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Best time to visit Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Uganda

The best months to visit Bwindi Impenetrable Forest are Jun – Aug, Dec – Feb. Dry seasons, easier trekking conditions.

Quick facts

💰 Currency UGX (Ugandan Shilling) USD required for gorilla permits
🗣 Language English / Rukiga English spoken by guides and lodges
🕐 Timezone EAT (UTC+3) No DST
☀️ Best Months Jun – Aug, Dec – Feb Dry seasons, easier trekking conditions
🎒 Daily Budget ~$50–120 USD Plus $700 gorilla permit
🛂 Visa eVisa required $50 USD: apply online before travel

When to go

Home to half the world's remaining mountain gorillas. Trek through one of Africa's oldest and most biodiverse rainforests for the most extraordinary wildlife encounter on earth.

Health & Safety in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

  • High altitude (1,160–2,607m), so acclimatise before strenuous trekking. Drink plenty of water
  • The forest is full of stinging nettles, thorns, and biting ants. Wear long sleeves, long trousers tucked into socks, and gardening gloves
  • Travel insurance with medical evacuation is essential, as the nearest hospital is hours away. Malaria is present at lower altitudes

For itineraries, costs and practical travel advice, see the full Bwindi Impenetrable Forest travel guide.

Timezone: EAT (UTC+3) (No DST)

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit Bwindi Impenetrable Forest?

The best months to visit Bwindi Impenetrable Forest are Jun – Aug, Dec – Feb (Dry seasons, easier trekking conditions), which makes for the most comfortable conditions for sightseeing and getting around. For what a trip costs day to day, see the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest budget breakdown.

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See the full Bwindi Impenetrable Forest guide