When Should You Plan Your Trip to Uganda?
Uganda is a small country in East Africa if not mistaken; it’s one of the most beautiful countries that offers diverse wildlife, stunning scenery, and a rich culture. Whether you want to see the big giants, the kings of the jungle, and mountain gorillas, explore the savannah parks, or experience the local traditions, Uganda has something for everyone. But when is the best time to visit this amazing destination? Here are some factors to consider before you book your trip with Nature Nest safaris.
The Weather; a factor to consider when choosing time to visit
The Weather; a factor to consider when choosing time to visitUganda has a tropical climate with two dry seasons and two wet seasons. The dry seasons are from June to August and from December to February, while the wet seasons are from March to May and from September to November. The temperatures are relatively stable throughout the year, ranging from 15°C to 30°C, depending on the altitude and location however this sometimes varies slightly because of the global warming and climatic changes.
The dry seasons are generally considered the best time to visit Uganda, especially for wildlife viewing and gorilla trekking. The animals always come around water sources, making them easier to spot. The roads and trails are also in better condition, allowing for smoother travel. The skies are clear, the rain is minimal, and the sunshine is abundant. If your in love with that yellow look of the sun every morning and evening, then the dry season is a choice to make.
The wet seasons, on the other hand, have advantages too. The scenery is greener and more thick, the air is fresher, and the flowers are blooming, the livestock are healthier. There are fewer tourists, which means lower prices and more availability. The rain is usually short and intense, followed by bright sunshine. The wildlife is still active, and there are many newborn animals to see. This is the time to use all the human senses to enjoy the beauty of Uganda.
So, how do you decide which season to choose? It depends on what you want to see and do, and how flexible you are with your plans. If you want to have the best chances of seeing the wildlife and the gorillas, and you don’t mind paying a bit more, then the dry seasons are ideal for you. If you want to enjoy the beauty of nature and avoid the crowds, and you are prepared for some rain and mud, then the wet seasons are a good option for you. Another great choice to choose the right touch of the season is the off season- a time of transition. This is the time that the country is moving from the dry season to the wet season. There is very minimal rain, good scenaries, multiple numbers of wild life still roaming around the park.
The tour activities; your interest also matters when choosing the time to visit.
Uganda offers a variety of activities for different interests and preferences. Some of the most popular ones are:
Gorilla trekking:
This is the highlight of many trips to Uganda, as it gives you the chance to encounter the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural homes. Gorilla trekking is possible all year round, but the best time is during the dry seasons, when the roads are less muddy and slippery, and the visibility is better. However, you can also enjoy gorilla trekking during the wet seasons, as long as you are prepared for the rain and the humidity. The gorillas are more active and playful in the wet seasons. Gorilla trekking is a very rewarding and unforgettable experience, but it also requires some physical fitness and endurance, as you may have to hike for several hours in the forest. You also need to book your trip well in advance, as they are limited and sell out quickly.Consideer connecting with Nature nest safaris to organize all the bookings fro you.
Wildlife viewing:
Uganda has 10 national parks and 12 wildlife reserves that host a variety of animals, such as lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, hippos, and many more. Wildlife viewing is best during the dry seasons, when the vegetation is thinner and the animals gather around water sources. However, you can also see plenty of wildlife during the wet seasons, as the parks are less crowded and the landscape is more scenic. You can choose from different types of safari, such as game drives, boat safaris, walking safaris, or night safaris, depending on the park and your preference. You can also combine your safari with other activities, such as chimpanzee treking, hot air ballooning, or fishing. A safari in Uganda is a great way to see the diverse and abundant wildlife of Africa, and to learn about their behavior and ecology.
Birdwatching:
Uganda is a paradise for bird lovers, as it has more than 1,000 species of birds, including some rare and endemic ones. Birdwatching is good all year round, but the best time is from November to April, when the migratory birds arrive from various destinations. You can also see more birds during the wet seasons, as they are more active and vocal. You can find birds in almost every corner of Uganda, from the forests to the wetlands, from the mountains to the lakes. Some of the most sought-after birds are the shoebill, the green-breasted pitta, the great blue turaco, the grey crowned crane, and the African fish eagle. Birdwatching in Uganda is a wonderful way to appreciate the beauty and diversity of nature, and to discover some of the most unique and colorful creatures on the planet.
Cultural experiences:
Uganda has a rich and diverse culture, with over 50 ethnic groups and languages. You can learn about the local traditions, customs, and history by visiting villages, museums, markets, and historical sites. You can also watch cultural performances, or join community projects. Cultural experiences are available all year round, but the best time is during the festivals and celebrations, such as the Martyrs’ Day in June, the Independence Day in October, or the Nyege Nyege Festival in September. Cultural experiences in Uganda are a great way to interact with the local people and learn about their way of life, and to support their development and empowerment.
As you can see, there is no definitive answer to when is the best time to visit Uganda, as it depends on what you want to see and do. However, you can use the above information as a guide to help you plan your trip. Whatever time of the year you choose, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience in Uganda, the Pearl of Africa. Don’t be stuck in making decisions of when to visit Uganda, contact us now and get your trip planned and organized by Nature nest safaris.
