Best Time To Visit Rwanda
Best Time to Track Gorillas in the Parc National des Volcans and the Chimpanzees of Nyungwe Forest...
Rwanda offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in Africa whether it be the dramatic Virunga volcanoes, the best place in the world to see the mountain gorilla, or the forest of Nyungwe, one of the largest mountainous forests in Central Africa, home to chimpanzees and large groups of Colobus monkeys. Its climate makes it a great place to visit year round.
Climate
Because of its high altitude, Rwanda has a pleasant tropical highland climate, with a daily temperature range as great as 14°C (25°F). Temperature may vary considerably from region to region because of the variations in altitude. The average daytime temperature is about 30°C except in the highlands where it is much cooler. There are four seasons; long rains from mid March to mid May, short rains from mid-October to November; long dry period from mid-May to mid-October and short dry season from December to mid-March. The north-east has more rainfall than other parts of the country. It is still perfectly possible to travel during the rains, indeed the scenery can be stunning and the flora lush and it can be ideal for photography of both the gorillas and the scenery.
There is no “best time to visit Rwanda”, as each season has its merits.
Wildlife
Mountain Gorillas Safaris: In the Volcanoes area of Rwanda you can expect to find bamboo specialists such as golden monkeys and mountain gorilla as well as habitat tolerant species such as buffalo and elephant. The best time for sighting animals is during the dry season between mid December to March and mid May to mid October although it is easy to track and see them year round.
Bird watching: Rwanda is a fantastic destination for bird watchers with an incredible 670 species recorded in an area smaller than Belgium. Lush flora will attract many species but sightings may be easier during dry periods - mid December to March and mid May to mid October.
Public holidays
New Year’s Day, Heroe’s Day (Feb 1), Good Friday, Easter Monday, Genocide memorial day (Apr 7), Labour Day (1 May), Independence Day (1 July), Liberation Day (July 4), Assumption (Aug 15), Patriotism Day (Oct 1), Christmas Day, Boxing Day
Visitors are welcome to join in with festivities but should always observe religious and private gatherings from a respectful distance, unless invited to join in!
Costs
Flight costs tend to increase over Christmas. Park fees remain the same year round. Some lodges do offer shoulder season rates during the wetter months of March – May and October and November…other lodges hold their prices throughout the year.
Get in Touch
To speak to our specialist in this region please call or email sales@worldprimatesafaris.com
Tel: 0044 (0) 1273 691 642
US Toll Free: 1866 357 6569
Plan your holiday in Rwanda
* View the accommodation options in Rwanda.
* See our selection of gorilla safaris.
* Contact us for personal travel advice and prices.
* We are an independent, fully-bonded UK tour operator run by former safari guides. Find out more about us.
















