Best Time to Visit Rwanda | Month By Month Guide 2027

Worst/Best Time to Visit Rwanda | Month By Month Guide. The months of June through September are the driest in Rwanda, and that’s when you’re most likely to see the country’s most famous animal, the mountain gorilla. The ideal time to visit the country to monitor chimpanzees is during the rainy seasons, which are March to May and June to September.

The best time to visit Rwanda is during the dry seasons from June to September and from December to February.

But regardless of the season, Rwanda is a great place to visit. Because Rwanda is located so close to the Equator, the weather is very consistent all year round, ranging from a comfortable 63 to 81 degrees Fahrenheit (depending on your location). Even while it’s warm during the day, the nights may get chilly, particularly up high.

Best Time to Visit Rwanda | Month By Month Guide

Long Dry Season (June to September)

  • Best weather: Skies are clear, and rain is rare.
  • Easy hiking: Trails in Volcanoes National Park are dry, which makes gorilla trekking much easier.
  • Wildlife viewing: Animals gather near water in Akagera National Park, and trees are thin.
  • High demand: This is the busiest time for travel, so you must book early. You can read more details on the The Bespoke African Safari Co. Travel guide.

Short Dry Season (December to February)

  • Good climate: Days are warm and sunny, with only brief showers.
  • Fewer crowds: There are fewer visitors than in the middle of the year.
  • Green views: The recent rains leave the hills lush and bright.

Rainy Seasons (March to May and October to November)

  • Lower costs: Hotels and parks often lower their prices.
  • Quiet parks: You will see very few other tourists.
  • Harder trekking: Trails get muddy and slippery, making walks tough.

Best Time to Visit Rwanda

June to September | Dry Season

  • Best time for gorilla trekking
  • Forest trails are less slippery
  • In Akagera National Park, vegetation is less thick and animals are easier to spot
  • Even during high season the parks don’t feel crowded
  • There is more sunshine
  • Gorilla permits need to be booked a long time in advance
  • The scenery is generally more beautiful in the Wet season

October to May | Wet Season

  • The landscapes are green and the sky is free of haze
  • Possible low-season discounts
  • Newborn animals in Akagera
  • Forest trails become slippery and challenging
  • Gorilla trekking departures leave as scheduled, even in heavy rain