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Bwindi in August – Prime Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda’s Dry Season

Bwindi in August – August is one of the best months to visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park because it is a dry month, and the weather is favorable for tourists to carry out their activities.

In August, most African countries are in summer, and people are relaxing, making it an ideal time for travel.

The month of August is characterized by little or no rainfall, which keeps the trails dry and passable during gorilla trekking.

The average afternoon temperature in August is 21°C, and the average morning temperature is 12°C.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

During August, gorilla trekking can still be carried out in all four sectors of Bwindi: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo.

Tourists have great encounters with the endangered mountain gorillas.

Since August is a high-season month, tourists planning to visit Bwindi must book their safari in advance, about 3 to 4 months before their travel date.

To get a permit, tourists can contact the Uganda Wildlife Authority or use a trusted tour operator.

Cost of Gorilla Permits in August

A gorilla permit is a document that allows one to visit the endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi.

A gorilla permit costs:

  • 800 USD for foreign non-residents
  • 700 USD for foreign residents
  • 300,000 UGX for East African citizens

For those interested in gorilla habituation, the permits cost:

  • 1,500 USD for foreign non-residents
  • 1,000 USD for foreign residents
  • 750,000 UGX for East African citizens

Gorilla Trekking Experience in August

Gorilla Trekking

August is a dry month, and the dry season is the best for trekking because there is no rainfall, keeping the trails dry.

Gorilla trekking starts very early in the morning at 7 am at the park headquarters, where tourists are briefed about the rules and regulations.

Tourists are then grouped into teams of 8 members and led by well-trained park rangers to trek gorillas.

The search for mountain gorillas takes you through thick forests, and you spend about 2 to 7 hours searching for them. The time taken to find these magnificent creatures depends on their location.

Once gorillas are found, tourists will spend only 1 hour with them in the jungle.

During trekking, tourists may encounter different wild animals such as chimpanzees, elephants, blue monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, scorpions, olive baboons, and giant forest hogs.

What to Pack in August

  • Long pants
  • Long-sleeved shirts
  • A hat
  • Sweater
  • Rain jacket
  • Gloves
  • Camera
  • Binoculars
  • Sunscreen
  • Waterproof hiking shoes
  • First aid kit
  • Insect repellent
  • Snacks

The month of August in Bwindi is a testament to the transformative power of nature.



Go Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is renowned for housing half the population of the endangered mountain gorillas. The name “Bwindi” is derived from the local Runyakitara word “Mubwindi,” meaning “place full of darkness.” Bwindi Forest is one of the most biologically diverse forests on Earth. Discover Bwindi National Park below.

Explore mountain gorillas in the most incredible way!

Whether you choose Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park, each moment promises unforgettable encounters with the mountain gorillas of Africa.

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