Best time to visit Rwanda and Uganda for safari and trekking

Discover the best time to visit Rwanda and Uganda for wildlife safaris, gorilla trekking, and scenic adventures. Find out when to enjoy the best weather and unforgettable experiences.

Planning a safari and trekking adventure in Rwanda and Uganda is a thrilling opportunity to experience some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife and landscapes, including mountain gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, and classic game drives.

The timing of your visit significantly impacts the experience due to seasonal weather patterns, trail conditions, wildlife visibility, and permit availability.

Overview of Safari and Trekking in Rwanda and Uganda

Rwanda and Uganda, nestled in East Africa, are renowned for their biodiversity and conservation efforts. Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are premier destinations for mountain gorilla trekking, while Nyungwe Forest (Rwanda) and Kibale Forest (Uganda) offer chimpanzee tracking.

Both countries also feature savannah parks like Akagera (Rwanda) and Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls (Uganda) for classic safaris, where you can spot lions, elephants, buffalo, and more.

The climate in both countries is equatorial, tempered by high altitudes (1,000–2,500 meters), resulting in warm days (70–86°F / 21–30°C) and cool nights (50–69°F / 10–20°C).

Weather patterns include two dry seasons (June–September and December–February) and two rainy seasons (March–May and October–November).

These seasons influence trekking conditions, wildlife visibility, and tourist crowds, making timing a critical factor.

Best Time to Visit: Dry Seasons (June–September and December–February)

The dry seasons are the optimal times for safari and trekking in Rwanda and Uganda due to favorable weather, easier trails, and better wildlife viewing. Here’s a detailed look at each period:

June to September: Long Dry Season

• Weather: This is the driest period, with minimal rainfall (93–150 mm/month) and clear skies. Temperatures range from 67–78°F (19–25°C) in gorilla trekking areas like Bwindi and Volcanoes National Park. Light cloud cover often moderates heat, making trekking comfortable.
• Trekking Conditions: Trails in rainforests (Bwindi, Volcanoes, Nyungwe, Kibale) are drier and less muddy, simplifying gorilla and chimpanzee treks. The terrain in Bwindi’s steep, dense forest or Volcanoes’ bamboo zones is more navigable.
• Safari Conditions: In savannah parks (Akagera, Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls), thinner vegetation and animals gathering at water sources enhance wildlife sightings. Expect to see elephants, lions, giraffes, and hippos.
• Pros:
  • Best hiking conditions with lower malaria risk.
  • Clear skies ideal for photography and scenic views.
  • Rwanda’s Kwita Izina gorilla-naming ceremony in September celebrates conservation.
• Cons:
  • Peak tourist season, so gorilla permits (USD 1,500 in Rwanda, USD 800 in Uganda) and accommodations book up fast. Book 6–12 months in advance.

• • Higher prices for lodges and tours due to demand.
• Events: Rwanda’s Film Festival (September) and Uganda’s cultural festivals add vibrancy.

December to February: Short Dry Season

• Weather: Light showers are possible, but rainfall is low (100–200 mm/month). Daytime temperatures reach 85°F (29°C) in gorilla highlands, with cooler nights (54–69°F / 12–20°C).
• Trekking Conditions: Trails are generally dry, though occasional rain may create minor mud. Gorilla trekking remains rewarding, with lush greenery enhancing the rainforest experience.
• Safari Conditions: Wildlife congregates around waterholes, making game drives productive. February is ideal for birdwatching, with migratory birds present.
• Pros:
  • Less crowded than June–September, offering a more intimate experience.
  • Good conditions for combining gorilla trekking with safaris in Murchison Falls or Akagera.
  • Lower accommodation prices compared to the long dry season.
• Cons:
  • Christmas and New Year periods (December) see spikes in visitors, increasing costs and permit demand.
  • Light rain may occur, requiring waterproof gear.
• Events: Uganda’s birdwatching season peaks, and Rwanda’s dry weather supports cultural tours in Kigali.

Recommendation: June–September is the best overall period for both trekking and safaris due to the driest conditions, but December–February is a strong alternative for fewer crowds and vibrant scenery.

Rainy Seasons: Considerations for March–May and October–November

While the dry seasons are preferred, the rainy seasons offer unique advantages, especially for budget travelers or those seeking quieter experiences. Here’s what to expect:

March to May: Long Rainy Season

• Weather: Heavy rainfall (200–300 mm/month) creates muddy, slippery trails. Temperatures average 73°F (23°C), with high humidity.
• Trekking Conditions: Gorilla trekking in Bwindi and Volcanoes is challenging due to dense, wet terrain. However, gorillas often stay on lower slopes where food is abundant, potentially shortening treks.
• Safari Conditions: Savannah parks are lush, but wildlife is harder to spot due to thick vegetation. Roads may be impassable in remote areas.
• Pros:
  • Fewer tourists, making permits and lodges more available.
  • Discounted rates on accommodations and sometimes gorilla permits in Uganda (e.g., USD 350 vs. USD 800).

• • Ideal for chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe and Kibale, as chimps descend to lower canopies.
  • Vibrant greenery and bird breeding season (May) attract photographers and birdwatchers.

• Cons:
  • Muddy trails increase trekking difficulty and require good fitness.
  • Higher malaria risk and need for robust rain gear.

October to November: Short Rainy Season

• Weather: Brief, intense showers (150–250 mm/month) clear quickly, revealing blue skies. Temperatures range from 67–80°F (19–26°C).
• Trekking Conditions: Trails are wet but less soggy than March–May. Gorilla trekking remains viable, with shorter treks possible.
• Safari Conditions: Greenery enhances park aesthetics, but wildlife sightings are less predictable. Akagera and Queen Elizabeth are still accessible.
• Pros:
  • Lower crowds and costs, with some lodges offering discounts.
  • Excellent for photography due to lush landscapes and dramatic skies.
  • Birdwatching thrives with migratory species.

• Cons:
  • Unpredictable rain requires flexible itineraries.
  • Some trails may be slippery, demanding caution.

Recommendation: Rainy seasons suit budget-conscious travelers or those prioritizing chimpanzee tracking and birdwatching. Bring waterproof clothing and sturdy boots, and be prepared for flexible schedules.

Key Activities and Seasonal Impacts

Gorilla Trekking

• Locations: Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and Uganda’s Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks.
• Best Time: June–September and December–February for dry trails and easier hikes. Rwanda’s bamboo forests are clearer than Bwindi’s dense jungle, making trekking slightly easier year-round.
• Permits: Rwanda: USD 1,500; Uganda: USD 800 (peak season), USD 350–450 (low season in some cases). Book early for peak seasons.
• Tips: Expect 2–8 hours of hiking. Good fitness is essential, especially in rainy seasons.

Chimpanzee Tracking

• Locations: Rwanda’s Nyungwe Forest and Uganda’s Kibale Forest.
• Best Time: March–May and October–November, when chimps are lower in the canopy. Dry seasons are also good for easier trails.
• Permits: Rwanda: USD 100–200; Uganda: USD 150–200.
• Tips: Shorter treks (1–4 hours) than gorilla trekking. Waterproof gear is crucial in rainy seasons.

Classic Safaris

• Locations: Rwanda’s Akagera National Park; Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls, and Kidepo Valley National Parks.
• Best Time: June–September and December–February, when animals gather at water sources and vegetation is sparse.
• Tips: Combine with boat safaris (e.g., Kazinga Channel, Murchison Falls) for diverse wildlife views.

Birdwatching

• Best Time: November–April, especially March–May, for migratory birds. Over 500 species in Akagera and 400 in Uganda’s parks.
• Tips: Bring binoculars and visit during rainy seasons for breeding displays.

5. Costs and Budgeting

• Gorilla Trekking: USD 1,500 (Rwanda) or USD 800 (Uganda) per permit, plus transport, guides, and porters (USD 10–20 each).
• Chimpanzee Tracking: USD 100–200 per permit.
• Safari Tours: Budget tours start at USD 1,980–2,346 for 5–7 days, including lodging and game drives. Luxury safaris cost USD 5,000–15,000.
• Accommodation: Budget lodges: USD 50–100/night; mid-range: USD 150–300; luxury: USD 500–1,500. Discounts are common in rainy seasons.
• Flights: Round-trip flights to Kigali or Entebbe from the US/Europe: USD 800–1,500.
• Total Estimate: A 10-day trip combining gorilla trekking and safaris costs USD 3,000–7,000 (budget) or USD 10,000–20,000 (luxury), excluding flights.

Preparation Tips

• Permits: Book gorilla permits 6–12 months in advance for peak seasons through the Rwanda Development Board (www.rdb.rw) (www.rdb.rw) or Uganda Wildlife Authority (www.ugandawildlife.org) (www.ugandawildlife.org).
• Packing: Waterproof boots, rain jacket, long sleeves, gloves, and insect repellent. Include a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for safaris.
• Fitness: Gorilla trekking requires moderate fitness for steep, uneven terrain. Practice hiking beforehand.
• Health: Get yellow fever vaccination (mandatory) and malaria prophylaxis. Carry hand sanitizer and a first-aid kit.
• Visas: Rwanda and Uganda offer e-visas (USD 50–100). The East African Visa (USD 100) covers both countries.
• Travel Insurance: Cover medical emergencies and trip cancellations, especially for costly gorilla permits.

Practical Considerations

• Crowds: June–September and December are busiest. Rainy seasons offer solitude but tougher conditions.
• Cultural Experiences: Visit Kigali’s Genocide Memorial or Uganda’s local markets. September’s Kwita Izina in Rwanda is a highlight.
• Combining Countries: A 2-week Rwanda–Uganda safari (starting in Kigali, ending in Entebbe) covers gorilla trekking, safaris, and cultural stops.
• Sustainability: Choose operators supporting conservation (e.g., Nkuringo Safaris, Trek Africa Expeditions). Avoid single-use plastics.