Rain Never Cancels a Trek
In over a decade of guiding in Bwindi, we have never seen a gorilla trek cancelled due to weather. The only scenario where trekking can be suspended is an extreme safety situation (landslide blocking trails), which is extremely rare. Even heavy rain does not stop the trek.
What Rainy Trekking Is Actually Like
- Trails get muddier and more slippery — this is where porters and walking sticks help enormously
- The forest canopy provides surprising shelter — you are not always in open rain
- Rain often comes in bursts — 30 minutes of heavy rain followed by clearing
- The forest smells incredible after rain — earthy, rich and alive
- Fewer sounds compete with the rain, making gorilla sightings feel even more intimate
- Gorillas are often more relaxed in rain — they tend to huddle or rest, giving you closer, calmer encounters
Tip
A rain jacket is essential, but equally important: waterproof your daypack (a bin liner works perfectly), and bring a zip-lock bag for your phone or camera. Gardening gloves keep your hands dry while gripping branches.
How to Prepare for Rain
- Waterproof rain jacket (not a poncho — you need hands free)
- Waterproof trousers or gaiters
- Sturdy, water-resistant hiking boots with good ankle support
- Zip-lock bags for phone, camera and wallet
- Waterproof daypack cover or bin liner
- Gardening gloves (better grip on wet branches than hiking gloves)
- Spare dry socks in your daypack
Can I Reschedule If Rain Is Forecast?
Technically yes, if another permit date is available, but we strongly advise against it. Rain in Bwindi is unpredictable — a forecast of rain might produce sunshine, and vice versa. Waiting for a guaranteed dry day could mean waiting forever. The experience is wonderful in any weather.