Gorilla trekking in May – There is no difference between tracking gorillas in April and May. Trekking mountain gorillas is physically difficult, but not impossible, because of the persistent rains and the slick forest trails.
There is a lot of rainfall, sometimes rather continuous, during the month of May. Because the rain-forest trails will be quite muddy and slippery, trekking to see the gorillas may be challenging. However, you might go ahead and plan to go gorilla trekking in May if you don’t mind the rainy weather.
Permits for gorillas are easily obtained. November permits are frequently available and less competitive to book than gorilla permits in the peak season months of December, January, February, June, July, and August, when they are extremely difficult to obtain.
November is when fewer people choose to travel, but those who do get to experience a unique, tourist-free trip that we like to refer to as the budget clients Enjoy a 5-star Gorilla Safari at the cost of a low-cost safari with exclusive travel time. Prior to the gorillas, our past clients were really hiking with a private gorilla family that was just the two of them. There are no other tourists nearby to vie for photo ops.
Due to the higher temperatures and easier access to food, gorillas tend to stay on the lower slopes during this time of year, however this is not always the case. As a result, treks may cover less ground, but as you make your way through the lush jungles, you should anticipate some mud and dirt.
In May, rain is still possible and will occur, so be ready for it. Rainfall is possible throughout the year, but it is far more likely to occur during this time and in longer periods.
The fact that May falls during the rainy season and the roads are difficult to manage is undoubtedly the first drawback. But bringing in a decent 4×4 Toyota Land-cruiser and a knowledgeable local driver-guide is unquestionably the solution.
Second, compared to the drier months, the forest trails are much more passage. You will be alright, though, if you pack a pair of good hiking boots (waterproof), hire a local porter to help you on the journey, and use the customary free walking stick that is offered at each gorilla trekking briefing location for additional walking support.
