Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is one of Africa’s most profound wildlife encounters. Standing a few meters away from a mountain gorilla family in the misty rainforest is an experience that reshapes how tourists see nature. At Verdant Safaris, we often receive one key question from tourists planning their safari, what is the best time to go gorilla trekking in Uganda?

The answer depends on several factors including weather conditions, trekking difficulty, permit availability, and personal travel preferences. This comprehensive guide explores Uganda’s seasons, park conditions, pricing dynamics, and practical considerations to help you determine the best time for your gorilla trekking safari.

Where Gorilla Trekking Takes Place in Uganda

Uganda is home to more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Trekking takes place in two protected areas:

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Bwindi is the most popular destination, with multiple trekking sectors including Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. Mgahinga, located in the southwestern corner of Uganda near Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, offers a more exclusive trekking experience with fewer gorilla families.

Both parks are open year round, but weather patterns and seasonal demand influence the overall trekking experience.

Understanding Uganda’s Climate and Seasons

Uganda has a tropical climate with two main dry seasons and two rainy seasons each year. These seasonal patterns play a significant role in determining the best time for gorilla trekking.

Dry Seasons in Uganda

• December to February.
• June to September.

These months are widely considered the best time to go gorilla trekking in Uganda.

During the dry season, forest trails are less muddy and less slippery. Trekking conditions are generally easier, especially in Bwindi’s steep and densely forested terrain. Clearer skies also improve photography opportunities and enhance overall safari logistics.

Because of these favorable conditions, the dry season is peak tourist season. Gorilla permits sell out quickly, especially in popular sectors of Bwindi.

Rainy Seasons in Uganda

• March to May
• October to November

The rainy seasons are often referred to as the low season for gorilla trekking in Uganda. While rainfall is heavier, trekking still takes place daily.

Rain can make trails muddy and more physically demanding. However, the forest becomes lush and vibrant, offering beautiful scenery. For tourists who prefer fewer crowds and potential lodging discounts, the rainy season can be a rewarding time to visit.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking Based on Experience

Choosing the best time depends on what kind of safari experience you are seeking.

1. Best Time for Easier Trekking Conditions

If you want more manageable hiking conditions, plan your gorilla trekking safari during the dry months of June to September or December to February. The trails are firmer, and navigating steep slopes is less challenging.

This is particularly important for older tourists or those who may not be accustomed to strenuous hikes.

2. Best Time for Fewer Crowds

If you prefer a quieter experience in the forest and at your lodge, consider trekking during the rainy seasons, especially April, May, or November.

Although Uganda does not experience mass tourism like some other safari destinations, peak months see higher visitor numbers. Low season trekking allows for a more intimate atmosphere at accommodations and in trekking briefings.

3. Best Time for Budget Considerations

Gorilla permit prices in Uganda remain consistent throughout the year, but accommodation rates may vary by season. Some lodges offer discounts during the rainy months.

For tourists seeking better value on luxury or midrange lodges near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the low season can provide cost advantages without compromising the quality of the gorilla encounter.

Gorilla Permit Availability and Planning

Regardless of season, gorilla permits are limited and must be booked in advance. Uganda Wildlife Authority regulates daily trekking numbers to protect the gorillas and their habitat.

During peak months, especially June, July, August, and September, permits can sell out several months in advance. Early booking is strongly recommended.

At Verdant Safaris, we advise tourists to secure permits first before confirming international flights. This ensures availability in your preferred trekking sector.

Month by Month Gorilla Trekking Overview

Below is a simplified monthly breakdown to help tourists plan their safari.

January and February

• Dry season.
• Excellent trekking conditions.
• High demand for permits.

March to May

• Long rainy season.
• Mud and heavier rainfall.
• Fewer tourists and possible lodge discounts.

June to September

Main dry season
Best overall trekking conditions
Peak safari season

October and November

Short rainy season
Moderate rainfall
Lower visitor numbers

December

Dry season returns
High demand due to holiday travel

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi vs Mgahinga by Season

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi’s dense rainforest can become very muddy during rainy months. The terrain is steep and physically demanding in some sectors like Nkuringo and Rushaga.

During the dry season, trekking is more comfortable and predictable. For tourists prioritizing easier hiking, the dry months are ideal.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga generally receives slightly less rainfall compared to Bwindi. The bamboo vegetation in some sections can make trekking slightly more accessible.

Because there is only one habituated gorilla family, permit availability is more limited. However, the park is less crowded year round, making it attractive for tourists seeking exclusivity.

Wildlife Viewing Beyond Gorillas

Many tourists combine gorilla trekking with a broader Uganda safari. The best time for gorilla trekking often overlaps with the best time for general wildlife viewing.

Parks such as:

• Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Murchison Falls National Park
• Kibale National Park

offer excellent game viewing during the dry seasons when animals gather around water sources and vegetation is less dense.

For tourists combining gorilla trekking with chimpanzee tracking in Kibale or wildlife safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park, June to September is particularly ideal.

Photography Considerations

Photographers often ask about lighting and forest conditions.

Dry seasons generally offer:

• Brighter natural light
• Less interference from rain
• Easier movement for positioning

However, rainy seasons create:

• Rich green backdrops
• Dramatic misty forest scenes
• Fewer tourists in the background

Both seasons can produce outstanding images. Waterproof gear and proper camera protection are essential year round.

Is There a “Bad” Time for Gorilla Trekking?

The short answer is no.

Gorilla trekking in Uganda operates throughout the year. Mountain gorillas inhabit high altitude forests where temperatures remain relatively consistent, typically ranging between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius.

Rainfall may influence trekking difficulty, but the actual gorilla encounter remains equally extraordinary regardless of season.

Tourists should focus less on the idea of a bad month and more on aligning their visit with personal priorities such as budget, fitness level, and travel schedule.

Expert Recommendation from Verdant Safaris

If you are seeking the optimal balance of good weather, wildlife viewing, and overall safari logistics, we recommend planning your gorilla trekking safari between June and September.

If you value fewer crowds and potentially better accommodation rates, April, May, or November can provide a more tranquil experience.

For holiday travel, December through February also offers excellent trekking conditions, though advance booking is essential.

The best time to go gorilla trekking in Uganda ultimately depends on what matters most to you as a tourist.

• Choose the dry season for easier hikes and peak safari conditions.
• Choose the rainy season for solitude and lush scenery.
• Choose early booking to secure your preferred trekking location.

No matter when you visit, encountering mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a life changing wildlife experience.

At Verdant Safaris, we specialise in creating tailored gorilla trekking safaris that align with your timing, budget, and expectations. Whether you are planning a standalone gorilla adventure or a comprehensive Uganda safari that includes Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kibale National Park, or Murchison Falls National Park, our team ensures seamless planning and expert guidance.

Uganda offers mountain gorilla trekking all year round. The only real question is, when will you answer the call of the forest?