Best time to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda

Best time to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda, Climate conditions and seasonal variations, and best months for visitation. The temperature, gorilla trekking conditions, and tourism seasons are largely the same in both Rwanda and Uganda. Gorilla trekking is an activity available throughout the year; however, there are significant factors to consider when planning the best time to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda.
Based on my experience, the favourable weather occurs throughout the two dry seasons, which span from June to September and December to February. Rain is still anticipated during these intervals; however, conditions are typically more pleasant and the trails are less saturated.

Between the two periods, I observe that June to September is the driest, while December to February experiences light precipitation.

The rainy seasons, occurring from March to May and September to November, can be exceedingly wet. The period from March to May experiences the most intense rainfall, making traversal challenging, particularly in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, which is typically steeper, muddier, and denser than its Rwandan counterpart.

Consequently, gorilla tourism is accessible throughout the entire year. The rainy or off-season will be significantly calmer, and you may discover advantageous offers.

My primary recommendation is to schedule your vacation during the “shoulder” period adjacent to the rainy season, when prices are reduced, crowds are diminished, and rainfall may be subsiding.

Best time for gorilla trekking in Rwanda

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is feasible throughout the year; however, precipitation is more substantial from September to November and March to May, resulting in muddy and challenging hiking conditions.

I consistently remind visitors that they are in a rainforest. It will, by definition, remain moist throughout the entire year.

Nonetheless, a distinct disparity persists between the dry and rainy seasons. The climate is often arid and elevated in temperature from June to September, and again from December to February. These are my favored months for gorilla trekking in Rwanda.

From March to May, and again from September to November, one should anticipate increased frequency and intensity of rain showers. Wet roads and pathways can become challenging to navigate.

Temperatures are constant throughout the year, ranging from 21°C (70°F) to 30°C (86°F), decreasing to 10°C (50°F) at elevated altitudes. Despite the nighttime chill, the physical activity of trekking and climbing will maintain your warmth throughout the day.

The benefits of going during the dry season include reduced mud on trails, simplified trekking, and enhanced visibility of wildlife. The drawback is that this is peak trekking season, resulting in less permit availability. Advance booking is essential.

Best season and booking time (best time to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda)

The peak tourism periods occur from June to August and throughout the Christmas and New Year holidays. For gorilla trekking in Rwanda during high season or with a large party, it is advisable to make reservations at least six months in advance. The sooner you make a reservation, the greater your options for gorilla trekking locations and accommodations. Last-minute reservations may be feasible during the off-peak season or with smaller parties.

In addition to increased options for permits and accommodations, going during the rainy season offers other advantages, notably that reduced group sizes facilitate a more intimate tracking experience.

It is theoretically possible to observe mountain gorillas in Rwanda within a single day, if you arrive by early morning flight. It is advisable to allocate a minimum of two to three days in the region. The elevation and effort of the ascent might be uncomfortable when hurried, making it advisable to allocate time for acclimatization. Moreover, Rwanda offers far more than merely an hour with the gorillas.

Best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda

Following Rwanda’s near doubling of gorilla tracking permit prices, obtaining gorilla licenses in neighboring Uganda has become increasingly challenging.

For travel during peak season or with a large party, I highly advise securing reservations six months to a year in advance. The peak seasons are from June to October, as well as between Christmas and New Year’s. The earlier you reserve, the greater your options for accommodation and tracking locations. Last-minute reservations may be feasible during the off-peak season or for smaller groups, but are not certain.

Gorillas can be monitored year-round; however, precipitation is more intense between November and April/May. During that period, the ground can be exceedingly muddy. The advantage is that permits are somewhat easier to acquire, and you may see less tourists on your path, which I favor.

Availability of permits

Permits and lodging during the high summer months of June to August are sold out well in advance. If you intend to travel during the peak months, it may be necessary to make reservations at least a year in advance.

Alternative activities

As you travel to East Africa, I trust you would also allocate time for the remainder of the region.
The period of July to August often marks the peak season for wildebeest river crossings in neighboring Kenya and Tanzania, during which the herd undertakes its perilous migrations over the Mara River.
December constitutes the primary climbing season for Mt. Kilimanjaro in adjacent Tanzania.
The annual Kwita Izina gorilla-naming ritual occurs in Rwanda every September. Kwibuka is a solemn event series conducted in April to commemorate the 1994 massacre. Attendance is allowed for both events.