Gorilla trekking is considered as one of the most popular primate expedition that can be combined with wildlife activities while visiting Africa and Rwanda in particular. Gorilla trekking has got two seasons the high and low which are determined by the weather conditions. Therefore, determining the best and when to go gorilla safari will depend on the trekkers needs as well as budget.
Both seasons have their advantages and disadvantages making it a choice for the person to choose when to go gorilla trekking. The dry months from June to September and December to February is considered to be the peak/high season when every one wishes to trek gorillas in Rwanda.
Therefore, during the peak season the gorilla permit cost $1500 per person and when you choose to go in low season from November to May you have got an opportunity to secure a discounted gorilla permits at $1050 per person but conditionally of visiting 2 or 3 Rwanda parks. More so, for travelers in Rwanda while on a well recognized conference and seminar to the Rwanda government you will take a pre or post gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda on a discounted permit of $1275 per person.
Still, if you are planning to visit Rwanda on a luxury holiday, we are here help you in arranging the best and customized with the newly introduced gorilla trekking packages and staying in the very sophisticated luxury eco-friendly lodges and camps like Wilderness Bisate Lodge, Wilderness Bisate Reserve, Wilderness Sabyinyo Lodge, Singita Kwitonda Lodge and Kataza House, One & Only Gorilla’s Nest Lodge, Songa Africa Lodge, Amakoro Gorilla Lodge, Amarembo Gorilla Lodge among others.
The newly introduced gorilla trekking packages include the personalized & exclusive mountain gorilla visits for a requested targeted gorilla family and costing US$ 15,000 per person and then Behind the scenes with a minimum of 3 visitors for 3 consecutive days costing US$ 30,000 per person.
The dry season between June and September is renowned for being the best time to go to Rwanda. There is often light cloud cover during this time of year and it makes for a comfortable climate for gorilla trekking.
A highlight in June in Rwanda is the annual Kwita Izina Ceremony. This is when all the baby gorillas born over the previous twelve months are named. In September, the Rwanda Film Festival is another highlight on the calendar, showcasing local filmmakers and a selection of international favourites.
In this peak season, travelers storm the country to trek gorillas meaning there is need to book the gorilla permits in advance to avoid missing out. The lodges also will be on high demand calling for an early booking for you to get the best services as well as a fantastic safari. The long dry season ensures navigable terrain, lower malaria risk, and breathtaking landscapes.
February offers superb dry gorilla trekking conditions. The rainy seasons from March to May are the optimum times for tracking chimpanzees. The scenery during this period is lush and breathtaking, and with good quality rain gear, primate treks are still possible. May marks the start of the bird’s breeding season, and avid avian lovers will enjoy the spectacle of beautiful, colourful birds sporting their breeding plumage.
March is the start of the rainy season, with showers continuing right through until mid-May. Despite the wet weather, these conditions are still good to be able to trek in search of the primates that inhabit this mystical landscape. Good quality rain gear is needed to brave the dense, wet forestry areas during this period. In this period the competition will be low since most clients prefer to travel in the dry season. The lodges will be discounted hence giving budget travelers chance to manage the costs. The permits will be at a discount still giving the chance to those who can not afford the usual prices.
October and December can also work out to be a good deal since the rains are short and manageable. Short bursts of showers are common in these months that clear to reveal blue skies. You could also take advantage of lower costs on gorilla trekking permits, hotels and Rwanda lodges – if you are not willing to let a little mud and rain deter you.
In my experience, the overall best weather is during the two dry seasons, which run from June-September, and December – February. You can still expect some rain during these periods, but conditions are generally more comfortable and the trails less muddy.
The advantages to visiting in dry season are less muddy paths, easier hiking and clearer views of the wildlife. The disadvantage is that this is peak tracking season and therefore permit availability is lower. You’ll need to book well in advance.
If you plan to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda during peak season or if you are in a large group, you should book six months or more in advance. The earlier you book the more choice you have on where you trek gorillas and where you stay. Last-minute bookings may be possible during low season or with smaller groups.
For those with limited time, it is possible to see mountain gorillas in Rwanda in just one day if you fly in very early in the morning. However, it is strongly recommended to spend at least two or three days in the region. The altitude and exertion of the climb can be unpleasant when rushed, and it is worth spending some time acclimatizing. And besides, there’s so much more to Rwanda than ‘just’ one hour with the gorillas.
