When to Go

Gorilla trekking occurs year-round, but the optimal time is during the two dry seasons: June through September (the long dry season) and December through February (the short dry season). Travelers willing to brave a wet and muddy hike in October and November or between March to May will be rewarded by lower lodging prices, fewer crowds, and often shorter treks as gorillas keep to the lower slopes during the rainy seasons. Uganda slashes its gorilla permits from US$650 to US$350 from April to May. Rwanda does not, but lodges in both countries offer low-season rates. Rest assured, whenever you go, your gorilla encounter will not disappoint.