Uganda in December
A Festive and Thrilling Adventure
December marks the beginning of the dry season in Uganda, making it a fantastic time to visit the country. As the year comes to a close, Uganda offers a unique combination of pleasant weather, vibrant landscapes, and plenty of wildlife encounters. While the country starts to see an influx of tourists toward the holiday season, December still offers a more tranquil experience compared to peak tourist months, and it’s an ideal time for adventure lovers and those seeking to explore Uganda’s natural wonders.
In this article, we’ll highlight why December is a great time to visit Uganda, explore the top activities you can enjoy, and provide practical tips for making the most of your trip.
Why Visit Uganda in December?
Dry Season and Pleasant Weather
December is the beginning of Uganda’s dry season, which runs through to February. The weather is warm, with less rainfall and more sunshine, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities like gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, and hiking. The dry conditions make the trails more accessible, and the roads are in better condition, allowing for smoother travel across the country. The cooler mornings and evenings make it an enjoyable climate for trekking and outdoor adventures.
Gorilla Trekking: Ideal Conditions
December offers fantastic conditions for gorilla trekking in Uganda, particularly in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. With the dry weather, trekking trails are less muddy and slippery, making the journey to see the mountain gorillas more comfortable. The forest vegetation is also slightly less dense, improving visibility when you reach the gorillas. Since it’s the start of the dry season, wildlife activity is high, and trekking in these conditions can be a rewarding and memorable experience. Plus, gorilla trekking permits are often in higher demand during the holiday season, so booking well in advance is advisable.
Great for Wildlife Safaris
The dry season in December makes Uganda’s national parks, such as Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls, and Kidepo Valley, perfect for wildlife safaris. During this time, animals are often found gathered around waterholes, making game drives more rewarding and predictable. Expect to see large herds of elephants, buffaloes, lions, and other species as they roam the savannah in search of water. Additionally, wildlife sightings are generally better, as vegetation is less dense and animals are more concentrated in specific areas, making them easier to spot.
Birdwatching in Full Swing
Uganda is a birdwatcher’s paradise year-round, and December is an excellent month for observing both migratory and resident species. The dry season makes the wetlands around Lake Mburo, the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Murchison Falls National Park great spots for birding. Migratory birds arrive from Europe and Asia, adding to Uganda’s diverse birdlife. Whether you’re in the wetlands or the savannahs, expect to see a variety of species, including the rare shoebill stork, herons, kingfishers, and many others.
Holiday Season Festivities
December is a festive month, with Uganda celebrating Christmas and New Year’s Eve in a lively and unique way. While Uganda is a primarily Christian country, there are also cultural celebrations to enjoy. The festive season is marked by local music, dancing, and feasting, especially in major cities like Kampala and Entebbe. If you’re in Uganda during the holiday season, you’ll get to experience the warmth and joy of Ugandan hospitality and traditions, from attending a Christmas service to enjoying delicious local food.
Great for Hiking and Adventure
The dry season in December also makes it a great time for hiking, including treks in the Rwenzori Mountains, Mount Muhabura, and Mount Gahinga. The conditions are typically more favorable, and the trails are less likely to be slippery or muddy. Whether you’re hiking through the stunning Rwenzori Mountain Range, known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” or enjoying the volcanic terrain of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, December provides clear skies and cool temperatures for outdoor activities. The Rwenzori Mountains, in particular, are a must-see for seasoned trekkers, offering breathtaking views of glaciers, waterfalls, and alpine meadows.
What to Do in Uganda in December
Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi and Mgahinga
December is one of the best months for gorilla trekking in Uganda. The dry season means that the trails are easier to navigate, and visibility is better. The mountain gorillas are often found in the more accessible lower altitudes of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or the Virunga Volcanoes of Mgahinga. Whether you’re trekking to see the famous gorilla families like the Hirwa Group or the Mubare Group, December provides ideal conditions for an unforgettable encounter. Be sure to book your gorilla trekking permits well in advance, as this time of year tends to be busy with tourists.
Safari in Murchison Falls National Park
December is a great time to visit Murchison Falls National Park, as the dry season allows you to access more areas of the park without the risk of getting stuck in the mud. Game drives are incredibly rewarding, with large populations of elephants, giraffes, lions, and leopards. Don’t miss the famous boat cruise along the Nile River to see hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife. In addition to game drives, a hike to the top of Murchison Falls offers spectacular views of the Nile as it thunders through a narrow gorge.
Visit Queen Elizabeth National Park for a Safari
Queen Elizabeth National Park, located in southwestern Uganda, is an exceptional destination for a December safari. The dry weather makes it easier to spot wildlife in the savannahs, and you can expect excellent game viewing, including elephants, lions, hippos, and Uganda kob. A boat trip along the Kazinga Channel is a must, as it’s one of the best places to observe a wide variety of wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and birds. The dry season also allows for excellent visibility, making it a great time for both safari drives and photography.
Explore Kibale National Park for Chimpanzee Trekking
Kibale National Park is one of the best places to go chimpanzee trekking in Uganda, and December is an ideal month to visit. The dry weather allows you to traverse the park’s dense forest with ease, and chimpanzee sightings are almost guaranteed. Kibale is home to over 1,500 chimpanzees, and trekking through the forest to see them in their natural habitat is a thrilling experience. Additionally, Kibale is also home to several other primate species, including red colobus monkeys and baboons, making it a perfect destination for primate lovers.
Birdwatching in Lake Mburo National Park
Lake Mburo National Park, known for its rich birdlife and scenic landscapes, is a great destination for birdwatching in December. The dry season makes it easier to spot bird species, and the park is home to over 350 bird species, including the rare shoebill stork and a variety of waterfowl. You can also enjoy boat safaris on Lake Mburo, where you’ll see aquatic birds and wildlife along the shore. This is a great destination for birdwatchers looking to spot unique species in a peaceful, less touristy environment.
Hiking in the Rwenzori Mountains
The Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” are a hiker’s dream, and December is a great time to trek through this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The dry season means that the trails are more accessible, and the weather is cooler, which makes it ideal for multi-day treks to the glaciers and peaks of the Rwenzori Range. If you’re an experienced hiker, you can take on the challenging climbs to Margherita Peak, the highest point in the range. The stunning views, waterfalls, and lush alpine vegetation make this an unforgettable experience.
Practical Tips for Visiting Uganda in December
- Book Early for Popular Activities: December is a busy month for tourism in Uganda, especially for activities like gorilla trekking, safaris, and chimpanzee trekking. Be sure to book permits and accommodations well in advance to secure your spot.
- Pack for Warm, Dry Weather: While Uganda’s weather in December is generally warm and dry, it’s important to bring clothing for both hot days and cool nights. For trekking, pack lightweight, breathable clothes, sturdy hiking boots, and a hat. For safaris, lightweight and neutral-colored clothing is best.
- Celebrate the Festive Season: If you’re visiting Uganda during the Christmas or New Year holidays, be prepared for the country’s festive atmosphere. You may want to join in local celebrations and enjoy traditional meals like roasted meats and chapati.
December is a fantastic month to explore Uganda, as it offers excellent weather conditions, rewarding wildlife encounters, and a festive atmosphere. Whether you’re trekking to see mountain gorillas, enjoying a safari in Murchison Falls or Queen Elizabeth National Park, or hiking in the Rwenzori Mountains, Uganda in December offers an unforgettable adventure. With its dry season, pleasant weather, and a variety of activities, Uganda is a top destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.