Gorilla Trekking in March: A Journey into the Lush Green Season
Gorilla Trekking in March: A Unique Seasonal Experience
March marks a turning point in East Africa’s climate, with the rains beginning to set in after the short dry season of January and February. For travelers, this creates a very different gorilla trekking experience compared to the drier months. The forest comes alive with fresh greenery, bird calls echo through the canopy, and the air feels heavy with moisture and renewal. While the trails become more slippery and the trekking physically more demanding, March has its own hidden rewards—fewer crowds, richer forest colors, and an atmosphere that feels deeply wild and untouched.
Preparing for Gorilla Trekking in March
Like every trek, the day begins at dawn. After breakfast, you head to the park headquarters, whether in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda or Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. Rangers brief you on the rules of trekking, emphasizing health guidelines, respectful behavior, and safety. In March, the groups tend to be smaller because it is not peak tourist season. This means a more intimate briefing and, often, more flexibility in group assignments.
Trackers who head into the forest earlier in the morning relay information about where the gorilla families were last seen. Although the rain can sometimes make it harder to predict their movements, this system ensures that your group has the best chance of finding them without unnecessary wandering.
Entering the Forest: Trekking in the Rains
March trekking often begins under a cloudy sky, with the chance of showers at any time of day. Trails are wetter and can quickly turn muddy, especially in Bwindi, where steep inclines and dense vegetation challenge even seasoned hikers. Porters become especially valuable in March, helping to carry bags and offering stability on slippery paths.
Despite the challenges, the rewards are striking. The rainforest glows with freshness, its leaves newly washed by rain and its air infused with earthy scents. The wildlife is more vocal—birds, frogs, and insects seem to celebrate the new season. Photography enthusiasts find March fascinating, as the saturated greens and misty backdrops create dramatic compositions, even if capturing shots requires protecting cameras from sudden downpours.
The Gorilla Encounter in March
Reaching a gorilla family in March feels like stepping into a secret world. The rain often keeps the forest quieter, and the gorillas themselves seem more relaxed, continuing their feeding and grooming undisturbed. The silverback may sit calmly under a thick canopy while juveniles play in the dripping foliage. The cooler weather makes the gorillas active, offering trekkers a chance to witness a variety of behaviors, from chest beating to playful chases.
The hour spent with them in March is raw and immersive. The combination of mist, rain-dappled leaves, and the gorillas’ calm presence creates a mood that feels profoundly intimate. Many trekkers describe March encounters as almost spiritual, because the quieter forest and smaller trekking groups allow for deeper reflection.
Returning from the Trek
The return hike in March can be slower due to slippery conditions, but the satisfaction of completing the journey outweighs the challenge. Back at the park headquarters, trekkers receive their certificates, which feel especially earned after navigating the demanding trails of the rainy season. Lodges often provide warm drinks and fireplaces, turning the post-trek atmosphere into a comforting moment of rest and storytelling.
For those extending their journey, March also offers a different rhythm to the surrounding landscapes. Lakes like Bunyonyi and Kivu are quieter, with fewer tourists, creating peaceful retreats after the intensity of the trek. Safaris in savannah parks such as Queen Elizabeth or Akagera may be trickier due to muddy roads, but the lush green landscapes offer stunning contrasts and the possibility of dramatic photography.
Why Trekking in March Is Special
Although March falls within the rainy season, it should not be dismissed. While trails are tougher and rain showers frequent, the month rewards those willing to embrace its challenges with unique benefits. The forest is at its most vibrant, the gorilla encounters often feel more private, and prices for accommodations are generally lower compared to the high season.
For travelers seeking not only adventure but also authenticity, March delivers a raw and unfiltered version of gorilla trekking. It is a month for those who value solitude, who don’t mind a little mud, and who wish to see the rainforest and its great apes at their most natural and untamed.
