Best Time to See Mountain Gorillas in Uganda  

When to Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda 

Dubbed as the “Pearly of Africa”, Uganda is a rewarding destination to visit year-round, here the climate is warm thanks to its location on the equator. The country experiences two main dry seasons, between June and October and December to February, while April and May experience the highest rainfall.

The rainforests of Bwindi and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, which are home to mountain gorillas experience rain and humidity year – round, making water clothing a recommendation for gorilla trekking even those traveling in the dry season.

Hiking through the misty forests of Bwindi

Uganda Seasonal Overview

June – September

High: 27°C / 80°F

Low: 17°C / 62°F

Rainfall: 84MM / 3.2IN

Why is this time the best time to see mountain gorillas in Uganda?

June to September is the best time to visit Uganda to trek mountain gorillas, during this period the lush landscapes of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offer an ideal canvas for gorilla trekking.

During these months, the region experiences a long dry season, minimizing slippery trails and improving the hiking conditions.

In this season, it is recommended you book your accommodation and gorilla permits in advice as they are in high demand.

Highlights

• Prime gorilla viewing during this dry season
• Treks through the forest are made more accessible since the forest are drier
• Enjoy stunning landscapes with more sunshine and thinner vegetation

October – January

High: 28°C / 82°F

Low: 18°C / 64°F

Rainfall: 111.75MM / 4.4IN

Why is this time the best to see mountain gorillas in Uganda?

From October to November, Uganda experiences a short rainy season offering a pleasant tropical highland climate. If you are an open minded traveler and comfortable with muddy conditions, gorilla treks are still possible, though slightly more challenging in the wet terrain.

A brief interlude from the rains heralding the dry season from December to January enables more accessible gorilla adventures. Also, game viewing across Uganda National Parks is still good through this season.

Highlights

• Gorilla treks are still possible from October to December with fewer travelers and lower trekking permits costs. Bursts of sunshine appear between short showers.
• The climate is warm and dry again from December to January, with prices increasing
• Migrant bird species arrive from Europe and Northern Africa between November to April

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest

February – May

High: 28°C / 82°F

Low: 18°C / 64°F

Rainfall: 120.5MM / 4.75IN

Why go gorilla trekking at this time?

February offers unforgettable gorilla encounters due to the warm climate and sunshine. However, prices are typically higher during this dry month, and planning is necessary. March to May marks the long rainy season, with heavy downpours.

Still, gorilla trekking can be enjoyed if you don’t mind muddy conditions and have good rain gear. Birding is an excellent through this season.

Highlights

• February offers superb dry gorilla trekking conditions
• The rainy seasons from March to May are the optimum times for trekking chimpanzees in Uganda’s Kibale Forest National Park and Kyambura Gorge
• During this period, the scenery is lush and breathtaking, and with good quality rain gear, gorilla and chimpanzee treks are still possible.

When is the Best Time to See Mountain Gorillas in Uganda?

The best time to see mountain gorillas in Uganda is between December and February or June and August which are dry seasons, during these months the skies are blue, skies are clear and hiking trails are relatively mud-free.

Although the elusive mountain gorilla can be seen year-round, conquering the impenetrable Bwindi Forest during the rainy season can be slightly more challenging. Gorilla trekking involve hours of walking up and down hills, and during the wet months, trails will be muddy and slippery and thick tropical foliage can present some roadblocks.

The off-season does have its own benefits, and with fewer crowds, you might find yourself meeting a habituated gorilla family with only a handful of other trekkers.

The dry season months are peak season in Uganda and if you plan travel during this season, I strongly recommend you book your gorilla safari six months or even a year in advance. Peak seasons are June to October and Christmas and the New Year. The earlier you book the more choice you have on where you stay and where you track the gorillas. Last minute bookings may be possible during the lower season, but cannot be guaranteed.

Gorilla Permit Availability

During the peak season months of June – August, gorilla permits sell out a long way in advance. If you are visiting Uganda to see mountain gorillas during the peak months you may need to book at least a year in advance.