Best time to travel to Uganda

Choosing the right time for your trip to Uganda can make all the difference. It's important to consider climatic elements, seasonal events and busy tourist periods to maximize your travel experience.

Photo d'un paysage localisé en Ouganda

Location

Climate

January 19.8→30.9°C
0.54mm
6:57→19:02
February 20.5→31.9°C
0.83mm
7:01→19:07
March 20.6→31°C
2.45mm
6:54→19:03
April 19.8→28.1°C
4.92mm
6:45→18:56
May 19.2→27°C
4.46mm
6:41→18:54
June 18.9→27°C
2.54mm
6:44→18:58
July 18.7→27.2°C
2.02mm
6:49→19:03
August 18.7→26.9°C
3.84mm
6:48→19:00
September 18.9→27.3°C
3.93mm
6:41→18:50
October 19.3→27.4°C
4.06mm
6:33→18:40
November 19.2→27.5°C
3.47mm
6:33→18:38
December 19.3→28.9°C
1.01mm
6:44→18:48
19.8→30.9°C
20.5→31.9°C
20.6→31°C
19.8→28.1°C
19.2→27°C
18.9→27°C
18.7→27.2°C
18.7→26.9°C
18.9→27.3°C
19.3→27.4°C
19.2→27.5°C
19.3→28.9°C
Jan 6:57→19:02
Feb 7:01→19:07
Mar 6:54→19:03
Apr 6:45→18:56
May 6:41→18:54
Jun 6:44→18:58
Jul 6:49→19:03
Aug 6:48→19:00
Sep 6:41→18:50
Oct 6:33→18:40
Nov 6:33→18:38
Dec 6:44→18:48
0.54mm
0.83mm
2.45mm
4.92mm
4.46mm
2.54mm
2.02mm
3.84mm
3.93mm
4.06mm
3.47mm
1.01mm

When to go to Uganda: the different seasons

As Uganda is located near the equator, the climate is relatively stable throughout the year, with average temperatures around 25°C. However, there are two main seasons:
  • The dry season It runs from December to February and from June to September. This is generally the ideal time to visit Uganda, as weather conditions are milder and roads more passable. This period is also ideal for observing the wild animals that gather near waterholes.
  • The rainy season It takes place between March and May, and between October and November. Rainfall can make some parts of the country less accessible, especially those with steeper terrain. Nevertheless, this period also offers lush green landscapes, particularly appreciated by hiking and trekking enthusiasts.

Temperatures by region

Due to its geographical location and varied terrain, Uganda's temperatures vary from one part of the country to another:
  • Mountainous regions The Alps: located at altitudes of over 1,000 meters, they enjoy cool temperatures all year round, dropping to as low as 10°C at night. Bring warm clothing if you plan to stay in these regions.
  • Plains and savannahs temperatures are generally higher, with averages around 28°C. Nights can be cool, however, especially during the dry season.

Major cultural events in Uganda

Uganda offers a rich palette of cultural events throughout the year. Here are just a few of the highlights:
  • The Nyege Nyege International Music Festival Festival of African Music: this annual event, held in September, is dedicated to African music and visual arts. It brings together local and international artists for three days of concerts, exhibitions and performances.
  • National Independence Day Independence Day: celebrated on October 9, this day commemorates Uganda's independence from the United Kingdom in 1962. Events and festivities are organized throughout the country.
  • The Ugandan Film Festival The Ugandan Film Festival: this annual event, which takes place in August, aims to promote Ugandan cinema and support local filmmakers. It offers screenings, workshops and conferences on the seventh art.

Public holidays in Uganda

In addition to major cultural events, it's important to take public holidays into account when planning your trip to Uganda. Here is a non-exhaustive list of the main public holidays:
  • January 1st : New Year
  • January 26 Armed Forces Day
  • March/April (date varies) : Good Friday and Easter Monday
  • May 1st Labour Day
  • June 3 Martyrs' Day
  • June 9 National Heroes Day
  • September 8 International Literacy Day
  • October 9th Independence Day
  • December 25 : Christmas
  • December 26 : Boxing Day
Please note that certain public holidays may result in the closure of tourist sites, restaurants or shops. Please check before you leave.

Low and high season in Uganda

Finally, it is also important to consider the low and high season periods to best organize your trip to Uganda:
  • High season The dry season is generally from June to September and December to February. Prices for accommodation and tourist activities can be higher during this period, especially in popular areas such as national parks.
  • Low season It's mainly during the rainy season, between March and May, and October and November. Accommodation and activities may be cheaper, and tourist sites less crowded. However, some parts of the country may be less accessible due to rainfall.

Insurance

Your credit card does not cover you in all situations, that is whyIt is essential to take out insurance before you leave to avoid any unpleasant surprises. If you need to see a doctor or be hospitalized, in some countries, medical costs are very high and you will then find yourself having to pay several thousand euros.

Our partner Chapka Insurance proposes the contract CAP ASSISTANCE 24/24 with many essential guarantees.

Flights

Your flight has been cancelled or delayed ?
You may be eligible for a compensation of up to €600 ! For this, lawyers are responsible for handling your claim with the airline and are only paid when the reimbursement is effective.

In conclusion, no financial risk for you, only advantages!

Immigration figures for Uganda

When it comes to immigration, Uganda has been experiencing steady growth for several years now. According to data published by the Uganda National Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), the total number of foreign arrivals has increased in recent years. In 2019, this number stood at around 1.8 million arrivals, an increase of 7% on 2018. The main reasons for these arrivals are:
  • Tourism: 45%
  • Business: 30%
  • Family visits: 15%
  • Other motifs: 10%

Most popular visas in Uganda

As far as visas for Uganda are concerned, there are several types of visa available to foreign travelers. The main types of visa issued by the Ugandan government are :
  • Single-entry tourist visa
  • Single-entry business visa
  • Transit visa
  • Diplomatic and official visas
  • Temporary work visa
  • Residence permit
According to data from Uganda's National Bureau of Statistics, the single-entry tourist visa is the most popular visarepresenting around 65% of total visa applications. This visa allows foreigners to stay in Uganda for up to 90 days.

Electronic visa: a simplified way to obtain your visa for Uganda

To make it easier for international travelers to enter the country, the Ugandan government has set up an online visa application system called e-Visa. This system enables you to submit your visa application via the Internet and receive your electronic visa by e-mail, without having to visit an embassy or consulate. The e-visa is currently available for single-entry tourist visas, business visas and transit visas. Certain documents are required when applying online, such as a valid passport, a recent passport photo and proof of travel (return air ticket).

International tourism figures and trends in Uganda

Uganda attracts more and more international visitors every year, not least thanks to its unique natural and cultural assets. Among the most popular tourist sites are Bwindi Gorilla National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park and the Source of the Nile.

International arrivals and tourism revenues

According to data from the World Tourism Organization, international arrivals to Uganda have grown steadily in recent years. In 2019, the country welcomed around 1.6 million international visitors, an increase of 9% on 2018. As for revenues generated by the tourism sector, they also increased from $1.5 billion in 2018 to $1.7 billion in 2019. This increase in tourism revenues makes a major contribution to the country's economic development and represents a significant source of foreign currency.

The main tourist markets

Uganda attracts visitors from all over the world, but some countries stand out for the number of tourists they send. The main tourist-sending markets for Uganda are :