Gorilla Trekking in May: A Journey Through the Emerald Forests
Gorilla Trekking in May: The Experience of the Green Season
May sits in the middle of the long rainy season in Uganda and Rwanda, making it one of the wetter months for gorilla trekking. Trails are slick, downpours can be heavy, and the forest feels wild and untamed. Yet for those willing to embrace the mud and unpredictability, May offers one of the most visually stunning and intimate gorilla trekking experiences of the year. The rains bring life to every corner of the forest—leaves shine with freshness, flowers bloom in color, and the air is filled with the sounds of birds and frogs celebrating the abundance. Unlike the busier dry months, May rewards travelers with solitude, lower lodge rates, and easier access to gorilla permits.
Preparing for the May Trek
As always, the trekking day begins with an early breakfast before heading to the park headquarters for a mandatory briefing. Rangers explain trekking guidelines—maintaining distance from the gorillas, respecting their behavior, and staying quiet within the forest. In May, the number of trekkers is usually smaller than in high-season months, creating a more relaxed atmosphere. This means your group may feel more intimate, and the trek itself less rushed.
Because heavy rains are almost guaranteed, preparation is critical. Waterproof jackets, gaiters, and sturdy boots are essential, and many trekkers rely on walking sticks and porters for stability on slippery slopes. Camera equipment should be carefully protected with rain covers, as sudden downpours are common. Although the weather may sound like a drawback, those who plan properly often find May one of the most rewarding times to trek.
Trekking Through the May Rainforest
The trek begins under a dense canopy where every branch and vine glistens with raindrops. The forest is greener and denser than at any other time of the year, with trails winding through mud-slick inclines and damp undergrowth. In Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the steep slopes demand concentration and endurance, while in Mgahinga or Volcanoes National Park, the bamboo forests grow thick and vibrant.
The soundscape of the forest in May is unforgettable. Birdsong is at its peak as migratory species mingle with local ones, and the calls of tree frogs echo through the wet undergrowth. Butterflies thrive in the moisture, filling the air with bursts of color. Though the rain makes hiking tougher, it also enriches the sensory experience, surrounding trekkers with life and movement at every turn.
The Gorilla Encounter in May
When you finally reach the gorilla family, the sense of reward is amplified by the effort required to get there. Gorillas in May are often more active, moving about freely in the cool, moist conditions. You might see the silverback tearing into fresh bamboo, mothers grooming their young, or playful juveniles climbing and tumbling through wet foliage.
Rain adds an extraordinary layer to the encounter. Droplets cling to the gorillas’ fur, mist swirls around them, and the dim, filtered light through the canopy creates dramatic photography opportunities. While it can be a challenge to keep lenses dry, the results are often breathtaking—moody, atmospheric portraits of gorillas in their most natural environment.
Returning from the Forest
The trek back is usually slower, with hikers carefully navigating muddy and slippery paths. Trekkers often return covered in mud but smiling, carrying a deep sense of accomplishment. Receiving the trekking certificate at headquarters feels especially meaningful in May because it reflects not only the experience but also the determination to embrace the season’s challenges.
After the trek, many travelers retreat to lakes like Bunyonyi or Kivu for relaxation. The misty, rain-refreshed landscapes create a serene contrast to the demanding trek. For those combining gorilla trekking with other safaris, May offers lush, green savannahs, though wildlife viewing can be trickier as animals sometimes scatter with the abundance of water sources.
Why Trekking in May Is Worth It
While May is one of the wettest months for gorilla trekking, it carries unique benefits. The forest is at its most vibrant, trekking groups are smaller, and accommodations often offer reduced rates. Permits are easier to secure, making this an excellent choice for travelers who plan last-minute or prefer avoiding the crowds of high season.
For adventurers who value raw, authentic experiences over comfort, May is a month that delivers in abundance. The challenges of mud and rain are balanced by solitude, beauty, and some of the most atmospheric gorilla encounters possible. It is a time when the forest shows its true strength, reminding you that gorilla trekking is not just a wildlife experience but also a test of resilience and spirit.
