Due to warm temperatures and minimal precipitation, July is one of the most popular times to visit Uganda. Book in advance, and you'll be able to embark on game drives and walking safaris, watch mountain gorillas up close, and spot magnificent birds feeding in the country's rivers and lakes. Pack layers for the cooler evenings, especially in the south, and you'll find hiking and wildlife-watching very pleasant.

Weather

Warm temperatures and minimal precipitation throughout the country make July one of the best times to visit Uganda in terms of weather. In Kampala, the capital city, temperatures range between 77ºF (25ºC) and 61ºF (16ºC), and less than an inch of rain falls during the month. You'll want to bring warmer layers if you head south to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, as nighttime temperatures can drop to 55ºF (13ºC). However, you can also look forward to dry trails and less thick vegetation, thanks to the lack of rain in July.

Crowds & Costs

July is peak season in Uganda, and as there's a limited number of permits and accommodations, you'll want to book well in advance to avoid disappointment. Along with the influx of tourists brings an increase in flight, food, and tour prices, and it becomes more challenging to find cheap accommodations. This is especially true in the south, as July is one of the most popular times to go trekking in search of mountain gorillas. Even so, Uganda never feels crowded, and you'll still get plenty of peaceful time on national park trails.

Where to Go

If you have two weeks to travel, opt for a national parks-focused trip and explore Uganda from top to bottom. Most flights arrive at Entebbe International Airport, and from there, you can spend a night in Entebbe or Kampala, getting your bearings in the country and checking out the Uganda Museum and the Lubiri Palace. Next, make your way north to Kidepo Valley National Park, famous for its population of elephants, zebras, and lions who roam the park's plains. Also close by is Murchison Falls National Park, where lions, buffalo, antelopes, and more hang out along the banks of the Nile River. 

In central Uganda, it's well worth spending a few days in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Opt for a game drive along the Kasenyi Sector, known for its competing lion and antelope populations, then hop on board a boat and float down the Kazinga Channel. If you have time, stop by the Kalinzu Central Nature Reserve to watch chimpanzees play and learn about the many tree and bird species that call the reserve home.

Of course, no trip in July would be complete without an excursion to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Located on the edge of the Western Rift Valley, this UNESCO-listed site is home to 400 wild mountain gorillas and is one of the richest biological regions in the world. Also located in the south is the lesser-known Mgahinga National Park, where dense jungle forests are interrupted only by steep volcanic slopes. Before catching your flight home, enjoy Lake Victoria's cooler temperatures with a trip to the island of Ngamba, where you can spot rescued chimpanzees at the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary. 

Plan your trip to Uganda
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Get Started

What to Do

If getting an up-close experience with rare mountain gorillas tops your bucket list, choose a four-day Bwindi Impenetrable National Park adventure. With an expert guide by your side, you'll trek through village gardens and jungle-like forests in search of gorillas, and once you've spotted a family, you'll have an hour to watch these amazing animals play, feed, and interact with one another. As July is the most popular time to visit the south, you'll want to book early to guarantee your spot, but in return, trails and roads will be at their best.

Besides the mountain gorillas, there are also plenty of other wildlife to see, and July is a great time to go on walking safaris and game drives. With the lack of precipitation, animals are easier to spot as they congregate around water sources. Head to Kibale Forest National Park and watch for blue monkeys, baboons, and chimpanzees playing in tree tops high above you, then continue to Queen Elizabeth National Park, where everything from spoonbills and African skimmers to large Nile crocodiles hang out along the Kazinga Channel.

Uganda isn't all about the animals, though. July is also a great time to learn about local culture and age-old traditions in small villages sprinkled across the country. Visit the Kasoga Community Experience to learn about the craft and skills involved in living in a fishing village and try your hand at milking cows and turning milk into yogurt. Another great option is a Batwa Pygmy Cultural Experience, which focuses on the customs and history of the displaced Batwa people. 

Events in July

Eid Al Adha, nationwide. Falling either in June or July, Eid Al Adha is the most important feast in the Muslim calendar. It's an official public holiday in Uganda, and many shops and businesses will be closed so families can enjoy time together.

Traveling to Uganda in July? Check out these great itineraries

Uganda National Parks: Kibale, Queen Elizabeth & Bwindi - 8 days. Track chimpanzees, embark on land and water safaris, and get up close to wild mountain gorillas on this nature and wildlife-packed itinerary.

Ultimate Uganda Wildlife Adventure - 18 Days. Take advantage of Uganda's near-perfect weather, explore four national parks, experience local culture in small villages, and enjoy the vibrant capital city of Kampala in just over two weeks.

More Helpful Information

Uganda in June
Uganda in August
Best Time of Year to Visit Uganda
How Many Days to Spend in Uganda