Know Before You Go

Uganda and Rwanda are year-round travel destinations due to their equatorial climate. While the dry seasons are optimal, gorilla trekking is available year-round. The dry seasons occur twice yearly: mid-December to February is the short dry season, and June to September is the long dry season. During these periods, the trails in the mountainous forests are less muddy and slippery, making the trek to find gorillas more manageable, and temperatures are cooler for hiking. There's also less dense foliage, which can improve your chances of spotting gorillas and other wildlife. The wet seasons (March to May and October to November) offer lush landscapes and fewer tourists, but trekking can be more challenging due to rain.

Guests will be able to get very close to gorillas, possibly even within a stone’s throw distance of these massive animals.

In addition to mountain gorillas, guests have a chance of seeing chimpanzees, golden monkeys, colobus monkeys, baboons, bush babies, tree-climbing lions, elephants, hippos, antelope and giant forest hogs.

Uganda is located on the equator, but because of its higher elevation, the climate is generally very pleasant throughout the year. There are two rainy seasons—the long rains occur from March to May, and the short rains last from September to November. However, in western Uganda and around Lake Victoria, it can rain almost any time of the year, but rainy spells are usually brief. Even during the rainy seasons, the sun is out most of the time and rain often occurs at night and during the early morning hours.

Rwanda lies just two degrees south of the equator, but its high altitude provides this small country with a pleasant tropical highland climate. The rainy seasons in Rwanda are generally from March to the end of April or the beginning of May and again from mid-October to the middle of December. Due to the tropical climate, it can rain almost any time in Volcanoes National Park—the area receives 90% of all precipitation that falls in Rwanda. However, on most days, there are periods when the skies clear and the sun emerges.

In Uganda and Rwanda, January and February are the warmest and driest months of the year (although there is always a chance of rain). This is especially true in lower-lying areas where wildlife drives, boat trips, etc. occur. Despite hot daytime temperatures in lower-lying areas, it will be much cooler at night and during time spent at higher altitudes where gorilla treks take place. Temperatures vary little due to Uganda and Rwanda’s equatorial climate, which is modified by altitude. The temperature range is from the low 50s to the mid-80s year-round.

Guests should bring a variety of layers for gorilla trekking, as mornings are usually cooler and wetter, and afternoons are often clear and sunny. Be prepared for warm sunny days with plenty of sun protection, such as lightweight, quick-drying shirts and pants and a good sun hat. Because rain showers are always a possibility, we recommend you bring breathable rain gear. During the longer rainy season (September to November), be sure to bring a lightweight, waterproof rain jacket, pants and a rain poncho. For further details of what to bring, peruse this helpful packing list and check out Nat Hab’s online Gear Store for some of the key items recommended for your adventure.

At the lodges we stay at in Uganda and Rwanda, the emphasis is on fresh, locally sourced produce, with some lodges even growing their own herbs and vegetables. On our gorilla adventure, meals are a mix of local and Western fare. Breakfasts might include fresh fruits, pastries and eggs made to order. Lunches and dinners are a mix of buffet and à la carte meals with options like grilled meats, fish and vegetarian dishes, paired with salads and local side dishes. We provide plenty of options for all palates and dietary restrictions.

Ugandan food includes matoke (steamed and mashed plantains), posho (similar to ugali) and luwombo (stewed dishes wrapped in banana leaves). Tilapia from Lake Victoria is a common delicacy. Rwandan food features staples like isombe (cassava leaves cooked with groundnuts) and ugali (a maize flour porridge). Beans, sweet potatoes, plantains, and bananas are commonly used in traditional dishes. Both Uganda and Rwanda are known for their excellent coffee and tea.

Uganda's official currency is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX). Click here to check the current exchange rate for USD to UGX. Rwanda's official currency is the Rwandan Franc (RWF). Click here to check the current exchange rate for USD to RWF. U.S. dollars are widely accepted throughout East Africa, so you may only need a small quantity (around $50) of local currency to purchase snacks, souvenirs or other incidentals. We recommend exchanging money once you arrive in Uganda because it is easier, and the exchange rate will be better.

Internet access is typically available at our accommodations, but it may be slow and unreliable in remote areas, and cell service can be spotty. We encourage guests to unplug during the adventure to enjoy an immersive experience in nature.

The minimum age required for our gorilla adventures is 15 years old because 15 is the age limit for the gorilla trekking permits. Nat Hab asks any families bringing teenagers to ensure that their teens behave in a respectful manner that does not disrupt other guests or the wildlife. If you’re looking for an African safari designed specifically for children, teens and families, check out our collection of Family Adventures.

Guests are responsible for booking round-trip flights from their home city to Uganda and Rwanda. We recommend that you use Natural Habitat Adventures’ Travel Desk, as our Air Travel Specialists are intimately familiar with the requirements of our trips and can arrange the most efficient and cost-effective travel. Please check the Getting There & Getting Home section on the Dates, Prices & Info page for details on your adventure's required arrival and departure times.

Nat Hab is happy to reserve a hotel room for you at our group accommodation before your gorilla tour begins, but please note that pre-nights are subject to availability at the time of booking. Please speak with our Travel Desk if you’re interested in booking extra nights.