The best time for gorilla trekking in Bwindi impenetrable forest national park
What is the best time to do gorilla trekking in Bwindi impenetrable forest national park has been a topic of contemplation by most travelers. Bwindi impenetrable forest national park is among the best destinations not only in Africa but also in the whole world where mountain gorillas are found. Bwindi forest national park is found in the southwestern regions of Uganda and it is close to Virunga national park of DR. Congo at the edges of the Albertine Rift. This forest is about 340sq. kilometers, it is also among a world heritage site and it is easy to access on foot. Bwindi Impenetrable forest national park is a habitat for over 120 mammals, 230 species of butterflies, 340 bird species, and 30 species of frogs, chameleons, geckos, and so on.
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi impenetrable forest national park has two seasons in a full year that is low and high seasons. Yes, the best time for gorilla trekking in Bwindi impenetrable forest national park is during the driest months that are from June-October and December-March. This is when the park is not slippery hence making the trekking experience good without disturbance from rainfall. As there is little rainfall or no in the forest, these help activities taking place in park-like gorilla trekking, bird watching, community walk and among others. This is also the best time to visit Mgahinga national park as well as other national parks in Uganda.
But Mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi impenetrable forest national park can be done throughout the year. It is found in the rain forest so any time it can rain though the best time is during the dry months and also the busiest season. But rain season is good for trekkers who would like to trek in the low season when there are few people and it is also best for budget tourists. During the rainy season, accommodations are discounted from luxury to budget. In Uganda, the rainy season usually starts from April-May and October- November. Trekking in the wet season is also good because permits become as available as there are few visitors in the park.
Trekking gorillas in Bwindi impenetrable forest national park can be carried out throughout the year but is good during the driest season. When there is no rainfall but since this park is found in the tropical rainforest, so we expecting rainfall at any time. Therefore to enjoy this experience with no disturbance, you have to be fully equipped with hiking boots, a long-sleeved shirt, long trousers, a waterproof rain jacket, hat, packed lunch plus energy drinks because gorilla trekking normally starts in the early morning.
Tourists are not advised to trek mountain gorillas in Bwindi forest national park during the wet season that is from March, April, May, October, and November when all hiking trails used to be wet and slippery and vegetation is thicker, which making trekking difficult. While other tourist activities are good during this period like birding because there is plenty of food and migratory bird species are common in the forest at such a time, Even in this season, mountain gorillas are easier to access since food can be easily accessible and the mountain gorillas no longer moving long distances, but the best recommended time for trekkers in Bwindi impenetrable forest national park is during the dry season.
Even though March, April, May, October, and November are rain seasons, it cannot rain the whole day at times whereby it can rain in morning hours, evening, or at night. So carry the right wear for the day as it may rain any time of the day. At least try to carry hiking boots, a long-sleeved shirt, long trousers, a waterproof rain jacket, a hat, packed lunch, and energy drinks.
Porters are also available at the park headquarters so it is good to hire a porter who will help you to carry your heavy luggage as well as support you to hike. Trekkers have to note that each porter carries 18kg so any extra luggage is chargeable at extra cost.
How can one book a gorilla permit?
For tourists who are planning to do a gorilla safari in Uganda, it is best to book a permit at least 3 months in the back before your travel date to avoid disturbance. This is because mountain gorilla trekking permits in Bwindi impenetrable forest national park do sell out very fast, as many travelers looking to encounter the few remaining mountain gorillas. Therefore, booking your permit earlier is useful to you. One can ask a question that how can I book gorilla permits in Uganda, the answer is all gorilla permits in Bwindi impenetrable forest national park and Mgahinga gorilla national park are there at Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) offices in Kampala the capital city of Uganda or you can book it through a trusted tour operator like Africa Adventure Vacations.
After knowing the best time for gorilla trekking in Bwindi impenetrable forest national park, you can also complete your safari with Kibale forest national park and also get an opportunity to explore more about chimpanzees or go to Murchison falls national park where you will take a boat cruise and get a chance to view various wildlife animals like Uganda kob, giraffes, hippos plus countless bird species.
