Gorilla trekking is one of the most exciting wildlife experiences in the world.
Every year, thousands of travellers come to the dense forests of Uganda and Rwanda to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. But when is the best time to go gorilla trekking?
The answer depends on various factors such as weather, permit availability, and personal preferences. This guide will help you understand the best times for gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda, so you can plan the perfect trip that best suits your specific wishes.
Understanding Gorilla Trekking
What is Gorilla Trekking?
Gorilla trekking is an adventure that takes you deep into the dense jungles to meet mountain gorillas up close. These gentle giants are critically endangered, with fewer than 1,100 left in the wild.
Trekking to see them involves hiking through thick vegetation, often on steep and muddy trails. The experience is more challenging than what you would call a typical walk in the park but incredibly rewarding, as you get to spend 1 hour in the company these amazing animals in their natural environment.
Where You See The Gorillas
Mountain gorillas are found in only three countries: Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. However, gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda is more popular due to safety, infrastructure, and accessibility.
- Uganda
Uganda has 2 parks where gorillas live, and can be tracked - Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
Bwindi is home to almost half of the world's mountain gorillas and offers a variety of trekking experiences. Mgahinga, although smaller, also provides a chance to see these gentle giants in its own different way.
- Rwanda
In Rwanda, gorilla trekking takes place in Volcanoes National Park. This park is part of the Virunga Massif, which extends into Uganda and the DRC, making it a key ecosystem for gorilla conservation & tourism.
Weather & Climate
Let us take a quick look at the weather and climate of both Uganda and Rwanda, so that you have a broader context on what to expect.
Uganda’s Climate
Uganda’s climate is typically tropical, with two main seasons - the dry season and the rainy season. The country sits on the equator, giving it a fairly consistent climate year-round.
However, the conditions vary depending on altitude. The southwestern part of the country, where Bwindi and Mgahinga are located, is cooler and wetter due to the high altitude.
- Dry Season
The dry seasons in Uganda are from mid-December to early February and June to September. During these months, the weather is more predictable, with less rain and more sunshine. These conditions make trekking easier and more comfortable.
- Rainy Season
The rainy seasons are from March to May and October to November. During these months, the trails can become muddy and slippery, making trekking more challenging. However, the landscape is lush and green, offering beautiful scenery.
Rwanda’s Climate
Rwanda’s climate is also tropical, with similar wet and dry seasons. The country is known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” and its hilly terrain means that the weather can vary depending on where you are.
- Dry Season
The dry seasons in Rwanda are from June to September and December to February. These months are ideal for gorilla trekking, as the trails are drier and easier to navigate.
- Rainy Season
The rainy seasons are from March to May and October to November. Similar to Uganda, the rainy season in Rwanda brings more challenging trekking conditions but also a vibrant, green landscape.
Best Time for Gorilla Trekking
The Dry Season (June to September, December to February)
The dry season is widely considered the best time for gorilla trekking in both Uganda and Rwanda.
Here’s why;
- Easier Trekking Conditions
The drier weather means that the trails are less muddy and slippery, making it easier to hike through the dense forest. This is particularly important for those who may not be used to challenging hikes.
- Predictable Weather
During the dry season, you’re less likely to encounter sudden rain showers, which can make the trek more enjoyable. The weather is generally sunny, with cool mornings and evenings.
The Rainy Season (March to May, October to November)
While the dry season is the most popular time for gorilla trekking, the rainy season also has its unique advantages. Here is why some people often choose to visit the gorillas in these shoulder season months.
- Fewer Crowds
One of the biggest benefits of trekking during the rainy season is that there are fewer tourists. This means that you may have a more intimate experience with the gorillas, as the trekking groups tend to be smaller.
- Lower Costs
Since it’s the off-peak season, guests have more better chances of getting a good deal especially on accommodation, and flights. This can make gorilla trekking more affordable, especially for budget-conscious travellers.
- Lush Scenery
The rainy season brings a lush, green landscape that makes the forests even more beautiful. The scenery is vibrant, and the gorillas are often feeding in one location for longer periods.
- Challenging Conditions
On the downside, the trails can be muddy and slippery, making the trek more difficult. You’ll need to be prepared for wet conditions and wear appropriate gear, such as waterproof boots and a rain jacket. If you are someone who loves a challenge, this should sound like an opportunity for even greater reward and fulfilment.
Monthly Breakdown
Here is another way of understanding the climate conditions in the context of your desired gorilla trek - a month by month breakdown.
January to February
- Conditions: This is part of the short dry season, with relatively warm temperatures and minimal rainfall. It’s a great time for trekking, with easier trails and good weather for photography.
- Expectations: Because it’s the beginning of the year, there may be fewer tourists than in the mid-year peak, but permits still sell out quickly and you have to plan early.
March to May
- Conditions: This period marks the long rainy season, with heavy rains and cooler temperatures. The trails can be very muddy and challenging. For those who love a challenge, this will make it extremely rewarding.
- Expectations: The lush green scenery and fewer crowds make it a unique experience, but it’s essential to be well-prepared for the wet conditions.
June to September
- Conditions: This is the long dry season and the most popular time for gorilla trekking. The weather is ideal, with less rain and more sunshine, making it easier to navigate the trails.
- Expectations: Expect larger groups of tourists and higher costs. Permits must be booked a head of time due to high demand.
October to December
- Conditions: The short rainy season starts in October, bringing occasional showers. By December, the weather begins to dry up, making it a mix of wet and dry conditions.
- Expectations: This period is a transitional time, with fewer tourists in October and November, followed by a rise in visitors in December. Trekking conditions can vary, so flexibility is key.
Factors Beyond Weather
The best time for your gorilla trek does extend beyond the weather and climate factors. Here are some other things you have to keep in mind as you decide when the best time will be for you to track gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda.
Permit Availability & Booking
Since you wont be allowed to see the gorillas without a permit, securing the gorilla trekking permit is crucial and you should plan with this in mind.
During the dry season, permits can sell out months in advance, especially in popular parks like Bwindi and Volcanoes National Park. It’s recommended to book as early as possible if you plan to trek during these peak months.
In the rainy season, permits are a bit more readily available. However, it’s still a good idea to book ahead to make sure you get your preferred dates.
If you want to understand a bit more about these gorilla permits, take a look at our article which looks at everything you need to know about gorilla permits, and why they are quite the big deal.
Trekking Experience
Your overall trekking experience will not only depend on the weather but also on your fitness level and preparation. As we already stated above, gorilla trekking is not your typical walk in the park - and can be strenuous.
This is especially so during the wet season.
It is recommended that you hire a local porter to help carry your day pack (with snacks, water, camera, etc) as they will lighten the load for you.
As an addition, doing some hikes and long walks as part of your preparation can greatly improve you stamina and make the gorilla trek seem easier.
All this is to say that you will have a better time if you are not too tired or struggling as you reach the gorillas. People of all ages and levels of fitness have done it before, and so can you.
Cost Considerations
The cost of a gorilla trekking varies by season. During the dry season, everything from permits to accommodation is more expensive.
Gorilla permits have a constant cost, but various seasons can have different pricing especially for important items such as accommodation, flights where you might be able to get great discounts.
If you are leaning towards budget travel and interested in all the saving you can get, the wet season might be your best time for gorilla trekking.
Take a look at our article with 12 easy hacks for doing a gorilla trekking trip on a budget.
Special Considerations
Photography
Photography enthusiasts often prefer the dry season, as the chances of clear skies and good lighting are higher. However, the rainy season offers its own unique photographic opportunities, with misty forests and vibrant greenery. Wildlife viewing can be equally rewarding in both seasons, though the dry season might make it easier to spot other animals during your trek.
As a photographer, you should be able to answer this question for yourself and then choose. Does your vision and creativity require the solitude of less crowds, or you are okay with it?
Combining Gorilla Trekking with Other Activities
If you’re planning to combine gorilla trekking with other activities, timing is key.
For example, the wildebeest migration in Tanzania and Kenya typically occurs from July to October, which aligns well with the dry season for gorilla trekking. If you’re interested in birding, the rainy season in Uganda is ideal, as migratory birds are present, and the landscape is at its most vibrant.
This is where you also have to consider the interests of other people in your group and what best works for everyone. It is the point of compromise, but you can think about it as mutual WIN WIN for everyone and every activity involved. If you are working with a tour operator, they will hep you through this decision.
Expert Tips for Gorilla Trekking in Any Season
What to Pack
Packing the right gear is important for you to have a successful trek. Regardless of the season, you’ll need sturdy hiking boots, long-sleeved shirts, and long pants to protect against thorny vegetation and insects.
In the rainy season, waterproof clothing, including a rain jacket and gaiters, is essential. Don’t forget a good pair of gloves, as you will definitely be grabbing onto vegetation for support on steep sections. A hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent are also important.
Physical Preparation
Gorilla trekking can be physically demanding, especially in the rainy season when the trails are more challenging. To prepare, start a fitness routine several weeks before your trip, focusing on cardio, endurance, and flexibility. This will help you handle the uphill and downhill sections of the trek.
Further more, if you are not used to the high altitude, consider acclimatizing by arriving at the parks a day or two earlier. Most of the hiking will be around 2,000 meters (6,600 feet) above sea level.
Using Porters
Hiring a porter is highly recommended, regardless of the season. Porters can carry your backpack, camera equipment, and other items, allowing you to focus on the trek. They also provide valuable assistance on difficult parts of the trail.
Beyond helping you, hiring a porter supports the local communities as they get to directly benefit from gorilla tourism and conservation. Some of the porters are reformed poachers, whose story has changed to one of protecting and treasuring the forest.
Managing Expectations
Gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but it’s important to manage your expectations.
The trek can be tough, and the weather unpredictable, but the reward of seeing mountain gorillas in their natural habitat makes it all worthwhile. Keep an open mind, be patient, and remember that you’re witnessing something truly special.
And while you are with the gorillas, remember to put everything away and truly sit in the moment you are in. Photos and videos are great, but you BEING THERE - Present, will take your personal experience to unimaginable heights.
Closing Thoughts
You now have a clear understanding of what the best time for gorilla trekking would be for YOU. The good thing is that gorilla trekking happens all year round and Uganda and Rwanda are also warm and sunny all year round.
This opens up your flexibility to choose for special dates, budget considerations, schedules, group considerations and type of challenge you want.
If you’re ready to embark on a gorilla trekking adventure, start planning now! Reach out to us and well shall plan everything with you so that you can have your epic moment of getting to hang out with the gorillas in their home. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness one of the most remarkable wildlife experiences in the world.