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If you are planning a safari or gorilla trekking trip to Uganda, timing plays a major role in the quality of your experience. Weather conditions affect wildlife movement, road accessibility, hiking difficulty, and permit availability.
This guide explains Uganda’s dry and rainy seasons, compares the best months for safari and gorilla trekking, and helps you decide when to visit based on your travel priorities.
Uganda’s Climate and Safari Seasons – Quick Overview
Uganda has an equatorial climate with relatively stable temperatures throughout the year. For travel planning, seasons are defined mainly by rainfall rather than temperature.
- Dry seasons: December–February and June–September
- Rainy seasons: March–May (long rains) and October–November (short rains)
Each season offers advantages depending on whether your focus is wildlife viewing, gorilla trekking, or budget travel.
Best Time to Visit Uganda for Gorilla Trekking
Gorilla trekking in Uganda is available year-round, but trail conditions and demand vary significantly by season.
Dry Season (December–February, June–September)
- Drier, firmer forest trails
- Easier hiking conditions
- Higher demand for gorilla permits
These months are ideal for travelers who prefer less physically demanding treks and predictable logistics. Short itineraries such as a 5-day gorilla and wildlife safari are especially popular during peak season.
Rainy Season (March–May, October–November)
- Lush forest scenery
- Fewer visitors on trekking routes
- Muddy and more challenging trails
Rainy months suit travelers who are flexible, physically fit, and looking for a quieter trekking experience. They can also be a good time for relaxed Uganda safari itineraries focused on scenery and slower travel.
Gorilla trekking permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and are strictly limited.
- Peak season: book permits 6–12 months in advance
- Shoulder season: book permits 3–4 months in advance
For trekking locations and park details, see our guide to where to see gorillas in Uganda .
Best Time to Visit Uganda for Safari (Game Viewing)
Wildlife safaris in Uganda are most productive during the dry seasons, when vegetation is thinner and animals gather near water sources.
- Improved visibility for game drives
- Better road conditions between parks
- More reliable schedules for multi-park itineraries
This is the ideal period for classic wildlife routes such as an 8-day Best of Uganda safari covering Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls National Parks.
Best Months to Visit Uganda – Month-by-Month Guide
- January–February: Excellent for safari and gorilla trekking, dry and warm
- March: Start of long rains, fewer visitors
- April–May: Wettest months, challenging trekking, lower prices
- June–August: Peak season, ideal conditions for both safari and trekking
- September: Still dry, slightly fewer crowds
- October–November: Short rains, good value period
- December: Dry season returns, popular holiday travel month
Dry Season vs Rainy Season – Which Is Better?
The best time to visit Uganda depends on what you value most.
- Choose the dry season for easier trekking, classic safaris, and smooth logistics
- Choose the rainy season for fewer crowds, greener landscapes, and lower costs
Bird lovers often prefer wetter months, which are ideal for a bird watching safari in Uganda .
When Should You Book Your Uganda Safari?
- Gorilla permits: 6–12 months ahead for peak season
- Safari itineraries: 4–9 months in advance
- Lodges and domestic flights: after permit confirmation
Long, once-in-a-lifetime journeys such as a 15-day Uganda safari require especially early planning.
Practical Planning Tips
- Fitness: Gorilla trekking ranges from moderate to strenuous
- Gear: Waterproof hiking boots, rain jacket, gloves
- Health: Travel insurance and required vaccinations
- Photography: No flash photography near gorillas
Plan Your Uganda Safari with Confidence
The best time to visit Uganda depends on your priorities. Dry seasons offer easier travel and reliable wildlife viewing, while rainy seasons reward flexible travelers with quieter experiences and better value.
Contact our local safari experts in Uganda to get honest advice on timing, permit availability, and the best itinerary for your travel dates.
Frequently Asked Questions – Best Time to Visit Uganda
What is the best month to visit Uganda for safari?
The best months for safari in Uganda are June to September and December to February. These dry-season months offer better road conditions, improved wildlife visibility, and more reliable travel between national parks.
What is the best time of year for gorilla trekking in Uganda?
The dry seasons are generally the best time for gorilla trekking, as forest trails are less muddy and hiking conditions are easier. However, gorilla trekking is possible year-round for travelers who are flexible.
Is it possible to see gorillas in Uganda during the rainy season?
Yes. Gorilla trekking operates throughout the year, including the rainy seasons. While trails can be more challenging, rainy months often mean fewer visitors and a quieter trekking experience.
What is the worst time to visit Uganda?
There is no truly bad time to visit Uganda. The wettest months, typically April and May, can bring heavy rain and difficult road conditions, but they also offer lower travel costs and lush scenery.
Is Uganda good for safari and gorilla trekking at the same time?
Yes. Uganda is one of the few destinations where travelers can combine classic wildlife safaris and gorilla trekking in a single trip, especially during the dry seasons when logistics are easier.
How far in advance should I book a Uganda safari and gorilla permit?
For peak travel months, gorilla permits should be booked 6–12 months in advance. Safari accommodations and internal flights are best arranged after permit confirmation.
