One of the first questions travellers ask us is when to come. The honest answer is that Uganda works all year — gorilla trekking, Rwenzori treks and wildlife safaris run in every month. But the season you choose shapes how muddy the trails are, how easy the wildlife is to spot, and often what you pay. Sitting on the equator, Uganda has a mild climate without the harsh extremes of more temperate countries; instead of summer and winter, the year is split into dry and wet seasons.
The two dry seasons (June–September and December–February)
These are the most popular months, and for good reason. Drier trails make gorilla trekking in Bwindi and game drives in Queen Elizabeth easier and more comfortable, and roads are in better condition. Wildlife also tends to gather around shrinking water sources, which can make animals easier to find on safari.
The trade-off is that these are peak months. Gorilla permits — which are issued in limited numbers each day — sell out furthest in advance during June to September and over the December holidays, so book early if you are travelling then.
The wet seasons (March–May and October–November)
The wetter months are often underrated. The landscape is at its greenest and most photogenic, there are fewer visitors on the trails, and rates for accommodation can be lower. Rain usually comes in short, heavy bursts rather than all-day downpours, so trekking is still very much possible.
Bear in mind that Bwindi is a rainforest — it can rain there at any time of year — and the wetter months make the forest floor more slippery underfoot. If you are reasonably fit and come prepared with the right boots and a waterproof, the green season can be a wonderful and quieter time to travel.
Timing the Rwenzori trek
If your trip includes climbing the Rwenzori Mountains, aim for the drier windows (around late December to February and June to August) for the best chance of clear summit weather and firmer trails. That said, the Rwenzori is one of the wettest mountain ranges in Africa, so come ready for rain and mud regardless of the month.
So when should you go?
Whatever month suits you, we tailor every itinerary to the season and can advise on the best timing for your priorities. Get in touch and we'll help you plan around the weather, the wildlife and the permits.
- Want the easiest conditions and don't mind crowds or booking early — choose a dry season (Jun–Sep or Dec–Feb).
- Want green landscapes, fewer people and better value — consider the shoulder months at the edges of the wet seasons.
- Travelling specifically for gorilla permits in peak months — book several months ahead.