Experience the magic of Rwanda, the breathtaking “Land of a Thousand Hills,” and indulge in a journey filled with cultural experiences, wildlife encounters, and natural wonders. However, choosing the perfect time to visit Rwanda can make all the difference in your overall adventure. Our comprehensive guide will help you plan a memorable trip by exploring the key factors that determine the ideal time to explore Rwanda.
The best time to visit Rwanda is during the dry season of June to September. This is also the best time of year to see mountain gorillas in Rwanda as these periods offer the best hiking conditions and the lowest risk of malaria.
You can trek to see mountain gorillas and visit Rwanda outside of these optimum times of year, but bear in mind that it may be more difficult due to rainfall as well as steep and muddy hiking paths. You must be in relatively good shape before you commence your trek as you will be hiking to the mountain gorillas in the dense, tropical jungles of Rwanda.
The best time to visit Rwanda is, for most people, outside the rainy seasons – so from June to September and December to early February. But if you want to go gorilla trekking, the best time of year is simply whenever you can get a permit.
The best time to go on a Rwanda safari is usually in the dry seasons in June-September and December-early February. That said, most visitors travel to Rwanda to see gorillas, and so the best time is often whenever you can get a highly in-demand permit. Don’t be put off by the rainy season in Rwanda, either. The shorter rains in November and longer rains from March to May will give you the forests, lakes and mountains all to yourself, plus gorilla permits are occasionally cheaper. Photographers may even prefer the rainy season, with less light contrast in the forests allowing you to focus on your subject matter.
Rwanda, Month by Month
March is the beginning of the longer rainy season which goes on through April and May. The end of May can often be dry already, however, and yet still devoid of visitors avoiding the ‘big rains’. June to mid-September is the long dry season and the most popular time to visit. You may still get showers during this time though. September sees a very special event take place in Musanze: Kwita Izina, which is a gorilla naming ceremony and celebration of mountain gorilla births.
The Kigali International Peace Marathon takes place in May and is a very special event. If you are taking part or just watching. There are three races, a full marathon, half marathon and a 10km run for peace. Tutsi Genocide Memorial Day is 7 April, a public holiday and understandably a very solemn day indeed. If you are going gorilla trekking, things have dried up again in December after the short rains of October and November.
So if you’re looking for alternative Christmas holiday ideas then you could do a lot worse than heading to Rwanda to go gorilla watching. Same thing goes for January for a spectacular New Year celebration.
The tour in Rwanda is a spectacular country wide race run by the Rwanda Cycling Federation. It keeps changing dates, however, so keep an eye on their website. At the moment it is scheduled for February/March, although it originally ran in November and has also taken place in August. It’s a good one though, just a bit of a moveable feast. Independence Day takes place 1 July every year in Rwanda, celebrating the day in 1962 when Rwanda was freed from Belgian colonial rule.
Visiting Rwanda from January & February
During the months of January and February, high and medium-altitude regions comprising Kigali, Lake Kivu as well as Volcanoes National Park and Nyungwe National Parks, are hot in the day but cool in the evenings. Low-lying regions like Akagera National Park are hot in the day but warm in the evenings.
This is a popular time to go on a Rwanda safari and is a great opportunity to take in the breathtaking scenery of this beautiful country. The warm climate and sunshine in these months make for unforgettable forest treks. But if you are planning to visit Rwanda during this dry season, keep in mind that prices are generally higher, and you need to plan well in advance.
Travelling to Rwanda from March to May
March is the start of the rainy season, with showers continuing right through until mid-May. Despite the wet weather, these conditions are still good to be able to trek in search of the primates that inhabit this mystical landscape. Good quality rain gear is needed to brave the dense, wet forestry areas during this period.
April follows suit with March’s wet conditions. When deciding on places to visit in Rwanda, it’s best to know that hiking around the Virungas will be tough at this time of the year.
The rains begin to ease by mid-May. This is a good month to avoid the tourist crowds, and you may have a better chance of grabbing a last-minute gorilla trekking permit. For avid birdwatchers, May falls into the breeding season and the skies are filled with colorful, winged beauties.
Visiting Rwanda from June to September
The dry season between June and September is renowned for being the best time to go to Rwanda. There is often light cloud cover during this time of year and it makes for a comfortable climate for gorilla trekking. A highlight in June in Rwanda is the annual Kwita Izina Ceremony. This is when all the baby gorillas born over the previous twelve months are named. In September, the Rwanda Film Festival is another highlight on the calendar, showcasing local filmmakers and a selection of international favorites.
Visiting Rwanda in October to December
If you’re planning to go to Rwanda between October and December, you will be arriving during the short rainy season. Short bursts of showers are common in these months that clear to reveal blue skies. You could also take advantage of lower costs on gorilla trekking permits, hotels and Rwanda lodges – if you are not willing to let a little mud and rain deter you.
In conclusion
Crafting an exceptional Rwanda adventure hinges on choosing the right time to visit. Depending on your preferences, interests, and tolerance for weather conditions, either the dry or wet season can offer an unforgettable experience. From gorilla trekking to wildlife encounters and cultural immersion, Rwanda’s diverse offerings cater to every traveler’s desires. By factoring in aspects such as weather, permit availability, and safety precautions, you’ll be well-prepared to curate a Rwanda journey that aligns perfectly with your expectations, ensuring a truly transformative travel experience.