Gorilla trekking is regarded as one of the most unforgettable wildlife experiences, offering tourists great chances to observe the mountain gorillas in their natural habitats. A festive December is one of the best time to trek mountain gorillas due to the dry season. It’s a month known for holidays and an adventure period for many tourists who love to explore the forests and wildlife of Africa, both East and Central.
Yes, gorilla trekking is possible in December, though it’s a peak season, which means permits are in high demand and sell out quickly; therefore, booking is advised to be made several months in advance due to it being a festive and school holiday season coinciding with a drier period.
Is December a good time for Gorilla Trekking?
December marks the beginning of the dry season in Uganda and Rwanda, making trekking trails more accessible. It’s a great time to trek mountain gorillas in December, but it’s essential to book in advance due to high demand. Uganda Wildlife Authority issues the gorilla permits for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
Where to go Gorilla Trekking in December?
Gorilla trekking has three main destinations, and each offers a unique experience. These destinations include Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo.
Uganda is known as the ‘Pearl of Africa’ and a top safari destination famous for its diverse wildlife, including mountain gorillas, its stunning natural beauty with diverse landscapes from misty mountains to savannas and rainforests, and its vibrant cultural experiences with unique traditions and warm, welcoming people. It’s a home to over half of the world’s endangered mountain gorillas and offers excellent trekking opportunities in national parks like Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
Rwanda is an exceptional travel destination in Africa, blending breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural experiences, and modern urban life all within a remarkably safe and clean environment. It’s known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” a prime location for gorilla trekking, primate viewing, and hiking volcanic landscapes, making it a top-tier choice for those seeking adventure, culture, and nature. Rwanda is recognised as one of Africa’s safest and cleanest countries, with low crime rates and well-maintained streets contributing to a secure travel experience. It offers a chance to encounter endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat in Volcanoes National Park.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) offers an adventurous and unique travel experience centred on incredible wildlife, vast rainforests, and dynamic cultures. Visitors can experience mountain gorilla trekking in Virunga National Park to witness the active lava lake of Mount Nyiragongo and also explore the Congo River basin’s biodiversity, encountering the vibrant culture of Kinshasa. Therefore, travellers or tourists have to be keen and aware of safety concerns, civil unrest, and crimes, which may vary by region. Gorilla trekking is a must-do activity in Congo for tourists or visitors encountering unforgettable endangered mountain gorillas.
Gorilla trekking permit costs and who pays what?
Uganda
A permit is mandatory and can be purchased through Uganda Wildlife Authority or a trusted safari agent. The cost of a gorilla trekking permit varies depending on residency status, at USD 800 per person for foreign non-residents, USD 700 per person for foreign residents, and 300,000 Ugandan Shillings, approximately USD 80-USD 100 for East African citizens.
Rwanda
The permit costs USD 1,500 per person per trek for foreign non-residents, with discounted rates for foreign residents of USD 500, citizens of Rwanda and East African Community pay USD 200, and the other African citizens (the rest of Africa) pay around USD 500. These permits grant one hour to observe the mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. In Rwanda, permits are issued by the Rwanda Development Board.
Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
The cost of a gorilla permit in the Democratic Republic of Congo goes for USD 400 per person above 15 years old for international tourists in Virunga National Park and Kahuzi-Biega National Park for lowland gorillas. During low seasons, gorilla permits in Congo go as low as USD 200 for international tourists. Permits in Congo are competitive to get; therefore, tourists are advised to book in advance through local tour operators.
Best Months for Gorilla Trekking
The best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda is during the dry seasons, which typically occur from:
June to September: these months offer optional conditions for trekking with dry trails and clear skies.
December to February: these months are also suitable for gorilla trekking with relatively dry conditions and fewer tourists.
Avoiding Rainy Seasons
March to May: heavy rainfall can make trails slippery and increase the risk of the gorilla habitat being inaccessible.
October to November: While not as wet as the March to May Period, these months can still experience occasional rain showers.
How to book a gorilla permit
To book a gorilla permit, contact a trusted tour operator or the authorities. For Uganda, reach out to the Uganda Wildlife Authorities, and for Rwanda, visit the Rwanda Development Board website or offices. For Congo, reach out to local tour operators providing full names, nationality, and passport number to verify your details.
Booking a gorilla permit through a tour operator is more convenient as they can bundle the permit into a larger safari package and also handle transportation/ logistics for you.
A deposit of often 30% is required to validate your reservation, mostly when you are booking in advance, and the balance must be paid within a specified period of time or time frame, for example, 90 days before the day of trekking.
Tips for booking a gorilla permit
Book your permit at least 3-6 months in advance, especially during peak seasons (June to September and December to February).
Be prepared for a maximum of 8 visitors per gorilla per group per day.
Permits are non-refundable and non-transferable, so ensure your travel dates are confirmed.
Access to the National Park.
Assistance from trackers to locate the gorillas.
Bring waterproof gear, sturdy hiking boots, and layers for cooler temperatures.
Consult your doctor about vaccinations and medications before travelling to different regions.
What to expect
- One hour with a habituated gorilla family.
- A guided trek with a professional Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) ranger guide and security escort for Uganda gorilla safaris.
- Park entry fees are included in the permit cost.
Start planning your gorilla trekking adventure today and experience the thrill of encountering the unforgettable creatures in their natural habitat. Embarking on a gorilla trekking adventure during the dry seasons, increases your chances of a successful and enjoyable experience. You can send us an inquiry and we tailor-make your adventure!
