December is a great time to travel to Uganda because it marks the start of the dry season. As the year comes to an end, Uganda offers a mix of pleasant weather, beautiful landscapes, and many wildlife encounters.
While more tourists start arriving during the Christmas season, December still provides a quieter experience compared to the peak months, making it a good time for adventure seekers and those wanting to explore Uganda’s natural wonders.
December is the beginning of Uganda’s dry season, which lasts until February. The weather is warm, with little rainfall and plenty of sunshine, making it a good time for outdoor activities like gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, and hiking.
Traveling across the country is easier because of better road conditions and more accessible trails due to the dry weather.
Trekking and other outdoor activities are more enjoyable with cooler mornings and evenings.
December provides good conditions for gorilla trekking, especially in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
The trekking trails are less muddy and slippery because of the dry weather, making the journey to see the mountain gorillas more comfortable.
Also, the forest is a little less thick, which makes it easier to see the gorillas. Since wildlife activity is high at the start of the dry season, trekking can be a rewarding and unforgettable experience.
However, it is important to book permits early, as they are often in high demand during the holiday season.
Uganda’s national parks, including Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls, and Kidepo Valley, are great for wildlife safaris in December. Animals often gather around waterholes during this time, making game drives more successful.
Large groups of lions, buffaloes, elephants, and other animals can be seen as they search for water across the open plains.
Since animals stay in specific areas and the vegetation is less thick, it is often easier to spot wildlife.
