Best Time to Visit
Uganda
Uganda stands out as a lush, green oasis in a largely arid continent. Its dense forests are a sanctuary for some of the planet’s last mountain gorillas. Visitors from around the globe come to spend a captivating hour observing these magnificent creatures as they feed, groom, rest, and play. Consider a safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you have the opportunity to spot the Big Five, including the unique tree-climbing lions. Boat trips along the Ishasha River offer sights of water birds, hippo pods, and elephants along the riverbanks. Alternatively, a guided trek through Kibale Forest National Park might lead you to its diverse primate population, including chimpanzees, red colobus, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and grey-cheeked mangabeys.
Uganda's month-by-month visit guide
Visiting in January
In January, Uganda beckons with its optimal weather conditions for wildlife encounters and trekking adventures. As part of the country’s short dry season, this hot and sunny month is ideal for gorilla and chimpanzee treks, offering dry and manageable terrain. The clear skies and reduced rainfall create a perfect setting for observing endangered mountain gorillas and chimpanzee families as they navigate through lush forests. It’s a peak season for travel, ensuring excellent game-viewing opportunities, but be sure to secure gorilla permits well in advance for this sought-after experience.
Visiting in February
February is the prime month for an unforgettable journey to Uganda. Renowned for gorilla and chimpanzee treks, this month offers a unique spectacle of various species gathering at rivers. The weather, marked by warm days and cool nights, provides an ideal setting for boat safaris, as wildlife congregates near water sources. Kibale Forest National Park springs to life with 13 primate species, and birdwatchers are treated to the presence of thousands of migrant birds in the national parks. The dry conditions make it opportune for gorilla trekking in the south, while the north experiences hot and dusty conditions.
Visiting in March
In March, Uganda beckons with the advent of the long rainy season, characterized by sporadic heavy downpours rather than continuous rainfall. While some properties close during this period, the low season offers ample lodge options at favorable rates. Despite parks not being at their prime, shorter gorilla treks become a possibility due to abundant food on lower mountain slopes. This season unveils the enchanting sight of wildlife giving birth, providing travelers with the delightful spectacle of newborns frolicking amidst the natural splendor. Additionally, March is a haven for birdwatchers, promising vibrant winged treasures to behold.
Visiting in April
April in Uganda is a mixed bag for travelers. While it’s the wettest month, resulting in frequent downpours and slippery forest trails, it transforms the landscapes into lush, green paradises. Some facilities close during this extended rainy season, yet accommodations are readily available at lower rates. The consistent rainfall means quieter parks, closed roads, and a shorter gorilla trek, but it also brings budget-friendly opportunities for discounted hotels, lodges, safari tours, and gorilla trekking permits, making it an appealing but rain-soaked choice for budget-conscious adventurers.
Visiting in May
May in Uganda presents a mixed bag for travelers. While it’s one of the rainiest months, hindering gorilla tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park due to muddy trails, there are silver linings. Some lodges shutter, and roads may be challenging, but the lush landscapes, newborn wildlife, and migrating bird flocks are captivating. Remaining open lodges offer budget-friendly stays, making it an opportune time for the thrifty explorer. May is excellent for chimpanzee trekking in Kibale National Park and showcases the awe-inspiring Murchison Falls at its peak. Despite the rain, this month holds unique charms for intrepid adventurers.
Visiting in June
June is the prime month for a visit to Uganda, marking the onset of the extended dry season. Expect brilliant blue skies, vibrant landscapes, and excellent wildlife sightings. It’s an optimal period for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking due to the dry ground, facilitating easier exploration. However, be mindful of the increased cost and high demand for gorilla permits, which often sell out months ahead. Secure your preferred accommodations early, as availability is limited during the dry season. June offers ideal conditions for game viewing, with wildlife gathering around waterholes and reduced vegetation enhancing visibility. For a seamless experience, particularly in securing gorilla trek permits, advance booking is strongly recommended during this peak season for luxury Uganda safaris.
Visiting in July
In July, Uganda shines as an optimal destination for wildlife enthusiasts and gorilla trekking enthusiasts. This dry-season month ensures prime conditions for observing tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park. As it marks the peak season for both gorilla permits and accommodations, early planning and reservations are advised. While the north experiences the lingering wet season with a myriad of bird species, temperatures in other regions can be warm, adding a tropical touch to trekking adventures, though a slim chance of rain persists. It’s an ideal time to witness the diverse wildlife against the backdrop of Uganda’s natural beauty.
Visiting in August
August is the optimal time for a visit to Uganda, marking the culmination of the dry season. It’s an ideal period for immersive experiences like gorilla and chimp treks, as well as wildlife observation. Accommodation reservations are crucial due to limited availability. Despite being a peak season, parks rarely feel overcrowded. The north boasts a variety of bird species. Additionally, the Bayimba art festival by Lake Victoria showcases Uganda’s vibrant arts and music scene. For wildlife enthusiasts, August promises remarkable game viewing, providing opportunities to spot elephants, lions, and perhaps even the elusive leopard in Uganda’s national parks.
Visiting in September
September marks an ideal time to explore Uganda. While it signals the return of rains, typically in the month’s latter part, the earlier days remain dry, creating excellent conditions for safaris and treks. This peak month boasts outstanding opportunities for game drives and gorilla treks, facilitated by reduced vegetation and animals congregating around water sources. Though prices are high due to peak demand, it’s an advantageous period for wildlife spotting. However, Kibale Forest experiences adverse weather conditions in September, making it less favorable for a visit. Be prepared for potential downpours during this transitional period from dry to rainy season, but the cost savings may make it worthwhile for the adventurous traveler.
Visiting in October
October is the optimal time to explore Uganda, offering a unique blend of wildlife and affordability. Despite the returning rains in safari areas, wildlife thrives, with the opportunity to spot tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park. The weather is unpredictable, potentially impacting road conditions, yet this shoulder month ensures accessible game parks, reasonable prices, and more affordable gorilla trekking permits. As the dry plains transform into lush landscapes, October beckons with the promise of a less crowded, budget-friendly Ugandan adventure.
Visiting in November
November is an opportune time to explore Uganda, offering a diverse experience. While Southern Uganda experiences wet weather, the north remains dry, marking the onset of birding season. However, Gorilla tracking may be challenging, and Bindi Impenetrable National Park is less favorable. Expect brief yet intense rain showers, requiring waterproofs. Some accommodations in high rainfall areas may close. Despite the rain, the countryside transforms into a lush green paradise due to thunderstorms. With fewer visitors, November boasts good availability and significantly lower rates compared to other months, making it an ideal time for budget-conscious travelers.
Visiting in December
December is an optimal time to explore Uganda, marked by dry weather and an abundance of wildlife congregating around diminishing water sources. The month proves ideal for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking due to the dry and traversable terrain. Given the holiday season, December witnesses heightened activity, making it imperative to secure gorilla permits and accommodations well in advance. As the wet season subsides, this month stands out for northern and southern game viewing, and it presents a prime opportunity for birdwatching with the influx of migratory species.
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Rick McIntyre
Hello, I'm Rick, based in Ontario, Canada, with over 15 years in the travel industry and a passport filled with stamps from over 70 countries. My heart was captured by Africa during my first visit to Kenya, and since then, I've journeyed back repeatedly, exploring the diverse landscapes and wildlife of Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa. Whether you're dreaming of a "once in a lifetime" vacation or you're a seasoned safari traveler, I'm here to assist in planning your perfect African adventure.
You can contact me at rick@gamewatchers.com or give me a call at +1-877-710-3014.

Rachel Chambers
You can contact Rae at rae@gamewatchers.comÂ

Julie Roggow
Julie Roggow
Greetings, I'm Julie Roggow, and I come to you with over two decades of immersion in the world of travel. My journey into the heart of safari adventures began as I traversed Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, capturing the essence of these mesmerizing landscapes through my lens. Among these remarkable destinations, Kenya and the Porini safari camps hold a special place in my heart. Their unique blend of wilderness and conservation resonates deeply with me.
My passion for travel is matched only by my dedication to sharing that passion with others. I'm here to ensure that planning your safari vacation is an enjoyable and seamless experience.
Feel free to reach out to me by email at julie@gamewatchers.com or through our toll-free telephone line at +1-877-710-3014.Â
Sally Wanjau
Hello, I am Sally Wanjau, and I have been travelling to Kenya on safari since the 1980’s which led to me living and working there for several years. Married to a Kenyan, it is a place that I now call home. I currently live in the UK with my husband. For a number of years, I ran my own safari business as an agent working closely with Gamewatchers Safaris creating unique and tailor-made holidays for my clients, and in 2017 I joined Gamewatchers Safaris full-time as one of their dedicated team of Safari Advisers.
Having travelled extensively throughout East, South and Southern Africa, I remain passionate about Kenya, my love of which is fed by my many fantastic wildlife experiences at the Porini Camps.
You can contact me at sallywanjau@gamewatchers.com or call me at +44 7546 433 250

Wayne Hammond
Wayne Hammond
Hello, I'm Wayne Hammond, and I'm fortunate to have embarked on over 30 incredible journeys to the enchanting continent of Africa. It's a place that has captured my heart time and time again. My travels have taken me to Kenya, which I've had the pleasure of visiting far more times than I can recall, as well as to Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana, Rwanda, Uganda, South Africa, and Mozambique. Among my cherished bush haunts, I hold dear the Masai Mara in Kenya, the mesmerizing Mana Pools in Zimbabwe, and the wondrous South Luangwa National Park in Zambia. I'm not just a passionate traveler but also an avid amateur wildlife photographer and an occasional travel writer. Â
If you're ready to embark on your own African adventure, don't hesitate to reach out to me at wayne@gamewatchers.com or give me a call at +44 7986 978 985.Â
Andrea Landaeta
Hola, I’m Andrea and my love affair with the captivating world of safaris began during my teenage years when I embarked on my very first safari in Kenya. There, amidst the awe-inspiring wildlife and expansive plains, I found my true passion. Over the years, Kenya has called me back time and time again, leading me to explore its myriad camps, conservancies, and renowned parks. More recently, I've had the privilege of staying at all the Porini Camps, where the spotlight shines on wildlife conservation—a cause close to my heart as I traverse the globe. While Kenya holds a special place in my wanderlust-filled heart, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda have also woven their magic into my soul. If you're eager to embark on your own safari adventure or share your passion for conservation, please feel free to contact me at andrea@gamewatchers.comÂ
Let's connect and embark on a journey through Africa's wild wonders together.
Pranay Chandra
Hello, I’m Pranay Chandra, a veteran of the Indian Armed Forces whose profound passion for nature and wildlife led me to the world of wildlife photography. My lens has captured the essence of the wild, earning recognition in esteemed competitions like the Sanctuary Asia annual wildlife awards and the Natural History Museum’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year awards. Beyond photography, I’ve dedicated myself to conservation efforts, collaborating with Ecological Task Forces and supporting WWF India’s training initiatives in tiger reserves. In the realm of education, I’ve partnered with CEC, New Delhi, to create informative video programs on Human-Wildlife Conflicts. I’ve ventured to Kenya, embracing the splendours of Africa while staying at Porini camps and other renowned lodges.
You can connect with me via email at pranay@gamewatchers.com or by phone at +91 801 788 5256