Rwanda has two wet and two dry seasons that occur in an alternating fashion throughout the year. There isn’t much variance in temperature across seasons, but altitude does determine weather conditions.
Long, dry season – The prime tourist season runs from June to September. With plenty of sunny days and dry trails, it’s the best time to visit Rwanda for gorilla trekking. It is also the ideal time to spot the country’s golden monkeys and other wildlife, as scarcity of food and water drives animals to water sources.
Since it is a popular time to travel and the forest department issues only a specific number of permits, you will have to plan and book months in advance to be assured of a permit.
Short, rainy season – From mid-October to November, Rwanda experiences sporadic rains that turn the forest and surroundings green. Gorilla trekking is still possible, but the trails get muddy and slippery, making it tougher to head deep into the jungle.
Conditions are, however, perfect for birding.
Short, dry season – After the short rains, Rwanda goes through a brief, dry season from December to February. It is the best time to visit Rwanda, and since it coincides with the holiday season, it is also a busy time in the country.
Long, rainy season – The rains pick up once again for a more extended period in March and continue till May. Trekking in the forests becomes more challenging during this time.
It is, however, the best time of the year to visit Rwanda to spot chimpanzee families. Since food is readily available, chimpanzees tend not to move around much during this season and are found in large groups and lower on trees.
It is also a great time to take in the beauty of Rwanda’s mountains, which are dense and verdant from the rains
Gorilla trekking: While gorilla trekking can be done year-round, the dry months from June to September and December to February provide conducive trail conditions, making it the perfect time to see these incredibly intelligent creatures. Volcanoes National Park is one of the best places to spot them.
Spotting chimpanzees: The best time to visit Rwanda to track chimpanzees is during the rainy months from mid-February to mid-June and mid-September to mid-December, as the ready availability of food keeps the animals in the periphery of the jungle. During the dry months, the chimpanzees wander far into the forest, making it tougher to track them. Nyungwe National Park is the best place to spot them.
National parks: Rwanda’s national parks are home to lions, elephants, giraffes, hippos and more, and the best time to visit the country for exciting safaris are the dry months, from June to September and December to February.
Birdwatching: Around 700 species have been spotted in and around the country’s national parks. The best time to visit for birding and bird photography is during the wet months from October to November and again during the long, rainy period from March to May.
Naturally, it is also when Rwanda’s landscapes get their greenest, densest cover, opening up opportunities for fabulous landscape photography.
Visiting tea plantations: The slopes around Nyungwe are home to many tea plantations. If you are visiting the region between February and May, it makes for an interesting side trip to see the process of harvesting tea leaves and enjoying some freshly brewed cups.
With wildlife viewing and outdoor adventures the biggest draw in Rwanda, you should pack items accordingly.
For vehicle and on-foot safaris, pack long sleeve T-shirts and full trousers that can protect you from the sun and insects. Clothes in khaki, olive green, beige and neutral colours are recommended.
You may find Rwanda chilly during early mornings and evenings, so it’s best to carry a warm layer. A sweater or light jacket will serve the purpose. You will also need a sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and insect repellant. A daypack is also necessary for carrying a water bottle and a packed lunch or some snacks.
It can rain even during the dry season, so be prepared and carry a waterproof jacket. Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking might take you through muddy trails so sturdy, waterproof hiking shoes that provide a good grip are a must.
Make sure to carry a pair of binoculars to better view the incredible wildlife Rwanda has to offer.
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Take some time to visit Iby’iwacu Cultural Centre and learn how the people of this land respect the wildlife and discourage poaching. Be sure to try the Banana Beer whilst you’re there”.
Rwanda is continuing to work really hard on their animal conservation. The population of the Mountain Gorilla has almost doubled in the last 20 years, Black Rhino and Lion have recently returned to Akagera National Park, part of our Roaming Rwanda Tour, making it home to all the Big 5.”
A holiday to Rwanda promises heart-stopping adventure and wonderful wildlife encounters.
Rwanda surprises with its dense forests, tree-covered mountains and unforgettable wildlife experiences.
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