Uganda, located in East Africa, is a landlocked country bordered by Kenya to the east, South Sudan to the north, the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west, Rwanda to the southwest, and Tanzania to the south. Despite being landlocked, Uganda is home to several large lakes, including Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest lake, and Lake Albert and Lake Edward, which are part of the Great Rift Valley. Uganda’s landscape is incredibly diverse, ranging from rolling savannah plains to dense rainforests and snow-capped mountains, such as the Rwenzori Mountains on the western border.
Uganda’s climate is largely tropical, tempered by its varied topography and elevation. Most of the country experiences two rainy seasons each year, with temperatures ranging from warm to hot year-round. The central and southern regions are generally wetter, while the northern part of the country experiences more pronounced dry seasons. Uganda’s highlands, especially near the Rwenzori Mountains, are cooler, and the elevated areas also receive substantial rainfall. Understanding the monthly weather patterns in Uganda can help visitors and residents plan their activities around the best climatic conditions.
Uganda’s Weather by Month
January: Hot and Dry in Most Regions
Central and Southern Uganda (Kampala, Entebbe)
- Average Temperature: 27°C (81°F) during the day, 18°C (64°F) at night
- Rainfall: Low, around 50-80 mm
- Humidity: Moderate, around 60-70%
- Wind: Gentle breezes from the southeast
Northern Uganda (Gulu, Kitgum)
- Average Temperature: 30°C (86°F) during the day, 18°C (64°F) at night
- Rainfall: Very low, less than 20 mm
- Humidity: Low, around 50%
- Wind: Light, but occasionally stronger during the afternoon
Western Uganda (Fort Portal, Rwenzori Mountains)
- Average Temperature: 24°C (75°F) during the day, 14°C (57°F) at night
- Rainfall: Low, around 60-80 mm, mostly in the higher elevations
Summary: January is one of the driest months in Uganda, especially in the northern regions, which experience very little rainfall. Central and southern regions are also relatively dry, making it an excellent time for wildlife safaris and outdoor activities, including trekking in national parks like Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth. Temperatures remain warm to hot, with cooler conditions in the highlands.
February: Hot and Dry Continues
Central and Southern Uganda
- Average Temperature: 28°C (82°F) during the day, 19°C (66°F) at night
- Rainfall: Low, around 50-70 mm
- Humidity: Moderate, around 65%
- Wind: Light to moderate breezes
Northern Uganda
- Average Temperature: 31°C (88°F) during the day, 19°C (66°F) at night
- Rainfall: Very low, around 10-30 mm
- Humidity: Low, around 45%
- Wind: Occasionally stronger during the heat of the day
Western Uganda
- Average Temperature: 25°C (77°F) during the day, 15°C (59°F) at night
- Rainfall: Low to moderate, around 70-90 mm, mostly in the mountains
Summary: February remains dry across most of Uganda, with slightly warmer temperatures than January. The northern regions continue to experience very little rain, while central and southern Uganda also stay relatively dry. However, the western highlands, including the Rwenzori Mountains, may receive occasional showers. This month is ideal for exploring Uganda’s national parks and wildlife reserves.
March: The Start of the Long Rainy Season
Central and Southern Uganda
- Average Temperature: 26°C (79°F) during the day, 18°C (64°F) at night
- Rainfall: Increasing, around 100-150 mm
- Humidity: Rising, around 70-75%
- Wind: Light to moderate breezes
Northern Uganda
- Average Temperature: 29°C (84°F) during the day, 18°C (64°F) at night
- Rainfall: Light, around 50-80 mm
- Humidity: Increasing, around 60%
- Wind: Light winds, with occasional afternoon gusts
Western Uganda
- Average Temperature: 24°C (75°F) during the day, 15°C (59°F) at night
- Rainfall: Moderate, around 120-160 mm, with frequent showers in the mountains
Summary: March marks the beginning of Uganda’s long rainy season, particularly in the central and southern regions. Rainfall increases significantly, especially in the western highlands, though northern Uganda still remains relatively dry. Temperatures remain warm, but the increased rainfall can make some areas muddy and harder to navigate. Despite the rain, this is a good time for birdwatching and experiencing Uganda’s lush, green landscapes.
April: Peak of the Long Rainy Season
Central and Southern Uganda
- Average Temperature: 25°C (77°F) during the day, 17°C (63°F) at night
- Rainfall: High, around 150-200 mm
- Humidity: High, around 80%
- Wind: Light, with occasional stronger gusts during storms
Northern Uganda
- Average Temperature: 28°C (82°F) during the day, 17°C (63°F) at night
- Rainfall: Moderate, around 80-120 mm
- Humidity: Increasing, around 65%
- Wind: Light to moderate breezes
Western Uganda
- Average Temperature: 23°C (73°F) during the day, 14°C (57°F) at night
- Rainfall: High, around 160-200 mm, frequent heavy downpours in mountainous areas
Summary: April is one of the wettest months in Uganda, particularly in the central, southern, and western regions. The rains can be heavy and frequent, often accompanied by thunderstorms, making roads muddy and some areas harder to access. However, this is also when the landscape is at its greenest and most beautiful, ideal for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers. Northern Uganda sees slightly less rain but still experiences frequent showers.
May: Continued Rains, But Starting to Ease
Central and Southern Uganda
- Average Temperature: 25°C (77°F) during the day, 17°C (63°F) at night
- Rainfall: Moderate to high, around 120-170 mm
- Humidity: High, around 75-80%
- Wind: Light, with occasional gusts during storms
Northern Uganda
- Average Temperature: 28°C (82°F) during the day, 18°C (64°F) at night
- Rainfall: Moderate, around 100-150 mm
- Humidity: Increasing, around 65%
- Wind: Light, with breezes in the afternoons
Western Uganda
- Average Temperature: 23°C (73°F) during the day, 14°C (57°F) at night
- Rainfall: Moderate to high, around 140-180 mm, with fewer showers than April
Summary: May sees the continuation of the rainy season, but with a slight reduction in rainfall compared to April. The central and southern regions remain wet, though the intensity of the rain begins to decrease by the end of the month. Northern Uganda receives more rain than in previous months, making it greener and more lush. The western highlands, although still wet, experience fewer heavy downpours, making it a favorable time for trekking and mountain activities.
June: The Dry Season Begins
Central and Southern Uganda
- Average Temperature: 26°C (79°F) during the day, 17°C (63°F) at night
- Rainfall: Low, around 60-80 mm
- Humidity: Moderate, around 65-70%
- Wind: Gentle breezes
Northern Uganda
- Average Temperature: 29°C (84°F) during the day, 18°C (64°F) at night
- Rainfall: Decreasing, around 60-100 mm
- Humidity: Moderate, around 55-60%
- Wind: Light to moderate, with cooler evenings
Western Uganda
- Average Temperature: 24°C (75°F) during the day, 14°C (57°F) at night
- Rainfall: Moderate, around 80-100 mm, with occasional showers
Summary: June marks the start of the dry season in Uganda, particularly in the central and southern regions where rainfall drops significantly. Northern Uganda also sees a reduction in rainfall, though occasional showers still occur. This is a great time for safaris, wildlife viewing, and gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park as the weather is drier and the wildlife is more active.
July: Dry and Sunny
Central and Southern Uganda
- Average Temperature: 26°C (79°F) during the day, 16°C (61°F) at night
- Rainfall: Very low, around 40-60 mm
- Humidity: Low, around 60%
- Wind: Light breezes, with cooler mornings and evenings
Northern Uganda
- Average Temperature: 29°C (84°F) during the day, 18°C (64°F) at night
- Rainfall: Low, around 40-70 mm
- Humidity: Low, around 50-55%
- Wind: Light, with occasional gusts
Western Uganda
- Average Temperature: 23°C (73°F) during the day, 14°C (57°F) at night
- Rainfall: Low, around 60-80 mm, mostly in the mountains
Summary: July is one of the driest months in Uganda, with very little rainfall across most regions. The dry and sunny weather makes it ideal for outdoor activities such as safaris, hiking, and gorilla trekking. The western highlands remain slightly cooler, providing a pleasant climate for visitors looking to explore the country’s stunning mountain landscapes.
August: Dry Season Continues
Central and Southern Uganda
- Average Temperature: 26°C (79°F) during the day, 17°C (63°F) at night
- Rainfall: Low, around 50-70 mm
- Humidity: Low to moderate, around 65%
- Wind: Light to moderate breezes
Northern Uganda
- Average Temperature: 29°C (84°F) during the day, 18°C (64°F) at night
- Rainfall: Low, around 50-80 mm
- Humidity: Moderate, around 55%
- Wind: Light breezes, with cooler nights
Western Uganda
- Average Temperature: 24°C (75°F) during the day, 14°C (57°F) at night
- Rainfall: Low, around 70-90 mm, with occasional showers in the highlands
Summary: August continues the dry season, with warm, dry, and sunny conditions throughout Uganda. Central, southern, and northern Uganda experience minimal rainfall, while the western regions see only occasional showers. It’s another ideal month for wildlife viewing, safaris, and hiking. The dry conditions also make it easier to navigate rural roads and explore remote areas.
September: Transition Toward the Short Rains
Central and Southern Uganda
- Average Temperature: 27°C (81°F) during the day, 17°C (63°F) at night
- Rainfall: Increasing slightly, around 80-100 mm
- Humidity: Moderate, around 70%
- Wind: Light to moderate breezes
Northern Uganda
- Average Temperature: 29°C (84°F) during the day, 18°C (64°F) at night
- Rainfall: Increasing, around 100-130 mm
- Humidity: Rising, around 60%
- Wind: Light to moderate
Western Uganda
- Average Temperature: 24°C (75°F) during the day, 14°C (57°F) at night
- Rainfall: Increasing, around 100-120 mm, with more frequent showers in the mountains
Summary: September is a transitional month as Uganda moves from the dry season back to the short rainy season. Rainfall begins to increase across the country, especially in the northern and western regions, but dry spells are still common. The weather remains generally favorable for outdoor activities, though visitors should be prepared for occasional showers.
October: The Short Rains Begin
Central and Southern Uganda
- Average Temperature: 26°C (79°F) during the day, 18°C (64°F) at night
- Rainfall: Moderate, around 120-150 mm
- Humidity: High, around 75-80%
- Wind: Light, with stronger gusts during storms
Northern Uganda
- Average Temperature: 28°C (82°F) during the day, 18°C (64°F) at night
- Rainfall: Moderate, around 150-180 mm
- Humidity: High, around 65%
- Wind: Light to moderate
Western Uganda
- Average Temperature: 23°C (73°F) during the day, 14°C (57°F) at night
- Rainfall: Moderate to high, around 150-180 mm, with frequent showers
Summary: October marks the start of Uganda’s short rainy season, with rainfall increasing across the country. Central and southern Uganda receive more rain, while the northern and western regions also see frequent showers. Despite the rain, this is still a good time for wildlife viewing, as animals tend to be more active during cooler periods.
November: Peak of the Short Rains
Central and Southern Uganda
- Average Temperature: 25°C (77°F) during the day, 17°C (63°F) at night
- Rainfall: High, around 150-200 mm
- Humidity: Very high, around 80%
- Wind: Light, with occasional gusts during storms
Northern Uganda
- Average Temperature: 28°C (82°F) during the day, 17°C (63°F) at night
- Rainfall: High, around 160-200 mm
- Humidity: High, around 70%
- Wind: Light to moderate
Western Uganda
- Average Temperature: 23°C (73°F) during the day, 14°C (57°F) at night
- Rainfall: High, around 180-220 mm, frequent heavy showers
Summary: November is the peak of the short rainy season in Uganda. Rainfall is frequent and often heavy, particularly in the western highlands. While the rain can make some areas harder to access, this is still a great time to visit Uganda’s national parks for birdwatching and to see the lush green landscapes in full bloom.
December: End of the Short Rains
Central and Southern Uganda
- Average Temperature: 26°C (79°F) during the day, 17°C (63°F) at night
- Rainfall: Decreasing, around 100-150 mm
- Humidity: High, around 75-80%
- Wind: Light to moderate
Northern Uganda
- Average Temperature: 29°C (84°F) during the day, 18°C (64°F) at night
- Rainfall: Decreasing, around 120-150 mm
- Humidity: High, around 65-70%
- Wind: Light, with occasional breezes
Western Uganda
- Average Temperature: 24°C (75°F) during the day, 14°C (57°F) at night
- Rainfall: Moderate, around 120-150 mm, with fewer showers
Summary: December marks the end of Uganda’s short rainy season. Rainfall decreases, particularly in the central and northern regions, while the western highlands still experience occasional showers. Temperatures remain warm, making it a pleasant time to visit Uganda for wildlife viewing, safaris, and exploring the country’s natural beauty.