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Planning
When to trek for gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda
Gorilla trekking is a year-round activity, but the driest windows make the forest floor far easier to read. Here is how the seasons actually behave.
Wild Ramble Afrika15 October 2026
Planning
The mountain gorilla parks — Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Mgahinga and Volcanoes National Park — sit between 2,300 and 4,500 metres. It rains here often, whatever the month, but two windows are markedly drier.
The driest windows Late December to early March, and again from late June to September, are the driest months. Trails are firmer, the undergrowth is thinner and photography is easier. These are also the busiest months, so permits should be secured three to six months ahead.
The green seasons April, May and November are the long and short rains. The forest is at its most dramatic, rates are lower and permits are easier to obtain. Expect a mud-slicked trail, a poncho and an unforgettable atmosphere of dripping leaves and low cloud.
Permits and preparation Permits are limited and non-refundable once issued. Book early, train for the altitude, and bring gloves, gaiters and a walking pole. The trek can last anywhere from one hour to eight; the hour you spend with the family is always worth it.
Planning a trip? Our consultants will turn these notes into a route that fits your dates and budget. Start planning your safari.
