Here is The Best Time of the Year for Gorilla trekking in Uganda
Anytime is the Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
When is the Best Time of the Year for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda: The best time of year to go on a gorilla safari in Uganda is during the dry season, which runs from June to September and from December to February. During this time, the weather is generally dry, and temperatures are mild, making it easier to trek through the forests to see the gorillas.
The dry season is also a good time for photography, as the clear skies and good lighting conditions make for better photos. In addition, the dry season is a popular time for gorilla trekking, so visitors should book their permits well in advance to secure their spot.
However, it’s important to note that gorilla trekking in Uganda can be done year-round, and each season has advantages and disadvantages. For example, the rainy season (March to May and October to November) can be more challenging for trekking, as the trails can be muddy and slippery. Still, it’s also an excellent time for birdwatching and seeing the lush green vegetation.
The best time to go on a gorilla safari in Uganda depends on personal preferences and interests. Still, the dry season is generally considered the most favorable time for gorilla trekking.
The Best Time of the Year for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda is during the Dry Seasons:
The best time of year for gorilla trekking in Uganda is during the dry seasons, from mid-June to September and mid-December to February.
For most, the best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda is during the two dry seasons, which run from December to February and June to September. The weather is generally dry during these months, and hiking conditions are optimal.
Navigating the forest trails during the dry season is also more accessible as the paths are less muddy and slippery, making tracking gorillas through the dense vegetation easier. Additionally, the dry season offers better visibility, making it easier to spot gorillas in their natural habitat.
Furthermore, the dry season from June to September is when many tourists are on their summer or annual vacation, making September the busiest dry season for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda.
The Best Time of the Year for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda is during the Dry Seasons:
Pros of gorilla trekking in Uganda during the dry seasons:
- Better Accessibility: During the dry season, the trails and paths in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla Park are drier and safer for Gorilla Trekkers since there will be less of a chance of slipping and falling. Since you are trekking in a rainforest, it may rain at any time, but much less than during the wet seasons of the year.
- Clearer Views of the stunning scenery in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla Park: With less rainfall, the vegetation is less dense, and the foliage is not as thick as in the wet seasons. This also means you have better visibility, making it easier to spot gorillas and observe them in their natural habitat. You’ll have clearer views of the gorillas and be able to appreciate their behaviors and interactions more efficiently.
- Comfortable Weather: The dry season in Uganda is generally characterized by warmer temperatures and lower humidity levels. This makes hiking and trekking more comfortable, as you won’t have to contend with excessive heat or heavy rains. The pleasant weather allows you to enjoy the experience without discomfort.
- Increased Wildlife Sightings: Apart from the gorillas, Uganda is home to diverse wildlife. During the dry season, as water sources become limited, animals congregate around remaining waterholes, making them easier to spot. You may have the chance to see other wildlife species, such as elephants, buffaloes, and various bird species, during your gorilla trekking adventure.
Cons of gorilla trekking in Uganda during the dry seasons:
While gorilla trekking in Uganda during the dry season has advantages, there are also a few drawbacks. Here are some cons of gorilla trekking in Uganda during the dry season:
- Increased Crowds: The dry season is the peak tourist season in Uganda, and many visitors choose this time to go gorilla
trekking. Though the maximum number of visitors to one gorilla family remains, there are more tourists in the gorilla parks of Uganda.
- Limited Availability of Gorilla Trekking Permits: Gorilla trekking permits in Uganda are limited to protect the gorillas and their habitat. During the dry season, when the demand is high, securing permits may be more challenging, especially for popular dates and locations. It is advisable to book your tickets well in advance to ensure availability.
- Increased Gorilla Movements of Gorillas: The availability of food sources for gorillas can vary during the dry season, as specific vegetation may be scarce. This could lead to gorillas moving to different areas in search of food. As a result, tracking and locating the gorilla groups may require more effort and time compared to the wet season.
Despite these drawbacks, due to its advantages, many visitors still go gorilla trekking in Uganda during the dry season. It’s essential to weigh these factors and choose the time that aligns best with your preferences and priorities for your gorilla trekking experience.
The Best Time of the Year for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda is during the Rainy Seasons:
Gorilla Trekking during the rainy season has become the best time of the year for many. Trekking in the rainy seasons means gorilla trekking without crowds. Gorilla Trekking Permits are readily available in most cases. The coveted Gorilla Habituation permits, where you spend more time with a gorilla family, are often available during the rainy seasons.
During the Rainy Seasons, Uganda is in bloom. The rainforests come alive with the growth of plants and trees. In some ways, the rainy season is like spring in the West, a season of new beginnings.
Gorilla trekking and hiking through the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest of Mgahinga Gorilla Park becomes more of a challenge than during the dry seasons of the year. Something that some adventurers welcome.
Most Luxury and exclusive Gorilla Lodges offer drastic discounts during the rainy seasons of the year to attract more tourists. Some midrange lodges follow suit. The exact dates for rainy season price reductions vary from club to lodge.
The Best Time of the Year for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda is during the Rainy Seasons:
Pros of gorilla trekking in Uganda during/any season:
Although the dry seasons are generally considered the best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda, there are some pros to trekking during the rainy seasons. Here are some of the advantages of gorilla trekking in Uganda during the rainy seasons:
Fewer tourists: The rainy seasons are considered the low season for tourism in Uganda, which means fewer visitors to the gorilla parks, making them less congested for gorilla trekkers.- Lush green vegetation: The rainy season brings abundant rain, making the gorilla forests and landscapes lush and green. This can provide a beautiful backdrop for gorilla trekking and make for some stunning photographs.
- Unique experiences: Gorilla Habituation Experience permits are more available. There are only four permits a day for those that want to spend up to four hours with a gorilla family on an all-day trip. Read more here.
- Lower prices: Luxury and some midrange Gorilla Safaris will be lower in price due to the discounts offered by the lodge,
While the rainy season may have some challenges, it can also provide unique and rewarding experiences for those looking to go gorilla trekking in Uganda.
Cons of gorilla trekking in Uganda during the Rainy seasons:
While there are some advantages to gorilla trekking in Uganda during the rainy seasons, there are also some potential drawbacks. Here are some of the cons of gorilla trekking in Uganda during the rainy seasons:
- Muddy and slippery trails: The rainy season brings a lot of rain, making the trails muddy and slippery. This can make trekking more complex and increase the risk of slips and falls. Most rainfall is at night or during the predawn morning hours.
- Reduced visibility: The dense foliage that makes the forests so lush and green during the rainy season can also reduce visibility, making it more difficult to spot the gorillas. This can make observing the gorillas and taking photographs more challenging.
Overall, while the rainy season can offer some unique experiences and advantages, it’s essential to consider the potential challenges and drawbacks when planning a gorilla trekking trip to Uganda.
When is the Best Time of the Year for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?
Ultimately, the best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda depends on your preferences and priorities. Regardless of the season, gorilla trekking in Uganda is a unique and unforgettable experience that offers a rare opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Best Time of the year for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda. Begin to Plan your Gorilla Safari in Uganda today.
