When is the best time to do gorilla trekking?
Gorilla trekking is a magical adventure that offers a unique opportunity to witness the magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. When it comes to gorilla trekking, Uganda stands out as one of the prime destinations, boasting two prominent locations: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Volcanoes National Park in neighboring Rwanda. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best times to visit Bwindi for gorilla trekking in Uganda, followed by the ideal time to embark on a similar adventure at Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda
Bwindi impenetrable national park is an iconic park found in the south western part of Uganda. It is
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to nearly half of the world’s mountain gorilla population, making it a coveted destination for gorilla trekking. To maximize your experience in this natural wonder, it is crucial to choose the right time to visit.
Best Time to Visit Bwindi for Gorilla Trekking
The ideal time to visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for gorilla trekking is during the dry seasons. These periods offer the most favorable conditions for trekking, as well as a more comfortable and enjoyable overall experience.
Dry Seasons
Uganda experiences two dry seasons: June to September and December to February. These months provide the best weather for gorilla trekking. During the dry seasons, the trails are less muddy therefore easy to trek and hike in search of the great apes, and the gorillas tend to stick to lower elevations in search of food, making them easier to locate. The lush greenery and clear skies also enhance the stunning backdrop for your adventure.
It’s important to note that being a dry season does not mean there won’t be rain because these are dense forests and mountains we are talking about
Rainy Seasons
The rainy seasons, from March to May and October to November, can be less favorable for gorilla trekking. Heavy rainfall may lead to muddy and slippery trails, and gorillas may venture higher up into the mountains, making them harder to find. That said, visiting during the rainy season can offer a unique and lush perspective of the park, but it’s essential to be prepared for wet conditions because it may rain heavily and for hours sometimes which will hinder a seamless experience and more challenging trekking.
Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is another remarkable destination for gorilla trekking. Home to several habituated gorilla families, the park offers a distinct experience that complements what you’ll find in Bwindi.
This national park is found in the northwestern province of Rwanda in a small town known as Musanze. This park is considered the oldest park in the entire African continent. The park offers the endangered golden monkeys
Best Time to Visit Volcanoes National Park for Gorilla Trekking?
Just like Bwindi, the best time to visit Volcanoes National Park is during the dry seasons, which provide more comfortable trekking conditions and a higher likelihood of an unforgettable encounter with gorillas. Make sure to consider comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear to facilitate a comfortable expedition. check out 10 must haves for Gorilla trekking to get more details on what comfortable clothing is and what to carry as a must.
Dry Seasons
The dry seasons in Rwanda, from June to September and December to February, align with the best time to visit Bwindi in Uganda. The drier weather makes for more accessible trails and a more pleasant trekking experience. The visitors of the Virunga Mountains, where the park is located, are particularly stunning during these months, enhancing your overall adventure.
Rainy Seasons
The rainy seasons in Rwanda, from March to May and October to November, can be challenging for gorilla trekking. Similar to Bwindi, these months may result in slippery paths and gorillas moving to higher altitudes. While the park remains open throughout the year, it’s advisable to plan your visit during the dry seasons for the most rewarding experience.
Conclusion
In summary, the best time to visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda for gorilla trekking is during the dry seasons, which typically occur from June to September and December to February but that doesn’t mean that one can’t have a fulfilling gorilla expedition during the wet seasons. These periods offer more favorable weather, accessible trails, and an increased chance of witnessing these incredible creatures up close in their natural habitat.
Whether you choose to trek in Bwindi or Volcanoes National Park, both destinations promise a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s essential to plan your visit during the dry seasons to ensure the best conditions for a memorable gorilla trekking adventure. Whichever park you choose, your journey will undoubtedly leave you with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for these majestic creatures and their remarkable habitats. For you to make a choice on what packages you can consider check out 3-Day Gorilla Tour to Bwindi from Kigali and 8-Day Uganda Gorilla Safari Adventure & Wildlife plus many more on our page.
