With flower-filled savannas and lush jungles, November is the best month for nature lovers to visit Uganda. Expect the occasional rain shower and pack good quality rain gear, as November is the last month of the country's shorter rainy season. Yet in return, you can take advantage of great deals on accommodations and less expensive permits. Stick to the north to avoid heavy rain, or head down to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to spot mountain gorillas in their wet but stunning natural habitat.

Weather

November is the final month of the shorter rainy season in Uganda, and you can expect the occasional heavy rain shower and warm, humid weather. Temperatures fluctuate between 82ºF (28ºC) and 64ºF (18ºC), and with an average of 12 rainy days throughout the month, the landscapes will be green and flourishing. The south, especially around Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, gets the most precipitation, while rain in the north has eased. Pack quality rain gear and be prepared for unexpected detours due to unpassable muddy roads, and you'll find November is a good month to visit Uganda.

Crowds & Costs

Due to the variable weather, November is not a popular time to visit Uganda. However, this is the best month for the budget traveler to score great deals and take advantage of more affordable wildlife permits. Both Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park are known to offer reduced rates on mountain gorilla trekking tours, and throughout the country, accommodations will be cheaper compared to the dry season months. If you're flexible with your dates, you can grab less expensive international flights; however, you'll want to keep in mind that some shops and businesses will be closed for the season.

Where to Go

You'll want to stick to the northern half of Uganda to make the most of your time and avoid much of November's heavy rain. Start your adventure in Kampala, Uganda's capital city, and get your bearings in the country as you explore a mix of historic and modern sites. Next, transfer east to Jinja to see firsthand the source of the mighty Nile River before continuing to Murchison Falls National Park, located in the northwestern corner of Uganda. Thanks to the recent rains, the Victoria Nile and its Murchison Falls will be particularly striking as it drops 148 feet (45 m) through a narrow rocky gorge. 

Also located in the north and well worth visits are the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, known for its population of white rhinos, and Kidepo National Park, the perfect place to spot unique bird species. Then, switch gears and head to Queen Elizabeth National Park in south-central Uganda. Set near the Rwenzori Mountains, the park will be exceptionally beautiful, with wildflowers and lush vegetation coloring the grassy plains and tropical forests.

For those who don't mind donning their rain gear, a once-in-a-lifetime experience awaits in the southwestern corner of Uganda. Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga National Park are famous for their population of wild mountain gorillas and are home to an estimated 400 of the world's 800 mountain gorillas. You'll want to be prepared for a challenging trek, which is why cheaper tours and quiet lodges are on offer. Then, once back in Entebbe, cruise over to the island of Ngamba to learn about the orphaned and rescued chimpanzees in the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary.

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What to Do

With an adventurous spirit and good rain gear, you can experience many of Uganda's highlights and must-dos in November. For those looking to spot Uganda's big five, including buffalo, elephant, leopard, lions, and rhinos, opt for a two-week national parks trip and spend your days embarking on game drives and walking safaris. In Murchison Falls National Park, cruise along the Nile River to the foot of Murchison Falls while watching for the prehistoric-looking shoebill stork and the giant kingfisher. 

Next, watch for giraffes, buffalo, and impalas hiding among the tall grasses and wetlands in Lake Mburo National Park. As Uganda's thick vegetation in November can make spotting wildlife more challenging, you'll want to allow extra time, but in return, you can enjoy intimate moments with the animals without those crowds. Or, if you'd like to increase your chances of spotting Uganda's wildlife without long safaris, November is a great time to visit wildlife sanctuaries, including Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary and Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

For those looking to escape the rain and enjoy the rich culture of Uganda, there are plenty of options this month. Visit the Kasoga Community Experience to learn about life in the fishing village Hamukungu and see firsthand how traditional canoes are crafted and help out with the daily tasks of the community. Then, at the Batwa Pygmy Cultural Experience, you can learn about the displaced Batwa people and follow an ancient trail to the base of Muhuvura Cave.

Events in November

International Film Festival of Kampala Amakula. Between September and November each year, this traveling film festival showcases old and new films and offers workshops in cinematography for interested participants.

Traveling to Uganda in November? Check out these great itineraries

Uganda National Parks: Kibale, Queen Elizabeth & Bwindi - 8 days. Split your time between three of Uganda's national parks while embarking on bird-watching excursions and land and water safaris on this nature-packed trip.

Ultimate Uganda Wildlife Adventure - 18 Days. Take in Uganda's rich culture and stunning landscapes on this well-rounded itinerary between cities, villages, and national parks.

More Helpful Information

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Best Time of Year to Visit Uganda
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