Uganda in March: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect

Central Uganda - Kampala, Entebbe and the Lake Victoria basin

March marks the beginning of the long rains across much of the Central region, with sudden, heavy afternoon thunderstorms that refresh the air but turn dirt tracks into mud. The humidity makes the city feel hotter than the thermometer reads, and ferries to the Ssese Islands may run behind schedule on windy, wet days. For travelers this is off-peak for crowds - museum visits and coffee-house time work well, but bring waterproof footwear for any lake excursions.

Lake Victoria islands & southern lakeshore (Ssese Islands, Kalangala, Masaka corridor)

March signals the approach of the long rains; rain events grow more frequent and the lake’s surface becomes choppier, making crossings slower and occasionally uncomfortable. Island trails turn muddy, which affects access to remote beaches and cultural sites - waterproof footgear and protected luggage are advisable. Off-peak crowds mean better rates, but limited services may close for long rains so confirm bookings.

Eastern Uganda & Mt. Elgon foothills (Jinja, Mbale, Soroti corridor)

March is usually the start of the long rains in the east - heavy, sustained showers become more common, particularly on the windward side of Mount Elgon where orographic lift intensifies precipitation. Trails up to Sipi Falls and Elgon’s lower slopes get very muddy and slippery, making trekking slower; local guides often postpone higher-altitude hikes in bad weather. For visitors the falls are at their fullest and dramatic, but wear waterproof boots and allow flexible timing.

Western Highlands & Rwenzori massif (Fort Portal, Kasese, Bundibugyo)

March ushers in the long rains for the Rwenzori and western highlands, turning mountain trails very wet and slippery and often hiding peaks in clouds. Trails to the upper Rwenzori become more challenging; many trekkers postpone serious high-altitude climbs until drier months, while lower-elevation walks among tea plantations remain possible. Expect lodge access to be slower on muddy roads and prepare for persistent mist on mornings.

Southwest parks & gorilla country (Bwindi, Mgahinga, Queen Elizabeth, Lake Edward area)

March usually signals the start of the long rains here; Bwindi’s trails become muddier and steeper sections more technical, which slows gorilla treks and can reduce visibility in the forest interior. Queen Elizabeth’s savanna gets greener, but dirt tracks to remote lodges may be unreliable after heavy storms. If you travel now, allow flexible transfers and expect fewer visitors on the trails.

Northern plains & Karamoja (Gulu, Lira, Moroto, Kotido, West Nile fringe)

March usually signals the start of the rainy season in the north; the first storms bring dramatic cloudbursts that can quickly green the savanna but also create sudden, muddy conditions on dirt tracks. In Karamoja, rains are often erratic and local rivers can swell unpredictably; operators may delay remote crossings. Allow flexible travel windows, and keep waterproofs and dry bags for important documents and electronics.