When you plan a safari, one of the first and most crucial things you need to consider is when to go. It might be the summer Holidays for the kids, when you can get some time off, or when a specific wildlife experience is at its peak.
One of the frequently asked questions from folks yearning to enjoy a maximum safari experience is “whether it is okay to go on a safari in the wet season” It is a widely held opinion that the dry season (July, August, December, January, and February) is the best time to go on a Uganda safari. The vegetation is sparser/or shorter for wildlife viewing and lots of wildlife species converge around limited water sources at spots that are widely known for Park Rangers and safari guides. However, with so many travelers making their way into Africa during these months, accommodation is at its most pricey and some of the most sought-after Conservation Areas can become thronged. It might be your first safari, it’s a lot of money, it might be your only safari. There’s a lot to get right. Add in some FOMO, combined with the internet and a myth develops. Don’t go on a safari in September or October.
Mr. Kasujja of Mum and Dad Uganda Tours rejects this myth in the strongest terms. September and October, or any other wet season month is a wonderful time to go on a safari because it offers some distinct advantages. This season isn’t always as “wet” as we are made to think. Most regions only experience short afternoon showers that quickly clear to sunny skies, enabling you to get out and about on guided walks or game drives without getting soaked.
Yes, animals can be hidden by the teeming vegetation that thrives during the wet season (such as September and October) but you will also be treated to breathtaking bird sightings as the colorful feathered beauties flock to the savannah plains and different natural habitats. Going on a safari in September and October has incredible merits for travelers who’re willing to brave the weather and here we shall share with you 5 reasons to go;
Picture-perfect opportunities
As the rains descend across the natural vegetation- forest, savannah, and woodland, the dry vegetation is transformed into a verdant green and new shoots spring up for wildlife to feed on. This is Africa at its most stunning for photography, with much less dust and haze to obscure the breathtaking landscape. Beautiful flowers ignore the savannah plains, creating an Eden-like natural setting that will have you grabbing for your camera. For photographers, the months of September and October offer golden, early morning light, minimal haze, and vast open landscapes that create the perfect backdrop for wildlife photography.
The endless savannah plains, the dramatic Valleys and escarpments, and other landscapes provide striking contrasts that make for jaw-dropping shots. Also, with shorter grass and fewer leaves, capturing wildlife in their natural habitats is far easier during September and October. Also, sunrises and sunsets are at their most majestic, with dark storm clouds adding drama to the skies above.
Fewer crowds, more intimate experiences
Most popular safari destinations can get busy during the peak, dry season with jeeps jostling for space at carnivore (lion and leopard) sightings to ensure everyone gets a view. With the peak safari season tailing off after August, the months of September and October provide more serene and intimate safari experiences. This is because there will be fewer other tourists to compete with, meaning you have once-in-a-lifetime wildlife sightings all to yourself.
The National Parks are less crowded, and game drives are quieter, allowing for deeper connections with Mother Nature and wildlife. It is a wonderful time to secure exclusive use of Safari Lodges/Camps or join smaller more tailored safari groups.
Spot a wide array of birds, bird-watching Paradise.
Uganda is a birdwatcher’s Paradise all year, but September and October are particularly extra special due to the arrival of migratory birds. Over 1080 bird species can be found in the Pearl of Africa, including Albertine Rift endemics, the shoebill stork, and colorful bee-eaters among others. Twitchers know all too well that the wet season is their time to travel to Uganda as both resident and migratory species are attracted to the wetlands, savannah plains, woodlands, forests, and floodplains. It is the best time to go on a safari if you wish to see a wide array of species.
Perfect time to take advantage of off-season rates
The wet off-season also comes with some heavily discounted rates at Safari Lodges/Camps, as the demand for accommodation diminishes. This is a wonderful time to enjoy safari deals that can end up saving you lots of money.
If you are traveling as a family (with children), you might be able to find “children stay for free” discounts while come accommodation facilities won’t charge a single supplement for visitors traveling solo. For this reason, with the money you have saved, you can decide to upgrade to a more luxurious option, stay longer, or just save it for something special.
Mild weather for enjoying outdoor activities
East Africa’s weather in September and October is perfect for outdoor activities. Temperatures usually range between 25°C and 30°C during the day (This isn’t too cold or too hot) hence perfect for guided bush walks, game drives, horseback rides, cycling tours, or even cultural tours.
Evenings are cool and refreshing, ideal for relaxing by the fireplace at your Safari Lodge, with a warm “lesu” and a drink in hand.
Conclusively, by choosing to go on a safari in September and October, you are choosing the perfect blend of natural beauty, discounted rates, bird-watching experiences, and picture-perfect opportunities without the crowds of the high season. With these 5 reasons to make up your mind, it is evident that these months are some of the best to experience Uganda in its full majesty.
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