When is the Best time for Gorilla Trekking?

When is the Best time for Gorilla Trekking?

When is the Best time for Gorilla Trekking? Choosing​‍​‌‍​‍‌ the best gorilla viewing time for either Uganda (Bwindi and Mgahinga) or Rwanda (Volcanoes National Park) is usually about balancing weather conditions, how accessible the parks are and the cost of the travel.

It is possible to trek gorillas in any month, but the majority of professionals and tourists maintain that the dry seasons are the most suitable one as they provide comfort and make the hike easier.

The Peak Season: Dry Months (June to September & December to February)

Most people consider the dry months to be the absolute best time for gorilla trekking. During this time, the weather is the most stable for a difficult trek.

Good Weather: There is less rain during these months which means the forest paths are much drier, less muddy and are far less slippery. The hike, which can be quite physically demanding even in good conditions becomes less so. Moreover, drier weather means less fog in the high-altitude forests of the Virunga Massif, thus allowing for better photographic shots.

Tourist Traffic: Of course, given that the weather is perfect, these periods draw the greatest number of international tourists. As a result, gorilla permits are sold out many months before and the prices of accommodations are at their peak. In case you are intending to travel during the dry season, it is necessary for you to reserve your permits and lodging even 12 months before your trip.

The Low Season: Wet Months (March to May and October to November).

The rainy seasons, which are sometimes called “Green Seasons,” provide a completely different set of benefits, mainly related to the price and the number of people, although there are some challenges when it comes to the weather.

Rain and terrain: There is continuous heavy rain during these months. The trails become extremely muddy and slippery, thus making the journey longer, harder and more physically demanding and it requires the visitor making the trek to be more careful in navigating. Visitors should be ready for rain and wet conditions all day long.

Travel Advantages: The Green Season has two main attractions besides the difficult conditions it presents:

1.Lower Costs: Several lodges and tour operators may be providing a discounted rate (sometimes up to 20-30%) on accommodation and packages, with the permit price being the only exception.

2.Higher Availability: It is much easier to obtain permits, especially if you are a last-minute traveler, thus giving you the freedom to change your plans as you wish.

A Key Trekking Benefit: Gorillas Are Easier to Locate.
Ironically, it is possible that during the rainy season gorillas are more accessible. At the time of the rain, food is abundant not only in the lower parts of the mountains but also everywhere in the forest.

Therefore, in the park where the gorilla families frequently stay in the lower areas that are the most accessible, the total time of trekking is correspondingly shortened. During the dry season, gorillas may sometimes go higher up the volcanoes in search of certain foods which results in very long and demanding ​‍​‌‍​‍‌walks.

Best time for specific experiences.

Goal	Best time to visit	Reason
Easiest Trekking	June to September	Drier trails, mud and better footing.
Best value/Lowest price	March to May and October to November	Lodges offer discounted ‘’Green Season’’ rates.
Best photography	December to February	Less fog and often clearer skies for lighting.
Highest permit availability	March to May	Fewer crowds mean better chances for last minute booking.

In conclusion, for the average traveler prioritizing comfort, minimal physical difficulty, and the best chance of clear skies, the dry months (June to September or December to February) are the best time for gorilla trekking.

However, for budget-conscious adventurers or those with flexible schedules, the (Green season that is March to May) offers a highly rewarding, if slightly muddier, experience with the added benefit of potentially shorter trekking times and significant cost savings on accommodation.

Regardless of the month, booking permits well in advance (six to twelve months) remains the golden rule for securing this unforgettable wildlife encounter with Nyumbu Beyond Journeys.