Rwanda, a jewel of the Albertine Rift, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Beyond its iconic gorillas and chimpanzees, the country boasts a rich tapestry of primates, such as the elusive Ruwenzori colobus and the golden monkey. As you glide along serene waterways, hippos and crocodiles emerge from the depths. In the vast savannahs of Akagera National Park, a kaleidoscope of wildlife unfolds: graceful giraffes, sturdy buffaloes, striped zebras, and unique defassa waterbucks roam freely, while the majestic lion reigns supreme.
Rwanda, straddling the equator, experiences consistent temperatures year-round, averaging around 27°C (81°F). Unlike many places, it lacks distinct summer and winter seasons. Instead, the country is characterized by two primary climatic periods: a Dry season, spanning from June to September, and a Wet season, extending from October to May. The Wet season is further segmented into two distinct phases: the short rains, occurring from October to December, and the long rains, which are more intense and last from March to May. A brief dry period separates these two rainy seasons.
While Rwanda welcomes visitors year-round, the best time to visit is during the dry season, from June to September. This period offers optimal conditions for wildlife viewing, particularly gorilla trekking, which can be hindered by heavy rainfall. April, being the wettest month, can make trekking paths muddy and challenging. By planning your trip during the dry season, you can ensure a more enjoyable and rewarding safari experience.
One of the few places on Earth where you can encounter the endangered mountain gorilla is Rwanda. Trekking through the bamboo forests of the Virunga Mountains to see these magnificent creatures is an unforgettable experience. In addition to gorillas, Rwanda also offers opportunities to track chimpanzees and golden monkeys.
Beyond its diverse primate population, Rwanda is home to over 136 mammal species. To experience the classic African safari, head to Akagera National Park in the east. This stunning savannah park is teeming with wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, zebras, giraffes, and various antelope species. Recently, the park has successfully reintroduced both black and white rhinos, as well as lions, further enhancing its wildlife offerings.
While gorilla trekking can be enjoyed in Rwanda throughout the year, the best time to visit is during the dry season, from June to September. This period offers ideal conditions for tracking gorillas and exploring Akagera National Park. The wettest months, March and April, can be less ideal due to heavy rainfall.
Rwanda is a birder paradise, boasting over 700 bird species in a relatively small area. Its mountainous habitats, especially the high-altitude rainforests of Nyungwe National Park, are renowned for their unique birdlife, including 29 Albertine Rift endemics. Volcanoes and Gishwati-Mukura National Parks also offer excellent opportunities to spot these rare birds, solidifying Rwanda’s reputation as a top birding destination in Africa.
Rwanda offers exceptional year-round birdwatching opportunities, particularly in the diverse forests of Nyungwe. The best time to spot a wide range of bird species is between January and June, when they are most active. While April’s heavy rains might present some challenges, the drier months from June to September offer ideal conditions for birdwatching and gorilla trekking. The trails are less muddy, making hiking more comfortable.
550+
Oct to Apr
The best time to visit Rwanda is during the Dry season, from June to September. This period offers optimal conditions for wildlife viewing, particularly gorilla trekking. The trails are drier, making them easier to navigate and ensuring a more comfortable trekking experience. While the rainforest environment remains relatively humid, the Dry season provides the most accessible conditions for exploring.
Rwanda, positioned on the equator, enjoys a consistent climate with stable temperatures throughout the year, devoid of the stark contrasts of winter and summer. The dry season, spanning from June to September, provides a welcome break from rainfall. However, even during the wet season, which extends from October to May, January and February offer relatively drier periods, adding complexity to Rwanda’s climatic patterns.
While Rwanda, nestled on the equator, enjoys consistent temperatures year-round, the elevation differences across the country create distinct microclimates. The eastern region, including Akagera National Park, shares Kigali’s warm weather, tempered by its higher altitude. In contrast, the western mountain parks, such as Volcanoes, Nyungwe, and Gishwati-Mukura, experience cooler temperatures, typically ranging from 16°C to 21°C during the day. As you ascend these mountainous regions, the temperature drops significantly, approximately 6.5°C for every 1,000 meters gained in elevation. Additionally, these elevated parks receive more rainfall due to their mountainous terrain and dense forest cover.
During the dry season, from June to August, most of Rwanda remains relatively dry, with the exception of the rainforests where occasional showers can occur. Temperatures in the eastern region, including Akagera National Park, typically reach around 27°C (81°F) in the afternoon. However, the mountain parks experience cooler temperatures, with Nyungwe National Park averaging around 21°C (70°F) and Volcanoes National Park around 16°C (61°F) during the day.
While September marks the beginning of the wet season, the early part of the month often remains relatively dry. Temperatures remain consistent, but the mountain parks, particularly Volcanoes National Park, experience a significant increase in rainfall.
The wet season in Rwanda is characterized by two distinct rainy periods, separated by a brief dry spell.
The short rains occur from October to December, particularly affecting Nyungwe and Volcanoes National Parks. During this time, daytime temperatures in Nyungwe average around 19°C (66°F), while Volcanoes National Park experiences slightly cooler temperatures, around 15°C (59°F). Akagera National Park, located in the eastern region, typically remains relatively dry during this period.
A brief dry spell follows in January and February, although occasional rain showers can still occur in the mountainous regions of Nyungwe and Volcanoes National Parks.
The long rains, the most intense period of rainfall, take place from March to May. This period is characterized by frequent and sometimes heavy rainfall, especially in the western mountain parks.
Rwanda seamlessly integrates into your East or Southern African safari itinerary. Volcanoes National Park, renowned for its mountain gorilla encounters, is conveniently located a mere 2.5-hour drive from Kigali, the capital city. However, Rwanda’s allure extends beyond its gorilla trekking.
After landing at Kigali International Airport, consider spending a night in the city before starting your Rwandan adventure. A recommended itinerary would be to begin your journey at Nyungwe National Park, followed by a visit to Lake Kivu, and concluding with Volcanoes National Park. If you have time, Akagera National Park can be explored as a separate day trip from Kigali, approximately a 2.5-hour drive away.
Key Destinations
Kigali (1 to 2 days): Spend a day or two exploring the clean and safe city of Kigali. A must-visit is the poignant Kigali Genocide Memorial.
Nyungwe National Park (2 to 4 days): xploring the high-altitude rainforest of Nyungwe National Park. Here, you can embark on thrilling chimpanzee treks, hike through the forest, and experience the exhilarating canopy walk.
Lake Kivu (1 to 3 days): relaxing by the scenic Lake Kivu, nestled in East Africa’s Rift Valley.
Volcanoes National Park (2 to 4 days): exploring Volcanoes National Park, the home of the endangered mountain gorillas. Here, you can track gorillas, hike to Dian Fossey’s grave, and embark on golden monkey treks.
Popular add-ons include:
Akagera National Park (2 to 4 days): exploring the scenic Akagera National Park, a Big Five reserve offering boat trips, night drives, and traditional game drives.
Kigali International Airport (KGL) is the main entry point into Rwanda, situated near the capital city, Kigali.
Rwanda is a relatively small country, and road transportation is the most common mode of travel. The speed limit is set at 60 kilometers per hour. For faster travel, Akagera Aviation provides charter helicopter services to various destinations within the country.
There’s a domestic flight operated by RwandAir between Kigali and Kamembe Airport (KME) in Rusizi, located on the southern tip of Lake Kivu. However, this flight is not frequently used by tourists.
Your safari operator, Bush 2 City Adventure, will arrange your airport pickup or accommodation pickup and manage all transportation aspects of your safari package.
Traveling from the to Rwanda is most easily accomplished by flying with RwandAir. Other airline options include British Airways, Kenya Airways, and South African Airways.
The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not replace advice from your doctor or a travel health specialist. For complete and up-to-date travel health information regarding Rwanda, please consult the reputable resources listed below, including government organizations and travel clinics.
It’s recommended to receive vaccinations; for detailed immunization advice, please visit the listed websites and review our FAQ section below.
Most of the country poses a high risk, except for Volcanoes and Nyungwe National Parks, where the risk is low due to their high altitude. Akagera National Park and the Lake Kivu area are notably high-risk zones. The greatest risk of transmission occurs during the Wet season (October to May). For more detailed advice, please refer to the websites listed below.
From our perspective, Rwanda offers a secure environment for travelers, particularly those embarking on organized safaris. While a few governments advise against travel to select remote border areas, the popular tourist destinations remain safe. For further details, please consult the travel advisory links below. Rwanda warmly receives countless visitors each year, with the vast majority enjoying trouble-free experiences.
Here are some insights on staying safe while exploring Rwanda:
Your safari guide is dedicated to your safety throughout your journey—all you need to do is adhere to their instructions. During a self-drive safari, only exit your vehicle where it’s deemed safe to do so, and maintain a safe distance from animals. For more tips:
Keeping Safe on a Gorilla Trek:
Gorilla trekking is incredibly safe. These gentle giants rarely pose any threat to humans, as they’re accustomed to our presence. Before your trek, a park ranger will brief you on how to interact respectfully with the gorillas. Thousands of people visit Rwanda for gorilla treks each year without any issues.
Staying Safe on a Chimp Trek:
Chimp trekking is also very safe. The chimpanzee communities you’ll visit are habituated to human observers. Before you set out, a park ranger will explain how to behave around the chimps.
Crime rates tend to be higher in cities worldwide, and this is also true for Rwanda. Common crimes include petty theft and pickpocketing, though violent crime is notably scarce. Participating in guided activities is generally safe, and exploring the city on your own can be safe too, provided you take basic precautions. It’s advisable to ask your hotel for area-specific safety advice, avoid displaying valuables, carry only the necessary amount of cash, and use taxis instead of walking at night. For additional safety tips relevant to many African cities:
Please review the information on the following pages about malaria and vaccination requirements for Rwanda, as well as general travel safety tips.
Please refer to the links below for travel advisories on Rwanda from government sources.
What is the currency used in Rwanda?
“The currency used is the Rwandan Franc (RWF).”
What time zone is Rwanda in?
“Rwanda is in the Central Africa Time Zone (CAT), which is two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+2), the same as the rest of Southern Africa.”
Can I use my credit cards in Rwanda?
“Yes, Visa and MasterCard are generally accepted throughout Rwanda, including at Wilderness destinations. However, American Express and Diners Club cards are not accepted at our Wilderness properties.”
What type of power sockets are used in Rwanda?
“In Bisate, the national power grid supplies electricity, supported by a backup generator. Each Forest Villa offers 220V plug points, which include multi-plug adaptor charging facilities with USB for charging mobile devices and batteries, and for the use of sleep apnea machines. Magashi operates entirely on solar power with a generator backup for emergencies, providing 230V multi-plug adaptor charging facilities and USB ports. On request, we also provide charging facilities for sleep apnea machines.”
What should I pack for a safari in Rwanda?
“You should check for luggage weight or size restrictions with your Travel Designer. The dress code in Rwanda is not strict, but conservative dress is recommended for women. Pack warm clothing for cooler months and lighter clothing for the summer. Bright colors and white are discouraged on safari.”
How is the weather in Rwanda?
“Rwanda enjoys a temperate tropical highland climate, with cooler temperatures than typical equatorial countries due to its high elevation. In Kigali, temperatures range from 12°C to 27°C throughout the year, with minimal variation. The mountainous north-west, including Bisate, is generally cooler than the east.”
What should I wear when gorilla trekking in Rwanda?
“Since the forests can be rainy and wet, it’s advisable to pack warm, protective clothing and comfortable walking or hiking boots. Also, bring a hat and a lightweight parka or raincoat.”
Where is Rwanda located?
“Rwanda is a landlocked country situated in East-Central Africa, bordered by Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, and the Republic of Congo.”
When is a good time to visit Rwanda?
“Gorilla trekking is possible all year at Volcanoes National Park. For wildlife viewing in Akagera National Park, the drier seasons are best, as animals tend to gather at water sources.”
What kind of food is enjoyed in Rwanda?
“Traditional dishes in Rwanda include Liboke, which is chicken cooked and served in banana leaves, Sambaza, a fried, spicy fish served with spiced ginger rice, coconut fish, and Kachumbari, a traditional tomato and onion salad.”
Why should I visit Rwanda?
“Rwanda is renowned for its mountain gorillas, birdwatching, classic East African safari experiences, cultural encounters, hiking, and award-winning luxury camps set in breathtaking parts of the country.”
What is Rwanda’s culture?
“The cultural landscape of Rwanda includes several groups, with the three most distinct being the Hutu, Tutsi, and Pygmy Twa.”
What does ‘Rwanda’ mean?
“The name ‘Rwanda’ comes from a Kinyarwanda verb meaning ‘expansion.'”
What can I see in Rwanda?
“Rwanda offers extraordinary biodiversity, iconic wildlife, volcanoes, montane rainforest, and sweeping plains. You can explore these landscapes by boat or 4×4 vehicle in Akagera National Park, go gorilla and golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park, and visit vibrant Kigali. Other highlights include various national parks, natural forests, and volcanic lakes like Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes.”
Is a visa required to enter Rwanda?
“Yes, a visa is required for entry into Rwanda. Citizens of Commonwealth member states, African Union countries, and Francophonie countries can obtain a thirty-day tourist visa for free upon arrival.”
Do I need to obtain a permit for gorilla trekking in Rwanda?
“Yes, it is necessary to secure a permit for gorilla trekking in advance of your arrival, as recommended by the Rwanda Tourism Board (RDB). Permits are crucial for supporting conservation efforts and aiding community development around Volcanoes National Park. Our Wilderness Rwanda Travel Shop & Touring, along with your Travel Designer, can assist with the permit application process. They can also provide information on standard, discounted, or private gorilla trekking permit options and costs.”
Is a yellow fever vaccination required for Rwanda?
“Yellow fever vaccination is not mandatory for entry into Rwanda. However, if your travel plans include Kenya and Uganda as well, you will need to be vaccinated against yellow fever. It’s best to confirm this requirement with your travel clinic and Travel Designer before your trip.”
Should I take malaria medication when traveling to Rwanda?
“Although Bisate is situated at an elevation that generally does not pose a malaria risk, other parts of Rwanda, including Magashi in Akagera National Park, are malaria-risk areas. We recommend consulting with your medical practitioner or travel clinic about malaria prophylaxis. Make sure to do this several weeks before your trip as some preventive medications need to be started well in advance of your arrival in Rwanda.”
Rwanda, a jewel of the Albertine Rift, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Beyond its iconic gorillas and chimpanzees, the country boasts a rich tapestry of primates, such as the elusive Ruwenzori colobus and the golden monkey. As you glide along serene waterways, hippos and crocodiles emerge from the depths. In the vast savannahs of Akagera National Park, a kaleidoscope of wildlife unfolds: graceful giraffes, sturdy buffaloes, striped zebras, and unique defassa waterbucks roam freely, while the majestic lion reigns supreme.
Rwanda, straddling the equator, experiences consistent temperatures year-round, averaging around 27°C (81°F). Unlike many places, it lacks distinct summer and winter seasons. Instead, the country is characterized by two primary climatic periods: a Dry season, spanning from June to September, and a Wet season, extending from October to May. The Wet season is further segmented into two distinct phases: the short rains, occurring from October to December, and the long rains, which are more intense and last from March to May. A brief dry period separates these two rainy seasons.
While Rwanda welcomes visitors year-round, the best time to visit is during the dry season, from June to September. This period offers optimal conditions for wildlife viewing, particularly gorilla trekking, which can be hindered by heavy rainfall. April, being the wettest month, can make trekking paths muddy and challenging. By planning your trip during the dry season, you can ensure a more enjoyable and rewarding safari experience.
One of the few places on Earth where you can encounter the endangered mountain gorilla is Rwanda. Trekking through the bamboo forests of the Virunga Mountains to see these magnificent creatures is an unforgettable experience. In addition to gorillas, Rwanda also offers opportunities to track chimpanzees and golden monkeys.
Beyond its diverse primate population, Rwanda is home to over 136 mammal species. To experience the classic African safari, head to Akagera National Park in the east. This stunning savannah park is teeming with wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, zebras, giraffes, and various antelope species. Recently, the park has successfully reintroduced both black and white rhinos, as well as lions, further enhancing its wildlife offerings.
While gorilla trekking can be enjoyed in Rwanda throughout the year, the best time to visit is during the dry season, from June to September. This period offers ideal conditions for tracking gorillas and exploring Akagera National Park. The wettest months, March and April, can be less ideal due to heavy rainfall.
Rwanda is a birder paradise, boasting over 700 bird species in a relatively small area. Its mountainous habitats, especially the high-altitude rainforests of Nyungwe National Park, are renowned for their unique birdlife, including 29 Albertine Rift endemics. Volcanoes and Gishwati-Mukura National Parks also offer excellent opportunities to spot these rare birds, solidifying Rwanda’s reputation as a top birding destination in Africa.
550+
Oct to Apr
Rwanda offers exceptional year-round birdwatching opportunities, particularly in the diverse forests of Nyungwe. The best time to spot a wide range of bird species is between January and June, when they are most active. While April’s heavy rains might present some challenges, the drier months from June to September offer ideal conditions for birdwatching and gorilla trekking. The trails are less muddy, making hiking more comfortable.
550+
Oct to Apr
The best time to visit Rwanda is during the Dry season, from June to September. This period offers optimal conditions for wildlife viewing, particularly gorilla trekking. The trails are drier, making them easier to navigate and ensuring a more comfortable trekking experience. While the rainforest environment remains relatively humid, the Dry season provides the most accessible conditions for exploring.
Rwanda, positioned on the equator, enjoys a consistent climate with stable temperatures throughout the year, devoid of the stark contrasts of winter and summer. The dry season, spanning from June to September, provides a welcome break from rainfall. However, even during the wet season, which extends from October to May, January and February offer relatively drier periods, adding complexity to Rwanda’s climatic patterns.
While Rwanda, nestled on the equator, enjoys consistent temperatures year-round, the elevation differences across the country create distinct microclimates. The eastern region, including Akagera National Park, shares Kigali’s warm weather, tempered by its higher altitude. In contrast, the western mountain parks, such as Volcanoes, Nyungwe, and Gishwati-Mukura, experience cooler temperatures, typically ranging from 16°C to 21°C during the day. As you ascend these mountainous regions, the temperature drops significantly, approximately 6.5°C for every 1,000 meters gained in elevation. Additionally, these elevated parks receive more rainfall due to their mountainous terrain and dense forest cover.
During the dry season, from June to August, most of Rwanda remains relatively dry, with the exception of the rainforests where occasional showers can occur. Temperatures in the eastern region, including Akagera National Park, typically reach around 27°C (81°F) in the afternoon. However, the mountain parks experience cooler temperatures, with Nyungwe National Park averaging around 21°C (70°F) and Volcanoes National Park around 16°C (61°F) during the day.
While September marks the beginning of the wet season, the early part of the month often remains relatively dry. Temperatures remain consistent, but the mountain parks, particularly Volcanoes National Park, experience a significant increase in rainfall.
The wet season in Rwanda is characterized by two distinct rainy periods, separated by a brief dry spell.
The short rains occur from October to December, particularly affecting Nyungwe and Volcanoes National Parks. During this time, daytime temperatures in Nyungwe average around 19°C (66°F), while Volcanoes National Park experiences slightly cooler temperatures, around 15°C (59°F). Akagera National Park, located in the eastern region, typically remains relatively dry during this period.
A brief dry spell follows in January and February, although occasional rain showers can still occur in the mountainous regions of Nyungwe and Volcanoes National Parks.
The long rains, the most intense period of rainfall, take place from March to May. This period is characterized by frequent and sometimes heavy rainfall, especially in the western mountain parks.
Rwanda seamlessly integrates into your East or Southern African safari itinerary. Volcanoes National Park, renowned for its mountain gorilla encounters, is conveniently located a mere 2.5-hour drive from Kigali, the capital city. However, Rwanda’s allure extends beyond its gorilla trekking.
After landing at Kigali International Airport, consider spending a night in the city before starting your Rwandan adventure. A recommended itinerary would be to begin your journey at Nyungwe National Park, followed by a visit to Lake Kivu, and concluding with Volcanoes National Park. If you have time, Akagera National Park can be explored as a separate day trip from Kigali, approximately a 2.5-hour drive away.
Key Destinations
Kigali (1 to 2 days): Spend a day or two exploring the clean and safe city of Kigali. A must-visit is the poignant Kigali Genocide Memorial.
Nyungwe National Park (2 to 4 days): xploring the high-altitude rainforest of Nyungwe National Park. Here, you can embark on thrilling chimpanzee treks, hike through the forest, and experience the exhilarating canopy walk.
Lake Kivu (1 to 3 days): relaxing by the scenic Lake Kivu, nestled in East Africa’s Rift Valley.
Volcanoes National Park (2 to 4 days): exploring Volcanoes National Park, the home of the endangered mountain gorillas. Here, you can track gorillas, hike to Dian Fossey’s grave, and embark on golden monkey treks.
Popular add-ons include:
Akagera National Park (2 to 4 days): exploring the scenic Akagera National Park, a Big Five reserve offering boat trips, night drives, and traditional game drives.
Kigali International Airport (KGL) is the main entry point into Rwanda, situated near the capital city, Kigali.
Rwanda is a relatively small country, and road transportation is the most common mode of travel. The speed limit is set at 60 kilometers per hour. For faster travel, Akagera Aviation provides charter helicopter services to various destinations within the country.
There’s a domestic flight operated by RwandAir between Kigali and Kamembe Airport (KME) in Rusizi, located on the southern tip of Lake Kivu. However, this flight is not frequently used by tourists.
Your safari operator, Bush 2 City Adventure, will arrange your airport pickup or accommodation pickup and manage all transportation aspects of your safari package.
Traveling from the to Rwanda is most easily accomplished by flying with RwandAir. Other airline options include British Airways, Kenya Airways, and South African Airways.
The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not replace advice from your doctor or a travel health specialist. For complete and up-to-date travel health information regarding Rwanda, please consult the reputable resources listed below, including government organizations and travel clinics.
It’s recommended to receive vaccinations; for detailed immunization advice, please visit the listed websites and review our FAQ section below.
Most of the country poses a high risk, except for Volcanoes and Nyungwe National Parks, where the risk is low due to their high altitude. Akagera National Park and the Lake Kivu area are notably high-risk zones. The greatest risk of transmission occurs during the Wet season (October to May). For more detailed advice, please refer to the websites listed below.
From our perspective, Rwanda offers a secure environment for travelers, particularly those embarking on organized safaris. While a few governments advise against travel to select remote border areas, the popular tourist destinations remain safe. For further details, please consult the travel advisory links below. Rwanda warmly receives countless visitors each year, with the vast majority enjoying trouble-free experiences.
Here are some insights on staying safe while exploring Rwanda:
Your safari guide is dedicated to your safety throughout your journey—all you need to do is adhere to their instructions. During a self-drive safari, only exit your vehicle where it’s deemed safe to do so, and maintain a safe distance from animals. For more tips:
Keeping Safe on a Gorilla Trek:
Gorilla trekking is incredibly safe. These gentle giants rarely pose any threat to humans, as they’re accustomed to our presence. Before your trek, a park ranger will brief you on how to interact respectfully with the gorillas. Thousands of people visit Rwanda for gorilla treks each year without any issues.
Staying Safe on a Chimp Trek:
Chimp trekking is also very safe. The chimpanzee communities you’ll visit are habituated to human observers. Before you set out, a park ranger will explain how to behave around the chimps.
Crime rates tend to be higher in cities worldwide, and this is also true for Rwanda. Common crimes include petty theft and pickpocketing, though violent crime is notably scarce. Participating in guided activities is generally safe, and exploring the city on your own can be safe too, provided you take basic precautions. It’s advisable to ask your hotel for area-specific safety advice, avoid displaying valuables, carry only the necessary amount of cash, and use taxis instead of walking at night. For additional safety tips relevant to many African cities:
Please review the information on the following pages about malaria and vaccination requirements for Rwanda, as well as general travel safety tips.
Please refer to the links below for travel advisories on Rwanda from government sources.
