Gorilla trekking in March: Although the month of March marks the start of the rainy season for both Uganda & Rwanda, rainfall is unlikely to continue throughout the day, and skies will often clear up fast after a heavy shower.
RWANDA OR UGANDA: WHERE IS THE BEST PLACE TO GO GORILLA TREKKING IN MARCH?
Rwanda & Uganda experience a very similar climate, and the peak/ low seasons are similar too. However, the two (02) destinations serve a differing market group of travellers. In the past year(s), Rwanda has inclined itself to serve the upmarket/ luxury travelers whilst Uganda, whose tourism is still virgin caters to all categories of travelers ranging from budget, mid-range to luxury travelers. There are, therefore, two (02) things to look out for when choosing your destination to go gorilla trekking in March.
PRICE OF THE GORILLA PERMIT:
The Rwanda gorilla permit costs USD1,500 per person to spend one (01) hour with a group of habituated mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National park.
In Uganda, gorilla permits cost USD600 per person intending to spend up to one (01) hour viewing & photographing a habituated gorilla group in either Bwindi Forest or Mgahinga National Parks.
Note: Effective 01st/July/2020 Uganda gorilla permit prices will increase to USD700 per person – still cheaper than Rwanda.
PRICE OF ACCOMMODATION:
Most of Rwanda’s hotels/lodges & camps have been built to cater for upmarket travelers. This is well reflected in the price you will pay for a nights’ stay at a Rwanda hotel.
Accommodation in Uganda is modestly priced. you will be able to find something that fits your budget. Speak to us and we will assist recommend a hotel based on your budget.
WHEN TO PLAN & BOOK – MY MARCH GORILLA TREKKING SAFARI
Although we know it that the Month of March has fewer travelers, compared to the peak season months of June to September & December to February. we still recommend that you plan & book your trips at least 06 months in advance. This gives us ample time to reserve the requested hotels intime and also pick out the best rooms, and also reserve and secure your gorilla trekking permit well in advance.
WHAT TO PACK & BRING: THE PRACTICAL STUFF TO BRING FOR GORILLA TREKKING IN MARCH
The packing list for gorilla trekking In March is no different. Bring; a pair of sturdy hiking boots, a pair of long socks or gaiters, a pair of gloves, a long-sleeved shirt, trousers, a day pack to carry your valuables and lunches on the trek, a camera (with extra memory chips & batteries), a pair of binoculars, a hut/cap, and a raincoat for just in case the weather changes.
See & Print this Gorilla trekking packing checklist
BESIDES GORILLA TREKKING IN MARCH, WHAT IS THERE TO SEE & DO IN UGANDA OR RWANDA?
Uganda – Things to See & Do in February:
Besides gorilla trekking, Uganda is equally big in chimpanzee tracking. For chimpanzee tracking, Kibale Forest National park has been named as the world capital for primates – this Ugandan park has over 13 primate species wondering within this lush forest cover. other than Kibale forest, there are a few more chimpanzee trekking destinations in Uganda: Kyambura gorge, Kalinzu Forest & Budongo Forest. where one can experience chimpanzee tracking – each of them is unique and none compares to the other.
As for wildlife Safaris in Uganda, the month of March is wet & muddy – this might make the safaris less enjoyable especially if you intend to visit the savannah parks; Murchison Falls NP & Kidepo Valley NP.
Rwanda – Things to See & Do in February:
Similarly for Rwanda, March can be a great time to combine gorilla tracking and chimpanzee tracking in the Nyungwe forest.
Nyungwe is one of the oldest forests in Africa although has decreased in size dramatically, especially over the last 100 years, formally covering the entire length of the Albertine Rift. Chimpanzee trekking becomes easier during this time of the year because the food is a lot easier to find at this time so they do not venture too deep into the forest. They stay relatively close to the forest floor, often in large groups, and stay quite stationary, happy with the delicious fresh fruits on offer to them.
Recommended Trip: 07 Days Rwanda gorillas & chimps In Nyungwe
READ & COMPARE: GORILLA TREKKING IN OTHER MONTHS OF THE YEAR
UGANDA GORILLA SAFARIS IN MARCH : TRIPS TO INSPIRE YOU
Our 3 Days Uganda gorilla safari can start in either Kigali (Rwanda) or Entebbe(Uganda). You will visit Bwindi Forest NP – home to over 500 Mountain gorillas for gorilla trekking which is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This tour can be arranged for Solo travellers, couples & small groups. Age limit is 15+ years.
