Things to Do in Kampala in October

October Weather in Kampala

27°C (81°F) High Temp

17°C (63°F) Low Temp

0.0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is October Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect transition weather with 27°C (81°F) highs and 17°C (63°F) lows - ideal for all-day exploration without extreme heat
Dry season officially begins - only 10 rainy days with brief afternoon showers lasting 20-30 minutes
Post-rainy season clarity makes Lake Victoria stunning for boat trips and Entebbe botanical gardens at peak beauty
October marks harvest season - fresh produce floods local markets and restaurants offer seasonal specialties at lower prices

Considerations

High humidity at 70% makes midday activities feel hotter than actual temperature, requiring strategic timing
Variable weather patterns mean unpredictable afternoon thunderstorms can disrupt outdoor plans
Dust levels increase as dry season begins, affecting air quality and requiring face masks for sensitive travelers

Best Activities in October

Lake Victoria Island Hopping Tours

October's clear post-rains weather offers perfect visibility across Lake Victoria. Water levels are optimal, and the 17°C (63°F) morning temperatures make early departures comfortable. Islands like Ssese are accessible with calm waters, and fishing communities are active during harvest season.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead through licensed boat operators. Tours typically cost 150,000-250,000 UGX ($40-65) including transport. Morning departures at 8am avoid afternoon humidity. See current island tour options in booking section below.

Uganda Museum and Cultural Site Walking Tours

October's moderate temperatures are perfect for exploring Kampala's cultural sites on foot. The 27°C (81°F) afternoon heat is manageable with 70% humidity, and brief rain showers provide natural cooling breaks. Post-independence celebrations in October add cultural context.

Booking Tip: Self-guided or group tours cost 50,000-100,000 UGX ($13-26). Book cultural walking tours 3-5 days ahead. Start at 9am to finish before peak heat. Check current cultural tour availability in booking section below.

Mabamba Swamp Shoebill Tracking

October marks prime shoebill viewing season as water levels stabilize after rains. Early morning temperatures of 17°C (63°F) are perfect for the 3-4 hour canoe expeditions. Birds are most active during October's transitional weather patterns.

Booking Tip: Book 10-14 days ahead through certified guides. Full day tours typically cost 200,000-300,000 UGX ($53-79) including canoe and guide. Depart at 6am to maximize wildlife sightings. See current shoebill tour options in booking section below.

Local Market and Street Food Exploration

October's harvest season brings peak variety to Kampala's markets. Owino Market and Nakasero Market overflow with fresh produce. The 27°C (81°F) temperatures are comfortable for market walking, and locals celebrate seasonal foods with special preparations.

Booking Tip: Food tours cost 75,000-150,000 UGX ($20-40) for 3-4 hours. Book guided market tours 2-3 days ahead to navigate safely. Morning tours from 8-11am avoid peak heat and crowds. Check current food tour options in booking section below.

Entebbe Botanical Gardens and Wildlife Sanctuary Visits

Post-rainy season October showcases Entebbe's botanical gardens at peak lushness. Colobus monkeys are most active in the 17-24°C (63-75°F) morning temperatures. The 45-minute drive from Kampala is comfortable in October's mild weather.

Booking Tip: Entry fees are 15,000 UGX ($4) for non-residents. Guided tours cost 80,000-120,000 UGX ($21-32) for half-day trips. Book transport 1-2 days ahead. Visit 9am-2pm before afternoon humidity peaks. See current Entebbe tour options in booking section below.

Boda Boda City Tours with Cultural Stops

October's moderate weather makes motorcycle taxi tours comfortable across Kampala's seven hills. The variable conditions provide natural breaks, and post-harvest celebrations offer authentic cultural encounters. Morning temperatures of 17°C (63°F) are perfect for outdoor touring.

Booking Tip: Guided boda boda tours cost 100,000-200,000 UGX ($26-53) for 4-6 hours including cultural sites. Book through registered tour operators 3-5 days ahead. Helmets and insurance mandatory. Check current boda boda tour availability in booking section below.

October Events & Festivals

October 9th

Uganda Independence Day Celebrations

October 9th marks Uganda's Independence Day with parades, cultural performances, and street festivals throughout Kampala. Kololo Airstrip hosts the main ceremony with traditional dances and military displays.

Mid to Late October

Kampala Harvest Festival Markets

October's harvest season brings special weekend markets with seasonal produce, traditional foods, and cultural demonstrations. Local communities showcase regional specialties and traditional cooking methods.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight breathable cotton shirts - 70% humidity makes synthetic fabrics uncomfortable during 27°C (81°F) afternoons

Light rain jacket or umbrella - 10 rainy days with brief but intense downpours lasting 20-30 minutes

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 at 1,190m (3,904 ft) elevation with strong equatorial sun

Closed-toe walking shoes with good grip - wet surfaces during brief afternoon showers create slippery conditions

Long pants for evening - temperatures drop to 17°C (63°F) and mosquito activity increases

Face masks or dust protection - dry season dust begins affecting air quality in October

Layers for temperature variation - 10°C (18°F) difference between morning lows and afternoon highs

Waterproof phone case - protect electronics during unexpected afternoon storms

Insect repellent with DEET - post-rainy season mosquito activity remains high in humid conditions

Quick-dry towel - high humidity means regular towels stay damp for hours

Insider Knowledge

Kampala locals avoid outdoor activities between 1-3pm in October due to peak humidity - schedule indoor activities like museums or shopping malls during these hours

Matatu (shared taxi) fares increase by 500-1,000 UGX during brief afternoon rains as demand spikes - carry umbrella to maintain walking flexibility

October harvest season means fruit prices drop 30-50% at local markets - mangoes, jackfruit, and pineapples are at seasonal lows

New Kampala-Entebbe Expressway completed in late 2024 reduces airport travel time to 25 minutes, but tolls cost 3,000 UGX each way

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities during 1-3pm when humidity peaks - even 27°C (81°F) feels like 32°C (90°F) with 70% humidity

Not carrying rain protection despite 'dry season' label - October still has 10 rainy days with sudden intense downpours

Wearing white or light colors without considering red dust from increased construction and dry season conditions