Best Time to Visit Volcanoes National Park: Dry Seasons, Rains and Trekking Conditions
The drier months of June to September and December to February make gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park easier underfoot, while the rainy seasons bring greener scenery, fewer visitors and wetter, muddier hikes.
Gorillas live in the forest all year round, so you can trek at any time, but the weather changes the experience on the ground. Volcanoes National Park is high and wet, and mist and showers can occur in any month.
This guide helps you pick dates based on trails, temperature, scenery and how far ahead you must plan.
This guide is part of our Uganda month-by-month and seasonal guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.
At a glance
- Driest months: June to September
- Second dry spell: December to February
- Long rains: March to May
- Short rains: October and November
- Temperatures: Cool, often cold on the heights
Seasons at a Glance
| Months | Conditions on the mountain |
|---|---|
| December to February | Mostly dry, bright mornings, good for hiking |
| March to May | Long rains, very green, muddy and slippery trails |
| June to September | Driest period, firmer trails, clearer views, busiest for permits |
| October and November | Short rains, lush forest, fewer people |
The Dry Months
From June to September, trails are firmer and visibility is better. Gorilla treks are generally easier, although they can still be steep and strenuous. Volcano views and photography are at their best, and the weather suits the longer hikes to Bisoke or Karisimbi. It is also the busiest period, so permits and lodges should be reserved well in advance. See Rwanda permits and rules for how bookings work.
December to February
This second dry spell can be a lovely time to visit, with clear mornings and green vegetation left by the earlier rains. Demand rises around Christmas and New Year, so book early. Days are often bright, but cloud can still roll in, so carry a waterproof layer and warm top. It is a good time to combine gorillas with the lowland savannah of Akagera National Park.
The Rainy Seasons
March to May is the wettest time, with heavy showers and slippery paths. Treks can be hard work, but the forest is lush, crowds are thin and the park is atmospheric. October and November have shorter, less predictable rains. Waterproof gaiters, gloves, a rain jacket and a dry bag for cameras make a big difference, and some operators offer lower-season options; read Rwanda best time to visit.
Altitude, Temperature and What to Wear
Trekking starts at about 2,500 metres and can climb higher, so mornings are chilly and effort is greater than at sea level. Layers, sturdy boots, long trousers and gloves for nettles are useful in all months. Fitness helps; see gorilla trekking fitness and preparation and the packing list.
Planning a Uganda safari? Send us your dates and we will build the route, permits and transport around what you want to see.
Related Tours, Guides and Resources
- Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
- Uganda safari packages
- Uganda travel guide
- How to book a Uganda safari
- Plan your safari with our team
Itineraries That Include This Experience
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Uganda Safari Pages
- Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda: Gorilla Trekking, Golden Monkeys and Dian Fossey Hike
- Volcanoes National Park Wildlife Guide: Mountain Gorillas, Golden Monkeys and Virunga Forest Life
- Best Time to Visit Rwanda: Dry Seasons, Rainy Seasons and Month-by-Month Tips
- Gorilla Trekking Fitness & Preparation: What to Expect on Trek Day
- Best Time to Visit Nyungwe Forest: Dry Months, Rain and Chimpanzee Tracking Conditions
- Best Time to Visit Mount Kenya: Dry Seasons, Trekking Conditions and Views
- Best Time to Visit Meru National Park: Dry Months, Green Season and Wildlife Viewing
- Rwanda Safari and Travel Guides: Gorillas, Volcanoes, Nyungwe, Akagera and Kigali
Ready to Plan Your Uganda Safari?
Tell us your dates, group size and interests and our Kampala team will reply with a clear, personal itinerary.
Back to the Ameera Africa Safaris homepage for Uganda safari packages, our featured tours and the latest Uganda park fees.