Despite its tropical climate, Uganda has always been an all-year-round destination with two rainy seasons each year. The first season, which brings the heaviest rain, begins in early March and stretches to June. The second, with less rain, starts around October and ends in November.
In the Uganda tourism industry, the low season includes months with heavy rain, while the high (peak) season includes months with more sunshine. These are the low and high seasons you often hear about in relation to Uganda safaris.
There is a lot to know, and I will explain everything in this article, including which season might be best for your safari.
What is Uganda’s climate like?
Uganda lies in the Great Lakes region and is bordered by three of these large lakes: Lake Albert, Lake Edward, and Lake Victoria.
The climate in southern and central Uganda is more or less the same because of their closeness to Lake Victoria. In contrast, some national parks are a bit warmer during the day (even in the rainy season) and colder at night.
Out of all the parks, Kidepo Valley National Park and Murchison Falls are among the warmest and are good for wildlife viewing based on weather. Uganda lies on the equator, so it doesn’t have real summer or winter. However, rain can come at any time.
Whether you are booking Uganda tours from Kigali or safaris from Entebbe, both countries share similar weather. Their dry and rainy seasons happen around the same time.
The Low Season
As mentioned earlier, the low season includes months with the most rain. During this time, fewer travelers visit Uganda because the weather affects activities and makes it harder to see wildlife.
The first low season starts in March and ends in May. The second starts in late September and ends in late November.
The first season usually has heavier rain than the second. During these months, prices drop across the tourism industry—accommodation, car hire, gorilla and chimpanzee permits all become cheaper.
This is the best time for budget gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda. A gorilla permit can cost as low as $450, or even less with discounts, compared to the usual $600 fee in peak season.
It is also easier to get permits, and you can even buy them on arrival without worrying about shortages.
What I don’t like about the Low Season
Traveling in the low season may limit your experience. Like people, animals often take shelter when it rains, so it’s harder to see them.
Another problem is the condition of roads in the parks. They become muddy, and cars—especially those that are not 4×4—can get stuck for hours or even days. You can reduce this risk by booking a 4×4 safari vehicle.
The good thing about traveling in the low season is that it costs less, and you can enjoy better services at cheaper rates. But apart from the price, there’s not much else to enjoy during this season.
The High Season
The high season, also called the peak season, is when Uganda tour operators receive the most bookings. The first high season runs from June to September. The second, which is hotter, runs from December to February.
During this time, prices go up and competition is high. You need to book permits and accommodation months in advance.
It is also harder to find permits when you arrive in Uganda. Many lodges and car rental companies raise their prices because demand is high.
The high season is best for luxury gorilla trekking safaris.
What’s good about the High Season?
The high season is the best time to see wildlife and trek gorillas. Animals are easier to see, and they move around more since it rarely rains.
Roads are dry and clear. Even if it rains, it’s light and does not last long.
During this time, a 4×4 land cruiser can cost up to $200 per day, and a safari van around $100 per day, not including fuel and guide fees.
Effects on the Uganda Tourism Industry
The biggest effect of the seasons on tourism is price changes. Most tourism services reduce their rates in the low season and increase them during the high season.
This is because of demand. When business is slow, companies offer discounts. When it’s busy, they charge higher rates.
My Take
I always say each season offers something different. You don’t have to be too selective when planning your safari.
Seeing animals in big numbers on a sunny day is great. But trying to find them in the rain can be its own kind of adventure.
I personally enjoy the surprise of traveling in the rainy season. Even if I get stuck in mud or delayed for a few hours, I’m happy to return to my bed, enjoy a warm drink, and wake up to a quiet morning.
That’s just my opinion. You don’t have to agree with it. Visiting in the dry season is very good, but if you’ve already experienced a dry-season safari, maybe try the rainy season next time.
Challenge yourself and create new memories.
I also wrote an article about the best time to visit Uganda for a safari or holiday—you may want to check it out.
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