What is the best time to visit Bwindi for gorilla trekking?

The dry seasons of June to September and December to February offer the most comfortable trekking conditions with drier trails and clearer skies. However, gorilla trekking operates year-round, and the wet season brings fewer visitors, lusher scenery, and sometimes easier permit availability.

Does it rain during the dry season?

Bwindi is a tropical rainforest, and brief showers can occur at any time of year, even during the dry season. Always carry a rain jacket regardless of when you visit.

Is it cold at Bwindi?

Temperatures are generally mild during the day (15-27 degrees Celsius) but can drop significantly at night, especially at higher altitudes like Ruhija (2,300 m). Pack warm layers for evenings and early mornings.

Are the trails more difficult in the wet season?

Yes. During the wet months, trails become muddy and slippery, making the trek more physically demanding. Sturdy waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support and trekking poles are essential. The gorillas may also move further into the forest, potentially lengthening the trek.

Seasons & Weather | Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Climate Overview

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has a tropical highland climate moderated by its altitude, which ranges from 1,160 metres at the lowest valleys to 2,607 metres at the highest ridges. The park experiences two distinct dry seasons and two wet seasons each year, though its rainforest character means precipitation can occur in any month.

Daytime temperatures are generally warm and pleasant, ranging from 15 to 27 degrees Celsius. Nights can be cool, particularly at higher elevations like Ruhija sector, where temperatures may drop to 7 degrees Celsius. Humidity is consistently high within the forest canopy.

Dry Seasons

The two dry seasons are the most popular periods for visiting Bwindi:

Long dry season: June to September. The most reliably dry months, with warm days and reduced rainfall. This is peak tourist season, and gorilla permits should be booked months in advance.
Short dry season: December to February. A shorter dry window that coincides with the holiday travel period. January and February are often the driest months of the year.

Wet Seasons

The wet seasons bring heavier and more frequent rainfall:

Long wet season: March to May. The heaviest rains, with April typically being the wettest month. Trails are at their most challenging, but the forest is spectacularly lush.
Short wet season: October to November. Moderate to heavy rainfall. The transition is gradual, and October can still offer reasonable conditions.

Month-by-Month Guide

Month	Temp (C)	Rainfall	Season	Notes
January	16-26	Low	Dry	Excellent trekking. Clear mornings, warm days.
February	16-27	Low	Dry	Driest month in many years. Great visibility.
March	16-26	Moderate	Wet transition	Rains begin mid-month. Still good for trekking.
April	15-24	High	Wet	Heaviest rains. Trails slippery but fewer visitors.
May	15-24	High	Wet	Wet conditions persist. Lower permit demand.
June	14-24	Low-Moderate	Dry	Long dry season begins. Ideal conditions.
July	14-23	Low	Dry	Peak season. Book permits well in advance.
August	14-24	Low	Dry	Peak season continues. Excellent trekking weather.
September	14-25	Low-Moderate	Dry	End of long dry season. Still very good.
October	15-25	Moderate-High	Wet transition	Short rains begin. Trails can be muddy.
November	15-24	High	Wet	Second wet season. Lush forest, fewer visitors.
December	15-25	Low-Moderate	Dry	Short dry season. Holiday demand for permits.

What the Seasons Mean for Trekking

Gorilla trekking operates every day of the year regardless of weather. During dry seasons, trails are firmer and the trek is generally easier. In wet seasons, trails become muddy and steep sections more demanding, but the forest comes alive with fresh growth, mushrooms, and increased bird activity. The gorillas themselves do not migrate and remain in the forest year-round, though they may range further during wet months as food sources shift.

Regardless of the season, always pack a rain jacket, waterproof bag covers, and sturdy boots with ankle support. The forest floor is perpetually damp, and conditions can change within minutes.

Seasons & Weather