September in Uganda: Gorilla Trekking Highlights
August 8, 2025
My First Gorilla Trekking Experience: What It Felt Like
August 9, 2025
December is one of the most popular months to visit Uganda, combining prime wildlife viewing, warm weather, and a vibrant festive atmosphere. The short dry season creates ideal conditions for exploring the country’s diverse landscapes — from the misty highland forests of Bwindi to the sweeping savannahs of Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls National Parks. Wildlife is easier to spot as animals gather near water sources, while the recent rains leave the scenery lush and green, perfect for photography. In towns and cities, the build-up to Christmas and New Year fills the air with energy — markets overflow with fresh produce and crafts, streets buzz with music, and lodges host special holiday dinners. Whether you’re trekking to see mountain gorillas, cruising along the Nile, watching thousands of migratory birds, or joining in local celebrations, December offers an unforgettable blend of nature, adventure, and culture.
Weather in December
December marks the beginning of Uganda’s short dry season, which runs from late December through February. This is one of the most comfortable and reliable times for travel, as rainfall is minimal in most parts of the country. Roads are generally in better condition, river crossings are easier, and trekking trails in the forests are less slippery compared to the wetter months.
Average Temperatures: Mornings and evenings are pleasantly cool, averaging around 17°C (63°F), while afternoons are warm, reaching about 27°C (81°F). Highland areas such as Bwindi, Kibale, and Mgahinga can feel cooler, especially at night, so a light sweater or jacket is recommended.
Rainfall: You may still experience the occasional short shower, particularly in equatorial rainforest areas, but these are usually brief and followed by sunshine.
Humidity: More moderate than in the wet season, making physical activities like trekking and hiking far more comfortable.
Best For: Gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, big game safaris, birdwatching, and photography.
The combination of clear skies and vivid green landscapes — thanks to the rains of October and November — creates exceptional photography conditions. Sunrises and sunsets are often spectacular, with golden light over the savannah and mist drifting through forest canopies. It’s also a great month for night skies, especially in remote parks far from city lights.
Wildlife Highlights in December
1. Gorilla Trekking
December offers some of the year’s best gorilla trekking conditions in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The reduced rainfall means trekking trails are firmer and less slippery, making the hike more enjoyable. Vegetation is still lush from the preceding rainy season, providing a beautiful green backdrop for photos. Gorillas are often found foraging at lower altitudes, reducing trekking times in some cases. Because December is a peak tourism month, permits are in very high demand — booking at least 6 months in advance is essential to secure your spot.
2. Chimpanzee Tracking
Kibale National Park, known as the “Primate Capital of the World,” is excellent for chimpanzee tracking in December. The drier trails allow for easier movement through the forest, and the chimps are highly active, calling and foraging during the day. This is also a great time to see other primates such as red colobus, black-and-white colobus, and L’Hoest’s monkeys. In Budongo Forest (near Murchison Falls) and Kyambura Gorge (in Queen Elizabeth National Park), chimpanzee tracking is also rewarding, with good chances of sightings in the morning hours.
3. Big Five Safaris
In the savannah parks — Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls, and Kidepo Valley National Park — wildlife is easier to spot in December as animals concentrate around rivers, waterholes, and lake shores. Expect excellent sightings of elephants cooling off in the water, large herds of buffalo grazing, and giraffes moving gracefully across the plains. Lions are often spotted resting in the shade, while leopards may be seen lounging in tree branches. In Kidepo, the dry season brings dramatic views of the Narus Valley teeming with wildlife, against a backdrop of rugged mountains.
4. Birdwatching
December is prime birding season in Uganda, falling right in the middle of the migratory bird period (November–April). You’ll see a mix of colorful resident species and Palearctic migrants from Europe and Asia. Notable spots include Mabamba Swamp (home to the rare shoebill stork), Bigodi Wetlands (near Kibale, great for kingfishers and turacos), and Lake Mburo National Park (famous for waterbirds and savannah species). With over 1,000 recorded bird species in Uganda, December is a paradise for bird photographers and enthusiasts.
Events & Festivities in December
1. Christmas Celebrations
Christmas in Uganda is a vibrant, family-oriented holiday celebrated with warmth and community spirit. In the weeks leading up to December 25th, towns and villages are decorated with colorful lights, and markets become lively hubs selling festive clothes, fresh produce, and special treats. Churches hold carol services and midnight masses, often accompanied by choirs and drumming. Families gather for large meals, typically featuring roast meats, matoke (steamed green bananas), rice, and chapati. In rural areas, it’s common to see entire communities come together for feasts, music, and dancing that last late into the night.
2. End-of-Year Festivals
As the year winds down, many lodges, safari camps, and luxury resorts across Uganda host special holiday programs. These may include themed dinners, live bands, bonfires, and champagne toasts to ring in the New Year. In Kampala, the capital, the nightlife reaches its peak with open-air concerts, DJ parties, and fireworks displays lighting up the skyline. Popular spots like the Sheraton Gardens and Serena Hotel host glamorous countdown events, while beach resorts along Lake Victoria hold dance parties that last until sunrise.
3. Cultural Performances
December is also a great time to enjoy Uganda’s cultural heritage through music and dance. In tourist-friendly towns such as Fort Portal, Jinja, and Entebbe, you’ll often find evening performances featuring traditional dances from different tribes, storytelling sessions, and live drumming. Craft markets also become more active during the festive season, making it an ideal time to shop for handmade souvenirs while enjoying local entertainment. For visitors, these performances offer not only an engaging evening but also a deeper connection to Uganda’s diverse cultures.
Travel Tips for December
Book Early: December is a high-demand month; secure gorilla and chimpanzee permits months in advance.
Pack Layers: Mornings and evenings can be cool in highland areas.
Include Sunglasses & Sunscreen: The sun can be intense during the dry season.
Plan for Festive Crowds: Popular lodges may be busier over Christmas and New Year.
Why Visit Uganda in December?
With its dry weather, abundant wildlife, and vibrant festive atmosphere, December is one of the most rewarding months for a Uganda safari. The clear skies and lush post-rain landscapes make every game drive, boat cruise, or trek feel cinematic, with golden light at sunrise and sunset enhancing your photos. Whether you’re standing just meters away from a mountain gorilla in the misty forests of Bwindi, watching lions laze under an acacia in Queen Elizabeth National Park, or spotting the rare shoebill in Mabamba Swamp, the wildlife encounters are unforgettable. Beyond the parks, the country comes alive with holiday spirit — markets bustle with shoppers, churches fill with music, and lodges offer special celebrations to mark Christmas and New Year. It’s a month where nature, adventure, and culture combine seamlessly, leaving travelers with both thrilling memories and a deep connection to Uganda’s warmth and hospitality.
Quick Facts: December in Uganda
Season: Short dry season
Best For: Gorilla trekking, Big Five safaris, birdwatching, cultural events
Crowds: High — early booking recommended
Special Tip: Combine your safari with a Lake Victoria or Jinja Nile River visit for a relaxing festive finale.
FAQs: Visiting Uganda in December
1. Is December a good month for gorilla trekking in Uganda?
Yes. December is one of the best months for gorilla trekking. The weather is dry, trails are firmer, and visibility in the forest is better. However, it’s also a peak tourist month, so permits sell out quickly.
2. How hot is Uganda in December?
Daytime temperatures average around 25–27°C (77–81°F) in most safari destinations, with cooler mornings and evenings, especially in highland areas like Bwindi and Kibale.
3. Is it crowded in December?
Yes, especially around Christmas and New Year. Lodges, parks, and trekking permits are in high demand. Booking several months in advance is strongly recommended.
4. What should I pack for Uganda in December?
Lightweight, breathable clothing for daytime; a warm layer for cool mornings; a rain jacket for occasional showers; sturdy walking shoes for trekking; sunscreen, sunglasses, and insect repellent.
5. Can I still see migratory birds in December?
Absolutely. December falls in the migratory bird season (November–April), so you can spot a wide range of species alongside Uganda’s resident birds.
6. Are there any special events in December?
Yes. Christmas celebrations are big in Uganda, with church services, family gatherings, music, and dancing. New Year’s Eve is marked by lively parties and fireworks, especially in Kampala.
7. Which parks are best to visit in December?
Top picks include Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for gorillas, Kibale for chimpanzees, Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls for Big Five safaris, and Kidepo Valley for dramatic landscapes and fewer crowds.
