Choosing the right time to embark on a gorilla trekking adventure is vital to maximizing your experience in Uganda. Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks is where gorilla trekking occurs has more temperate rainforest climate. Although it can rain year-round, there are periods with lower rainfall making trekking conditions more favorable.
So the best time to see gorillas in Uganda are during the dry but hot seasons that is between June to September and December to February.
Dry Season
June to September
The trails are easy to navigate, excellent visibility. High demand, plan ahead for permits and lodging. These are the busiest months and coincide with peak East African season.
December to February
The short dry season also offers good trekking conditions. They have lower rainfall which makes navigating trails and tracking gorillas easier and the reduced crowd size in these months can also make for a quieter, more private trekking experience.
If you plan to travel during peak season and if you are in a large group, we recommend you to book 6 months or even a year in advance. The earlier you book the more choice you have on where you stay and where you track. The last minute bookings may be possible low season or with smaller groups.
Wet season
March – May, October – November
In the wet months, the rain transform the forest into a rich, emerald world. The flowers flower, birds calls intensify and the gorilla families often feed closer to the trailheads and sometimes making treks shorter. Gorilla permits have been discounted and are now easier to secure, lodge rates are lower. During these months, it can be very muddy underfoot. The good thing is that permits are a little easier to obtain plus you may find fewer tourists on the trail.
Best time for photography is in the drier months of June to August and from December to February offer the best lighting and crucially, less rain to damage equipment.
