in Rwanda: when to go?
tropical de montagne climate
Nicknamed the "Land of a Thousand Hills," Rwanda enjoys a temperate tropical climate moderated by altitude, which gives it remarkable mildness throughout the year. Perched between 1,000 and 3,000 meters, this small East African country escapes the oppressive heat typical of the equatorial region. Two dry seasons punctuate the year: the long dry season from June to September, the ideal period for gorilla watching in Volcanoes National Park, and the short dry season from December to February, perfect for discovering Kigali and the lakes. The rainy seasons (March-May and October-November) transform the landscape into a verdant setting but make roads difficult and limit access to parks. Temperatures pleasantly oscillate between 15°C at night and 25°C during the day, always requiring a light sweater in the evening. For a first trip, prioritize June to September: this is the period when conditions are optimal for all activities, from trekking to safaris to encounters with mountain gorillas.
- Best period
- December to February, June to September
- Good alternatives
- none
- Rainy season
- March to May, October to November
Year-round overview
Select a month to plan your trip
Climate in numbers
Monthly temperatures and precipitation
Temperature (°C)
Precipitation (mm)
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Climate zones
Climate varies by region. Discover the unique characteristics of each zone.
Tropical mountain climate
FavorableRwanda enjoys a temperate tropical climate, moderated by the country's high altitude (average 1,700m). This unique geogr...
Northern Province
FavorableWestern Province
FavorableKigali and surroundings
FavorableEastern Province
FavorableMonth by month
Find detailed climate information for each month of the year.
Temperature
11° — 29°C
Precipitation
83 mm
Average temperature
4°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Excellent for visiting Kigali and the lakes. A few brief showers possible.
Temperature
11° — 29°C
Precipitation
91 mm
Average temperature
4.1°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Best season for trekking. Landscapes still lush from the rainy season.
Temperature
11° — 28°C
Precipitation
141 mm
Average temperature
4°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Difficult trails. Gorilla observation possible but humid conditions.
Temperature
11° — 27°C
Precipitation
181 mm
Average temperature
3.9°C
Rating
Not recommended
By climate zone
Peak rainy season. Travel is very difficult, parks often inaccessible.
Temperature
11° — 27°C
Precipitation
125 mm
Average temperature
3.8°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Progressive improvement. Stunning landscapes but limited access.
Temperature
10° — 28°C
Precipitation
21 mm
Average temperature
3.6°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Ideal conditions for gorilla observation. Clear skies, accessible roads.
Temperature
10° — 28°C
Precipitation
13 mm
Average temperature
3.5°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Driest month. Perfect for all types of outdoor activities.
Temperature
10° — 29°C
Precipitation
24 mm
Average temperature
3.7°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Excellent for treks and safaris. Ideal temperature, minimal rainfall.
Temperature
11° — 29°C
Precipitation
69 mm
Average temperature
3.9°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Still very favorable. First short refreshing rains.
Temperature
11° — 28°C
Precipitation
124 mm
Average temperature
3.9°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Return of rains. Access to parks more difficult.
Temperature
11° — 27°C
Precipitation
141 mm
Average temperature
3.9°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Frequent showers. Avoid long transfers between parks.
Temperature
11° — 28°C
Precipitation
89 mm
Average temperature
4°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
Notable improvement. Good for discovering local culture in Kigali.
Frequently asked questions
Everything about the climate and the best time to visit in Rwanda
The best months to visit in Rwanda are June, July, August, September, December, January, February. This period offers favourable weather and ideal conditions for exploring the country at its best.
Yes, the tropical climate of Rwanda remains warm and humid year-round (average temperature 19.5°C). Seasonal variations mainly concern rainfall rather than temperatures.
The rainy season in Rwanda mainly affects March, April, May, October, November. Showers are generally short and intense, often occurring late in the day, followed by beautiful sunny spells.
Absolutely. Traveling in Rwanda during the rainy season even has its advantages: lush landscapes, fewer tourists, more favorable rates. Our local agency adapts itineraries based on actual weather conditions.
Underwater visibility in Rwanda is optimal during the dry season, between June, July, August, September, December, January, February. Water temperature remains pleasant year-round (around 28-30°C). Our agency guides you to the best spots according to the season.
If your travel dates don't match the ideal season in in Rwanda, the Nomadays network brings together more than 100 local agencies worldwide. Get in touch to find out which destination would be ideal for your dates.
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