Gorilla trekking runs year-round, but the two dry seasons — roughly June to September and December to February — offer the easiest trails and the most comfortable trekking. The wet months bring greener forest, lower lodge rates and (in Uganda) discounted permits at times, but the trails are muddier and steeper going. Permits must be secured well ahead in peak season.
June to September — the long dry season
This is the prime window. The forests of Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda) and Bwindi (Uganda) are at their driest, the trails firmer, and photography clearer. Treks can still be steep and muddy — it is a rainforest — but conditions are at their kindest. It is the busiest season, so permits and the best lodges book out months ahead.
December to February — the short dry season
A second excellent window: drier trails, pleasant temperatures and good visibility, with slightly fewer crowds than mid-year. It pairs well with a festive-season trip and combines beautifully with savannah safari elsewhere in East Africa. Book permits early here too, especially around the holidays.
The wet seasons — March to May and October to November
The long rains (March–May) and short rains (October–November) bring lush, dramatic forest and abundant food, so gorillas may range lower and closer. Lodges are quieter and cheaper, and Uganda sometimes offers reduced-price permits. The trade-off is mud, rain and tougher walking — fine for the fit and well-prepared, and rewarding for photographers who like moody light.
Rwanda vs Uganda, and adding more
Rwanda is the polished, easy-access option — a short drive from Kigali to the trailhead, higher permit cost, ideal for a shorter luxury trip. Uganda is wilder and better value, and pairs gorillas with chimpanzee trekking in Kibale and classic savannah in Queen Elizabeth and Kidepo. Both reward the dry season; Uganda's longer travel distances make firm trails especially welcome.
Best months for specific goals
For the easiest trekking conditions, go June to September or December to February. For lower costs and lush forest, go March to May or October to November. For combining gorillas with chimps and savannah in Uganda, the dry months make the overland route far smoother. Whenever you go, book permits early — they are strictly limited each day.
| Months | Season | Trekking conditions | Crowds & price | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jun–Sep | Long dry | Best, firm trails | Very high | Comfort, photography |
| Dec–Feb | Short dry | Very good | High | Festive, quieter |
| Mar–May | Long rains | Muddy, tough | Low | Value, lush forest |
| Oct–Nov | Short rains | Wet, variable | Moderate | Value, fewer people |
Explore these safari destinations
Discover the parks and reserves behind this guide:
- Rwanda Volcanoes
- Uganda Bwindi
- Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Kibale Forest National Park
- Murchison Falls National Park
- Rwanda Nyungwe
Safaris to plan around the season
Private journeys we tailor to your dates and budget:
- Gorilla Trekking Experience, Rwanda — 3 days, Volcanoes NP
- Ultimate Gorilla Encounter, Rwanda — 5 days, luxury trek
- Gorilla Tracking Adventure, Uganda — 4 days, Bwindi
- Ultimate Gorilla & Wildlife, Uganda — 8 days, gorillas, chimps & savannah
Related Reading
Start Planning
Every safari we craft is private and built entirely around you — your dates, your pace, your budget and the wildlife you most want to see. Our specialists have travelled this ground themselves and design each itinerary by hand. Speak to our team to begin, or browse our safari packages for inspiration.
