What is the Climate in Kampala, Uganda?

Kampala, the capital of Uganda and largest metropolitan area in Uganda, has a tropical savannah climate with temperatures ranging from a warm and humid 25°C to a pleasant 18°C during the cooler months. The lowest average temperatures of the year are experienced during the months of June, July and August, ranging from just 15°C to 17°C.

Rainfall generally follows a bimodal pattern in Kampala, with two wet seasons often occurring between March and June, and then again between October and December. The average rainfall recorded in Kampala is 1920 mm, with most of this usually falling during the rainy season.
The highest amount of rainfall typically occurs between the months of April and May, when over 500 mm can be expected in just one month.

The city of Kampala experiences short dry spells between the wet seasons, often lasting for a few weeks between June and September.
This is a great time to experience the city as the weather is comfortable but not too hot. The warmest month in Kampala is January, when daytime temperatures can reach up to 28°C.

As Kampala is located close to the equator, it has a very consistent climate year-round. While levels of humidity can be quite high during the wet season (sometimes reaching 90%), the dry season usually offers some relief from this with humidity dropping to as low as 50%; still fairly uncomfortable but much better than during the wet season.

Generally speaking, Kampala offers pleasant year-round temperatures for visitors looking to explore the city. It might be best to avoid visiting during the wet season (which can sometimes turn into severe storms), or in the heart of summer when the humidity is at its highest.
For most travelers, the best time to visit Kampala would be during the dry periods which span a good part of the year.

It is recommended to consult websites such as AccuWeather to check on weather forecasts closer to your travel dates. This can help you plan your activities in the city based on expected weather conditions, ensuring you strike a balance between exploring Kampala’s carefully preserved heritage sites and avoiding any potential disruption from the rainy season that could limit your sightseeing options at that time.

An Insider’s Guide to Kampala, Uganda

If you’re planning a trip to Africa, you cannot miss visiting Kampala, the capital city of Uganda. Kampala is a bustling and vibrant city with a unique atmosphere that truly embodies Uganda as the “Pearl of Africa.” Here is an insider’s guide to help you make the most of your trip.

The Climate in Kampala

Located almost on the equator, Kampala experiences an equatorial climate, with temperatures rarely dropping below 20°C (68°F). The city has two rainy seasons, from March to May and from September to November. The best time to visit is during the dry season, between December and February.

Local Attractions

Kampala has a wealth of attractions to suit all tastes. The following are just a few:

• Kasubi Tombs: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is the burial site of four former Buganda Kings and is an important cultural center.
• Bahai Temple: The only Bahai temple in Africa, it’s an architectural wonder and has beautiful gardens with views of the city.
• Namugongo Martyrs Shrines: This is a historical site where 22 Christian martyrs were burned at the stake in the late 19th century.
• Kabaka’s Palace: A cultural experience that offers the opportunity to learn about the Buganda kingdom’s tradition and customs.
• Owino Market: A bustling market, this is the place to visit for a truly local shopping experience.

Dining Spots

Ugandan cuisine is a mixture of African, European, and Asian food, and Kampala has a range of restaurants catering to all tastes and budgets. Here are some of the best:

• Fang Fang Chinese Restaurant: Serves delicious Chinese cuisine with reasonable pricing, located in the city center.
• Mambo Point: The place to be for a true Ugandan dining experience, they offer a range of local food in an open-air setting overlooking Lake Victoria.
• Biryani House: This is the spot for some of the best biryani in the city.
• Cafe Javas: Provides the perfect atmosphere for enjoying breakfast and brunch with an excellent range of coffee.

Cultural Experiences

Uganda is home to several different ethnic groups, each with its own unique cultural traditions. The following are some of the cultural experiences you shouldn’t miss:

• Ndere Cultural Center: This is a fantastic spot for showcasing cultural displays, from traditional music to dance.
• Musical Instruments Museum: Houses a unique collection of musical instruments from Uganda and other African countries.
• Uganda National Theater: Expect to witness excellent performances of local plays, live music, and many other events.
• Rubaga Cathedral: One of Uganda’s oldest cathedrals, this is a great place to visit architectural history and some impressive stained glass.

Local History

Uganda has a fascinating history, including the reign of Buganda kings, colonization by British settlers and a turbulent post-independence period. Be sure to check out these historical sites:

• Kasubi Tombs: As mentioned earlier, provides a glimpse of Buganda’s cultural and historical significance.
• Uganda Museum: Discover Uganda’s rich cultural and natural heritage through fascinating exhibits that extend right back to the prehistoric era.
• Bahai Temple: As well as being a place of worship, has a wealth of historical significance in the development of the Bahai religion in Africa.
• Namugongo Martyrs Shrines: A moving tribute to 22 Ugandan Christians who were executed for their faith in the late 19th century.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for something more off-the-beaten-path in Kampala, the following are some suggestions:

• The Kampala Art Trail: Highlights the thriving art scene in the city with murals and sculptures scattered all over town.
• The Uganda Railways Museum: The railway system played a critical role in Uganda’s economic and social history, and this museum showcases its importance.
• Kasenge Forest Reserve: A beautiful natural location to enjoy nature walks, bird watching, and other outdoor activities.
• Kabaka Trail: A cultural and historical walk that explores the tradition and customs of the Buganda kingdom, with opportunities to visit royal sites, shrines, and tombs.

Conclusion

Kampala is an incredible destination with a lot to offer, from cultural experiences and historical sites to delicious dining and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a solo traveler, family, or couple, you cannot go wrong with a visit to Uganda’s capital city. Kampala is a vibrant destination that will leave you with a lifetime of memories.