The Best Time To Go Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Rwanda is a small country on the eastern side of Africa bordered by Burundi, Congo, Tanzania, and Uganda. It boasts good climatic conditions and gigantic landscapes, making it an excellent tourist destination.
One of the best activities that attract tourists to Rwanda is gorilla trekking. However, this activity is more fun during specific months. We will explain everything you need to know about gorilla trekking so you can plan for the best time to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda.
Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda: Monthly Guide
Gorilla trekking is an all-year-round activity in Rwanda. This is because mountain gorillas are tough animals and tolerate harsh weather conditions. So, they'll remain in their natural habitat even as the weather changes.
Rwanda also has good weather throughout the year, attracting tourists anytime. Nevertheless, the best time to go gorilla trekking is during the drier months, especially after the rainy season, when the area still appears green and attractive. During this season, there is less likelihood of rain, and the hiking terrain is favorable.
Here is a month-by-month guide indicating what you should expect when you go gorilla trekking in Rwanda.
January and February
Rwanda has a particularly short dry season, with the months of January and February typically suggested as the idea time to visit Rwanda and trek for gorillas. The weather is generally dry during this period, although you may occasionally observe thin clouds and light rain.
This weather condition makes the terrain favorable for trekking since you can easily track the gorilla trails. Those who want to go canoeing or mountain climbing should also plan their activities at this time.
Besides good climatic conditions, not many people go gorilla trekking during these months since they’re busy, allowing you to enjoy yourself with minimal congestion. If you are on a tight budget, these are the best months to travel, as prices of essential services are relatively lower with multiple discounts during the low season.
March, April, and May
March sees the onset of Rwanda's longest rainy season which continues through mid-May. Despite the rain, the terrain is still suitable for a trek searching for the gorillas that live in this magical setting. Furthermore, you can easily find the primates during this season since they tend to move from the top of the mountain, where it rains heavily, to the lower slopes in search of dryer areas.
April experiences similar wet weather conditions as March. Be aware that the mountainous regions will be difficult to hike or trek around at this time of year due to the rains. People who like birdwatching will also enjoy visiting Rwanda during this period since this is the nesting season, with beautiful birds in the skies.
By mid-May, the rains start to subside. A gorilla trekking permit may be easier to come by this month if you want to dodge the tourist congestion. Rwanda limits the number of gorilla permits per day to protect the Gorillas so you will never be “overcrowded”, also this is why you should plan ahead as they will run out of permits (6 months plus for peak season).
If you choose to go hiking during these months, you should carry waterproof clothing to avoid getting wet if the rain catches you when you're out in the mountains. The right waterproof clothing can also keep you warm, preventing you from catching cold-related diseases like pneumonia.
Hiking boots also come in handy since they minimize the chances of slipping and falling.
June, July, and August
June, July, and August are some of the best months to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda. It's the high season when most tourists like visiting the region because the weather is warm. There are no heavy rains this time of year, enabling you to quickly identify the hiking/trekking trails. Also, the mountains are not muddy or slippery, making them easy to maneuver.
One of the major highlights during this period is the yearly Ikwita Izina Ceremony, which usually takes place in June. This ceremony involves naming the gorilla babies born in the previous twelve months.
When you finish your gorilla trek, you can go for a game drive in the Akagera National Park, where the forest is less dense and wildlife is easier to spot.
September and October
Rwanda usually experiences short rains in September and October. These weather conditions are ideal for gorilla trekking since there is not too much sun, meaning you won't get exhausted quickly. The best thing is that the rain usually falls at night. By morning, the skies are clear, allowing you to enjoy the rest of the day.
You can also take advantage of the favorable weather conditions to cross the border into Tanzania and go high altitude hiking on the nearby Mt. Kilimanjaro.
November
November is not the best time for gorilla trekking in Rwanda, as the area normally experiences rain during this period. Since gorillas don't mind the wet conditions, you can still see them, but you may find it difficult to trace the trekking trails, and sometimes you may slip and fall. Rain also makes the area look greener, making it great for photography.
December
Rains in Rwanda usually slow down by mid-December, making it a good time for gorilla trekking. The only disadvantage is that most people, including local and international tourists, like visiting Rwanda during this time for the Christmas holidays. As a result, certain amenities and hotel prices are usually high.
To avoid these issues, book your most preferred lodges and travel plans in advance, preferably two or three months before.
Visit Rwanda
Although gorilla trekking in Rwanda is a year-round activity, the time you choose to go solely depends on you after considering several factors, such as your schedule, budget, and convenience. If you’re looking for the best time for gorilla trekking in Rwanda, we recommend going during the warmer months. Get in touch with our team here at Sundowner Safaris, and we will work with you to plan the trip of your dreams!
Let’s start planning your dream trip.
-
Comparing Rwanda and Uganda in terms of gorilla trekking can be difficult. But if you were to choose, Rwanda would be a better option since the slopes are not steep compared to Uganda, and you can spot the trekking trails.
Moreover, the lodges in Rwanda are more luxurious than those in Uganda, allowing you to enjoy your stay.
-
On average, you need a minimum of five days for gorilla trekking. It includes the time you'll spend traveling to and from the National Park and the actual trekking.
