Best time to visit Rwanda to see Gorillas
Best Time to See Gorillas in Rwanda
When is the best time to see Gorillas in Rwanda? This seems to be one of the first questions for visitors planning to visit Rwanda for Gorilla trekking. A Gorilla Safari in Rwanda is possible all-year-round but the best time is obviously the dry seasons. These seasons present navigable trails and hence easier hikes. Rwanda, known as the Land of a Thousand Hills, is one of the three countries that offer an opportunity to meet Mountain Gorillas in their natural habitat. Unlike Uganda that has two Gorilla parks, Rwanda has only Volcanoes National Park.
When is the dry season (dry months) in Rwanda?
Just like Uganda, Rwanda has 2 dry seasons where it experiences less rains but more sun shine. These run from mid-May through September and December to February. The beauty of tracking during the dry months is that the tracks are fairly dry making navigation easier. The wet months on the other hand present a challenging trek where the trails get so muddy and slippery. The wet months are Mar, April, May, October and November.
Why dry months are the best to visit for Gorilla tracking in Rwanda?
In the dry season, there are fewer rains and more sunshine. These conditions make it easier to spot Gorillas with a drier ground that offer navigable trails and the clearer skies. It’s all because the trails become less muddy making hiking up and down these trails much easier. Additionally, when the weather becomes drier, there are fewer insects/bugs bothering trekkers.
Avoiding the wet months on one side, are you aware that the Gorilla Park in Rwanda is located in the rain stimulating terrains?! It is largely mountainous so bear in mind that rains can surprise you even in the known dry months.
The other challenge with visiting in the dry season is that it coincides with the safari high season. In the high season, there’s more chance that permits will be sold out fast. So, it is crucial to book ahead of time.
Pros and cons of tracking Gorillas in the wet season
During the rainy season (March to May and October to November), the trails may be more challenging/slippery due to mud. This therefore could influence how difficult your trek is. Also, there could be less visibility from frequent fog.
The landscape is however lush and green, and there are fewer tourists. This can enhance the experience for some people who would prefer a relatively private trek – tracking with few people.
On the other hand, the rain and the readily available food can drive Gorillas to lower altitudes, making them easier to find. However, this is not a guarantee because Gorillas are wild animals.
Tips for an Unforgettable Gorilla Trekking Experience in Rwanda
- Hire a porter to help carry your gear and provide assistance during the trek. Hiring a porter supports the local economy and enhances your trekking experience.
- Follow all the guidelines and trekking rules in place to minimize your impact on the Gorillas and their habitat. This includes maintaining a safe distance, not using flash photography, and keeping noise levels low.
- Carry enough water to stay hydrated throughout the trek. The combination of physical exertion and high altitudes can quickly lead to dehydration.
- Carry a camera with a zoom lens to capture stunning photos. However, don’t forget to put the camera flash off.
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