Bwindi in October
The month of October is a typical wet season in Bwindi characterised by very heavy rains .
The heavy rains make forest trails and the park roads very slippery and muddy making hiking through and accessing the park challenging.
Usually Day time temperatures are around 22°C and it may drizzle non stop fro some days .
Mountain gorillas usually move down to lower slopes in the month of October as they search for food.
Due to extra rains in this month , vegetation in Bwindi starts to flower which makes landscapes more greener and beautiful. The flowering plants attract more migratory birds to such the nectar making October an excellent month for bird watching.
This month is also good for photographers who love to capture greener landscapes.
Gorilla permits in October are readily available and some lodges offer discounts as well less competitive to book.
Advantages of visiting Bwindi in October
- Gorilla permits are available
Gorilla permits are less competitive in October because there a few travellers visiting Bwindi unlike in the months of December, January, February, June , July and August.
- Special Discounts at lodges
Usually many travellers desire to stay at luxury lodges but the cost of affordability cuts them off . During the month of October many lodges offer great discounts thus an advantage to budget travellers.
- Uncongested travel experience
The month of October has fewer people visiting Bwindi which is a chance for those planing to visit in this month to enjoy.
Disadvantage of visiting in October
The weather in October is unpredictable and the trails are usually very muddy and slippery which is challenging to hike through the jungle.
Other Activities to engage in besides gorilla trekking
Bird watching
The month of October brings many migratory birds to the park because of the flowering plants with nectar that birds search for
Therefore it is the best month for bird watchers . Some of the birds include ; kivu ground thrush , black bee eater , black billed turaco , Rwenzori turaco , Regal sun bird etc
Nature walks
Bwindi becomes more greener in the month of October thus a great time for nature enthusiasts.
The park becomes more beautiful and photographers can capture greener landscapes. Nature walks offer great experiences to travellers who want to blend with nature
Cultural encounters
Tourists will get chance to visit the Batwa and Bakiga and learn about their different cultural practices and traditions.
Community walks
Tourists visit different villages and interact with locals and as well as donate to their community projects .
What to pack
Binoculars
Camera
Hat
Sweater
Rain jacket
Insect repellent
Sun screen
Long pants
Long sleeved shirts
First aid kit
In conclusion the month of October is an opportunity to experience the raw beauty of nature in Bwindi.