Climate Overview
The climate in Mbarara is warm and mild. The average annual temperature is 22°C and approximately 756mm of precipitation falls per year. April is the wettest month, receiving around 118mm of rainfall. Mbarara sits near the equator, so seasonal temperature differences are minimal throughout the year.
Temperature
Mbarara sees moderate temperature variation throughout the year, ranging from 16°C to 29°C. The warmest month is February, when average highs reach 29°C and the mean temperature sits around 23°C. November is the coolest month, with minimum temperatures around 16°C and an average of 21°C. On average, daily temperatures fluctuate by about 11°C between overnight lows and afternoon highs.
Precipitation
Mbarara is a relatively dry area, receiving approximately 756mm of precipitation annually, which averages out to around 63mm per month. The wettest month is April, averaging 118mm of rainfall. October and November also tend to see above-average precipitation. The driest month is July, with just 16mm. That's 102mm less than April, the wettest month. Rainfall is heavily concentrated in certain months, creating a distinct wet and dry season. Visitors should plan around these patterns, as the difference between peak and low months is dramatic.
Wind
Mbarara is relatively calm, with an average annual wind speed of 2km/h. For context, sustained winds below 12km/h are generally light, while anything above 25km/h is considered strong. The windiest month is July, averaging 2km/h, though still comfortable for most outdoor activities. The calmest conditions occur in March, with average winds dropping to 2km/h, making it an ideal period for wind-sensitive activities. Wind conditions are fairly consistent throughout the year, varying by only 0km/h between the calmest and windiest months.
Seasons
4 days until Winter
It is currently autumn in Mbarara, which began on March 20, 2026. Mbarara sits near the equator, so the traditional four-season cycle is less pronounced — temperatures remain relatively stable year-round. The warmest period peaks in February at around 29°C, while the coldest stretch bottoms out in November near 16°C. Winter is next, beginning on June 21, 2026 — 4 days from now.
Spring
Temperatures range from 16 to 27°C. Precipitation is moderate at around 277mm for the season, averaging 92mm per month. Winds are generally light, averaging 2km/h. An umbrella or waterproof jacket is advisable as spring showers are frequent.
Summer
Temperatures range from 17 to 29°C. Rainfall is relatively light, with around 129mm over the season and a monthly average of 43mm. Winds are generally light, averaging 2km/h. Light, breathable clothing is ideal — perfect conditions for outdoor activities.
Autumn
Temperatures range from 17 to 28°C. Precipitation is moderate at around 250mm for the season, averaging 83mm per month. Winds are generally light, averaging 2km/h. A waterproof jacket and sturdy footwear are recommended as rain becomes more frequent.
Winter
Temperatures range from 16 to 28°C. Rainfall is relatively light, with around 100mm over the season and a monthly average of 33mm. Winds are generally light, averaging 2km/h. A light jacket or sweater is usually sufficient, though cooler evenings may call for an extra layer.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Mbarara is during January, February, March, May, June, July, August, September, November and December, when the weather is most comfortable for travellers. During these months, average temperatures hover around 22°C with modest rainfall averaging 53mm per month. A light rain jacket is recommended, though showers are generally brief and shouldn't disrupt your plans.
Monthly Climate Data
The table below shows monthly climate averages for Mbarara based on historical weather data. Min and max temperatures represent typical overnight lows and afternoon highs for each month, shown in degrees Celsius (°C). Precipitation is measured in millimetres (mm) and indicates the average total rainfall per month. Wind speed is the average sustained speed in kilometres per hour (km/h). All values are based on averages from over 10 years of historical weather data. The current month is highlighted for quick reference.