Many explorers set out to discover the beautiful attractions in Uganda, though many did not succeed; only a few reached their goals and revealed Uganda’s beauty. Winston Churchill famously called Uganda the “Pearl of Africa” after seeing its stunning flowers, plants, reptiles, mountains, lakes, and rivers. One of the main attractions that drew early explorers to Uganda was the source of the River Nile. Uganda is a landlocked country covering an area of 241,037 square kilometers.
Uganda is richly blessed with approximately 90 crater lakes, over 52 distinct cultures, national parks, game reserves, and numerous other attractions, all surrounded by tropical rainforests. For nature walks, game safaris, trekking, and habituation experiences, Uganda is a one-stop destination for travelers.
Uganda can be visited year-round. For those seeking a gorilla experience, June, July, August, and September are the best months to observe these fascinating primates.
Gorilla trekking and habituation in Uganda are available only to those with permits, allowing them to spend time with a gorilla family. These apes live in family groups, each led by a dominant male known as the silverback, identified by its silver-grey hair. In Uganda, gorillas are found in Mgahinga and Bwindi Impenetrable National Parks, which together hold over 50% of the world’s gorilla population. Therefore, on your safari to Uganda, don’t miss this remarkable experience.
Uganda boasts over 52 unique cultures, making it an excellent destination for cultural experiences, such as music, dance, and food tasting. The Bakiga and Batooro cultures are worth exploring near Kibale National Park after your chimpanzee trekking tour. Visitors can engage in various cultural activities, such as preparing traditional meals, learning about pet naming customs (Empaako), and more. These activities can be enjoyed year-round, in both rainy and dry seasons.
Most safari activities are best enjoyed during the dry seasons, from December to March and June to August, when vegetation is shorter, allowing excellent wildlife viewing. During this time, water animals often gather at ponds, riverbanks, and lakes.
Uganda typically experiences two dry and rainy seasons in most regions, except for the northeast, which remains dry for most of the year.
Although the dry season is generally recommended as the best time to visit Uganda, it’s wise to carry rain gear, as African weather can be unpredictable. Bring items such as rain jackets, umbrellas, warm sweaters, binoculars for better wildlife viewing, cameras for capturing memories, energy snacks like cookies and biscuits, sunscreen to protect from the sun, and insect repellents, especially as many lodges are set in thick tropical rainforests and for nature walks.
Note that during the rainy season, wildlife like gorillas tend to travel shorter distances, making for easier treks. Lodges and activities are often discounted during the off-season, offering budget travelers an affordable experience.
The rainy season usually occurs from September to November and March to May, when the green vegetation and clear blue skies provide a breathtaking view. Thus, there is no “best” or “worst” season in Uganda; it all depends on personal preferences and travel plans.
