Uganda is crossed by the Equator. As a result, the climate does not change much and they can be visited throughout the year. It has a tropical climate with a high altitude even though it’s located right to the equator. The temperatures vary from 26°C during the daytime and 16°C at night. In general, therefore, Uganda can be visited throughout the year and at any time since it has one of the best climates in the whole world. While on your Uganda Safari, be rest assured that you are in the country with the best weather conditions.
The larger part of Uganda has a tropical climate which varies according to altitude. In Uganda itself, temperatures and the general climate also differ from one region to another.
The Northern areas of Uganda are drier and therefore, drought can sometimes affect the areas.
However, the Southern regions are wetter and this is because of the presence of various tropical rainforests that exist within this region. The Western Region also experiences a wet season given the existence of various tropical rain forests and mountains such as the Rwenzori Mountains (the Great Mountains of the Moon), a series of volcanic mountains and more. The Eastern regions also have Mt. Elgon and this region also receives notable rainfall. The central part of Uganda (Buganda Region) experiences distinct wet and dry seasons) receiving rains during the wet season given the presence of Lake Victoria which greatly influences the climate and weather on that side.
Quick Facts
- During the year the hottest months are from December to February when the temperature reaches 29 degrees Celsius.
- The rainy seasons are from April to May and October to November, with the wettest month being April, but it can rain at any time of the day, especially in forest ecosystems.
- Uganda’s rainy season stretches from March to May and September to November.
- The hottest months are from December to February and June to early September.
Climate in the Mountainous Areas
Despite her location to the equator temperatures in some parts of Uganda can be quite cool owing to the country’s high altitude. The mountain areas become much cooler and the top of Mount Elgon and the Rwenzori are often covered with snow.
Other parts of Uganda are much warmer. There is heavy rain between March and May and between October and November. The best times are December-March and June-September. It can be somewhat rainy then, but not as rainy as in the rainy season, March-June. December-February and June-July are the driest times when things can even be dusty.
When to Visit
Uganda is one of the best destinations where travelers go for African holidays most especially primates watching trips that lead you into the ancient tropical rain forests to see the mountain gorillas, chimpanzees and monkeys.
Since it is located just astride the Equator, the country enjoys a tropical climate with very little temperature variation throughout the year. The main factor that determines your visit will be the rainfall patterns. In the southern part of the country, April is the rainiest month. The rains stretch up to May, with another wet season in October to November. And although the dry months are good for birding don’t forget the fact that the wet months are more productive since breeding takes place during those months.
We are all aware that Uganda’s tourist attractions and destinations can be accessed all year round. However, in most cases, there are specific periods that are recommended for a specific Uganda tour. Most tourists who visit the country are interested in the gorilla tracking activity and therefore the best time for this activity is from January to February and from June to September. This is a dry season and so the forest can be penetrated easily. This however doesn’t mean that you can’t take a gorilla safari within other months. The trips are very possible and in April, May and November, you can enjoy a discount of USD250 per person. During April, May and November, don’t forget to pack your raincoat given that Uganda normally experiences a wet season during these months.
You will have your Uganda Safaris with no weather-related problems that can affect your experience. Tourists interested in Mountaineering or hiking on Mt. Rwenzori and Elgon, are advised to enjoy this activity during the dry season which is from December to February and from May to August. You are also advised to carry with you your warm jackets and raincoats when traveling during the rainy season.