Uganda safari in February

Monthly Safari Guide

Uganda Safari in
February

Short Dry Season 17-30°C 50mm rain 3677 tours
February is peak dry season in Uganda and arguably the best month for gorilla trekking. Forest trails are at their driest, making the challenging hikes more manageable. The sought-after shoebill stork is more visible in Mabamba Swamp as water levels drop. Murchison Falls National Park is excellent with concentrated wildlife along the Victoria Nile. Kibale's chimpanzees are active and relatively easy to locate. Permits sell out quickly for February, so plan six to twelve months ahead.

Season overview

Short Dry Season in Uganda

February falls within Uganda's short dry season, characterised by daytime highs of 30°C and overnight lows of 17°C. Average rainfall is 50mm, making this a relatively dry period.

The dry conditions mean vegetation is thinner, making wildlife easier to spot. Animals concentrate around permanent water sources, creating dense and dramatic viewing opportunities. Clear skies provide excellent visibility and photography conditions.

Wildlife & nature

Wildlife Highlights in February

  • Peak gorilla trekking season with dry forest floors
  • Shoebill stork sightings excellent in Mabamba Swamp
  • Chimpanzee communities active and vocal
  • Nile crocodile basking along Murchison Falls riverbanks

Where to go

Best Parks in Uganda for February

Bwindi Impenetrable

Top pick this month

Kibale Forest

Recommended for February

Murchison Falls

Recommended for February

Queen Elizabeth

Recommended for February

Planning

Crowds & Pricing in February

Crowd Level

High

Price Level

High Season

Average price per person

Budget

$2524

from $80 · 693 tours

Mid-range

$2947

from $80 · 1496 tours

Luxury

$4907

from $400 · 155 tours

Ultra-Luxury

$2353

from $1051 · 12 tours

February commands high-season pricing in Uganda due to excellent conditions and strong demand. Booking 3-6 months ahead is recommended for the best selection of camps and lodges.

Preparation

What to Pack for February

Broken-in hiking boots
Long-sleeved shirts
Waterproof daypack
High-energy snacks for gorilla treks
Camera with no flash (required for gorillas)

With temperatures between 17 and 30 degrees Celsius, layering is essential. Early morning game drives can be cold, while midday is warm. Neutral colours (khaki, olive, brown) are best for safari. Avoid bright whites and dark blues which attract tsetse flies in some areas.

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Frequently asked questions

Uganda Safari in February FAQ

Is February a good time for a safari in Uganda?

February falls in Uganda's short dry season, with temperatures of 17-30 degrees Celsius and 50mm average rainfall. Crowd levels are high, and pricing is at high season rates. Peak gorilla trekking season with dry forest floors. Overall, February is a solid choice for a Uganda safari.

How much does a Uganda safari cost in February?

Uganda safari costs in February vary by comfort level. Budget safaris average $2524/person from $80. Mid-range options average $2947/person. Luxury safaris average $4907/person. Ultra-luxury experiences average $2353/person. Prices are moderate in February. Compare 3677 tours on SafariPicked.

What wildlife can I see in Uganda in February?

February wildlife highlights in Uganda include: Peak gorilla trekking season with dry forest floors. Shoebill stork sightings excellent in Mabamba Swamp. Chimpanzee communities active and vocal. Nile crocodile basking along Murchison Falls riverbanks. The best parks to visit this month are Bwindi Impenetrable, Kibale Forest, Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth.

What should I pack for a Uganda safari in February?

Essential packing for a February Uganda safari: Broken-in hiking boots, Long-sleeved shirts, Waterproof daypack, High-energy snacks for gorilla treks, Camera with no flash (required for gorillas). Temperatures range from 17 to 30 degrees Celsius with 50mm rainfall, so layering is key for variable temperatures.

Which parks are best to visit in Uganda in February?

The top parks in Uganda for February are Bwindi Impenetrable, Kibale Forest, Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth. During the short dry season, these parks offer the best game viewing conditions. Bwindi Impenetrable is particularly recommended this month. Browse all Uganda park guides and tour options on SafariPicked.