The Best Time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Gorilla trekking is an incredible, for most once-in-a-lifetime experience, and understanding what may be the ideal time to travel to Rwanda, can enhance your overall gorilla trekking experience. Things to consider include temperatures and rainfall, as well as consideration for peak travel periods and possible personal budget restraints.

There are two main seasons in Rwanda, the wet and the dry season, with temperatures pretty steady throughout the year.

Best time to see gorillas: Consider visiting Rwanda for a gorilla trekking experience during the summer months of June, July, and August. This time of year offers optimal trekking conditions with minimal rain and a stable terrain to traverse.

Best season for gorilla trekking: Dry season (June–September and December–February) ensures easier hikes and higher success rates in locating gorilla families.

Gorillas most active: Gorillas are active year-round, however, it is easier to trek during the dry seasons, when trails are less muddy.

Best season to visit Rwanda: While you can visit Rwanda any time during the year, visiting in the dry season (June–September and December–February) affords optimal chance for excellent wildlife viewing and gorilla trekking. With more stable weather, your overall experience will be better.

Key Events:

• Kwita Izina (September): If you visit in September, you can enjoy activities that surround the annual baby gorilla naming ceremony, known as ‘Kwita Izina’. This event takes place in the Volcanoes National Park and is attended by dignitaries, celebrities, and conservationists. There are cultural performances and local crafts. The baby naming ceremony, which has been held for the last 20 years, is rooted in traditional customs and raises conservation awareness.

General Information

Rwanda offers visitors more than just gorilla trekking opportunities, with incredible national parks such as the Akagera National Park and the Nyungwe Forest National Park, where you can enjoy the thrill of chimpanzee trekking. If you choose to travel in the shoulder season (December to February and May), you may have a chance to spot chimpanzees coming down to pick the fruit abundant during this time and enjoy the option of traveling through Rwanda with fewer tourists. Be aware, however, that the terrain may be quite slippery.