Best time of year for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda: Though it is possible to go gorilla trekking throughout the year, the drier seasons offer better conditions. In this article, we discuss the different seasons and what to expect in terms of weather, hiking conditions, prices as well as busyness.
Gorilla trekking is one of the most exciting wildlife encounters, when planning a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda. When to go is one of the first questions you ask yourself, some months of the year offer better conditions so information shared in this article will help you consider when deciding on a time for gorilla trekking in Uganda.
Travel Tip: Gorilla trekking in Uganda can be done year-round.
You can go gorilla trekking at any time of the year in Uganda thanks to the warm tropical climate and daily average temperatures range from 25 to 29 °C (77 to 84°F). There is also a good deal of humidity.
In Uganda, mountain gorillas live in two parks that is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park both of which are located in the mountainous region of Southwest Uganda. The elevations in this region are higher than the national norm and so average temperatures range from 7°C (45°F at night to only 20°C (68°F) during the day.
“in the southern hemisphere, the coldest months in mountain gorilla territory are June and July”.
In Uganda, winter takes place over the middle of the year. So, if you really don’t like the cold, avoid June and July. But whenever you choose to go gorilla trekking in Uganda, you should expect a chilly start to your trek so come prepared.
Two rainy seasons
Like most countries in East Africa, Uganda has two rainy seasons.
- The long rains are experienced from the end of February to the end of May
- The short rains are experienced from October to mid-December
These periods experience frequent tropical downpours, while they don’t last long. The downpours result in especially muddy and slippery trekking conditions. For this reason, most travelers prefer to avoid the rainy seasons.
Note: to avoid the rains, plan your gorilla trek for sometime between June and September or between mid-December and mid-February.
Best months for gorilla trekking
The best time to go gorilla trekking in Uganda is in the long dry season from June to September and during the short dry season from mid-December to early February. Uganda experiences a tropical climate, there may still be a shower or two, but it is generally drier which makes the ground less slippery.
The dry season also happens to be the best time to enjoy a safari in Uganda as the bush cover is less dense making spotting wildlife much easier. Also, the dry season is the best time to enjoy chimpanzee trekking or golden monkey trekking.
Seasonal rates
During the wet seasons, safari lodges and hotels offer discounted rates and sometimes, the Uganda Wildlife Authority offers discounted gorilla permits. The rainy or low seasons are therefore considered good times of the year for a more affordable gorilla trekking.