🌤️ When to go?
Best time to visit Rwanda
The best time to visit Rwanda for backpacking is during the dry seasons, which are from June to September and from December to February. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant with less rainfall, making it easier to explore the country's natural beauty and go on outdoor adventures. Additionally, these months are also ideal for wildlife viewing, as animals are more active and easier to spot. However, it's important to note that Rwanda's climate can vary, so it's always recommended to check the weather forecast before planning your trip.
Why visit Rwanda in January?
January is a fantastic time to visit Rwanda for several reasons. Firstly, it is the dry season, which means you can expect clear skies and sunny weather, making it perfect for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing. The dry season also makes it easier to navigate the country’s lush landscapes and trek through its national parks, such as Volcanoes National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas.Additionally, January is a great time to experience cultural events and festivals in Rwanda. One of the most significant events during this time is the annual Kwita Izina, a gorilla-naming ceremony that celebrates the country’s conservation efforts and the importance of protecting these magnificent creatures. This event attracts visitors from around the world and provides a unique opportunity to learn about Rwanda’s conservation initiatives and immerse yourself in its rich culture.
Furthermore, January is an ideal time to explore Rwanda’s vibrant cities, such as Kigali, and discover its rich history, art, and culinary scene. Whether you’re interested in learning about the country’s tragic past at the Genocide Memorial or indulging in delicious Rwandan cuisine at local restaurants, January offers a great opportunity to engage with the country’s diverse and dynamic culture.
Why visit Rwanda in February?
February is an ideal time to visit Rwanda for its pleasant weather. The country experiences a dry season during this time, with clear skies and minimal rainfall. This makes it the perfect time for outdoor activities such as gorilla trekking, hiking in the national parks, and exploring the beautiful landscapes of Rwanda. The comfortable weather allows for a more enjoyable and rewarding experience for travelers.In February, Rwanda also celebrates its annual Kwita Izina festival, a unique event that showcases the country’s commitment to conservation and protection of its wildlife. This festival provides an opportunity for visitors to learn about Rwanda’s conservation efforts and witness the naming of newly born baby gorillas, adding a cultural and educational aspect to the trip.
On the downside, February is peak tourist season in Rwanda, which means that popular attractions and accommodations may be more crowded and expensive. It is important for travelers to plan and book their activities and accommodations well in advance to ensure availability and avoid disappointment.
Overall, visiting Rwanda in February offers a chance to experience the country’s natural beauty and wildlife, while also participating in a unique cultural event.
Why visit Rwanda in June?
June is an ideal time to visit Rwanda due to the country’s mild and pleasant weather. The month falls within the dry season, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the country’s stunning landscapes, including its lush national parks, without the hindrance of heavy rainfall. The clear skies and comfortable temperatures make it an excellent time for outdoor activities such as gorilla trekking, bird watching, and hiking.Additionally, June marks the beginning of the baby gorilla naming ceremony, known as Kwita Izina, a unique cultural event that celebrates the conservation efforts for these endangered animals. This annual ceremony presents an opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in Rwandan culture, witness traditional performances, and participate in the naming of baby gorillas, all while contributing to the conservation of these magnificent creatures.
On the downside, June is a popular time for tourists to visit Rwanda, which means that popular attractions and accommodations may be more crowded and potentially more expensive. It is advisable to book accommodations and activities well in advance to ensure availability and to avoid disappointment.
Overall, visiting Rwanda in June offers an opportunity to experience the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it a memorable and enriching travel experience.
Why visit Rwanda in July?
July is an ideal time to visit Rwanda for its pleasant weather and breathtaking natural beauty. The country’s lush landscapes are at their greenest during this time, making it a perfect opportunity to explore its numerous national parks and reserves. The famous Volcanoes National Park is home to the endangered mountain gorillas, and July offers a great chance to embark on a trek to observe these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. The park’s misty forests are particularly enchanting during this time, creating a magical atmosphere for visitors.Rwanda’s vibrant culture and history are also on full display in July, with various festivals and events taking place throughout the month. The annual Kwita Izina gorilla naming ceremony, where newly born gorillas are given names, is a unique and heartwarming experience that showcases the country’s commitment to conservation and wildlife protection. Additionally, visitors can immerse themselves in Rwandan traditions through music, dance, and local cuisine at cultural events and community gatherings.
July in Rwanda offers an opportunity to witness the country’s stunning landscapes, encounter its diverse wildlife, and engage with its rich cultural heritage. Whether it’s trekking through the misty forests to see mountain gorillas or participating in traditional ceremonies, Rwanda in July promises a memorable and enriching travel experience.
Why visit Rwanda in August?
August is an ideal time to visit Rwanda due to the favorable weather conditions. The country experiences its dry season during this time, with lower chances of rainfall and more sunshine. This makes it a great time to explore Rwanda’s stunning natural landscapes, including its lush rainforests, rolling hills, and picturesque lakes.In August, visitors can also witness the annual Kwita Izina gorilla naming ceremony, a unique and culturally rich event that celebrates the conservation efforts for the critically endangered mountain gorillas. This event offers a special opportunity to learn about Rwanda’s commitment to wildlife preservation and to witness the naming of newly born gorillas, making it a truly memorable experience for wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists.
Furthermore, August is an excellent time for outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and wildlife safaris. With the dry weather, it’s easier to navigate the national parks and spot a wide variety of flora and fauna, including the famous mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, and numerous bird species. This makes it an ideal time for nature lovers and adventure seekers to explore Rwanda’s diverse and thriving ecosystems.
Why visit Rwanda in September?
September is a great time to visit Rwanda for several reasons. The weather is generally mild and dry, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, gorilla trekking, and exploring the beautiful landscapes. The lush greenery and blooming flowers also make for stunning scenery, perfect for photography and nature enthusiasts. Additionally, September is a relatively less busy time for tourism in Rwanda, meaning you can enjoy popular attractions without the crowds. This allows for a more intimate and authentic experience, especially when visiting the local communities and cultural sites.
On the downside, September is still considered part of the peak tourist season in Rwanda, so accommodation and travel prices may be slightly higher compared to other times of the year. It’s important to plan and book in advance to secure the best options and deals. Additionally, while the weather is generally mild, it’s always a good idea to be prepared for sudden changes and occasional rainfall.
Overall, visiting Rwanda in September offers a great balance of favorable weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant natural beauty, making it an excellent time to explore this captivating East African country.
Why visit Rwanda in December?
In December, Rwanda experiences warm and sunny weather, making it an ideal time to explore the country’s stunning natural landscapes. The dry season allows for clear views of the lush greenery, rolling hills, and picturesque lakes, creating a beautiful backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and wildlife spotting in the national parks.December is also the perfect time to visit Rwanda for cultural experiences, as the month is filled with vibrant festivals and events. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich traditions of the local communities, witness colorful celebrations, and participate in traditional dances and music performances. This offers a unique opportunity to connect with the local culture and gain a deeper understanding of Rwanda’s heritage.
On the downside, December is a popular time for tourists to visit Rwanda, so attractions and accommodations may be more crowded and expensive. It’s important to book accommodations and activities in advance to ensure availability and to avoid disappointment. Additionally, while the weather is generally warm and sunny, there is a chance of occasional rain showers, so it’s advisable to pack accordingly and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Overall, visiting Rwanda in December offers a wonderful mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and festive celebrations, making it an exciting and memorable time to explore this vibrant East African country.
🌤️ Climate in Rwanda
In Rwanda, the "land of a thousand hills", located just south of the Equator, there is a tropical highland climate, pleasantly warm all year round. In fact, most of the country is located on a plateau, around 1,500 meters (5,000 feet) above sea level. The altitude decreases below a thousand meters (3,300 feet) only in the westernmost part, along the Rusizi River, which marks the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and which is therefore the only area where it can get hot, and the temperature can sometimes reach 35 °C (95 °F).
The rains are quite abundant, and range from 1,000 to 1,400 millimeters (40 to 55 inches) per year depending on area.
There is a dry season from June to August (with July as the driest month) and a rainy season from September to May. On closer view, there would be two rainy seasons, caused by the zenith passages of the sun, from March to May and from September to November. However, the decrease in rainfall from December to February is small, and it's just more pronounced in the north, where it drops below 100 mm (4 in) per month, so we cannot properly speak of dry season. Between the two rainy seasons, the most intense is the one going from March to May, and the rainiest months are usually April and May, when precipitation reaches 150 mm (6 in) per month, or even more.
The rains in Rwanda usually occur in the form of downpours or thunderstorms, but there is not much sun, in fact, the sky is often cloudy, although in the driest months, especially in June and July, the sun comes out more often.
source: climatestotravel.com
Explore Rwanda
Does the weather seem nice in the period you would like to go? Find all the info you need to start your trip, including reasons why to go, general country info and health and safety advice.