Safari in Rwanda

The dry conditions continue through February, with consistently warm temperatures and low humidity. Expect plenty of sunshine, ideal for outdoor activities.

Wildlife viewing remains excellent across the country. In Nyungwe, chimpanzee tracking is easier on the drier forest floor, and birdlife is abundant.

This is a fantastic time to combine gorilla trekking with a visit to Akagera for Big Five viewing, as the landscapes are still relatively green but dry.

March marks the start of the long rainy season, bringing increased rainfall, particularly in the afternoons. Temperatures remain warm, but humidity rises.

While trails can be muddy, the forest is lush and beautiful for gorilla and chimpanzee tracking. Birding is exceptional as migratory birds arrive and resident species are active.

We find March to be a rewarding month for birdwatchers, especially in Nyungwe Forest, where the vibrant plumage of numerous species is a sight to behold.

April is typically the wettest month, with heavy, prolonged rains. Trekking conditions are challenging, but the landscape is incredibly green and vibrant.

Despite the rain, wildlife is active, and the lush vegetation provides ample food. Gorilla and chimpanzee sightings are still consistent, and birding is at its peak.

For those seeking solitude and lower permit costs, April offers a unique, intimate experience with the gorillas amidst the incredibly verdant forest.

Rainfall begins to decrease towards the end of May, though showers are still common. The air is fresh, and the scenery is spectacularly green and rejuvenated.

The forests are incredibly lush, making for stunning photographic opportunities. Predator activity in Akagera can be good as prey animals are spread out.

We love May for its dramatic skies and vibrant landscapes, making it an ideal time for photographers to capture Rwanda's natural beauty.

June marks the beginning of the long dry season, with significantly less rain and increasingly sunny days. Temperatures are pleasant, and humidity drops.

Trekking conditions improve dramatically, making gorilla and chimpanzee tracking more comfortable. Game viewing in Akagera becomes excellent as water sources diminish.

This is one of our favorite months for gorilla trekking, as the trails are drier and the weather is consistently clear, offering superb visibility.

July is a prime dry season month, characterized by abundant sunshine, minimal rainfall, and comfortable temperatures. It's ideal for all safari activities.

Gorilla families are often easier to locate as they range less widely. In Akagera, animals gather around the lakes and rivers, providing spectacular viewing.

We highly recommend July for a classic Rwandan safari experience, combining the thrill of gorilla trekking with exceptional game drives in Akagera.

August continues the dry season trend, with consistently warm, sunny weather and very little rain. Conditions are perfect for trekking and game viewing.

This is a fantastic time for all wildlife encounters. The dry conditions mean animals are more concentrated, and the forest undergrowth is less dense for tracking.

For guaranteed dry trails and excellent visibility, August is an unbeatable choice for both gorilla and golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park.

The dry season begins to transition in September, with a slight increase in humidity but still predominantly sunny and warm days. Occasional short showers may occur.

Wildlife remains very active, and the slightly greener landscapes offer a beautiful contrast to the peak dry months. Birding starts to pick up as migratory species return.

We find September to be a wonderful balance, offering excellent wildlife viewing with slightly fewer crowds than the peak months of July and August.

October marks the beginning of the short rainy season, bringing afternoon showers and a return of lush greenery. Mornings are generally clear and pleasant.

The forests become incredibly vibrant, and birding is exceptional. Gorilla and chimpanzee tracking is still very rewarding, despite the occasional rain.

We recommend October for those who appreciate lush, green landscapes and vibrant birdlife, as the country truly comes alive after the dry season.

Rainfall continues through November, often in the form of short, heavy downpours. The air is fresh, and the country is beautifully green and fertile.

This is a fantastic month for birding, with many migratory species present. The forest primates are active, and the lush vegetation provides ample food sources.

For a truly immersive forest experience and unparalleled birdwatching, November in Nyungwe Forest National Park is an absolute gem.

December transitions into a short dry season, with decreasing rainfall and more sunny days, especially towards the end of the month. Temperatures are warm and comfortable.

Trekking conditions improve significantly, making it an excellent time for gorilla and chimpanzee encounters. Akagera offers good game viewing as animals begin to concentrate.

We find December, particularly the latter half, to be a wonderful time for a festive safari, combining excellent wildlife viewing with a celebratory atmosphere.