The best time to visit Uganda for gorillas, safaris and birds

Uganda sits on the equator, so it is warm all year, and the highlands around Bwindi stay cool. What changes through the year is the rain.

Uganda's seasons in short

• June to September: the main dry season. Trails are firmer, roads are easier and game viewing is excellent. It is also the busiest time for gorilla permits.

• December to February: a second, shorter dry season, popular over the holidays.

• March to May: the long rains. The country is lush and quiet, with afternoon downpours.

• October and November: the short rains, often lighter and broken by sunny days.

Best time for gorilla trekking

You can trek every month. In the dry months the forest is less muddy and the hike is a little easier. In the wetter months there are fewer visitors, lodges are quieter and Uganda Wildlife Authority has at times offered lower-priced permits. Either way, pack a rain jacket: it is a rainforest.

Best time for a classic safari

For game drives in Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls and Kidepo, the dry seasons are best. The grass is shorter and animals gather near water, so they are easier to see.

Best time for birding

Uganda has more than 1,000 bird species, and birding is good all year. From about November to April, migrant birds from Europe and Asia add to the list, and many resident birds are in breeding colours. The shoebill can be seen all year in the right places; see where to see the shoebill in Uganda.

So when should you go?

If you want the easiest conditions, choose June to September or December to February and book early. If you prefer fewer people and greener landscapes, the rainy months work well with a flexible plan. Tell us your dates on our trip planner and a local expert will tell you exactly what to expect.