February is one of Uganda's hottest and driest months, making it an ideal time to trek through the lush jungle in search of mountain gorillas. Stick to Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, and Bwindi Imprenable Forest National Parks to avoid the heat of the north, and be sure to book ahead for permits. In return, you'll be able to enjoy the quieter shoulder-season trails with very reasonable prices for food, flights, and accommodations.

Weather

Straddling the equator, Uganda has warm temperatures throughout the year and experiences defined wet and dry seasons. February falls right in the middle of one of the two dry seasons and sees an average daytime high of 91ºF (33ºC) in Gulu and 76ºF (24ºC) in Kabale, to a low of 48ºF (9ºC) in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The rains have also mostly disappeared, and it's possible to go weeks without precipitation. Northern Uganda gets especially hot and dry; however, the mountainous region in the south is perfect for trekking under the jungle canopy.

Crowds & Costs

February is a tale of two halves regarding crowds and costs. With the busier months of December and January come and gone and the primary tourist season of June through September still a few months away, you'll find fewer tourists out on the trails and accommodation and flight prices cheaper. However, with Kidepo Valley National Park and Murchison Falls National Park considered too hot for many visitors, the permits for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park will be harder to come by, and you'll want to book in advance to see gorillas and chimps in the wild.

Where to Go

Thanks to February's hot and dry weather, it's the perfect month to embark on an Uganda National Parks trip, exploring central and southern Uganda. Begin your adventure in Entebbe, just south of the capital city of Kampala, to dust off any jet lag and learn more about Uganda at the Ndere Cultural Center. Then, hit the road to Kibale Forest National Park, known for its chimpanzees, blue monkeys, baboons, and other intriguing primates. February is also a great time to stop by Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary for a more off-the-beaten-path experience and to see colorful birds and butterflies floating through the wetlands.

Next, head south to Queen Elizabeth National Park, home to hippos, elephants, and buffaloes. With the decreased precipitation and less vegetation around the park, spotting them will be easier as they're more likely to hang out near water holes. To beat the hot temperatures, opt for a morning water safari down the Kazinga Channel, keeping your eye out for crocodiles and elephants, and spend your afternoon relaxing in the shade at your lodge and the evening going on a game drive in Kasenyi Sector.

Continuing north, you'll reach the UNESCO-listed Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, famous for its 400 wild mountain gorillas that reside within. If you have more time to explore, take a day to explore Mgahinga Gorilla National Park to try your luck at spotting golden monkeys and leopards in the wild.

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What to Do

Uganda is known for its wildlife-filled savannas and dense mountain jungles, and February is the perfect time to explore the best of them without the crowds or tour-stopping rains. If you're looking to get up close to Uganda's mountain gorillas and you only have a few days up your sleeve, opt for a four-day trip to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, where you'll hike with a guide through village gardens and jungle-like forest to see these rare animals in the wild.

Those looking to get a well-rounded view of Uganda's wildlife can opt for a longer Uganda National Parks adventure and tick off the highlights of Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, and Bwindi Imprenable Forest National Parks. Split your time between land and water safaris, and join night game drives to see giraffes, waterbucks, and buffalo coming out to dine. Then, switch gears and learn more about Uganda's tiny villages and simple way of life with an immersive Batwa Pygmy Cultural Experience.

While Uganda isn't particularly known for its cities and town, it's still well worth exploring Entebbe, where you can grab souvenirs at the Buganda Craft Market and learn about Uganda's political and cultural past at Kabaka's Palace. You can also head to the island of Ngamba on Lake Victoria, home to the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, to watch chimps interact with their caregivers. Then, spend an evening in Kampala hopping between the city's rooftop bars for exciting nightlife.

Events in February

Remembrance of Archbishop Janani Luwum, nationwide. Celebrated on February 16 each year, this public holiday recognizes the contributions of Janani Luwum, a former Archbishop. Schools and businesses throughout the country will be closed.

Traveling to Uganda in February? Check out these great itineraries

Gorillas & Big Game Safari - 6 Days. Go in search of lions, elephants, and the famed mountain gorilla on this six-day adventure exploring Queen Elizabeth and Bwindi Impenetrable National Parks.

Uganda's National Parks: Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi, Kibale & Rwenzori - 10 Days. Split your time between walking safaris, trekking excursions, and game drives on this nature-packed itinerary exploring central and southern Uganda.

More Helpful Information

Uganda in January
Uganda in March
Best Time of Year to Visit Uganda
How Many Days to Spend in Uganda