Yes, you can trek gorillas during the rainy season. Whereas mountain gorilla trekking is best done during the dry season between June to September and December to February, the endangered mountain gorillas can also be seen during the rainy season, which is between March through May and September through November. Mountain gorillas live in rainy forests which at times receive rainfall throughout the year.
Travelers are alerted to expect rainfall even during the dry season. The advantage is that gorillas live in rain forests which form canopy. Travelers can therefore trek peacefully with fewer showers as they are covered by the forest canopy. Trekking during the rainy season is undeniably difficult but it’s an experience of its kind. Interestingly in most cases, rain showers for a short time and the sun sets in immediately which allows you to continue with your gorilla trekking adventure
Advantages of trekking mountain gorillas in the rainy season.
Ease of finding gorillas
It’s so easy to find gorillas in the wet season as compared to the dry season. During the rainy season, there is an abundance of vegetation and general food for the gorillas even on the lower slopes. Trekking to see them takes much less time as compared to the dry season Mountain gorillas are seen roaming in the lower slopes of the mountains they live. Travelers with difficulty in trekking can therefore trek during the rainy season when gorillas are easily seen
Less demand and competition for the permits
The rainy season is generally characterized by fewer visits hence less demand and competition for the gorilla permits as compared to the dry season when permits sell out limiting the chances of last-minute bookers. Travelers trekking in the rainy season can even get a permit one day to the trekking day which is not the case in the dry season
Discounted offers in Lodges and hotels
Trekking mountain gorillas during the low/rainy season attracts discounted offers from service providers such as lodges and hotels that offer low rates to attract stayovers. Low-budget travelers therefore have a chance of staying in high-end lodges during their gorilla safari in the rainy season at very low rates.
About mountain gorillas
Mountain gorillas are a sub specie of the Eastern gorillas and they are among the most visited primates attracting a high number of travelers from all parts of the world. The endangered species only exist in habitats which are Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and the Virunga Conservation Area shared between Mgahinga Gorilla Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Roughly 1006 mountain gorillas are surviving in the world half of which live in Uganda and the rest in Rwanda and Congo. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in Uganda is home to the highest gorilla population followed by Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.
What to pack for gorilla trekking during the rainy season
You must pack the essentials I you want a less stressful gorilla encounter in rainy season. The first thing in your backpack should be a rain jacket to deal with the rain showers. Also, endeavor to pack light-closed hiking boots/shoes to protect your feet from mud and slippery ground. Gardening gloves are a not-miss to protect your hands, a Hat for your hair, and a poncho/scarf to keep you warm all through. Long-sleeved shirts/blouses and pants are also highly advised to keep your arms and legs safe.
Where is the best place to see gorillas?
Each gorilla destination offers an exceptional gorilla trekking experience. The choice of which place is best to see gorillas depends on the traveler’s choice and interests. For budget travelers, Virunga National Park in Congo is the best place for you. The permit to see gorillas in Congo costs $450 which is the cheapest compared to $800 in Uganda and $1500 in Rwanda. For short-time travelers and those who want luxury gorilla safaris, Volcanos National Park in Rwanda is the best place for you.
The bamboo forest park is located in north western Rwanda roughly 3 hours drive from Kigali International Airport. Also, Rwanda offers luxury gorilla safaris at $1500 per permit far higher compared to other gorilla parks. Uganda on the other hand, Uganda shelters the highest population of mountain gorillas compared to Rwanda and Congo. Gorilla trekking in Uganda takes place in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The high number of gorillas means many habituated gorilla families and hence more gorilla permits. Uganda, therefore, offers many travelers a chance to see gorillas compared to Rwanda and Congo.
How ready should I be for gorilla trekking in the rainy season?
Trekking gorillas during the rainy season comes with some challenges, especially slippery and muddy grounds. You must therefore be prepared to overcome this. Firstly, you need to be physically fit and mentally ready for the adventure. Travelers are advised to do some physical exercises to ensure fitness. Also, pack the essentials such as hiking boots rain jacket, and the like as mentioned already. Visit your medical person for a checkup and get treatment if need be.
Conclusively, mountain gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you should partake in on your African safari.
