When thinking of primate Safari experience in Africa, then the adventure must take you to see the gorillas, Chimpanzees, Golden monkey and Lemurs in Madagascar . A primate safari, whether you’re trekking to see gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda or spotting chimpanzees in Tanzania or Congo, is an unforgettable adventure. The timing of your visit plays a big role in the experience, as weather, trail conditions, and tourist crowds can vary greatly throughout the year.

To help you plan, here’s a month-by-month guide to understanding the best times to go on a primate safari that includes gorilla habituation or gorilla trekking , including the pros and cons of each month.

January: Start of the Dry Season

January marks the beginning of the dry season in East Africa, making it one of the best times to go on a primate safari. The weather is warm, with sunny days and minimal rain. This is perfect for trekking to see gorillas and chimpanzees, as the trails are drier and easier to navigate. The dry season also means the vegetation is less dense, improving visibility for spotting primates. However, because it’s one of the first months of the dry season, wildlife is more dispersed as they search for water. There are also fewer mosquitoes, reducing the risk of malaria. The downside is that January is part of the peak tourist season, so it can get crowded. Permit prices are higher, and you may need to book your safari months in advance to secure spots.

March: Transition to the Rainy Season

By March, the rainy season starts to kick in, but it’s not as intense as the long rainy season that follows. While the rain isn’t constant, it becomes more frequent, which can make trekking more challenging. The trails may become muddy and slippery, and the dense vegetation can make spotting primates a bit more difficult. However, the green landscapes are stunning, and fewer tourists mean that you’ll enjoy a more peaceful and less crowded experience. Prices for accommodation and permits are typically lower in March than during the peak dry months, making it a more budget-friendly option for some travellers.

April: Peak of the Rainy Season

April is one of the wettest months in East Africa, marking the peak of the rainy season. During this month, you can expect heavy, regular rainfall. The trails become muddy, and the dense vegetation makes trekking more difficult. While gorilla trekking is still possible, the conditions can be quite challenging. However, April has some advantages, including fewer tourists, which means you can enjoy the parks with minimal crowds. Accommodation and permits are also less expensive than during the dry season, so if you’re on a budget and don’t mind getting wet, April can offer a more private and affordable safari experience.

It’s important to be prepared for the rain and have proper gear for trekking, but if you’re flexible and want to experience the parks in peace, April can still be a worthwhile time to visit.

May: End of the Long Rains

May marks the end of the long rainy season. While the rain may still be frequent, it starts to lessen towards the end of the month. The trails remain muddy, but they’re not as challenging as in April. Wildlife sightings may be a little more difficult due to the thicker vegetation, but you’ll still have a chance to see primates in their natural habitats. Like April, May is less crowded, and prices for permits and accommodation are lower than in peak seasons. This can be a good time if you’re seeking quieter, more affordable options, and if you don’t mind the wet conditions.

June: Beginning of the Dry Season

June marks the beginning of the dry season in East Africa, making it one of the best months for a primate safari. The weather is dry, with clear skies and minimal rain. This results in much better conditions for trekking, as the trails become drier and more accessible. The vegetation thins out, making it easier to spot gorillas and chimpanzees. June is the start of the peak tourist season, so there will be more visitors, especially during the latter half of the month. However, it is still less crowded than the months of July and August. June is an ideal time for trekking and wildlife photography, with clear skies and the wildlife more visible. If you prefer dry conditions and are ready to book your safari early, June is one of the best times for a primate safari.

July: Peak Dry Season

July is part of the peak dry season, with excellent weather for trekking. The conditions are perfect for gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda, as well as chimpanzee safaris. The trails are dry, and the vegetation is sparse, so the primates are easier to spot. However, because it’s the peak season, there are more tourists. Accommodations and permits can be in high demand, so you should book well in advance. The dry weather is great for outdoor activities, including trekking and photography, but keep in mind that prices are higher due to the popularity of this time. If you want to experience perfect trekking conditions and don’t mind the crowds, July is a fantastic month for a primate safari. Just be sure to book early.

August: Peak of the Dry Season

August is another peak month for a primate safari. The dry weather continues, providing excellent conditions for trekking. The trails are dry, and the primates are easier to spot since the thick vegetation has thinned out. However, just like in July, August sees the highest number of tourists, which can make the parks feel crowded. Permits and accommodation costs are at their highest, and it may be harder to secure a spot for trekking, so early booking is essential. While the dry season offers fantastic weather for trekking and wildlife photography, the crowds and high prices are a downside. If you can handle the crowds and want the best conditions for your safari, August is an excellent time to visit. It’s ideal for those looking for clear skies, easy trekking, and excellent wildlife visibility.

September: Late Dry Season

September continues the dry season, and it’s a fantastic month for a primate safari. The weather remains dry and warm, and the trails are still in good condition for trekking. While the crowds have slightly decreased from July and August, September is still popular for travelers, so some parks may remain busy. However, there are fewer visitors than during the peak summer months, so it’s a great time to visit if you want good weather without the extreme crowds of the earlier months. Additionally, prices for permits and accommodation start to drop slightly compared to the peak season.

October: Start of the Short Rains

October marks the beginning of the short rainy season. While it’s not as intense as the long rains, you can expect some light showers. The trails may get a bit muddy, but they are still manageable. Wildlife sightings can be a little more challenging as the vegetation thickens, and the animals may move to more hidden areas. On the plus side, the rain creates a beautiful, lush landscape, and with fewer tourists, you’ll enjoy a more private safari experience. Permits and accommodations tend to be less expensive during this time. If you don’t mind a bit of rain and want to experience a quieter time in the parks, October can be a great choice. Expect some rain, but if you’re looking for a less crowded experience at a lower cost, October can be a good option.

November: End of the Short Rains

November is the tail end of the short rainy season. While the rain starts to ease off, you can still expect occasional showers. The trails may be muddy, but trekking is still possible. The vegetation is lush, creating a scenic environment for your safari. However, November is not as ideal for trekking as the dry months, but the quieter atmosphere and reduced costs can make it a great time for those seeking a more private experience. As with October, fewer tourists visit, and you can find cheaper accommodation and permits.

December: Start of the Short Dry Season

December marks the beginning of the short dry season, so the weather starts to improve with less rain. While there may still be occasional showers early in the month, the trails become easier to navigate, and the primates are more visible as the vegetation begins to thin out. December also brings the holiday season, so there may be more tourists towards the end of the month. Accommodation and permit prices start to increase again as demand rises. If you’re looking for a good balance of dry weather and fewer crowds (before the peak holiday period), early December can be a great time to go.

Remark from Primate Safari Experiences

The best time for a primate safari depends on your preferences for weather, crowds, and pricing. If you prefer dry, sunny conditions with easier trekking, the months from June to September are ideal. However, if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy lower prices, the rainy months from March to May offer a quieter, more affordable safari. Ultimately, the choice is yours based on what type of experience you want each month has its own advantages for an unforgettable adventure.