Things to Do in Kampala in April

April Weather in Kampala

27°C (81°F) High Temp

18°C (64°F) Low Temp

0.0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is April Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect transitional weather - morning temperatures around 18°C (64°F) ideal for walking tours before heating to 27°C (81°F) by afternoon
Minimal rainfall despite 10 rainy days - brief 15-20 minute afternoon showers that clear quickly, leaving fresh air and cooler evenings
Peak boda-boda (motorcycle taxi) season - dry roads make this authentic local transport option safest and most reliable
Prime time for Lake Victoria activities - water levels stable, morning mist creates stunning photography conditions, and fishing communities most active

Considerations

Variable weather means unpredictable afternoon thunderstorms - can disrupt outdoor market visits and walking tours between 2-4pm
High humidity (70%) combined with warm temperatures makes midday exploration uncomfortable - you'll need frequent shade breaks
Shoulder season pricing confusion - some operators still charge dry season rates while others haven't switched to wet season discounts yet

Best Activities in April

Lake Victoria Island Hopping Tours

April's stable water levels and clear morning conditions make this the ideal month for visiting Ssese Islands. The 70% humidity creates dramatic morning mist over the lake that burns off by 10am, revealing crystal-clear views. Local fishing communities are most active before the wet season, offering authentic cultural interactions.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead through licensed boat operators. Tours typically cost 120,000-180,000 UGX including lunch. Look for operators with life jackets and radio equipment. Morning departures (7am-8am) offer best weather and photography conditions. See current island tour options in booking section below.

Kampala City Walking Tours

April's moderate morning temperatures (18°C/64°F) make this the perfect month for exploring downtown Kampala on foot. The brief afternoon showers wash the dust, leaving cleaner air for photography. Start early to cover maximum ground before the 27°C (81°F) afternoon heat and potential 2pm rain.

Booking Tip: Book cultural walking tours 3-5 days ahead. Expect to pay 40,000-70,000 UGX for 3-4 hour guided tours. Always start by 8am to beat heat and rain. Look for guides certified by Uganda Tourism Board. Check current walking tour availability in booking section below.

Entebbe Botanical Gardens & Wildlife Viewing

April's variable weather creates perfect conditions for Uganda's diverse birdlife - over 200 species are active during this transitional period. The 70% humidity keeps vegetation lush while morning temperatures around 18°C (64°F) make 2-3 hour walks comfortable. Colobus monkeys are most active in cooler morning hours.

Booking Tip: Self-guided visits cost 15,000 UGX entry. Guided botanical tours typically 60,000-90,000 UGX for 2-3 hours. Best visited 7am-10am before heat peaks. Bring binoculars for optimal bird watching. No advance booking required. See current nature tour options in booking section below.

Local Market Food Tours

April brings seasonal produce like fresh matoke (green bananas) and passion fruits to Kampala's markets. The brief afternoon rains keep dust down and vendors often offer samples during the cooler post-rain periods. Owino Market and Nakasero Market are at their most vibrant during this transitional season.

Booking Tip: Food tours cost 50,000-100,000 UGX including tastings. Book through certified guides who speak local languages. Morning tours (8am-11am) avoid afternoon rain and offer freshest produce. Look for tours that include multiple markets and cooking demonstrations. Current food tour options available in booking section below.

Mabamba Swamp Shoebill Tracking

April's transitional weather creates optimal shoebill stork viewing conditions. Lower water levels from the dry season concentrate fish, attracting these rare birds, while morning mist (common in 70% humidity) creates dramatic photography opportunities. The 18°C (64°F) morning temperature means comfortable 2-3 hour canoe trips.

Booking Tip: Shoebill tours typically cost 150,000-250,000 UGX including transport from Kampala. Book 5-7 days ahead through operators with local community partnerships. Early morning departures (6am) essential for bird activity. Success rate in April is 70-80%. See current birding tour options in booking section below.

Cultural Village Day Trips

April's moderate morning temperatures make village visits comfortable, while afternoon rains often lead to impromptu cultural activities indoors - perfect for learning traditional crafts, music, or cooking. Many villages celebrate pre-planting season traditions during this month, offering authentic cultural immersion.

Booking Tip: Village tours cost 80,000-150,000 UGX including meals and activities. Book through community tourism organizations 7-14 days ahead. Include indoor activity options for afternoon rain periods. Look for tours supporting local development projects. Current cultural tour options in booking section below.

April Events & Festivals

Early April

Easter Celebrations

Uganda's predominantly Christian population celebrates Easter with special church services, traditional foods, and community gatherings. Experience unique Ugandan Easter traditions including special matoke preparations and community feasts.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or compact umbrella - afternoon showers are brief but frequent on 10 days

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - synthetic fabrics trap moisture in 70% humidity

Closed-toe shoes with good grip - morning dew and afternoon rain make surfaces slippery

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 despite variable weather conditions

Layers for temperature variation - 9°C (16°F) difference between morning 18°C (64°F) and afternoon 27°C (81°F)

Quick-dry pants - essential for boat trips and unexpected rain showers

Insect repellent with DEET - humidity increases mosquito activity, especially after rain

Waterproof phone case - protect electronics during lake activities and sudden showers

Light scarf or shawl - useful for temple visits and air-conditioned spaces

Comfortable walking shoes - April's moderate mornings are perfect for extended walking tours

Insider Knowledge

Local boda-boda drivers charge 20% less during afternoon rain - use this for short trips between 2-4pm when showers are common

Kampala's best street food appears after afternoon rains when vendors return - try rolex (egg roll) from stalls that set up around 5pm

April is when locals plant gardens - join community planting activities for authentic cultural exchange, especially in neighborhoods like Ntinda

Morning mist over Lake Victoria creates incredible photo opportunities from Munyonyo Spennah Beach around 7-8am - locals call this 'ghost lake season'

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning outdoor activities for 2-4pm slot - this is when brief thunderstorms are most likely, disrupting tours and creating transport delays

Wearing synthetic clothing in 70% humidity - cotton and linen are essential for comfort in Uganda's climate

Not bringing layers - many tourists pack only for 27°C (81°F) heat but mornings at 18°C (64°F) require light jackets