What Is the Best Time of Year to See Gorillas? Your Complete Guide to Gorilla Trekking Seasons

Gorilla trekking is one of the most thrilling wildlife experiences on earth—an emotional journey deep into the misty tropical forests of Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo to meet the gentle giants of Africa. But one of the most common questions travelers ask is:
“What is the best time of year to see gorillas?”

The good news? Gorilla trekking is possible all year round.
However, certain months offer better weather, easier hiking conditions, and clearer photography opportunities.

In this comprehensive guide, we break down the best gorilla trekking seasons, explain the advantages and disadvantages of each, and help you plan your trip with professional support from Monumental Gorilla Tours.

Understanding Gorilla Trekking Seasons

The gorilla destinations—Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, and Congo’s Virunga National Park—all experience two main seasons:

✔ Dry Seasons (Peak Seasons)

June to September
December to February

✔ Wet Seasons (Low Seasons)

March to May
October to November

Each season offers unique benefits depending on your travel style, budget, and trekking ability.

The Best Time of Year to See Gorillas: Dry Season (June–September & December–February)

The dry months are widely considered the best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo.

Why the Dry Season Is Ideal

1. Easier Hiking & Minimal Mud

Trails in Bwindi and Virunga can be steep and slippery. During the dry season:

Paths are more stable
Less mud
Better traction
Reduced risk of falls

This makes it ideal for trekkers who prefer a comfortable experience.

2. Thick Vegetation Opens Up

During dry months, vegetation becomes:

Less dense
Easier to navigate
Better for photography
Better visibility of gorilla families

Your chances of capturing stunning gorilla photos increase significantly.

3. Excellent Weather for Travel

With clear skies and less rainfall:

Forests are more accessible
Roads are smoother
Domestic flights operate more reliably

Travel logistics become far simpler.

4. High Gorilla Visibility

Gorillas often move to higher ground during the dry season. This means shorter trek durations for many tourists.

5. Perfect for Multi-Destination Safaris

Dry season also aligns with peak wildlife viewing across East Africa. You can easily combine:

Gorilla trekking
Big Five safaris
Nile River experiences
Cultural tours

This makes the dry months ideal for people planning a complete African adventure.

Downsides of Trekking in the Dry Season

The dry season is popular for a reason—but it has a few considerations:

• Gorilla Permits Sell Out Quickly

Expect very high demand in Uganda and Rwanda. To secure a spot, book with Monumental Gorilla Tours at least:

6 months in advance for Rwanda
4–6 months in advance for Uganda

• Higher Travel Costs

Accommodation, flights, and sometimes transport become more expensive. Budget travelers may find the wet season more affordable.

Gorilla Trekking in the Wet Season (March–May & October–November)

While the dry season is ideal, many travelers prefer the wet season due to its affordability and unique experiences.

Advantages of Wet Season Gorilla Trekking

1. Gorilla Permits Are Easier to Get

During the rainy months, fewer tourists travel. This makes it easier to secure:

Gorilla permits
Preferred trekking dates
Top lodges

For last-minute travelers, this is the best time.

2. Lower Costs (Budget-Friendly)

Some lodges and tour operators offer:

Low-season discounts
Reduced accommodation rates
More flexible itineraries

Uganda, in particular, becomes incredibly cost-effective during these months.

3. Lush, Green Photography Backgrounds

The rainy season transforms the forest into a:

Vibrant
Lush
Beautifully green
Mist-draped paradise

You’ll enjoy breathtaking scenery for your travel photos.

4. Gorillas Stay Close to the Park Lodges

Because food is abundant in the lower elevations, gorillas often remain near the park boundaries. Treks may be shorter and less strenuous.

Challenges of the Wet Season

• Slippery, Muddy Trails

Rain makes the forest terrain more challenging. Good hiking boots and rain gear are essential.

• Unpredictable Weather

Rain can last for hours or appear suddenly. This may affect:

Photography
Trek durations
Comfort levels

• Longer Hiking Times

Vegetation grows fast and thick, which can make treks longer and more physically demanding.

Despite these challenges, many adventurers find the wet season deeply rewarding due to fewer crowds and intimate experiences.

Month-by-Month Guide: When to See Gorillas

Here is a detailed breakdown of gorilla trekking conditions throughout the year:

✔ January

Dry season
Warm, clear mornings
Ideal for photography
High permit demand

✔ February

Second dry month
Short treks
Perfect for combining with Rwanda safaris

✔ March

Start of heavy rains
Low crowds
Permits easily available

✔ April

Peak rains
Thick forest vegetation

✔ May

Last month of long rains
Budget-friendly safaris

✔ June

Dry season begins
Prime trekking month
High demand for gorilla permits

✔ July

One of the best months
Peak tourism season
Clear skies and perfect visibility

✔ August

Consistently dry
Great trekking conditions

✔ September

End of peak tourism season
Good weather continues

✔ October

Short rains begin
Forest becomes greener

✔ November

Short rains peak
Affordable trekking offers

✔ December

Dry season returns
Excellent for festive-season travelers

So, What Is the Best Time of Year to See Gorillas?

The Best Overall:

June to September
These months offer unmatched trekking conditions, excellent visibility, and great weather.

Alternative Best Window:

December to February
Slightly quieter but still excellent.

Best Time for Budget Travelers:

March to May and October to November

Best Time for Photographers:

November and February
Clear skies + vibrant green landscapes = stunning photos.

Best Time to See Gorillas by Country

Uganda

Uganda is ideal year-round, but the best months are:

June–September
December–February

For more details on Uganda gorilla tours, check out the itineraries on
👉 Monumental Gorilla Tours – Uganda Gorilla Safaris

Rwanda

Best months:

June–September
December–February

Rwanda’s gorilla trekking is easier due to short distances and better infrastructures.

Learn more here:
👉 Rwanda Gorilla Tours – Monumental Gorilla Tours

DR Congo