Uganda gorilla trekking safaris in either Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are possible throughout the year, and the month of September is no exception. September marks the start of the wet season, marked by increased rainfall and humidity. Since Bwindi and Mgahinga are characterized by a tropical rainforest type of climate, they receive substantial amounts between 100 and 150 millimeters. The weather can be influenced by El Niño and relative humidity of 75% which is considered relatively humid.
Such heavy rainfall can have deep implications for gorilla trekking adventures in September since this causes the forest trails to become muddy and slippery. Such trails are relatively challenging to traverse hence requiring extra caution and physical effort from trekkers. Despite these challenges, September offers unique opportunities for those adventurous travelers who desire a more immersive experience in the jungles of Bwindi and Mgahinga. Gorilla trekking safaris in September require that you carry waterproof clothing and hiking shoes to have a successful adventure.
Location of gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Kanungu district, southwestern Uganda covers a total land area of 331 square kilometers. Bwindi is situated close to the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is approximately 501.3 kilometers from Kampala and about 164.4 kilometers from Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda. With an altitude of about 1,160-2,607 meters above sea level, Bwindi is covered with dense, ancient rainforests and is home to over 459 mountain gorillas with 24 habituated gorilla families of 50 families in the park.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, in Kisoro, southwestern Uganda is situated close to the borders of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park covers 33.7 square kilometers and is part of the larger Virunga Massif. This is a chain of Volcanic mountains located in the border region of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Mgahinga is the home of several iconic peaks Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Sabinyo. Mgahinga sits at an altitude of about 2,227-4,127 meters above sea level. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is approximately 496.7 kilometers southwest of Kampala and 135.3 kilometers north of Kigali. It has only 1 habituated gorilla family.
Vegetation at Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks in September
Since rainfall is relatively higher in the months of September compared to the previous month, Bwindi and Mgahinga have dense vegetation cover. This provides cover and more food sources for the inhabitant wildlife species including the mountain gorilla, chimpanzee, L’Hoest’s monkey, golden monkey, and African elephant. The park also has bird species such as the African green broadbill, Grauer’s swamp warbler, Turner’s Eremomela, Chapin’s flycatcher, great blue turaco, and Shelley’s crimson-wing among others.
During this month, both parks have mixed ecosystems ranging from montane and lowland rainforests to bamboo forests and grasslands. The tree species comprises Newtonia, pine, mahogany, and star apple among many others. Such vegetation is a source of fruits, leaves, buds, and stems for the mountain gorillas to feed.
The dense vegetation during September makes the gorilla trekking safari fun-filled and full of mystery because they are mostly out of sight for people on gorilla trekking safaris. However, because trekkers are accompanied by experienced trackers, there are chances of encountering them.
Temperature conditions at Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks in September
During the month of September, Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks experience relatively lower temperature conditions, with average highs at around 26oC (77oF) and lows of around 19oC (67oF). These temperatures depend on the altitude and specific location.
The drop in temperatures during the wet season in September affects gorilla behavior at both Bwindi and Mgahinga by creating chilly conditions. Since the mountain gorillas are adapted to these climatic conditions, they may seek shelter in the dense vegetation or congregate together for warmth. This may also reduce their foraging or movement hence relatively difficult to locate if you are on gorilla trekking safaris.
The moderate temperatures in September can be quite comfortable for gorilla trekking safaris. This ensures the overall pleasantness of the experience by allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the stunning biodiversity of the parks without being significantly affected by extreme heat and cold.
How gorilla trekking safaris are done in Bwindi and Mgahinga Parks
Gorilla trekking safaris in both Bwindi and Mgahinga must start by 8 am, so you are expected to be at the park headquarters around 7:30 am for a pre-trekking briefing. You will gather at the designated briefing site where knowledgeable park guides will brief you about the proper code of conduct for the gorilla trek, including the necessary cautions and the rules and regulations.
Afterward, the trekkers will be divided into groups of 8 individuals each of which is accompanied by a ranger guide and a well-trained armed guard to follow specific trails. Along the trails, the group will seek for a specified habituated gorilla family to trek.
Meanwhile, they can spot a variety of beautiful insects and plant species. The duration of the gorilla trekking adventure may take from an hour or even a full day, depending on the location of the gorilla family or your fitness level. Once the gorilla family is encountered, you are allowed to spend no more than an hour in their presence. After the trek, you will be awarded a certificate indicating your successful gorilla trekking adventure.
