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Best time to visit Rwanda: month by month
Short answer
June to September and December to February are the dry seasons and best for gorilla and chimpanzee treks, with only 1-6 rainy days a month in June to August. Temperatures are pleasant all year, around 25-28°C by day in Kigali. March to May has long rains (up to 23 rainy days in April) and fewer visitors.
Month by month
| Month | High | Low | Rainy days | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 26°C | 14°C | 11 | medium |
| Feb | 27°C | 15°C | 14 | medium |
| Mar | 26°C | 15°C | 17 | low |
| Apr | 25°C | 15°C | 23 | low |
| May | 25°C | 15°C | 14 | low |
| Jun | 25°C | 14°C | 1 | high |
| Jul | 26°C | 14°C | 1 | very high |
| Aug | 27°C | 15°C | 6 | very high |
| Sep | 27°C | 15°C | 13 | high |
| Oct | 28°C | 15°C | 13 | medium |
| Nov | 26°C | 15°C | 20 | low |
| Dec | 26°C | 15°C | 20 | high |
Temperatures and rainy days: Copernicus ERA5 averages, 2021–2023. Crowd levels are our estimate.
Season by season
Spring (Mar–May)
The long rains, with 14-23 rainy days and highs of about 25-26°C; muddy trails but green hills and lodge discounts.
Summer (Jun–Aug)
The main dry season, with highs of 25-27°C and only 1-6 rainy days; the best and busiest time for treks.
Autumn (Sep–Nov)
Short rains start, with 13-20 rainy days and highs of 26-28°C.
Winter (Dec–Feb)
A shorter dry spell, with highs of 26-27°C and 11-20 rainy days; good trekking conditions in January-February.
Events worth planning around
- Kwita Izina gorilla naming ceremony, usually around September (check dates)
- Kwibuka genocide commemoration, starting 7 April
- Umuganda community work, last Saturday of each month
- Liberation Day, 4 July
When to avoid
April and May are the wettest months, making treks slippery and some roads harder. During Kwibuka (from 7 April), be respectful; some entertainment venues are quieter.
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Common questions
What is the best time to visit Rwanda?
June to September and December to February, the dry seasons.
Can I trek gorillas in the rainy season?
Yes, all year. Expect more mud and rain from March to May, but fewer visitors.
Is Rwanda hot?
It is mild because of altitude: Kigali highs are about 25-28°C, and nights in Musanze are cool.