Most travellers aim for the dry months, but gorilla trekking in Rwanda runs every day of the year — and the rainy seasons have real advantages. Here's an honest picture.
When are the rainy seasons?
- Long rains: March to May, with April usually the wettest month.
- Short rains: late September to November.
At Volcanoes National Park's altitude it can rain in any month, so "dry season" really means "less rain". In the rainy seasons, showers are heavier and more frequent, often in the afternoon.
What's different on the trail
- Mud. Slopes become slippery; descents are slower. Porters and sticks matter more.
- Wet vegetation. You'll brush through soaked nettles and bamboo — waterproofs and gaiters pay off.
- Gorillas may range lower. Bamboo shoots sprout in the rains and some families come down to feed, which can mean shorter treks — though never guaranteed.
- Softer light. Overcast skies are kind to photos of black fur.
The advantages
Why go in the rains
- Permits far easier to secure, even at short notice
- Quieter park and lodges
- Some lodges offer lower rates
- Lush, vivid green forest
- Good photographic light
The trade-offs
- Slippery, tiring trails
- You will probably get wet
- Fewer clear views of the volcanoes
- Some roads to trailheads get rough
What to pack for the rainy season
- A genuinely waterproof jacket (and ideally waterproof trousers)
- Waterproof boots with deep tread
- Gaiters
- Gardening gloves
- A dry bag or rain cover for your daypack and camera
- A change of dry clothes in the vehicle
Full list: gorilla trekking packing list.
Our advice
If your dates are flexible and you want certainty of a permit, the green season is a smart choice — especially late May, early June or November. If you have bad knees or hate mud, aim for the dry months instead. Compare month by month in our best time guide.
Rainy season questions
Can you go gorilla trekking in the rainy season?
Yes. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda runs every day of the year, including March–May and October–November. Expect mud and some rain, but also easier permits and quieter lodges.
Is the rainy season cheaper for gorilla trekking?
The $1,500 permit costs the same all year, but some lodges lower their rates in the green season, and permits are much easier to get.
Does it rain all day in the rainy season?
Usually not. Rain often falls in heavy afternoon showers, with clearer mornings — which is when treks start.
