Be the first to know the best month for having a safari in Rwanda so that you do not waste money or have a bad experience by struggling with thick jungles, too much sunshine, or missing the chance to see the mammal, primate, or bird that attracted you to an African safari.
What is meant to be will always happen. Time is part of our daily life, and if managed well, it brings fun, freedom, flexibility, and relaxation. This is why we bring you information about a typical Rwanda safari, the best time to visit, and the top attractions and activities you can enjoy.
Month after month, experience the best that Rwanda offers to your five senses: smell, sight, touch, hearing, and taste. Make your unforgettable experience in Rwanda even better by visiting at the right time, when the plants are bright, animals are active, drums beat loudly, sweet aromas fill the air, and beautiful landscapes stretch across the country.
Rwanda, also called the “Land of a Thousand Hills” because of its many hills, is one of the smallest countries in the eastern part of Africa, within the Great Lakes region. It shares borders with Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Although landlocked, it is rich with a wide range of animals, plants, and birds. The equator is also nearby, which affects Rwanda’s climate and makes it good for the survival of many species.
You can visit Rwanda at any time of the year and enjoy nature and value for your money. However, when it comes to choosing the best time to visit, we recommend months with less rain and better chances of seeing animals easily.
Mid-May to Late October (Primate Trekking and Wildlife Viewing)
These months are perfect for a primate safari in Rwanda, including mountain gorilla trekking and golden monkey tracking at Volcanoes National Park, and chimpanzee trekking at Nyungwe National Park.
These activities are best done when the ground is dry because they require walking on foot. From mid-May to mid-October, Rwanda experiences a long dry season, though it may rain lightly once in a while.
Gorillas are only found in Africa, and Volcanoes National Park is one of the top places to see them, holding a quarter of the world’s mountain gorilla population. The good weather during these months attracts many tourists for vacations and other activities.
Other exciting activities during these months include wildlife viewing at Akagera National Park, one of Rwanda’s top safari destinations. It is home to many animals including lions, rhinos, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, warthogs, antelopes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and more.
City tours, hiking, guided nature walks, cultural encounters, and boat cruises are also good activities to enjoy during the mid-May to October season.
December to February
This is another dry season, filled with parties and festivals across Rwanda. It is also the best time for gorilla trekking and bird watching because the forest trails are dry, and birds and primates are easier to spot as they search for food and water. However, note that during these months, many classic accommodations are fully booked, so early booking is advised.
Bird watchers can also consider adding November to their plans, with Akagera National Park and Nyungwe National Park being the best destinations.
March to May
These months are not the best because of heavy rains, but they can be a good choice for budget travelers because of discounts, photographers looking for green scenery, and researchers.
A gorilla trekking permit costs $1,500 per person per day, for those aged 15 years and above.
In conclusion, choosing the best time for your safari is the first step to having fun and capturing the best memories nature can offer. You should book your safari early because many travelers target these specific months.
