Best Time to Go on a Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari.
The magnificent mountain gorillas call Uganda home, and going on a trip with these primates is one of the most incredible wildlife adventures you can have. These endangered primates are a year-round attraction for tourists to the verdant woods of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
But you can make the most of your gorilla trekking safari by planning it at the optimal time. The best times to go trekking, what to pack, and how the weather changes depending on the season are all covered in this handy guide.
The Dry Season for Gorilla Trekking
The most popular times to visit Uganda to see the gorillas are during the dry season, which lasts from December to February and June to August. Clear, bright days, accompanied by generally steady weather, enhance the hiking experience.
Trails in Bwindi and Mgahinga are less slick during the dry season, making walking over the steep terrain considerably simpler. Because tracing a family of gorillas may take anywhere from two to eight hours of walking, this is crucial information to have.
During the dry months, gorillas are easier to see since the underbrush is less in the forest. The gentler journey through the heavy forest is also made possible by the cleaner paths.
Permits may sell out fast during the dry season, when tourism is at its highest, but the experience is worth the extra effort and expense.
The Wet Season in Uganda
March–May and September–November are the two rainiest months in Uganda. Although many people avoid traveling during the rainy season, there are really certain advantages to going at that time.
Less Crowds, Tourists flock to Uganda during the dry season. This allows you more leeway when reserving lodging, fewer groups, and more tranquil hiking. Getting a gorilla trekking permit at the last minute is also less of a hassle.
The rains turn the woodlands of Uganda into a verdant paradise, resulting in lush green landscapes. Nature lovers and photographers alike will be captivated by the lush landscapes and the abundance of plant and animal life that flourish during the rainy season.
Reduced Prices, During the rainy season, many tour companies and hotels offer great deals, so it’s a great time for tourists looking to save money.
It could be more difficult to go hiking while it’s raining. You should be physically ready and have the appropriate hiking gear since the trails can muddy and slippery.
Considerations for Gorilla Permits Depending on the Season
There is a daily limit on the number of permits that may be given for gorilla trekking in Uganda to keep the primates safe. Seasonal changes may have a major impact on the availability of permits and the amount of time needed to book them.
The months of June, July, and August are very popular, and as a result, permits sell out rapidly throughout the dry season. For the best results, be sure you reserve your permits at least six months ahead of time.
Permits during the Wet Season: During this period, you have more leeway in acquiring permits, and you may sometimes be able to discover availability with less notice. Discounted packages that include permits may also be offered by tour companies during certain months.
There is a daily cap on the number of trekkers permitted to see each gorilla family, so getting your gorilla permit early is crucial regardless of the season you go.
Year-Round Wildlife and Other Events
Uganda is known mostly for its gorilla trekking, but visitors may enjoy the country’s many other animal and natural features at any time of year. Improving your safari experience is as simple as knowing when to schedule it.
Safaris in Uganda are at their most enjoyable from June through September. During the dry season, not only are gorilla treks more pleasant, but visitors to parks like Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth may more easily see animals.
Although it rains more heavily from March to May, this is the best season to go birding. The flora is at its most verdant, and migratory birds abound. The stunning sky and colorful sceneries will be a photographer’s dream.
December through February: The weather is just right for hiking and sightseeing at this time. Visiting cultural places like Jinja and Kampala, or going on a gorilla hike and stopping at Lake Bunyonyi, are all fantastic options for a multi-destination safari during this period.
Your tastes should be taken into consideration when deciding when to go on a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda. The dry season is perfect for hikers who want less difficulty, more visibility, and the ability to prepare ahead of time. On the other hand, if you want a more peaceful and inexpensive experience and are okay with a little rain, you can find just as much to love during the rainy season.
Visiting Uganda’s mountain gorillas on foot is an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime adventure that will change your perspective on the world.
