Spring break in March or April 2027 is one of the more accessible windows for gorilla trekking in Uganda for travellers from North America and Europe. The permits are less competed for than the peak July-August months, the lodges have better availability, and the pricing at some properties reflects the shoulder season status. The trade-off is weather: March-April falls in Uganda’s long rains, which means wetter trails and more mud in Bwindi’s forest. The gorillas are the same gorillas, in the same forest, with the same one-hour permit. The rain is the variable — and for many trekkers, it adds rather than detracts from the atmosphere of the ancient rainforest they have come to visit.
March and April in Bwindi
The long rains in Uganda typically begin in March and run through May, with April being the wettest month. In Bwindi’s mountain forest, the rain comes as daily showers — often not all-day rain but regular afternoon and evening precipitation that keeps the forest lush and green. Morning treks, which start at 7am and typically reach the gorillas before midday, are frequently conducted in clear conditions even in the rainy season. Afternoon return walks can be wet.
The mud is real. The slopes that are challenging but manageable in the dry season become more demanding in the rains. The hire of a porter — available at all sectors at a standard rate — is more valuable in the wet season than the dry, both for carrying bags and for physical support on slippery terrain. Waterproof boots, rain jacket, and gaiters are essential equipment for a March or April trek rather than optional precautions.
The Permit
The gorilla permit costs $800 USD for international visitors in 2027. Spring break availability for March and April is generally better than peak months, but popular dates — particularly the US spring break windows of mid-March and early April — can still book out two to three months in advance. If you are planning a spring break 2027 gorilla trek, booking should begin by December 2026 or January 2027. Contact us to check specific date availability and to begin the permit application process for your preferred spring break window.
