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rwanda weather by month
Rwanda Weather by Month: A Month-by-Month Guide
Rwanda’s temperate, tropical highland climate, influenced by its equatorial position and high elevation, provides moderate weather year-round, with slight variations between wet and dry seasons. Here’s a month-by-month breakdown to help you plan your visit to the “Land of a Thousand Hills.”
January
Weather Overview: January is part of the short dry season, marked by warm, relatively dry weather. Skies are often clear, making it a favorable month for outdoor activities.
Temperatures:
- Daytime: 25-27°C (77-81°F)
- Nighttime: 15-18°C (59-64°F)
Highlights:
- Ideal conditions for gorilla trekking and wildlife safaris.
- Popular month for tourists, so advanced bookings are recommended.
February
Weather Overview: February continues the short dry season, although rainfall may increase toward the end of the month as it transitions into the wet season.
Temperatures:
- Daytime: 25-27°C (77-81°F)
- Nighttime: 15-17°C (59-63°F)
Highlights:
- Great for gorilla trekking, hiking, and visiting Lake Kivu.
- A quieter alternative to January, with mild weather for outdoor activities.
March
Weather Overview: March marks the start of the long wet season. Rain becomes more frequent and intense, particularly in the afternoons.
Temperatures:
- Daytime: 24-26°C (75-79°F)
- Nighttime: 16-18°C (61-64°F)
Highlights:
- Lush, green landscapes make this a picturesque month for photography.
- Although trekking and safari activities are still possible, trails may be muddy and wildlife spotting may be more challenging.
April
Weather Overview: April is the peak of the long wet season, with consistent and often heavy rainfall. It is one of the rainiest months in Rwanda.
Temperatures:
- Daytime: 23-25°C (73-77°F)
- Nighttime: 16-18°C (61-64°F)
Highlights:
- Lush vegetation creates stunning scenery, but heavy rains can make trekking trails slippery.
- Not a peak tourist season, so accommodations may be more affordable and less crowded.
May
Weather Overview: May continues the long wet season, with frequent rains, but precipitation gradually starts to decrease as the month progresses.
Temperatures:
- Daytime: 24-26°C (75-79°F)
- Nighttime: 16-17°C (61-63°F)
Highlights:
- Verdant landscapes are ideal for nature photography.
- The rainy season keeps most tourists away, offering a more private experience.
June
Weather Overview: June marks the beginning of the long dry season, making it one of the most popular months for tourism. Rainfall decreases significantly, and sunny days are common.
Temperatures:
- Daytime: 25-27°C (77-81°F)
- Nighttime: 15-17°C (59-63°F)
Highlights:
- Excellent conditions for gorilla trekking and wildlife viewing.
- The start of the peak season, so advanced bookings are recommended.
July
Weather Overview: July is one of the driest and most popular months for visitors. Clear skies, low humidity, and mild temperatures make it ideal for outdoor activities.
Temperatures:
- Daytime: 25-27°C (77-81°F)
- Nighttime: 15-16°C (59-61°F)
Highlights:
- Great for all types of outdoor activities, especially trekking and safaris.
- Accommodation and permits can book up quickly due to high demand.
August
Weather Overview: August remains part of the long dry season, with similar conditions to July. It’s an excellent month for exploring Rwanda’s national parks.
Temperatures:
- Daytime: 25-27°C (77-81°F)
- Nighttime: 15-16°C (59-61°F)
Highlights:
- Clear and dry conditions perfect for gorilla trekking and safaris.
- Popular for travelers, so booking in advance is recommended.
September
Weather Overview: September sees the end of the long dry season, with rainfall gradually returning toward the end of the month.
Temperatures:
- Daytime: 25-26°C (77-79°F)
- Nighttime: 15-17°C (59-63°F)
Highlights:
- Good for outdoor activities early in the month.
- A transition period with fewer tourists as the wet season approaches.
October
Weather Overview: October marks the start of the short wet season. Rainfall becomes more frequent, and humidity increases, especially in the latter half of the month.
Temperatures:
- Daytime: 24-26°C (75-79°F)
- Nighttime: 16-17°C (61-63°F)
Highlights:
- Lush landscapes return, providing beautiful scenery.
- Wildlife and trekking remain possible, though trails may be muddy.
November
Weather Overview: November is the peak of the short wet season, with frequent rains across the country. It’s typically one of the least busy months for tourism.
Temperatures:
- Daytime: 23-25°C (73-77°F)
- Nighttime: 16-17°C (61-63°F)
Highlights:
- A quieter time to visit for budget travelers, as prices and crowds are lower.
- Rainy conditions may limit outdoor activities and make travel more challenging.
December
Weather Overview: December signals the start of the short dry season. Rainfall decreases, and drier weather makes it easier to explore Rwanda’s outdoor attractions.
Temperatures:
- Daytime: 25-27°C (77-81°F)
- Nighttime: 15-18°C (59-64°F)
Highlights:
- A festive and popular month to visit with improved weather conditions.
- Great for outdoor activities like trekking and safaris, though it’s advisable to book accommodations in advance due to higher demand.
Summary Table: Rwanda Weather by Month
Month | Season | Avg Day Temp | Avg Night Temp | Weather Highlights |
---|---|---|---|---|
January | Short Dry Season | 25-27°C | 15-18°C | Clear skies, great for trekking and safaris |
February | Short Dry Season | 25-27°C | 15-17°C | Dry with minimal rain, ideal for activities |
March | Long Wet Season | 24-26°C | 16-18°C | Start of rainy season, lush landscapes |
April | Long Wet Season | 23-25°C | 16-18°C | Heaviest rains, fewer tourists |
May | Long Wet Season | 24-26°C | 16-17°C | Rain decreases towards month’s end |
June | Long Dry Season | 25-27°C | 15-17°C | Popular for trekking, clear and dry |
July | Long Dry Season | 25-27°C | 15-16°C | Peak tourism season, excellent weather |
August | Long Dry Season | 25-27°C | 15-16°C | Great for wildlife and trekking |
September | Long Dry Season | 25-26°C | 15-17°C | Dry early, rain starts late month |
October | Short Wet Season | 24-26°C | 16-17°C | Start of rainy season, fewer crowds |
November | Short Wet Season | 23-25°C | 16-17°C | Peak of wet season, budget-friendly |
December | Short Dry Season | 25-27°C | 15-18°C | Ideal for activities, festive atmosphere |
Understanding Rwanda’s weather month by month will help you make the most of your visit, whether you’re planning a wildlife adventure, cultural exploration, or simply soaking in Rwanda’s beautiful landscapes.
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