Uganda’s year around Holiday Weather – Is another plus visiting Uganda

Uganda’s Year-Round Holiday Weather: The Pearl of Africa’s Perfect Climate

Uganda, often referred to as the “Pearl of Africa,” boasts a unique climate that sets it apart from other East African countries. This vibrant country enjoys pleasant weather year-round, even during the rainy season, with sunshine almost every day. Situated on the equator and at a high elevation near Lake Victoria, Uganda enjoys a mild, enjoyable climate, making it an ideal destination year-round.

The weather is warm but not excessively hot, with temperatures remaining relatively constant year-round. Visitors can embark on thrilling adventures such as tracking mountain gorillas, exploring the Rwenzori Mountains, or relaxing on the beautiful Ssese Islands. Uganda offers a wide range of activities, and its favorable weather enhances the overall experience.

Many travelers believe that the dry season is the best time to go gorilla trekking. However, visiting during the rainy season can lead to lower hotel prices while still enjoying comfortable accommodations. Uganda’s pleasant climate is a significant draw for visitors, contributing to a memorable and enjoyable trip. The mild weather truly makes it a perfect holiday destination.

 

Uganda’s Weather and Climate: A Detailed Look

Uganda’s nearly perfect weather is a result of its unique location. Situated on the equator, at a high elevation, and adjacent to Lake Victoria, these factors contribute to its mild and pleasant climate, setting Uganda apart from other equatorial countries.

Winston Churchill even remarked on Uganda’s exceptional weather in his book “My African Journey,” calling it unlike any other place in Africa. This excellent climate is just one more reason to consider going on a safari in Uganda.

Even when it rains, the sun still shines often. Rain typically falls at night or early in the morning, usually accompanied by thunderstorms. Visitors should be prepared for muddy paths, so wearing boots is advisable when trekking to see gorillas, chimpanzees, or golden monkeys.

Regardless of the weather, Uganda is a fantastic destination to visit.

 

The Weather and Climate in Uganda – East Africa

Experiencing Uganda’s Daily Rhythms

The sunrises and sunsets in Uganda are beautiful and occur at about the same time year-round. The sun rises around 7:00 am, and it sets around 7:00 pm.

Here are some ways to enjoy the daily rhythm of Uganda:

• Safari Bush Breakfast: Eat breakfast in the bush at sunrise. Many hotels can set this up for you.

• Safari Sundowner: Have a drink at the end of the day as the sun goes down. Try Uganda Waragi with Krest Bitter Lemon while watching the sunset.

 

Understanding Uganda’s Seasons

Uganda has a tropical climate, so temperatures do not change much throughout the year. But there are wet and dry seasons. These seasons change the land and how easily animals can be seen.

• Spring (March – May): This is when the “short rains” happen. The land is green, and there are not many tourists. It is a good time to see birds.

• Summer (June – August): This is the long dry season. Animals gather near water, making them easy to see. Many people go gorilla trekking at this time.

• Autumn (September – November): This is when the “long rains” happen. The land is colorful, and hotels may have lower prices.

• Winter (December – February): This is another dry season, like summer. It is a good time to see animals and go trekking.

Understanding Uganda’s Rainy Seasons

Uganda has two rainy seasons each year, called the short rains and the long rains. It can also rain in rainforests like Bwindi and Kibale.

• Short Rains: April to May, often with thunderstorms.

• Long Rains: September to November, also often with thunderstorms.

The rain is usually heavy but does not last long. This is different from places where it drizzles for a long time.

Some dry areas receive very little rainfall, but most places receive between 1000 and 2000 mm each year.

 

The Best Time to Visit Uganda

The weather in Uganda makes it a great place to visit year-round. Many people come between December and late February, or between June and early October.

Changing Weather Patterns in Uganda

The weather in Uganda has been changing in recent years, likely due to global warming. It has not gotten much hotter, but the rainy and dry seasons are not as predictable. There have also been more floods in the mountains.

Ugandans have started wearing sweaters and jackets when it is cool and rainy. But most visitors will find the weather pleasant. The sun still shines often, keeping the country warm.

 

Weather by Region and Park in Uganda

Here is a list of the weather in some of Uganda’s most popular parks and areas to help you plan your trip:

 

Kampala/Entebbe area:

Most visitors arrive in Uganda through Kampala and Entebbe. The weather is similar in both places.

• Temperature: The average high is 26°C to 27°C (79°F to 81°F). The average low is 16°C to 18°C (61°F to 64°F).

• Rainfall: It rains year-round, mostly in April-May and September-November.

• Humidity: It is usually moderately to very humid because of Lake Victoria.

 

 

Jinja: Africa’s Advaeanture Capital 

Jinja is known for being the source of the Nile and for adventure activities.

• Temperature: The average high is 28°C to 29°C (82°F to 84°F). The average low is 17°C to 18°C (63°F to 64°F).

• Rainfall: Expect rain throughout the year, with the wettest months being April and May, and October and November.

• Humidity: Humidity is generally high due to its proximity to Lake Victoria and the Nile River.

 

 

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park:

Bwindi is home to mountain gorillas. The weather is affected by the high altitude and the rainforest.

• Temperature: The average daytime temperature is about 20°C (68°F). It can get much colder at night because it is high up.

• Rainfall: It rains all year in Bwindi because it is a rainforest. The dry seasons (June-August and December-February) are drier, but it can still rain.

• Humidity: It is usually very humid.

 

Queen Elizabeth National Park:

Queen Elizabeth National Park is in western Uganda. It has different landscapes and animals.

• Temperature: The average daytime temperature is 25°C to 28°C (77°F to 82°F).

• Rainfall: There are two rainy seasons (March-May and September-November). The dry seasons are the best time to see animals because they gather near water.

• Vegetation: There are few plants, and the water sources are becoming smaller. This makes it easier to see animals, including the Big Five.

 

 

Murchison Falls National Park:

Murchison Falls is the largest national park in Uganda. It has savannah, woodland, and river areas.

• Temperature: The average daytime temperature is 28°C to 30°C (82°F to 86°F). This makes it one of the warmest parks in Uganda.
• Rainfall: Like Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls has two rainy seasons.
• Activities: Enjoy a bush breakfast or even a sunrise boat ride with breakfast on the Nile. Do not miss seeing Murchison Falls up close on a top of falls walk, the most powerful waterfall in the world.

 

 

Kibale Forest National Park:

 Kibale is known for its chimpanzees. The weather in Bwindi is like that in a rainforest.

• Temperature: The average daytime temperature is about 22°C (72°F).

• Rainfall: It rains a lot throughout the year. The dry seasons are a little drier.

• Trails: The paths are less slippery when it is dry. Chimpanzees are also more active and easier to see.

Enjoy the best Chimpanzee Trekking Adventures in all of East Africa.

 

Rwenzori Mountains National Park:

The Rwenzori Mountains have unique weather.

• Temperature: The temperature changes a lot depending on how high you are. It can be freezing at the top.

• Rainfall: It rains often, especially at lower levels.

• Best Time: The weather is more stable, and the ground is firmer. This makes it safer and better to climb.

Lake Mburo National Park:

Lake Mburo is the smallest savannah park in Uganda. This is the closests park to Entebbe and Kampala. It is near equator.

• Temperature: The average daytime temperature is 25°C to 27°C (77°F to 81°F).

• Rainfall: This park receives less rainfall than other areas. This makes it a good place to visit all year.

Perfectmini-safari destination for those with limited time.

 

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park:

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is in southwestern Uganda.

• Temperature: The average daytime temperature is about 20°C (68°F). It can get much colder at night because it is high up.

• Rainfall: Mgahinga is a rainforest, so it rains year-round. The dry seasons (June-August and December-February) are drier, but it can still rain.

• Trails: The paths are firmer, which makes it easier to walk on the steep, muddy hills.

 

Kidepo Valley National Park:

Located in Uganda’s far northeast, Kidepo Valley offers a unique safari experience.

• Temperature: Expect daytime temperatures averaging between 27°C and 32°C (81°F to 90°F), making it one of the hottest parks.

• Rainfall: Kidepo has one long dry season and one rainy season. The best time to visit is during the dry season (September to March) for optimal game viewing.

• Landscape: The drier conditions concentrate wildlife around the few remaining water sources.

 

Mount Elgon National Park Eastern Ugadna:

Mount Elgon, an extinct volcano, offers hiking and beautiful scenery.

• Temperature: Temperatures vary with altitude. Lower slopes are mild, while higher areas can be cold.

• Rainfall: Common, especially on lower slopes. The drier months (June to August and December to February) are best for hiking.

• Vegetation: Lush forests and unique plant life thrive in this area.

 

Sipi Falls: Near Mount Elgon

Sipi Falls is a series of waterfalls in eastern Uganda, popular for hiking and abseiling.

• Temperature: The climate is cool and pleasant due to the altitude.

• Rainfall: Rainfall is consistent throughout the year, but the drier months (June to August and December to February) are ideal for outdoor activities.

• Activities: Hiking to the waterfalls and enjoying the scenic views are popular.

 

 Uganda, a Year-Round Destination

Uganda’s unique climate, which Winston Churchill admired, makes it a comfortable and enjoyable safari destination year-round. The country is situated at a high elevation near Lake Victoria, resulting in a mild climate. Whether you prefer the dry season with easier trekking and plentiful wildlife or the lush scenery and lower prices of the rainy season, Uganda offers something for everyone.

 

Choose Your Best Time with Kabiza Wilderness Safaris

When you look for the ultimate time to visit Uganda for a safari, let this be your final, most convincing message: The best time is when your schedule allows you to travel.

The deciding factor is not avoiding bad weather—Uganda’s unique, high-altitude tropical climate guarantees mild temperatures and pleasant safari weather throughout the year. The choice is purely about your preferred style of experience:

• For the Easiest Path: Choose the Dry Season. Accept the crowds and the need to book permits up to a year in advance.
• For Solitude and Superior Value: Choose the Rainy Season. Accept the challenge of muddy trails, but gain the reward of deeply discounted luxury lodges, fewer people, and more flexibility in booking permits.

Regardless of your choice, you will achieve the singular, profound goal: standing face-to-face with a Mountain Gorilla family or witnessing the raw majesty of the savannah.

We created this definitive guide because Kabiza Wilderness Safaris is dedicated to ensuring you have all the essential, insider information before you go. We understand Uganda’s rhythm perfectly. Our local, expert guides meticulously craft every itinerary to match your chosen time, ensuring smooth logistics, reliable 4×4 vehicles, and a seamless adventure.

Your unforgettable, year-round African safari in the captivating Pearl of Africa is waiting. Choose your dates, and let Kabiza Wilderness Safaris handle the details—we guarantee a remarkable journey, regardless of the season. 

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