When is the best time for a Uganda safari?

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Weather pattern in Uganda

Uganda has a tropical climate with the year divided into two dry seasons and two wet seasons. In general the dry seasons run from June to August and late December to February while wet seasons are March to May and September to mid December. Note though that it doesn’t rain all the time during wet season; it is commonly just a couple of hours of rain in a day. On the other hand Uganda’s dry season isn’t a guarantee for no rain during your safari; it does rain during that part of the year too.

High season for safaris in Uganda

The times for high and low season for safaris in Uganda follows the weather pattern, even though it is very possible to travel in Uganda all year around. This means that we have two high seasons every year. One of the high seasons starts up in June to peak in July to August and then slow down in September. While the other high season in Uganda runs from mid December with the peak around Christmas to January to then slow down from February. These times of year are popular since there is less rain. If you are planning to travel during the peaks of the high seasons you should plan well ahead. This is especially true if you are planning to do gorilla trekking during your safari in Uganda.

Low season for safaris in Uganda

The low season months for safaris in Uganda are March to May and October to mid December. As mentioned above it is very possible to travel even during these months and you get the benefits that animals are more active, it is not so much people in the National Parks and the scenery is beautifully green. We have several visitors who chose to travel during the low season months every year.

Price differences between high and low season in Uganda

Uganda offers excellent value throughout the year, as most safari costs—such as transport, guide services, fuel and the majority of accommodations—remain the same regardless of the season.

However, travelling during the Green Season (April, May and November) can bring worthwhile savings. During these months, gorilla trekking permits are discounted from 800 USD to 600 USD, and chimpanzee trekking permits for Kibale Forest NP are also available at reduced Green Season rates. In addition, Woodland Lodges offers attractive low season rates, making it an ideal time for budget-conscious travellers to enjoy an affordable safari without compromising on the experience.

Beyond the savings, the Green Season brings lush landscapes, fewer visitors in the national parks, and excellent wildlife viewing, making it one of Uganda’s best-kept safari secrets. If you’re looking to get the most value from your trip, read our guide to the 5 smart savings for a Uganda budget safari.

So when is the best time to go for safari in Uganda?

So when is then the best time for a safari in Uganda, if we should give another answer then that you can travel in Uganda any time of the year. For travellers who have flexibility with when they can travel we would recommend to target the months of June, September, February or March. These months at the shifts of seasons offers possibility to travel when the National Parks are not so busy, which will enhance your nature experiences even more.