Best Time to Visit Rwanda
Best Time to Visit
The weather in Rwanda is marked by one short dry season, one short wet season, one long dry season, and one long wet season.
Trekking and hiking to see the mountain gorillas is considered to be a year-round experience; however, the ideal time to visit would be the dry seasons between December and February and then between June and September. We must stress how important it is to book in advance in order to secure your gorilla permits! Many travelers aren’t put off by the rainy season either (March to May and in November), as that offers dramatic photo opportunities and is the optimum time for tracking chimpanzees.
January
January is a fantastic time to visit Rwanda, with warm but comfortable days during the short dry season. Hiking and gorilla trekking conditions are ideal, and the fairly dry weather means fewer mosquitoes. Rwanda pairs well with Tanzania for safari in January. For combining gorilla trekking with chimpanzee tracking, consider March to June or October to December instead.
February
February is the final month of Rwanda’s short dry season and a great time for gorilla trekking thanks to dry terrain. It’s not peak season, so early booking offers good availability and prices. Combine Rwanda with a Kenyan safari and beach vacation. If visiting the Virunga Mountains, pack a fleece for chilly nights at high altitude.
March
March is a reasonable time to visit Rwanda, marking the start of the long rains. While persistent downpours nourish the rainforest, hiking for gorilla trekking can be challenging due to wet, slippery ground. Consider exploring other wildlife areas instead. Birdlife is especially active in March, with colourful sunbirds adding to the vibrant wildlife experience.
April
April is the peak of Rwanda’s long rainy season, with heavy rainfall making trekking wet, slippery, and muddy. Waterproofs are essential, especially for camera gear. However, April is a good time to see chimpanzees in Nyungwe National Park, as they group lower to the ground. The country also observes Genocide Memorial Week, a solemn time of remembrance.
May
May is the final month of Rwanda’s long rainy season and a mixed time to visit. Gorilla trekking can be challenging due to marshy rainforests, though rain eases later in the month. The parks are lush and verdant, with newborn animals present. While not ideal for gorillas, May is excellent for chimpanzee tracking, as they forage on the forest floor.
June
June marks the start of Rwanda’s long dry season and peak travel time, ideal for mountain gorilla tracking, so book permits well in advance. It’s also a great period to explore other parks like Akagera. Combine your trip with a Kenya or Tanzania safari to witness the wildebeest migration. Despite the dry season, occasional rainforest showers mean waterproofs are still recommended.
July
July is a superb month to visit Rwanda, with ideal conditions for gorilla trekking and other wildlife activities. It’s peak season, so lodges and permits book up fast; reserve at least a year in advance. The dry ground and lush scenery make hiking excellent. Combine your trip with a safari in Kenya or Tanzania for a truly memorable East Africa adventure.
August
August is another excellent month to visit Rwanda, with dry, warm conditions ideal for gorilla trekking; book early to secure permits and accommodation. Wildlife is easier to spot in the national parks as animals gather around limited water sources. It’s a great time to combine Rwanda with Kenya or Tanzania for the wildebeest migration and even add chimpanzee tracking.
September
September in Rwanda brings the end of the dry season, with occasional rain and some humidity in the rainforest. It’s still a great time for gorilla trekking and outdoor activities. The Kwita Izina gorilla-naming ceremony is a highlight. Pair Rwanda with a safari in Kenya or Tanzania for a full wildlife adventure during this excellent safari month.
October
October marks the start of Rwanda’s short rains, usually brief showers followed by clear skies. It’s a fantastic month for birding and chimpanzee tracking, with lush, photogenic landscapes. While not ideal for gorilla trekking, keen visitors can still enjoy the experience. Combine your trip with beach time on Kenya’s coast for a varied East African adventure.
November
November in Rwanda is part of the short rains season, with brief but heavy showers. While gorilla trekking can be more challenging, the landscapes are lush and vibrant; perfect for photographers. Birdwatchers will enjoy an abundance of resident species. It’s not peak season, so availability is good, but pack waterproofs to stay dry during the average 140mm rainfall.
December
December in Rwanda marks the start of the short dry season. It’s a popular month, especially around Christmas, so book gorilla permits early. Mornings and evenings are chilly in the mountains, so pack warm layers. Prices rise over the festive period, and Volcanoes National Park can be busy. The dry weather is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, canoeing, and biking.
