The best time to visit Rwanda is during the dry seasons from June to September and December to February. These drier periods see ideal trekking conditions for tracking mountain gorillas and chimpanzees with little to no mud especially on steep paths. Although Rwanda features several seasons which should be considered when planning a safari here, the weather is fairly temperate and favors travel all year round due to its compact size, proximity to the equator and high altitude.
The best time to visit Rwanda according to seasons and months
In the heart of Africa, fractionally south of the equator, Rwanda’s relatively high altitude provides it with a remarkably pleasant tropical highland climate, albeit also with plenty of rain. Temperatures vary considerably between locations depending on their altitude, but very little from month to month in the same place. In the capital, Kigali, the average daily temperature is about 21°C.
Visiting Rwanda in January and February
January is part of the first dry period running from mid-December and continuing throughout the whole of January, and into February, and a great time for gorilla trekking. The climate in Rwanda is very similar all year round however it may differ depending upon which area you are staying in. During the two dry seasons there is often light clouds across the country which offers refreshingly, light rainfall as well as being able to moderate the temperature. You can expect fairly dry terrain, but being in the Virunga’s, weather can be a little unpredictable, and rain can come at any time.
Visiting Rwanda from March to May
This is Rwanda’s long rain season, and it can be unrelenting, which is particularly marked in the mountainous regions. Gorilla tracking is less suited to this period, although if you are looking to track the chimpanzees in the Nyungwe area this can be an optimum time, as the figs and fruits within the forest ripen and they tend to be seen lower down in the trees eating, are more stationary and also seen in larger groups.
Visiting Rwanda in June to September
This is the long dry season with ideal conditions for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park and for visiting the Rwanda wildlife overall, so if you have complete flexibility with your dates we would recommend travelling during this time. Animal sightings are more common at this time, with golden monkeys and mountain gorillas as well as habitat tolerant species such as buffalo and elephant all more visible in the dry season. As gorillas reside in the rain forest, we still recommend taking waterproof clothing even during these drier months. This is also peak season in Rwanda, so prices can be higher.
Visiting Rwanda in October to December
A short rainy period, these months can also be great for birding, as trees and plants are flowering and visible birdlife is prolific, and it is even possible to enjoy specialist birding trips (specifically late November/early December or late May). Green seasons also make for excellent photography conditions, with rains tending to be quick and heavy before clearing to blue skies – ideal for capturing scenery.
When is the best time for gorilla tracking in Rwanda?
The main reason many travelers visit Rwanda is to see the endangered mountain gorillas in the country’s only gorilla park – Volcanoes National Park. And while these great apes can be visited at any time of the year, the best time to visit is during the drier months from December to February and June to September. These drier months of the year offer easy gorilla treks, as the forest terrain is less muddy and slippery.
You can still do gorilla trekking in Rwanda during the wetter months of the year, though. Just make sure to pack heavy clothing and good-quality hiking boots. Moreover, the wet months from October through November and March through May give you fantastic excursions in Rwanda’s magnificent mountains, forests, and wetlands.
However, many safari-goers will head to Rwanda during these months, so often the best time to go can be based on permit-availability. This being said, don’t be put off by the rainy season in Rwanda either. The shorter period of rain in November and longer rains from March to May will provide lush, verdant forests and full lakes all to yourself. Gorilla permits are occasionally cheaper during these rainy seasons and photographers may prefer the atmosphere more where less light contrasts against the forest, allowing more focused shots.
In conclusion
Overall, all the parks are best visited in the Dry season, from June to September. In Akagera National Park, wildlife is easier to spot when the vegetation is thinner, and animals gather around the lakes. Nyungwe, Volcanoes and Gishwati-Mukura National Park are also best visited in the Dry season when hiking trails are drier. Gorillas and chimps can be seen at any time, but the experience is generally more pleasant in dry conditions.