Semuliki National Park experiences a wet equatorial climate typical of lowland rainforest ecosystems. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with annual totals ranging between 1,250 and 1,750 millimetres. The park lacks a prolonged dry season. However, two relatively drier windows occur between December and February and again from June to early August.
Rainfall peaks during March to May and September to November. During these periods, trails become slippery, the Kirumia Trail floods in parts, and access roads may require four-wheel drive capability.
Moreover, increased humidity reduces fieldwork efficiency and may limit visibility for birding or primate observation.
Visitors conducting birdwatching, photographic documentation, or research often prefer the drier months. This preference is based on canopy clarity, trail access, and lower insect densities. In particular, January and early July tend to offer relatively stable conditions with reduced daily rainfall and adequate sunlight penetration into the lower forest strata.
That said, rainfall is not absent even during the driest months. Packing waterproof field gear remains essential regardless of the calendar.
Semuliki’s stable equatorial temperature regime varies minimally throughout the year. Daytime temperatures average 26 to 29°C, while nighttime values range between 18 and 21°C. Relative humidity often exceeds 80 percent, especially in interior forest blocks.
Semuliki National Park is open to visitors throughout the year, but the timing of a visit can significantly influence the overall experience. The park’s equatorial location results in two primary rainy seasons, typically from March to May and September to November, interspersed with relatively drier periods. Understanding these seasonal variations can help visitors plan for optimal wildlife viewing and overall comfort.
During the drier months (December to February and June to August), trails and access roads are generally more navigable, making this an ideal time for hiking, birdwatching, and game drives. Wildlife tends to concentrate near water sources during these periods, increasing the chances of sightings. Birdwatchers, in particular, will find the dry season conducive for observing resident and migratory species in the forest and wetlands.
The rainy seasons are appealing, particularly for those interested in the park’s plant and insect life. The forest transforms with the arrival of rain, as flowers bloom and butterflies emerge in remarkable numbers. However, heavy rains can make trails muddy and challenging, so adequate preparation is essential for visitors during these months.
For those keen on birding, November and April offer the advantage of spotting migratory species from Europe and North Africa. Although this period coincides with the rainy season, it presents unique opportunities for observing seasonal bird activity.