October at a Glance
| Verdict | Very Good |
| Temperature | 15–26°C (59–79°F) |
| Rainfall | Moderate — afternoon showers |
| Sunshine | 5–6 hours per day |
| Trail Conditions | Moderately muddy |
| Permit Availability | Excellent |
| Price Level | Low to Medium |
| Crowd Level | Low |
Weather in October
Short rainy season begins. Rain typically arrives in afternoon bursts, not all-day downpours. Mornings are often clear and dry — perfect timing for gorilla treks that start at 8am.
Trail Conditions
Moderately muddy. The trails become slippery again after the dry season. Not as challenging as April, but porters and good boots are important.
Pros
- Our insider recommendation — excellent value
- Mornings usually dry — treks happen before the rain
- Few tourists — intimate trekking groups
- Easy permit availability
- Lower lodge prices
- Migratory birds arriving — great birding
Cons
- Afternoon rain likely — plan activities accordingly
- Trails getting muddy again
- Less predictable weather than dry season
Wildlife Highlight
The forest turns vivid green again. Migratory birds begin arriving from Europe and Asia — excellent birding. The contrast between dry savanna and green forest is striking.
Permit Availability
Excellent. Low season means permits are readily available, often with just 2–4 weeks notice.
Prices
Low to Medium. Green-season discounts return at many lodges.
Insider Tip
This is the month we recommend to friends and family. The rain comes in the afternoon — your trek is over by then. You get dry-season quality trekking at wet-season prices. The secret the big operators do not tell you.