When you think of a safari to Rwanda, gorilla trekking always features among the top adventures and it is of no doubt that this primate experience is remarkably the most sought after experience by many travelers on safari in Africa today. But before you make your mind to take a trip to this magical country, ask yourself this important question-what is the best time to track mountain gorillas? Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is conducted in Volcanoes National Park where 10 groups have been habituated and set for visitors to track each day. For visitors on gorilla safari in Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park can be visited at anytime of the year. Regardless of this fact, it is also important that you put into consideration two seasons-the dry and wet season.
Depending on what your travel interests are, it is possible for you to take part in this adventure regardless of the weather. On the other hand, most visitors do prefer traveling for gorilla adventure in Volcanoes National Park during the dry season. The dry spell is usually experienced from June to Mid September and December to February. This is characterized by low rainfall amount and the gorilla habitat in most cases remains drier. This is ideal for gorilla trekking as it makes it easier for one to hike through the steep slopes and dense vegetation while in search for these creatures in their natural habitat. However, even when you think it is dry season, still you have to expect it to rain at anytime but the advantage side of it is that it can rain for some time and stops afterwards. This means that you can continue with your primate adventure.
The rainy/wet season on the other hand starts from March to May and this is always regarded as the longest rainy season while the short one begins from October to November. During this period, there is heavy rainfall amount that is received but this doesn’t mean that you can’t continue with gorilla adventure. The advantage part of this season is that there is plenty of food for gorillas to feed on. The amazing bit with this season is that, it rewards birders with incredible bird sights as they are attracted to flowering plants.
Rwanda’s climate is generally influenced by mountains and rainforest. Volcanoes National Park however experiences mostly mild temperatures with moderate amount of rainfall plus many hours of sunshine which is experienced nearly in most parts of the country. This park straddles within the montane area and comprises of volcanoes like Karisimbi Volcano which stands at 4507 meters, Mount Sabyinyo, Bisoke, Gahinga and others. Around the montane slopes, the sky is usually covered by clouds and at the medium low altitude a rainforest cover thrives whereas its climate remain colder. The vegetation is sparse and temperatures drop up to 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
Given the nature of habitat where gorilla adventures are done in Rwanda, you are encouraged to pack appropriately. In your packing list, you need to consider items like waterproof hiking boots, bottled water, energy giving snacks, rain jacket or poncho, long sleeved shirt or t-shirt, socks, gardening gloves, insect repellents, hat and warm clothes. You also need walking stick that you can find at the park headquarters or lodge; first aid kit.
In conclusion, Rwanda is an all year round destination. For any plans to trek gorillas in Rwanda Volcanoes National Park, take note of wet and dry season. With the above information, we believe that you will have a well-planned gorilla safari in the Land of a Thousand Hills.
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