Best time for gorilla trekking in Rwanda
Best time for gorilla tracking in Rwanda
The best time to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda is during the two dry seasons from June to September and December to February. They offer the best hiking conditions, as the trails are less slippery and there’s less chance of rain falling.
Gorilla tracking in Rwanda takes place in Volcanoes National Park, the country’s premier wildlife park with a rich tapestry of wildlife—from elusive forest elephant and golden monkeys to over 200 species of birds and most importantly, the only home of the endangered mountain gorillas.
While gorilla tracking in Rwanda is a year-round activity, timing is really important. The best time of year to visit is depends on the distinct seasonal weather patterns of Volcanoes National Park, which sits in the country’s northwestern corner.
Gorilla trekking Seasons in Rwanda
- Long dry season (High / peak): June to August (or early September)
- Short dry season: Mid December to February
- Low/wet season: April to May and September to November
- Best weather: Between June and September, and between December and February.
- Worst weather: Between March and May, and September and November.
Dry seasons (High / peak): June to September
The long dry season is the very best time of year to see mountain gorillas in Rwanda. It offers favourable hiking conditions such as dry trails, little or no rain and clearer views of the wildlife, making gorilla tracking a much easier experience. Too much rain can make the trails muddy and slippery, which can be unpleasant, especially on steep sections.
Since you are visiting a rainforest even in the dry season, it’s not all dry. Chances of getting soaked up in the rain are high but it definitely won’t rain all day. Therefore, you should prepare accordingly before you travel.
This time of year (June to September and around Christmas and New Year) is also the high or peak safari season, when the country receives high visitor numbers and so does Volcanoes National Park.
When to book
If you plan to travel during the peak season, it’s best to book at least six months in advance so you don’t miss out on obtaining permits. Gorilla trekking permits can sell out fast and accommodations fill up quickly for the dry seasons due to high demand.
The earlier you book, the higher your chances of obtaining a permit and securing high quality accommodations for your treks. Last-minute bookings may be possible during low season or with smaller groups (though not recommended).
Rainy/wet seasons (Low): March to May and September to November
The long wet season from March to May and the short wet season from October to mid-December experience heavy rainfall, creating muddy and slippery trails that make hiking in this mountainous region a difficult experience.
Although the park receives typically heavy downpours, you can still enjoy frequent sunny spells when the sky clears. Note that it doesn’t have to be raining all day for you to get wet. You’ll often pick your way through dense foliage in search of a gorilla family as the sun’s rays filter through the canopy.
These months offer lush landscapes and fantastic birdwatching opportunities, making it a great time for birders to visit since this is the nesting season, with beautiful birds in the skies.
However, these months coincide with the low safari season when the park receives fewer visitors due to poor hiking conditions. They offer the best opportunities for budget travelers as the park is less crowded and quieter, allowing them to enjoy it all to themselves.
You can also expect low season discounts; accommodation prices are typically lower and permits are easier to obtain although you still need to purchase them well in advance.
Note
Permit Cost: USD 1,500 per person for a standard 1-hour gorilla tracking encounter.
Temperature: The temperatures in the park don’t change much year-round. Expect a fairly cool mean daily temperature of around 15 ℃ (59 ℉) and mean night-time temperature of 6 ℃ (43 ℉).
Elevation: Volcanoes National Park ranges in elevation from 2,400 m to 4,507 m above sea level.
Booking Permit: 98% of permits in Volcanoes sell out up to 6–12 months in advance during the peak dry season (June–September). Book early to secure yours.
Sample Trips
