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Uganda

A multicultural country in East Africa whose diverse landscape encompasses the snow capped Rwenzori Mountains and immense Lake Victoria - the principal source of the great River Nile. Known as the ‘Pearl of Africa’, Uganda is abundant wildlife such as Chimpanzees, Gorillas, famous Big 5 at our 10 Savannah parks, and 1000+ rare bird species.

Climate

Uganda experiences a temperate climate even though the majority of the country is within the Tropics with temperatures between 16 - 26°C for the majority of the year(April - November). However, during the warmer months (December - March) temperatures reach in excess of 30°C. The climate is influenced by the dry N.E. and Northerly air masses determining the dry weather in much of the North. The dry South Easterlies become moist after blowing over Lake Victoria causing wetter conditions in the South

Temperatures
Peak temperatures hit between Dec - March but this rarely exceeds 30°C (86°F) in the day or drop below 16°C (63°F) at night.

Dry Season
June - October & mid December - February.

Wet Season
The topography, prevailing winds, lakes & rivers cause big differences in rainfall patterns. There are two rainy seasons: March - May & Oct - Dec. The northern regions only experience one rainy season, April - Oct.

Best Known For: Gorilla and Primate Trekking, Big 5 safaris with no queues of jeeps etc, wonderful Birding, white water and adventures on The Nile, cultural experiences.

Lesser Known For: Faith Tourism, Dark Tourism (the country has recovered from the Idi Amin regime and it has some fascinating things to be discovered)

Dates for the diary

Traditional Markets
All Year | Kampala
A trip to Kampala is not the same if you don't visit one of the many markets. Exposure Africa (largest), Craft Africa & Uganda Arts and Crafts Village are but a few. The fruit & vegetables of Nakasero market are wonderful and is a hive of activity.

Kabakas (King) Run
April | Annual | Kampala
(Music, Marathon & exhibition)
4 different lengths: Double Double (106km), Full (53km), Half (22km) & Half Half (11km). All proceeds go towards Kabaka's projects.

Murchison Falls
February - April | Annual | Murchison
Water levels are high, the pressure is at it's highest producing foam and rainfall making it very impressive and beautiful.

Shoebill Storks
Year Round | Murchison Falls, Mabamba Swamp
Whilst shoebill can be seen year round. The months of June - August provide better chances to spot them as the swamps begin to dry and water levels go down. Lungfish start to swim in the shallow waters, exposing them and attracting the shoebill.

Kampala Rolex Festival
August | Annual | Kampala
No, not the watch, but a traditional road-side snack made from Chapatti, eggs and vegetables. A great experience for inquisitive foodies and lovers of music.

Nyege Nyege Festival
September | Annual | Kampala
A multi-day, multi-stage event at an abandoned riverfront resort in Jinja. At 9,000 attendees, it is the biggest electronic music festival in East Africa. It's name refers to a Luganda word describing "a sudden, uncontrollable urge to dance."

Imbalu
August - December | Every second year | Mbale
“Imbalu” marks the initiation of boys into manhood. Every year, hundreds of boys aged 16 and above qualify for the “Imbalu”. Unlike in other African areas where circumcision is carried out indoors with few associates present, the Bamasaba or the Bagishu carry out the cutting without anesthesia and in public