Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking run year-round in Uganda and Rwanda, and permit prices never change with the season — what changes is trail conditions, crowd levels, and lodge rates.
Long Dry Season: June to September
The most popular trekking months, with firmer trails and easier hiking conditions. Permits and lodges book out furthest in advance during this window, so early booking matters most here.
Short Dry Season: December to February
A second, quieter dry window, nearly as good for trekking conditions as the long dry season, with somewhat more permit availability.
Shoulder Season: October and November
Occasional rain, thinner crowds, and often the easiest window to get a same-week permit if your dates are flexible.
Long Rains: March to May
The muddiest trekking conditions of the year, and the quietest. Lodge rates drop noticeably in this window, and the forest is at its greenest — some travellers specifically prefer this season for photography, despite the harder underfoot conditions.
Does Season Affect Whether You’ll See Gorillas?
No — sighting rates stay above 95 percent year-round in both Uganda and Rwanda, since trackers locate each family’s overnight nest site every morning regardless of weather. Season affects how comfortable the walk is, not whether the trek succeeds.
Booking Around Peak Season
If your travel dates fall in June to September or December to February, book permits as early as possible — ideally as soon as your dates are fixed, since these are the months most likely to sell out in popular sectors.
Talk to Us About Timing
Get in touch with your preferred travel window and we’ll advise on permit availability and trail conditions for those exact dates.