Uganda and Rwanda referred to as the best countries to do gorilla trekking in Africa share a common climate and although gorilla trekking is considered a year-round activity, the best time to visit the rain forests is during one of the two dry seasons. The first runs from about the middle of December to the end of February and the second from early June to late September. However, even in the rainy season, gorilla trekking takes place and this has made gorilla trekking having two seasons the peak season as well as the low season.

Of course, the peak season is the best to do gorilla trekking but very competitive and the low season becomes cheaper on the other side though challenging. The rainy seasons, from March-May and September-November, can be very soggy. March-May brings the heaviest rains, and the going can be tough especially in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, which is generally steeper, muddier and denser than in Rwanda.

Peak tourism seasons are June to August and around Christmas and New Year. If you plan to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda during peak season or if you are in a large group, you should book six months or more in advance. The earlier you book the more choice you have on where you trek gorillas and where you stay. Last-minute bookings may be possible during low season or with smaller groups. In the peak season, there is a lot to miss if you choose last minute booking. There is a possibility to miss out on the lodges even if you have gotten the permit.

For those with limited time, it is possible to see mountain gorillas in Rwanda in just one day only if you fly in very early in the morning but this will be impossible in Uganda. However, it is strongly recommended to spend at least two or three days in the region. The altitude and exertion of the climb can be unpleasant when rushed, and it is worth spending some time acclimatizing. And besides, there’s so much more to Rwanda than ‘just’ one hour with the gorillas. There is a lot in Rwanda which you wouldn’t afford to miss.

For travelers on budget programmes, the low season will work for you. In this season, there are very few travelers giving you the chance to get most of the services at a cheap rate. The lodges will be giving discounts in this period meaning every service will be affordable. This will over weigh the rainy challenges giving you the opportunity to go gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda.

Choosing the best time to go for gorilla trekking will always depend on the budget of the traveler and the time the traveler is willing to put in for the safari.