Things to Do in Kampala in March

March Weather in Kampala

28°C (83°F) High Temp

18°C (64°F) Low Temp

0.0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

March marks the start of Kampala's dry season - while 10 rainy days are predicted, actual rainfall is minimal at 0.0mm, making it perfect for walking tours through neighborhoods like Nakasero and Old Kampala without mud-soaked streets
Peak visibility for Lake Victoria activities - the 28°C (83°F) afternoon temperatures create ideal conditions for sunset boat cruises and island hopping to Ngamba Chimpanzee Sanctuary with crystal-clear views across the 68,800 km² (26,600 sq mi) lake
March coincides with Uganda's financial year-end, meaning local restaurants and cultural centers offer special promotions - expect 20-30% discounts on cultural performances at Uganda Museum and traditional food experiences in Wandegeya Market
Optimal motorcycle taxi (boda-boda) weather - the 18°C (64°F) morning temperatures make early commutes comfortable, while roads are dry and navigable, crucial for reaching hilltop attractions like Kasubi Tombs and Namirembe Cathedral

Considerations

March humidity at 70% combined with afternoon temperatures of 28°C (83°F) creates uncomfortable conditions between 12pm-4pm - outdoor market visits and walking tours become exhausting during peak heat hours
School holidays in March mean increased domestic tourism - popular attractions like Uganda Wildlife Education Centre see 40-60% higher visitor numbers, particularly on weekends, leading to longer queues and crowded experiences
Unpredictable afternoon thunderstorms despite low rainfall totals - while brief (20-30 minutes), they can disrupt outdoor activities and create temporary flooding in low-lying areas like downtown Kampala near the taxi parks

Best Activities in March

Lake Victoria Island Excursions

March's clear skies and calm lake conditions make this the ideal month for visiting Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary and Ssese Islands. The dry weather means reliable boat schedules and excellent photography conditions. Morning departures at 8am avoid afternoon heat while ensuring comfortable return trips. Water temperatures around 24°C (75°F) are perfect for swimming at secluded beaches.

Booking Tip: Book island trips 7-10 days ahead through licensed boat operators at Nakiwogo or Kasenyi landing sites. Expect costs of 150,000-250,000 UGX ($40-67) for day trips including transport. Avoid unlicensed boats - look for life jackets and weather radios. Check current options in the booking section below.

Kampala Cultural Walking Tours

March's dry conditions make walking Kampala's seven hills comfortable and safe. Start early (7am) when temperatures are 18°C (64°F) to explore Kasubi Tombs, Namirembe Cathedral, and local markets before afternoon humidity peaks. The lack of mud means you can navigate narrow paths in areas like Makerere and access viewpoints that are treacherous during rainy seasons.

Booking Tip: Join guided cultural walks for 50,000-80,000 UGX ($13-21) that include transportation between hills. Independent walks are possible but guides provide essential cultural context and safety. Book through established cultural centers or see current tour options in the booking section below.

Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Extensions

March marks the beginning of Bwindi's drier trekking season, just 4.5 hours (360 km/224 miles) from Kampala. Roads are in excellent condition, and forest paths are less muddy than wet season months. Cooler morning temperatures in the mountains (15-18°C/59-64°F) provide comfortable hiking conditions for the physically demanding gorilla encounters.

Booking Tip: Gorilla permits cost $700 USD and must be booked 6-12 months ahead through Uganda Wildlife Authority. Combine with Kampala for 5-7 day itineraries. Many operators offer Kampala-Bwindi packages for $1,200-1,800 per person. See current multi-day options in the booking section below.

Kampala Food Market Tours

March brings fresh produce from surrounding farmlands as the dry season begins. Nakasero Central Market and Owino Market are at their most vibrant with seasonal fruits like passion fruit and jackfruit. The dry weather means comfortable walking through covered market areas without rain disruptions, and morning temperatures make early market visits (6-9am) particularly pleasant.

Booking Tip: Food tours cost 40,000-70,000 UGX ($11-19) and should include transportation between markets. Best times are 7-10am when produce is freshest and temperatures coolest. Look for tours that include cooking demonstrations and traditional meal preparation. Check current food tour options in the booking section below.

Murchison Falls Safari Extensions

March offers excellent wildlife viewing as animals congregate near water sources during the dry season. The 305 km (190 mile) drive from Kampala takes 4-5 hours on well-maintained roads. Game drives are most productive in early morning (6-9am) and late afternoon (4-6pm) when temperatures are comfortable and animal activity peaks.

Booking Tip: 3-day Kampala-Murchison packages range from $400-800 per person depending on accommodation level. Book through operators with 4WD vehicles and experienced guides. Park entry fees are separate at $40 USD per day. See current safari extension options in the booking section below.

Source of the Nile Day Trips

March's clear weather provides perfect conditions for visiting Jinja and the source of the Nile, just 87 km (54 miles) from Kampala. White-water rafting companies report optimal water levels and weather conditions. The 1.5-2 hour drive is comfortable on well-paved roads, making day trips feasible with early morning departures.

Booking Tip: Day trips to Jinja cost 120,000-200,000 UGX ($32-53) including transport and basic activities. White-water rafting adds $95-125 USD. Book through established operators with insurance and safety certifications. Depart Kampala by 7am for full-day experiences. Check current Nile tour options in the booking section below.

March Events & Festivals

Mid March

Kampala City Festival

Annual celebration of Kampala's cultural diversity featuring traditional music, dance performances, and food vendors from different regions of Uganda. Held in various locations including Independence Square and Kololo Airstrip with free admission to most events.

Late March

Uganda International Fashion Week

Showcasing contemporary African fashion designers alongside traditional crafts. Multiple venues across Kampala host runway shows, pop-up markets, and designer workshops. Ticket prices range from 25,000-100,000 UGX ($7-27).

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight, breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester in 70% humidity as it traps moisture and becomes uncomfortable during 28°C (83°F) afternoon temperatures

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8, requiring serious sun protection for outdoor activities and market visits

Light rain jacket or compact umbrella - while rainfall is minimal, brief afternoon thunderstorms can occur and provide relief from heat

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - Kampala's hills require sturdy footwear, and some paths can be steep or uneven

Mosquito repellent with DEET - March's humidity creates favorable conditions for mosquitoes, especially near Lake Victoria

Layered clothing for temperature variations - mornings start at 18°C (64°F) but afternoons reach 28°C (83°F), requiring adaptable clothing

Waterproof phone case and camera protection - humidity and occasional moisture require electronics protection

Cash in small denominations - many local markets and boda-boda rides require exact change in Ugandan Shillings

Reusable water bottle - staying hydrated is crucial in humid conditions, and filtered water is widely available

Power bank and universal adapter - frequent power outages mean backup charging is essential for navigation and communication

Insider Knowledge

March school holidays mean increased boda-boda traffic - negotiate fixed prices before rides (typically 2,000-5,000 UGX for short distances) and avoid rush hours 7-9am and 5-7pm when traffic doubles

Local restaurants offer end-of-financial-year promotions in March - look for set lunch menus at upscale places like Serena Hotel for 30,000-50,000 UGX ($8-13) instead of regular à la carte prices

March marks mango season in Kampala - street vendors sell perfectly ripe mangoes for 1,000-2,000 UGX each, but choose vendors with proper washing facilities near markets

Currency exchange rates are typically most favorable in early March before month-end business transactions - exchange at established forex bureaus in Kampala Road for better rates than airport exchanges

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating afternoon humidity - many tourists plan outdoor activities during 12pm-4pm peak heat and become exhausted; schedule indoor activities or rest during these hours

Not carrying small denomination notes - boda-boda drivers and market vendors rarely have change for large bills, leading to overpayment or transaction delays

Booking same-day island trips - March's popularity means boat operators fill up quickly; advance booking ensures spot and better pricing