Bwindi in January – In the month of January, it is the dry season in Uganda, and the temperatures are generally very hot. Temperatures range from 7°C to 20°C. During the day, temperatures rise up to 20°C, and at night, it is generally cool as temperatures drop to around 7°C.
Since Bwindi is a tropical rain-forest, it experiences a tropical climate characterized by heavy rainfall and hot temperatures.
During the dry season in January, Bwindi experiences little rainfall, ranging from approximately 50mm to 90mm.
January is one of the best months to trek mountain gorillas because the trails are not muddy or slippery. Also, gorillas descend to lower altitudes in search of food, making it easier for tourists to trek them.
Additionally, tourists can watch birds because those that migrated from other parts of the country are still present in the park.
Most lodges in Bwindi are quieter because many tourists have left the park after the Christmas and New Year periods. This gives January tourists a chance to have a great time.
Tourists visiting in January are advised to book at least 3 months before their visit to avoid missing out on gorilla permits.
January is still a popular time for visiting Bwindi, so it is worth noting that prices remain at peak season rates.
Tips to Consider if Booking a Trip in January
- Gorilla Permits: Gorilla permits are limited because January is a peak season for gorilla trekking. Tourists should book in advance.
- Accommodation: Bwindi offers accommodation options ranging from luxury to budget. Tourists should book in advance because most accommodations fill up quickly during the dry season due to the high number of visitors.
- Transport: Tourists are advised to choose transport options that fit their budget. Luxury tourists can use private vans, while budget tourists can use public buses.
About Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is located in southwestern Uganda in the districts of Kabale, Kanungu, and Kisoro.
The park is home to the endangered mountain gorillas, with about 500 individuals living in the sectors of Buhoma, Nkuringo, Ruhija, and Rushaga.
Bwindi was established as a national park in 1991 and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994.
Bwindi experiences a tropical climate characterized by heavy rainfall and hot temperatures. The rainfall ranges from 1400mm to 1900mm per year, and temperatures range from 7°C to 15°C (minimum) and 20°C to 27°C (maximum).
What to Carry
- Hiking shoes
- Insect repellent
- Long trousers
- Long-sleeved shirts
- Camera
- Binoculars
- Short clothes
- Hat
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
By and large, January is a great month to experience the beauty of Bwindi at ease.
