Climate in Uganda

Uganda experiences notable climate variation across the country. Annual temperatures range from lows of 2°C in the coldest regions to highs of 30°C in the warmest areas. Precipitation is relatively consistent across the country, ranging between 154mm and 330mm annually. The warmest areas are warm year-round while the coldest regions remain cool, making Uganda a country of sharp climate contrasts.

Temperature patterns across Uganda vary by region, with distinct differences between areas. The South is the warmest part of the country, with peak temperatures reaching 30°C and an annual average of 20°C. Cooler conditions are found in the West, where winter lows drop to 2°C and an annual average of 7°C. This 12°C difference in annual averages between regions means travellers can experience vastly different conditions depending on which part of Uganda they visit. Regional temperature differences remain relatively consistent across seasons, with around 14°C of variation in both summer and winter. For example, Lira in the Northern Region averages 20°C annually, while Hoima in the Western Region averages 7°C.

Precipitation across Uganda is moderately consistent, with regional totals ranging between 154mm and 330mm annually. The Southwest receives the most rainfall, at approximately 330mm annually. The North is the driest, with around 154mm per year. Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly across the seasons, with no strong wet or dry period in most regions. Visitors heading to wetter areas can expect more frequent rain than those staying in drier parts of the country.