Best Time to Visit Uganda for a Safari
Uganda packs gorillas, chimpanzees, tree-climbing lions and classic savannah into one country, so the ideal time balances trekking conditions with general game viewing. The drier months are best for both.
Dry season
June–August and December–February are the drier windows: better trails for gorilla and chimp trekking in Bwindi and Kibale, and good savannah game viewing in Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls.
Green season
The wetter months (March–May and September–November) mean lush forest, excellent birding, and fewer visitors, but slippery trekking trails and afternoon downpours.
Wildlife timing
For gorilla and chimp trekking comfort, aim for the dry months. Bird enthusiasts will find the wet season spectacular. Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth are good year-round.
Month-by-month: when to go to Uganda
Excellent = peak wildlife & conditions · Good = shoulder season (fewer crowds, better value) · Green season = lush, quiet, lower rates.
Plan a Uganda safari
Explore the full Uganda safari guide with packages, parks and costs.
Best time to visit other destinations
Uganda safari timing — FAQs
What is the best time to visit Uganda for a safari?
June–August & December–February (drier months, best for trekking). Uganda packs gorillas, chimpanzees, tree-climbing lions and classic savannah into one country, so the ideal time balances trekking conditions with general game viewing. The drier months are best for both.
When is the dry season in Uganda?
June–August and December–February are the drier windows: better trails for gorilla and chimp trekking in Bwindi and Kibale, and good savannah game viewing in Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls.
Is the green season a good time to visit Uganda?
The wetter months (March–May and September–November) mean lush forest, excellent birding, and fewer visitors, but slippery trekking trails and afternoon downpours.
What wildlife can I see, and when, in Uganda?
For gorilla and chimp trekking comfort, aim for the dry months. Bird enthusiasts will find the wet season spectacular. Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth are good year-round.