mar | 26°C | 18°C | 21 | low |
| Apr | 25°C | 18°C | 26 | low |
| May | 25°C | 18°C | 22 | low |
| Jun | 25°C | 17°C | 17 | high |
| Jul | 25°C | 17°C | 9 | very high |
| Aug | 26°C | 17°C | 16 | very high |
| Sep | 26°C | 17°C | 21 | high |
| Oct | 27°C | 18°C | 22 | medium |
| Nov | 26°C | 18°C | 24 | low |
| Dec | 26°C | 17°C | 22 | high |
Temperatures and rainy days: Copernicus ERA5 averages, 2021–2023. Crowd levels are our estimate.
Season by season
Mar–May
The long rains, with 21–26 rainy days a month in Kampala; trails are muddy but parks are green and quieter.
Jun–Aug
The main dry season, with July the driest (about 9 rainy days) and highs of 25–26°C; peak trekking season.
Sep–Nov
Short rains return, with 21–24 rainy days; good wildlife viewing and fewer visitors.
Dec–Feb
A shorter dry season with highs of 26–27°C; busy over Christmas.
Events worth planning around
- Uganda Martyrs Day pilgrimage at Namugongo (3 June)
- Independence Day (9 October)
- Nyege Nyege music festival near Jinja (usually September–November; check dates)
When to avoid
April and May bring heavy rain, making gorilla trekking slippery and some roads difficult. July–August permits sell out months ahead.
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Common questions
When is the best time to visit Uganda?
June to September and December to February, the dry seasons.
Can I trek gorillas in the rainy season?
Yes, all year, but trails are muddier and steeper going from March to May.
When should I book gorilla permits?
Several months ahead, especially for June to September and December.