Best time to go gorilla trekking in Africa (Uganda and Rwanda)
The controversy persists regarding the best time to go gorilla trekking in Africa, (Uganda and Rwanda.) Thousands of disagreements and viewpoints have been expressed across various platforms, including internet forums such as TripAdvisor and Lonely Planet, among others. Gorillas in Africa, specifically Uganda and Rwanda, may be tracked year-round, providing clients with nearly the same enjoyment. Clients often neglect the rainy season, overlooking that Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is situated in an Equatorial Forest, where the likelihood of daily rainfall is significantly elevated. Volcanoes National Park and Mgahinga National Park in Rwanda and Uganda, respectively, are primarily composed of bamboo forests.
The best time for gorilla trekking in Africa, Uganda and Rwanda is during the arid months of June, July, August, and early September. In these months, there is a decrease in rainfall compared to April, May, and November. During these months, tourists like reserving their gorilla trips in africa, resulting in increased competition. Gorilla permits typically sell out quickly, so anyone wishing to trek gorillas in Africa (uganda Rwanda and Congo) during this season should secure their permits ahead.
Mountain gorillas, among the most endangered species on Earth, live in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and the Virunga ranges, which span three countries: Uganda (Mgahinga National Park), the Democratic Republic of Congo (Virunga National Park), and Rwanda (Volcanoes National Park). Due to the significant endangerment of these monkeys, clients incur significant expenses in order to observe or walk with them. Due to the prevailing cost of gorilla permits, which are USD 1500.00 in Rwanda and USD 800.00 in Uganda, clients seek to optimize their gorilla trekking experience in Africa and choose the most favorable time to visit gorillas in Africa
What is the best month for gorilla trekking in Africa (Uganda and Rwanda?)
Uganda, divided by the equator, exhibits a modified equatorial climate characterized by two rainy seasons; hence, individuals often see the drier seasons as the best time for gorilla trekking trekking in Africa, specifically Uganda. It is accurate that hiking and trekking in the impenetrable forest becomes challenging after rainfall due to the heavy precipitation rendering the routes excessively slippery. Access to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is often hindered by muddy roads and flooded rivers.
Gorilla trekking is a premier hobby for tourists in Rwanda and Uganda, conducted year-round. Gorilla trekking in Uganda occurs exclusively in two national parks: Bwindi and Mgahinga, as well as in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. These locations are premier tourist destinations primarily because gorillas are endemic to the Virunga region and classified as endangered species, prompting tourists to pay a premium for the opportunity to trek these magnificent creatures. A permit is required to access the gorillas, and it must be reserved in advance. Permits were implemented to decrease poaching and limit the number of visitors to gorillas per session. This article will examine the optimal times for gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda to facilitate your decision-making and trip planning.
Best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda
Uganda is a year-round tourist destination for all travelers intending to explore the country. Gorilla trekking in Africa is a highly sought-after safari activity, with Uganda being the premier location due to its hosting of half the world’s population of mountain gorillas. Uganda has two distinct seasons: the dry season, sometimes referred to as the peak or high season, and the wet or rainy season, known as the low season. The dry season consistently incurs high travel costs, but the low season results in the closure of several lodges, rendering it a more economical period for gorilla trekking.
Uganda experiences two dry seasons: from June to October and from January to February. This is the best period for gorilla trekking in Uganda and its national parks. June and July represent the peak months for gorilla trekking in Africa
Uganda experiences two rainy seasons, similar to many East African nations: the long rainy season and the short wet season. The brief rainy season occurs from late October to around mid-December, while the prolonged rainy season, characterized by substantial precipitation, commences in late February and concludes at the end of May. Frequent downpours, however brief, render the trekking routes muddy and hazardous, often causing hikers to forfeit the entire gorilla trekking experience during the rainy season.
A complete monthly guide to gorilla trekking in Uganda
January to February
January marks the onset of the brief dry season, characterized by sporadic light rainfall. This is an opportune period for gorilla trekking, as the trails are unobstructed and less treacherous than during the wet season. In contrast to the second dry season, referred to as the peak season, January experiences a limited number of visitors and offers moderate costs.
February exhibits climatic conditions akin to those of January in both Bwindi and Mgahinga. January and February are optimal months for gorilla trekking in Uganda, as well as for general safaris around the country.
March to May
March marks the commencement of the initial wet season. This may not be the optimal period for gorilla trekking in Uganda due to substantial rainfall, which complicates navigation in the dense forests. The paths are consistently muddy and treacherous, the safari price is economical, and locating the gorillas is challenging as they seek refuge from the rain.
April
April is the most precipitation-heavy month in Uganda and the least favorable month for gorilla trekking. Numerous highways and certain lodging establishments are closed owing to substantial rainfall, resulting in decreased costs for safaris, including gorilla trekking and ordinary African excursions.
May
May: Precipitation persists throughout May, albeit with reduced intensity compared to April. The current period remains a low season with moderate expenses, making it the optimal time for guests who are indifferent to rainfall.
Gorilla trekking in Africa remains accessible during the wet season, as rainfall does not occur continuously throughout the day, and tourists are able to see many migrating birds arriving in the region.
June to September
June and July represent the peak season in Uganda, attracting numerous tourists to various regions of the country for safari experiences. June marks the onset of the dry season, characterized by minimal or absent precipitation, facilitating gorilla trekking in both Mgahinga and Bwindi National Parks. The expense of gorilla trekking is elevated during this period, and the demand for gorilla permits is substantial; therefore, it is essential to secure them at least six months prior to your trekking date.
August
August signifies the conclusion of the peak season and is the optimal period for gorilla trekking in Uganda. The hiking trails are more accessible and navigable, and the current dry season renders it the optimal time to explore the nation and its additional attractions.
September signifies the conclusion of the dry season, during which the substantial crowds begin to diminish as light rainfall commences. Given the unpredictable weather and the possibility of the dry season persisting, it is advisable to secure your permission in advance.
October to December
October is often a less active month, and the pricing during this time is comparatively moderate relative to preceding months. Now is an opportune moment to acquire the coveted gorilla trekking permit; yet, prepare for the erratic occurrences of rainfall. If you are indifferent to intermittent showers and treacherous, muddy routes, this period is optimal; also, other national parks remain accessible during this time.
November: Precipitation persists during November, enhancing verdant foliage in national parks. This is an off-peak season with less visitors due to unfavorable weather; however, it is the optimal period for budget-conscious travelers.
December signifies the conclusion of the wet season, characterized by a reduction in rainfall. Visiting Uganda for gorilla trekking is optimal, as one may also observe a diverse array of bird species, including migratory birds arriving in the region.
Best time to go for gorilla trekking in Rwanda
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is a premier tourism activity conducted at Volcanoes National Park, situated in the Virunga region. This is the most coveted safari activity in the nation, with a significant likelihood of encountering primates during the journey. Rwanda has two distinct seasons: the dry season and the wet season, which dictate the optimal months for gorilla trekking.
The dry season, referred to as the peak season, consists of two distinct periods in Volcanoes National Park: the short dry season (December to February) and the long dry season (June to September).
The wet season consists of two periods: the short rains from October to November and the lengthy rains from March to May. Intense rainfall typically occurs at the end of March and throughout April; thus, we recommend avoiding these months if feasible.
A detailed monthly guide to gorilla trekking in Rwanda
From April to May, Volcanoes National Park experiences some of the most prolonged rainfall in Rwanda, rendering gorilla trekking particularly challenging at this time. This period is advantageous as it is a low season, resulting in reduced accommodation expenses and an economical opportunity to explore with the gorillas. This period is optimal for observing gorillas, as they typically migrate from cooler high-altitude regions to the warmer lower slopes.
June to September is the peak season and is the optimal period for gorilla trekking in Rwanda. The country experiences its longest dry season, which is regarded as the optimal time for visiting due to the ease of access to the national park, the simplicity of gorilla spotting, and the relatively dry and stable trekking routes compared to the wet season. This timeframe is known as peak season, and tourists are encouraged to secure their gorilla permits in advance, ideally six to three months prior to the trekking date. In Rwanda, obtaining a permit requires a minimum payment of 30% of the total permit cost.
From October to November, this period constitutes a low season characterized by brief rainfall, in contrast to April and May. If you can endure the rain, it is an opportune time to visit Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking, particularly if you have a passion for photography. During this period, birds consistently arrive, other wildlife is calving, and costs are minimal, unlike the high season. October marks the commencement of the short rainy season, sometimes referred to as the shoulder or low season. While the short rains result in reduced trekking costs, the weather may be unfavorable.
December to February is the best season for gorilla trekking in Rwanda. The brief dry season experiences reduced people, the trekking paths are readily accessible, and entrance to the national park is convenient, making it an opportune time for birdwatching due to the influx of migratory species. December marks the conclusion of the brief rains, rendering it an optimal period for gorilla trekking as the rainforests begin to dry, facilitating easier access to the gorillas. However, due to the impending holidays, anticipate increased crowds in the national parks.
The optimal months for gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda are June to September and December to February. The weather is uncertain; therefore, occasional rain should be anticipated. The sole disadvantage of this period is the large crowds, limited and costly accommodation if not reserved in advance, and it is often a pricey time for gorilla trekking.
The most unfavorable months for gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda are during the rainy season, specifically from March to May, with April witnessing the most significant rainfall, as well as from October to November
It is important to recognize that some tourists prioritize variables other than the months while selecting the best time for primate trekking. The primary determinant is the trip’s cost, which explains why some travelers visit both countries during the shoulder season due to budget constraints, while others travel at any time regardless of expense.
We have extensive experience in organizing gorilla excursions to Uganda and Rwanda, with experts available to address any inquiries regarding gorilla trekking. We can facilitate customized gorilla trips to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park in Uganda, as well as Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.
In conclusion, gorilla trekking in both nations is feasible year-round, albeit the optimal period is during the dry season from December to January and June to September. The trekking trails during this period are accessible and not treacherous, unlike the rainy season, which renders them difficult due to wet and slippery conditions. Gorilla trekking in Africa is still possible during the wet season, sometimes referred to as the low season, particularly for those on a budget.
The best period for gorilla trekking expeditions in Africa
Gorilla trekking in Africa arranges gorilla trekking excursions throughout the year, achieving a 98% success rate in all our gorilla tours, as clients consistently observe gorillas during their treks. The success of any gorilla journey, regardless of the dry or wet season, hinges on your level of preparation. It is essential to possess appropriate equipment and maintain physical fitness; if unable, consider employing a porter to enhance your trekking experience.