The best time to visit Rwanda for gorilla trekking is the long dry season from June to September, and the short dry season from December to February, when trails are firmer. The rainy months, from about March to May and October to November, are greener and quieter, and from November to May a 30% gorilla permit discount is available when you also stay two nights in Nyungwe or Akagera.
Key takeaways
- June–September: long dry season and peak demand.
- December–February: short dry season, a great alternative.
- March–May and October–November: rainy, green and quieter.
- Permit discount from November to May (conditions apply).
- Akagera is best in the dry seasons.
Rwanda lies just south of the equator, high in the hills, so temperatures are mild all year. The seasons are defined by rainfall, and they affect trekking conditions more than wildlife.
Rwanda’s seasons at a glance
| Months | Season | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| December–February | Short dry season | Good trekking; busy over the holidays |
| March–May | Long rains | Muddy trails, green hills, permit discount |
| June–September | Long dry season | Peak season; best trekking conditions |
| October–November | Short rains | Showers return; discount from November |
Gorilla trekking through the year
The mountain gorillas of Volcanoes National Park are visited every day, and their families do not migrate, so sightings are excellent in every month. In the dry seasons, trails on the bamboo slopes are firmer and treks are usually easier. In the rains, mud makes hiking harder, but the forest is at its most beautiful and there are fewer visitors. Read gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
The permit discount
From November to May, Rwanda offers 30% off the gorilla permit to travellers who also spend at least two nights in Nyungwe and/or Akagera. This makes the rainy months excellent value for a longer trip. Read Rwanda gorilla permit discounts explained.
Park by park
- Volcanoes National Park: gorillas and golden monkeys year-round; driest June to September.
- Nyungwe: chimp trekking and the canopy walk; drier June to August and December to February. Read chimpanzees in Nyungwe.
- Akagera: best in the dry seasons for game drives and the Lake Ihema boat trip. Read Akagera’s Big Five.
- Lake Kivu: lovely all year; calm mornings in the dry months.
Month-by-month highlights
- January and February: dry, comfortable trekking; good value after the holidays.
- March to May: the long rains; green and quiet, with the permit discount.
- June to September: peak season; book permits many months ahead.
- October: showers return; fewer visitors.
- November: short rains and the start of the discount season.
- December: dry and festive; book early.
Weather and altitude
Volcanoes National Park lies between about 2,500 and 4,500 metres, so mornings are cool and it can be cold and wet high on the slopes in any month. Kigali, at about 1,500 metres, is warm by day and mild at night. Nyungwe is cool and misty, and Akagera, lower and on the eastern plains, is the warmest part of the country. Pack layers whatever the season.
What to pack
Whatever the month, bring waterproof hiking boots, a rain jacket, gardening gloves for grabbing vegetation, long trousers and a warm layer for early starts. Read what to pack for gorilla trekking.
Rwanda’s community work day, Umuganda, takes place on the last Saturday morning of each month, and many shops and roads are quiet until about midday. We plan travel around it.
Combining Rwanda with Uganda
The seasons in Rwanda and south-western Uganda are almost identical, so a trip combining Volcanoes National Park with Bwindi works in any month. Many travellers trek gorillas in both countries, or add golden monkeys in Rwanda and chimps in Uganda. See our 6-day Uganda and Rwanda double gorilla safari.
Planning your dates
Permits are limited and sell out early for June to September. Read how much a Rwanda safari costs and the Rwanda guide, then get safari pricing.
Frequently asked questions
Can I trek gorillas in the rainy season?
Yes, every day of the year. Trails are muddier and treks can be harder, but the forest is lush and the parks quieter.
When is the best time for Nyungwe?
The drier months, June to August and December to February, but Nyungwe is a rainforest and showers are possible any time.
When is Akagera best?
The dry seasons, especially June to September, when animals gather near the lakes.
What is the weather like in Kigali?
Mild all year at about 1,500 m, with warm days and cool evenings.
When is Kwita Izina?
Rwanda’s gorilla naming ceremony is usually held in September near Volcanoes National Park; dates vary by year.
Written by our Kampala-based planners and guides, who arrange these trips every season. Prices and rules are checked before every quote.
