Uganda: when to go?
tropical humide climate
Uganda enjoys a tropical equatorial climate tempered by altitude, with remarkably constant temperatures throughout the year. Straddling the equator, the country experiences two main dry seasons: December to February and June to August, ideal for gorilla watching in the Virunga Mountains and safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park. The rainy seasons extend from March to May (long rains) and October to November (short rains), transforming landscapes into lush havens but complicating travel on tracks. Temperatures pleasantly fluctuate between 20°C and 28°C depending on the region, cooler at altitude in the mountainous southwest, warmer in the northern plains. To fully enjoy Uganda's treasures - from the sources of the Nile to national parks through Lake Victoria - favor the months of January-February and June-August, which offer optimal conditions with passable roads and active wildlife.
- Best period
- December to February, June to August
- Good alternatives
- none
- Rainy season
- March to May, September to November
Year-round overview
Select a month to plan your trip
Climate in numbers
Monthly temperatures and precipitation
Temperature (°C)
Precipitation (mm)
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Climate zones
Climate varies by region. Discover the unique characteristics of each zone.
General climate Uganda
UnfavorableUganda features a tropical equatorial climate moderated by average altitude of 1200 meters. The country enjoys mild temp...
The Mountainous Southwest
UnfavorableThe Wild North
FairThe Lakeside West
FairThe Forest Center
UnfavorableThe Lakeside South
UnfavorableMonth by month
Find detailed climate information for each month of the year.
Temperature
10° — 34°C
Precipitation
53 mm
Average temperature
3.8°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Perfect conditions for gorillas and safaris. Excellent road conditions.
Temperature
10° — 36°C
Precipitation
65 mm
Average temperature
3.9°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Last beautiful days before the rains. Ideal for Bwindi and Murchison Falls.
Temperature
11° — 35°C
Precipitation
138 mm
Average temperature
3.8°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
Frequent rainfall complicates trails. Lush vegetation but difficult access.
Temperature
11° — 33°C
Precipitation
196 mm
Average temperature
3.8°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Wettest month. Roads impassable, gorilla trekking challenging.
Temperature
11° — 31°C
Precipitation
178 mm
Average temperature
3.8°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Progressive improvement but persistent mud. Very green landscapes.
Temperature
10° — 30°C
Precipitation
92 mm
Average temperature
3.8°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Fair weather returning. Excellent time for national parks.
Temperature
10° — 30°C
Precipitation
87 mm
Average temperature
3.8°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Ideal conditions for all safaris. Highly active wildlife near water points.
Temperature
10° — 30°C
Precipitation
107 mm
Average temperature
3.8°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Peak tourist season. Perfect for gorillas and chimpanzees in Kibale.
Temperature
11° — 31°C
Precipitation
142 mm
Average temperature
3.9°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
Occasional but short rainfall. Still accessible with precautions.
Temperature
11° — 32°C
Precipitation
165 mm
Average temperature
3.8°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Regular rainfall returns. Wildlife observation more challenging.
Temperature
11° — 33°C
Precipitation
143 mm
Average temperature
3.8°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
Heavy rainfall but shorter than in April. Limited access to remote sites.
Temperature
10° — 34°C
Precipitation
79 mm
Average temperature
3.8°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Clear improvement in conditions. Good time to prepare for peak season.
Frequently asked questions
Everything about the climate and the best time to visit Uganda
The best months to visit Uganda are January, February, June, July, August, December. This period offers favourable weather and ideal conditions for exploring the country at its best.
Yes, the tropical climate of Uganda remains warm and humid year-round (average temperature 24.5°C). Seasonal variations mainly concern rainfall rather than temperatures.
The rainy season in Uganda mainly affects March, April, May, September, October, November. Showers are generally short and intense, often occurring late in the day, followed by beautiful sunny spells.
Absolutely. Traveling in Uganda during the rainy season even has its advantages: lush landscapes, fewer tourists, more favorable rates. Our local agency adapts itineraries based on actual weather conditions.
Underwater visibility in Uganda is optimal during the dry season, between January, February, June, July, August, December. Water temperature remains pleasant year-round (around 28-30°C). Our agency guides you to the best spots according to the season.
If your travel dates don't match the ideal season in Uganda, the Nomadays network brings together more than 100 local agencies worldwide. Get in touch to find out which destination would be ideal for your dates.
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