Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park operates 365 days a year, so there is never a wrong time to visit. However, the time of year significantly affects trail conditions, crowds, lodge prices, and the overall character of your experience. This month-by-month guide helps you decide when to plan your trip based on your priorities — whether that is dry trails, lower prices, lush scenery, or the best chance of securing a gorilla permit.
Bwindi's Two Seasons
Bwindi lies near the equator at altitudes between 1,160 and 2,607 metres. Its climate is characterised by two main patterns:
- Dry seasons: June to September (long dry) and December to February (short dry). Trails are drier, less muddy, and generally easier to navigate. These are the peak tourist months.
- Wet seasons: March to May (long rains) and October to November (short rains). The forest receives heavier rainfall, trails become muddier and more slippery, but the vegetation is at its most lush and vibrant.
It is important to note that Bwindi is a tropical rainforest — it can rain at any time of year. Even during the dry season, afternoon showers are common. Waterproof clothing is essential regardless of when you visit.
Month-by-Month Breakdown
January
DryWarm and relatively dry. Good trekking conditions with moderate tourist numbers. A fine time to visit before the rains begin in March.
February
DrySimilar to January — dry and pleasant. Last month of the short dry season. Permits may be easier to find than in peak months.
March
WetThe long rains begin. Trails become muddy. Fewer visitors and lower lodge rates. The forest is green and alive with activity.
April
WetPeak of the long rainy season. Heaviest rainfall. Challenging trekking conditions, but the fewest crowds and best rates of the year.
May
WetRains begin to ease towards the end of the month. Still good value for accommodation. Trails are wet but manageable.
June
DryStart of the long dry season and peak tourist period. Excellent trekking conditions. Book permits and lodges well in advance.
July
DryPeak dry season. The busiest month alongside August. Best trail conditions. Permits sell out early. Premium lodge rates.
August
DryPeak season continues. Ideal weather for trekking. Very popular with European and North American travellers on summer holidays.
September
DryLast month of the long dry season. Still excellent conditions. Slightly fewer visitors than July and August. Good balance of weather and availability.
October
WetShort rains begin. Trails get muddier. Tourist numbers drop. Lodge rates decrease. A good shoulder-season choice.
November
WetShort rains continue. Fewer visitors. Budget-friendly rates. The forest is lush and photogenic despite the rain.
December
DryShort dry season begins. Popular with holiday travellers. Good conditions but book early as Christmas and New Year are in demand.
Weather and Temperatures
Bwindi's altitude creates a pleasantly cool tropical climate that is quite different from the hot lowlands of Uganda:
- Daytime temperatures: 15 to 25 degrees Celsius at lower altitudes (Buhoma, Rushaga); 10 to 20 degrees at higher altitudes (Ruhija).
- Night-time temperatures: 7 to 14 degrees Celsius. It gets genuinely cold at night, especially in Ruhija. Warm layers are needed.
- Rainfall: Bwindi receives 1,400 to 1,900 mm of rain annually. Rain can occur in any month, but is heaviest from March to May.
- Humidity: High year-round (70 to 90 percent). The forest interior is humid and can feel close, even on cool days.
Quick Comparison
Dry Season (Jun–Sep, Dec–Feb)
- + Drier trails, easier hiking
- + Best overall trekking conditions
- - Higher lodge rates
- - Permits sell out faster
- - More visitors at briefing points
Wet Season (Mar–May, Oct–Nov)
- + Lower lodge rates (20–40% less)
- + Easier permit availability
- + Fewer crowds, more intimate
- + Lush, green, photogenic forest
- - Muddier, more slippery trails
Gorilla Trekking Is Year-Round
The most important thing to understand is that gorilla trekking runs every single day of the year, rain or shine. The gorillas do not migrate or hibernate — they move through the forest daily regardless of weather. A rainy day does not cancel your trek. Your ranger-led group will head into the forest as planned, and the experience of finding gorillas in the misty rain can be even more atmospheric and memorable than a dry-season encounter.
The choice of season is really about your comfort preferences and budget, not about the quality of the gorilla encounter itself.
When to Book
Regardless of when you plan to visit, booking early is advisable:
- Peak season (Jun–Sep, Dec–Feb): Book gorilla permits and accommodation at least 3 to 6 months in advance. Popular lodges and permit dates sell out quickly.
- Wet season (Mar–May, Oct–Nov): Permits are more readily available, but booking 1 to 3 months ahead is still recommended to secure your preferred lodge and dates.
Read our gorilla permits guide for details on booking and availability, browse our best lodges guide to find accommodation that matches your travel dates, or see our detailed month-by-month guide to the best time to visit Uganda for a complete seasonal breakdown.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best month to visit Bwindi for gorilla trekking?
The best months are during the dry seasons: June to September and December to February. Trails are drier and more comfortable. However, gorilla trekking is available every day of the year, and wet-season visits have their own advantages including lower prices and fewer crowds.
Can you trek gorillas during the rainy season?
Yes. Gorilla trekking operates year-round including during the rainy seasons. Trails are muddier, but the forest is lush, lodge rates are lower, and there are fewer visitors. Waterproof clothing and good hiking boots are essential.
What is the temperature in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest?
Temperatures range from 7 to 25 degrees Celsius depending on altitude and time of day. Lower sectors like Buhoma are warmer, while Ruhija at over 2,300 metres is noticeably cooler. Nights are always cool and warm layers are needed.
When is the cheapest time to visit Bwindi?
The cheapest time is during the wet season months of March to May and October to November. Lodge rates are typically 20 to 40 percent lower, and gorilla permits are easier to secure. See our budget lodges guide for more money-saving tips.