The best time to visit Uganda for a safari is during the dry seasons (June–August & December–February) when wildlife is easier to spot, trekking trails are drier, and roads are more accessible. These months offer the best conditions for gorilla trekking in Bwindi, chimpanzee tracking in Kibale, and game drives in Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, and Kidepo Valley. With less rainfall, animals gather around waterholes, making game viewing more rewarding.
Best Time to Visit Uganda’s Safari Regions:
- Savannah Parks (Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, Kidepo Valley): Dry seasons (June–August & December–February) are ideal for wildlife spotting as vegetation is thinner.
- Rainforests (Bwindi, Kibale, Mgahinga): Gorilla and chimp trekking are best in dry months to avoid muddy, slippery trails.
- Wetlands & Lakes (Mabamba Swamp, Kazinga Channel, Lake Victoria): Birdwatching is excellent year-round, but migratory species arrive from November to April.
Low Season:
The wet seasons (March–May & September–November) bring fewer crowds and discounted rates on accommodations and permits. While rains make some areas harder to access, they also create lush landscapes and great birdwatching opportunities.
Uganda’s year-round safari opportunities mean every season has its advantages, but planning around the dry months ensures the best wildlife encounters and trekking conditions.
