Weather & Climate in Rwanda

Rwanda lies just two degrees south of the equator, but its high altitude provides this small country with a pleasant tropical highland climate. January and February tend to be the warmest and driest months of the year (although there is always a chance of rain). This is especially true in the lower lying areas where wildlife drives, boat trips etc. take place. Despite hot daytime temperatures in lower lying areas, it will be much cooler at night and during time spent at higher altitudes where gorilla treks take place.

The rainy seasons in Rwanda are generally from March to the end of April or beginning of May, and again from mid-October to the middle of December. Due to the tropical climate, it can rain almost any time in Volcanoes National Park—the area receives 90 percent of all precipitation that falls in Rwanda. However, on most days, there are also periods where the skies clear and the sun comes out. Temperatures vary little from month to month in the same place due to the equatorial climate, modified by altitude. The temperature range is from the low 50s to the mid 80s year-round.

Average Monthly Temperatures & Rainfall