Choosing the best time of year for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is one of the biggest questions travelers ask when planning a safari to Rwanda. With thick rainforests, dramatic mountains, extraordinary wildlife, and ever-changing weather patterns, the ideal trekking season can shape your entire travel experience. Whether you want the easiest hiking conditions, the best photography, discounted permits, or fewer crowds, this guide explains everything you need to know about the best time of year for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park so you plan the perfect safari.

 Why the Best Time of Year for Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park Matters

Gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. But weather conditions, trail difficulty, visibility, availability of rooms, and gorilla permit demand vary greatly throughout the year. Knowing the best time of year for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park helps you:

• Enjoy clearer hiking trails

• Spot gorillas more easily

• Capture better photos

• Avoid heavy rainfall

• Travel in a less crowded period

• Secure better accommodation rates

Because Rwanda is a tropical country with two dry seasons and two rainy seasons, different months provide different trekking advantages.

Best Time Best Time of Year for Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes national park– Quick Summary

Now let’s break down each season in detail and help you decide the best time of year for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park based on your travel style.

1. June to September – The Best Time of Year for Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

These months are widely considered the best time of year for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park because they offer the driest and most stable weather. Trails are less muddy, visibility is excellent, and temperatures are comfortable.

Why June–September Is the Best

• Clear hiking trails

• Gorillas often wallow in open space, making photography easier

• Low humidity and pleasant temperatures

• Perfect for combining gorilla trekking with safaris in Akagera or chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe

What to Expect for Best Time of Year for Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes

This is Rwanda’s high tourism season. Gorilla permits and hotels in Musanze often sell out months in advance—especially for July, August, and September. If you want to visit in this period, booking early is essential.

Who Should Choose This Season?

Travelers who want:
The best weather
 Easy trekking conditions
 High chance of clear photos
 Smooth travel logistics

For many people, June–September is the best time of year for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.

2. December to February – Another Great Time for Gorilla Trekking

The short dry season is another excellent window and often overlooked by many travelers. These months still provide great trekking weather, but with fewer crowds.

Why This Season Is Great

• Mostly dry trails

• Beautiful clear skies for photography

• Great visibility in the bamboo forests

• Hotels and permits are easier to secure than June–September

Best For:

 Couples
 Families
 Photographers
 Budget travelers who want dry-season advantages without heavy crowds

If you can’t visit in June–September, December–February is the next best time of year for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.

3. March to May – Budget Best Time of Year for Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes national park

March, April, and May are the rainy months. Although trails get muddy and trekking becomes harder, this season has special advantages.

Why Choose March–May

• Fewer tourists

• Easier last-minute gorilla permits

• Reduced hotel rates

• The forest is lush and green—excellent for photography

• Gorillas stay closer to the lower bamboo zones because food is abundant

Conditions to Expect

 Slippery trails

Occasional fog or rain showers
 Amazing forest scenery
 Great birdwatching season

Travelers who don’t mind a little mud can enjoy a more private trekking experience.

4. October and November – Beautiful Green Season Trekking

The short rainy season is unpredictable. Sometimes it rains frequently, sometimes only lightly. However, these months can still be a good time to visit.

Advantages

• Lush landscapes

• Gorillas easy to find because bamboo shoots are plentiful

• Good availability of lodges and permits

• Fewer crowds inside the park

Many photographers love this time. Misty mountains, green vegetation, and dramatic clouds make unforgettable wildlife images.

Important Things to Know When Choosing the Best Time of Year for Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

No matter when you come, gorilla trekking is always successful because Rwanda’s mountain gorillas are protected and well monitored. Travelers have a 99% chance of seeing a gorilla family any month of the year.

 Weather Is Unpredictable

Even in dry months, it can rain in the rainforest. Always carry:

• Waterproof shoes

• Rain jacket

• Long trousers

• Camera protection

 Trekking Time Varies

Gorilla tracking can take 30 minutes or 6 hours depending on the family location, but chances are always high, regardless of season.

 Permits Are Required

A gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda costs $1,500 per person per trek. Booking early is crucial in June–September and December–February.

Best Time of Year for Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park Based on Travel Style

 For the Easiest Trekking (Best Weather)

June – September
December – February

 For Budget Travelers

March – May
October – November

 For Photographers

June – September (clear skies)
October – November (lush landscapes)

 For Last-Minute Trips

March – May
October – November

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Time of Year for Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Is it possible to trek gorillas in the rainy season?

Yes. Rwanda offers successful gorilla trekking every month. Trekking may be muddy, but gorillas are always seen.

Which month has the best weather?

July and August are the driest and best for visibility.

Which month is cheapest?

March, April, May, and November have discounted lodges and easier bookings.

Will I see gorillas any month of the year?

Absolutely—Rwanda has a success rate over 99%.

Conclusion – What Is the Best Time of Year for Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park ?

If you want the easiest hiking conditions, less mud, better photos, and smooth travel, the best time of year for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is:

June – September
or December – February

If you are budget-focused or want fewer tourists, choose:

March – May
or October – November

The truth is: There is no bad month. Mountain gorillas are seen every day, the rainforest is beautiful year-round, and Volcanoes National Park is magical in every season.

Whether you visit in sunshine or mist, gorilla trekking in Rwanda is one of the most powerful wildlife experiences on Earth.