Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda and Uganda.
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda offers a unique and unforgettable experience to observe the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. However, the best time to go can vary depending on weather conditions, trail conditions, and the overall trekking experience. Here’s a breakdown of the best times to visit both Rwanda and Uganda for gorilla trekking.
Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
The best time to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda is during the dry seasons, which are from June to September and December to February. Here’s why:
- Weather: Rwanda experiences a temperate climate, but the dry seasons provide more favorable trekking conditions. The trails are less muddy, and the chances of rain are lower, making the trek easier and more enjoyable.
- Gorilla Trekking Experience: The dry season ensures that you’ll have clearer skies and better visibility of the gorillas. The terrain is also less challenging, allowing for smoother hikes through Volcanoes National Park.
- Peak Season: This is also the peak tourist season, so permits may be harder to come by, and prices are generally higher. It’s advisable to book your permits well in advance, especially if you’re traveling during these months.
Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
In Uganda, the best time for gorilla trekking is also during the dry seasons, which run from June to September and December to February. Here’s why:
Weather: The dry season offers the best weather for trekking in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The trails are drier, and there is less rainfall, making the hikes more comfortable.
Gorilla Trekking Experience: During the dry season, trekking is more manageable, as the trails are less slippery and less challenging. The clear skies also improve visibility during the trek.
Peak Season: Similar to Rwanda, these months are peak travel times, so permits tend to sell out quickly, and accommodation prices can rise. It’s best to book your trip well ahead of time.
Off-Season: March to May and October to November
Weather. These months constitute the wet season in both countries. Rainfall is frequent, and the trails in both Rwanda and Uganda can get muddy and slippery. This can make trekking more difficult, and the visibility of the gorillas may be reduced.
why to go trekking in this period.
The advantage of visiting during the off-season is that there are fewer tourists, and permits are generally more affordable and easier to obtain. The jungle is lush and vibrant, offering a different kind of experience for those who don’t mind the rain.
For the best trekking experience with clear skies and easier trails, the dry seasons from June to September and December to February are the ideal times to go gorilla trekking in both Rwanda and Uganda. However, if you’re looking for a quieter, more affordable experience and don’t mind the rain, visiting during the wet season can also be rewarding. Always remember to book permits well in advance, especially for the dry season, as they are limited and in high demand.
