Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to roughly half of the world's remaining mountain gorillas, and it rewards visitors in every season. But if you want the most comfortable trek and the best odds of a quick sighting, timing matters.
The two dry seasons
Uganda has two dry spells: June to September and December to February. Trails are firmer, leech activity drops, and mornings are clear for photography. These months are also the most popular, so permits ($700 for foreign non-residents) should be booked several months ahead.
Trekking in the wet season
April, May, October and November bring rain, but also thinner crowds, lush green forest and often easier last-minute permit availability. Trails are muddier and treks can run longer, so good boots and gaiters are essential.
However you time it, budget a full, unhurried day for the trek itself - gorilla families move, and a search can take anywhere from one to six hours each way.
What a permit includes
- A guided trek with armed ranger escort
- One hour with a habituated gorilla family
- A porter available to hire locally (highly recommended, and it supports the community)
Whichever month you choose, we handle the permit booking, transfers and lodge selection as part of every Abeno Safaris gorilla trekking itinerary - just tell us your travel window and we will find the best fit.
