With its diverse landscapes, ranging from savannahs to dense forests, Uganda is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. One of the best ways to explore this East African gem is through a self-drive safari. However, timing your trip correctly is crucial to making the most out of your adventure. This is looking into the best times of the year for a self-drive safari in Uganda, considering various factors such as weather, wildlife viewing opportunities, and overall travel experience.
Before diving into the best times for a self-drive safari, it’s essential to understand Uganda’s climate. Uganda is located on the equator, which means it enjoys a relatively consistent climate throughout the year. However, there are two main seasons: the dry season and the wet season. Each season has its advantages and challenges for safari-goers.
December to February
The busiest time of the year is between December to January; during this time of the year, it is very had to get a discount on accommodation and from car rental companies. The month of February is often busy but its end is the transition into the low season.
However, the most important thing in all seasons are the weather conditions. All though we can be able to confirm the peak and low seasons, weather conditions in Uganda are relatively unpredictable. December to end of January were considered one of the driest times of the year however that seems not to be the same anymore! In 2019 Uganda experienced part of the highest levels rains ever recorded in the month of December.
So, for now you can only be assured of January as the dry season. (Please note; dry season in Uganda does not mean no rain for 3 months rather no rain for a span of about 3 to 4 weeks or rain once in two weeks) So you should not be surprised if it rains during the dry season.
March to June
March and June are actually the best time to visit any park or any tourist attraction in Uganda. These seasons are a hybrid of a low season and what you would call an average season if there is such a thing. The car rental prices during this time are negotiable depending on the company you are renting from.
April and May have the some of the low seasons in the year while March and June are average months. The only way to assure of the best rates, consider travelling in April and May. These two months are also the best time of the year to book gorilla and chimpanzee permits for August.
July to September
July, and August are some of the busiest months of the year. The rates in most of the places will obviously be high thus most of the services will require prior bookings from at least three to four months in advance. Failure to book at least three to four months in advance might make it impossible for you to participate in certain activities such as gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking.
Though these months are very busy; they are also somehow dry making them some of the ideal months to visit Uganda.
October to November
These two months are also recommended because they are not as busy as the other months of the year. However, these two months are known for the drizzles that often happen on a regular basis in these two months. The roads will be muddy but not as bad as some weeks in December.
In these two months you can bargain for the best rates on car hire services, Tour guides, accommodation and camping gear.
In Conclusion
The best time for a self-drive safari in Uganda largely depends on your preferences and what you hope to experience. The dry season offers excellent wildlife viewing and more manageable road conditions, making it ideal for most travelers. However, the wet season provides lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and unique wildlife experiences.
Whichever time you choose, a self-drive safari in Uganda promises an unforgettable adventure, filled with breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and the freedom to explore at your own pace. So, pack your bags, buckle up, and get ready to discover the wonders of Uganda on a self-drive safari. Do not forget to book your rental car with Self-Drive Uganda.