Things to Do in Kampala in July

July Weather in Kampala

27°C (80°F) High Temp

17°C (62°F) Low Temp

0.0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is July Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect dry season weather - minimal rainfall makes outdoor activities reliable, with only brief 20-30 minute afternoon showers on 10 days maximum
Cool evenings at 17°C (62°F) create ideal conditions for night markets and rooftop dining without the oppressive heat of other months
Lake Victoria water levels are optimal for boat trips and fishing excursions, with clear visibility and calm conditions
Tourist numbers are at their lowest, meaning shorter queues at Uganda Museum and Kasubi Tombs, plus better prices on accommodations

Considerations

Morning temperatures can feel chilly at 17°C (62°F) if you're expecting tropical heat year-round - pack layers for early starts
Dust levels are higher due to dry conditions, which can be uncomfortable for those with respiratory sensitivities
Some crater lake swimming spots have cooler water temperatures, making them less appealing for extended swimming sessions

Best Activities in July

Entebbe Botanical Gardens and Lake Victoria Sunset Tours

July's dry weather and clear skies create perfect conditions for exploring the 40-hectare botanical gardens without muddy paths. Evening tours capture spectacular Lake Victoria sunsets with minimal haze. The cooler morning temperatures at 17°C (62°F) make early bird walks comfortable for spotting over 115 bird species.

Booking Tip: Book botanical garden tours 5-7 days ahead through registered Uganda Tourism Board operators. Tours typically cost 80,000-150,000 UGX including transport. Morning slots (7am-10am) offer best wildlife viewing. Reference booking widget below for current sunset tour options.

Kampala Cultural Walking Tours

July's moderate humidity of 70% and minimal rainfall make walking tours through Nakasero Market, Owino Market, and Old Kampala mosque district comfortable. The dry season means unpaved areas are accessible, and the 27°C (80°F) afternoon temperatures are perfect for exploring without excessive sweating.

Booking Tip: Book cultural walking tours 3-5 days ahead with certified local guides. Tours range 50,000-100,000 UGX for 3-4 hours including market tastings. Start by 9am to avoid peak afternoon heat. See current walking tour options in booking section below.

Murchison Falls National Park Day Trips

July's dry season concentrates wildlife around permanent water sources, making game viewing exceptional. The 4-hour drive from Kampala is on dry roads, and the falls are at optimal flow. Clear skies provide perfect photography conditions, and the moderate temperatures make boat trips on the Nile comfortable all day.

Booking Tip: Book Murchison Falls day trips 10-14 days ahead through licensed safari operators. Full-day tours cost 450,000-650,000 UGX including park fees and lunch. Depart Kampala by 6am for maximum wildlife viewing time. Current safari options available in booking widget below.

Lake Mburo National Park Walking Safaris

July offers the only month where walking safaris are consistently available due to dry ground conditions. At just 240 km (149 miles) from Kampala, the cooler morning temperatures make 2-3 hour guided walks comfortable. Wildlife is concentrated around the lake, and clear weather guarantees unobstructed views of zebras, impalas, and eland.

Booking Tip: Reserve walking safaris 7-10 days ahead through Uganda Wildlife Authority approved operators. Walking safari packages cost 300,000-450,000 UGX including park fees and armed guide. Morning slots (7am-10am) are essential. Check current availability in booking section below.

Ssese Islands Lake Victoria Ferry Adventures

July's calm lake conditions and minimal rainfall make ferry trips to Ssese Islands reliable and comfortable. The dry season means beach activities are consistently available, and the moderate evening temperatures create perfect conditions for island camping or lodge stays. Ferry schedules are most dependable during dry months.

Booking Tip: Book Ssese Islands trips 5-7 days ahead, especially for weekend departures. Ferry costs 25,000 UGX one-way, island accommodation ranges 150,000-400,000 UGX per night. MV Kalangala ferry runs twice daily from Nakiwogo. Current island tour packages in booking widget below.

Kampala Night Market and Rooftop Bar Hopping

July's cool evenings at 17°C (62°F) create ideal conditions for night market exploration and rooftop venues. The dry weather means outdoor seating is reliable, and lower humidity makes evening walking between venues comfortable. Night markets like Owino stay active later due to pleasant temperatures.

Booking Tip: Book evening food tours 2-3 days ahead through registered guides. Night market tours cost 60,000-120,000 UGX including tastings. Start tours by 7pm when temperatures drop to comfortable levels. Current evening tour options available in booking section below.

July Events & Festivals

Mid July

Kampala International Theatre Festival

Annual festival showcasing East African theatrical productions at National Theatre and various venues. Features both indoor and outdoor performances, with July's dry weather ensuring outdoor shows proceed as scheduled. Tickets available at venues or online platforms.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Light cotton long-sleeve shirts for 17°C (62°F) morning temperatures - essential for early game drives and city walks

SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen - UV index of 8 requires strong protection, reapply every 2 hours

Lightweight waterproof jacket for brief afternoon showers lasting 20-30 minutes maximum

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - dry season dust can make surfaces slippery

Thin merino wool or synthetic base layer for cool evening temperatures at rooftop venues

Dust mask or bandana - dry conditions create dusty environments especially on unpaved roads

Insect repellent with 20% DEET minimum - mosquitoes are active despite dry season

Reusable water bottle with 2-liter (68 oz) capacity - 70% humidity increases dehydration risk

Power bank for phone/camera - longer days outdoors drain batteries faster in moderate temperatures

Quick-dry shorts and pants - afternoon temperatures of 27°C (80°F) require breathable fabrics

Insider Knowledge

Local Ugandans call July 'musana month' (sunny month) and plan outdoor weddings and festivals - accommodation books up faster than tourists expect, reserve 3-4 weeks ahead

Boda boda (motorcycle taxi) drivers wear jackets in July mornings - temperatures feel cold to locals, negotiate better rates after 10am when they remove layers and become more flexible

Matooke (cooking bananas) prices drop 30-40% in July due to harvest season - visit local markets like Nakawa for authentic cooking classes at lowest seasonal prices

Uganda Wildlife Authority offers 'dry season specials' in July with 15-20% discounts on park entry fees for Ugandan residents - if you have temporary residence documentation, inquire about these rates

Avoid These Mistakes

Assuming it's hot all day - pack layers for 10°C (18°F) temperature swings between 17°C morning lows and 27°C afternoon highs

Booking only indoor activities due to '10 rainy days' in forecast - these are brief showers, outdoor activities continue as normal with minimal disruption

Overpacking rain gear - 0.0mm total rainfall means brief light showers only, heavy rain equipment is unnecessary and takes valuable luggage space