Wondering when is the best time to visit Bwindi? Gorilla trekking is Bwindi is the specialty of Bwindi impenetrable forest and this takes place all year long! The forest however, has varied weather patterns because of its tropical climate. Daytime temperatures range from 23 to 26 degrees Celsius with a significant drop at night to around 11 degrees Celsius.
Given the tropical nature of the forest, rainfall can happen anytime in Bwindi so; there is no complete dry season! The months of June and July receive the lowest rainfall, while there is a period of low rainfall from December to February. The heaviest rains come in the moths of March to May and October to November. For most people therefore, the best time to visit Bwindi is during the months of June, July and August and from mid December to February which is also a dry season in most other areas in Uganda.
During the low season months of March to May and November however, the gorilla permits are discounted from the normal $600 to $450 and accommodations offer discounts as well and because of this, there is an increasing trend in visitors during this period!
A comparison of these two periods will perhaps help you get a more understanding of Bwindi and make an informed decision;
June to August and December to February – Drier Seasons
• Gorillas are easier to track and the trails are drier.
• There are more sunny days.
• Better chances of gorilla photography.
• It is hazy and the views are less spectacular.
March to May and September to November – Wet Seasons
• Gorillas can be tracked any time of the year.
• Migratory birds can be found.
• Some access roads may become hard to travel as the trails become slick.
• It might drizzle for days.
• It tends to be misty and wet.
To sum it up therefore, no matter the season, Gorilla trekking in Bwindi impenetrable forest is always an experience of a life time; so just pack up and visit Bwindi whenever time allows.