Gorilla Trekking in March

March is a transition month for gorilla trekking in Uganda: the long rains usually begin during the month, so early March is often still fairly dry while later March brings more frequent showers and muddier trails. The permit is still US$800 (the US$600 rate starts in April), but demand is moderate, so permits and lodges are easier to book than in the dry-season peaks. In 2027, Easter falls in late March, which adds some holiday demand that week.

Weather in March

Temperatures at Bwindi stay mild, roughly 10–15°C at dawn and low 20s°C in the afternoon. The timing of the long rains varies from year to year: in some years they start early in March, in others later. When they arrive, expect afternoon storms and wetter trails, building towards the wettest month, April. See our guides to weather at Bwindi and checking forecasts.

Trekking in March

Early in the month, trails are often still reasonably firm; later, expect mud and slippery slopes. Gorillas are tracked every morning, and the forest becomes greener as the rains arrive. Hire a porter, at about US$15–20, and use a walking stick. Savanna parks are still good for game drives, and migrant birds are present until about the end of the month. See our guide to trekking in the rain.

Booking and holidays

With moderate demand, one to three months’ notice is usually enough, though Easter week can be busier. In 2027, Good Friday is 26 March and Easter Monday 29 March, both public holidays, and Women’s Day on 8 March is also a holiday; parks run normally. If you can shift your trip into April, the permit drops to US$600, but the weather is wetter. See our guides to public holidays and permit availability.

What to pack

Bring a reliable rain jacket, waterproof or quick-drying trousers, gaiters, broken-in waterproof boots, gardening gloves, a warm layer, a camera rain cover and insect repellent. See our packing list, compare February and April, or read our guide to the best time for gorilla trekking.

Frequently asked questions