Best time to visit Bwindi forest depends on the weather & climate patterns at the time of the visit. Bwindi has a wet, yet mild, climate with temperatures remain consistent all year – long due to its short distance from the equator.
Bwindi’s day-time temperatures range from 23°C to 73°F usually with a significant drop at night to around 11°C/52°F. The altitude in Bwindi varies from 1160 to 2607 meters (3806-8553ft). This results in wide climatic variations within Bwindi forest National Park, as the temperature is lowered by about 6.5°C for every 1000 meters you climb (or 3.5°F per 1000ft). Tourists mostly visit the area of lower altitude.
Rain can happen anytime in Bwindi, as there is no complete dry season. The months of June and July receive the least rain, while there is a period of lesser rainfall from December to February. From March to May and October to November the rainfall is highest. It is recommended to pack water-proof clothing and good hiking shoes that are suitable for walking wet forest trails.
Know the dry and wet Seasons of Bwindi impenetrable Forest, understand & exploit each seasons best offerings. This will guide you in determining your personal best time to visit bwindi – otherwise Bwindi is an all year round rain forest…..
The best time to visit Bwindi is in the relatively drier months; June to August and December to February.
- June, July & August – June and July are the driest months in Bwindi Forest, but it can still rain. By August the rains start to increase. The average temperatures range from 23°C/73°F in the afternoon to 10°C/50°F in the morning. It gets even colder at higher altitudes.
- December, January & February – A short drier spell, but rainfall can occur at any time. The rains slow by December and increase February. Daytime temperatures average around 24°C/75°F, with morning temperatures around 11°C/64°F.
Wet season months; March to May and September to November are NOT regarded as the best time to visit Bwindi.
- March, April & May – Rainfall increases and usual peaks in April. Navigating the road to Bwindi can become difficult, so 4WD is essential. The forest trails become slick and more difficult to hike. Daytime temperatures average around 23°C/73°F, with morning temperatures around 12°C/54°F.
- September, October & November – These months are wetter- October and November experience high rainfall. Sometimes it drizzles continuously for days. Daytime temperatures are around 23°C/73°F. Forest trails can become slippery after rains.
Generally speaking, the Question ” When is it the best time to visit Bwindi ?” is relative and largely depends on what you are doing in Bwindi at the time of your visit. From the above, I bet that we have learned that Bwindi Forest National Park is generally a rain forest and it does rain almost all year round making the entire forest wet all year.
Reason to Consider – Low season months of April, May & November as the best time to visit Bwindi
If you are keen to travel at a time of no-crowds, then the low season Months of April May & November. During this time you will enjoy special discounted rates from tour operators and safari lodges
Still interested in finding out why Low Season months are considered the best time to visit Bwindi, read our post ” Why low season gorilla trekking is the best“
