Rwanda Africa Weather Breakdown by Region, Month, and Season

Nestled just south of the Equator in East-Central Africa, Rwanda is a stunning destination with diverse landscapes and a rich wildlife experience. Surrounded by Tanzania, Uganda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, it is home to Kigali, the capital city, which lies at the country's heart. Despite being only two degrees south of the Equator, Rwanda's high-altitude terrain gives it a surprisingly temperate climate, ensuring pleasant weather year-round.

Rwanda has become a top destination for those eager to explore its wildlife, including the majestic Big 4 animals. To make the most of your adventure, understanding the country's climate is essential, especially since much of your time will be spent outdoors. In this guide, we’ll break down Rwanda’s weather patterns to help you prepare for an unforgettable wildlife journey.

Rwanda Weather Breakdown by Region

Though close to the equator, Rwanda's weather stays mild due to its high land. Most of the land lies over 1,000 meters (3,281 feet) above sea. The land splits into four parts: the central plain, the northwest volcanoes, the east grasslands, and the west hills. Each part has its own weather and climate.

Northern and Western Regions

The climate of Rwanda in northern and western regions, including the famous Volcanoes National Park, experiences cooler temperatures and higher rainfall compared to the rest of the country. This area is characterized by the Virunga volcanic mountains, which include some of the highest peaks in Africa. The high elevation and volcanic soils make this region ideal for growing tea and coffee, two of Rwanda's major export crops. The climate also helps lush, dense vegetation that is home to the endangered mountain gorillas, a major tourist attraction.

The climate in the Northern and Western is cooler than the other regions

Central Plateau - Kigali Rwanda Weather

The central plateau, which includes the capital city, Kigali, has a more moderate climate. Temperatures are generally mild, with average highs ranging from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F) throughout the year. Rainfall is evenly distributed, supporting a variety of agricultural activities. Kigali's climate is relatively stable, making it a comfortable place to live and work year-round.

Kigali, Rwanda, experiences a temperate tropical highland climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Here's a breakdown of the average weather conditions by month:

Kigali, Rwanda weather forecast by month

• January: Average high of 81°F (27°C) and low of 71°F (22°C). 
• February: Average high of 81°F (27°C) and low of 71°F (22°C). 
• March: Average high of 80°F (27°C) and low of 70°F (21°C). 
• April: Average high of 78°F (26°C) and low of 69°F (21°C). 
• May: Average high of 78°F (26°C) and low of 70°F (21°C). 
• June: Average high of 79°F (26°C) and low of 70°F (21°C). 
• July: Average high of 81°F (27°C) and low of 71°F (22°C). 
• August: Average high of 82°F (28°C) and low of 72°F (22°C).
• September: Average high of 81°F (27°C) and low of 71°F (22°C). 
• October: Average high of 80°F (27°C) and low of 70°F (21°C). 
• November: Average high of 78°F (26°C) and low of 69°F (21°C).
• December: Average high of 79°F (26°C) and low of 70°F (21°C). 

The wettest months are typically April and May, while the driest months are June and July. Overall, Kigali enjoys a mild climate with relatively consistent temperatures throughout the year.

Eastern Savannah

The eastern region, which descends into the lowlands bordering Tanzania, has a warmer and drier climate compared to the rest of the country. This area is characterized by savannahs and grasslands, with average temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F) during the dry season. The eastern savannah is less densely populated and less agriculturally intensive, but it plays a crucial role in the country's livestock farming and is home to Akagera National Park, known for its diverse wildlife.

Southern Region

The southern part of Rwanda has a varied landscape that includes both hilly terrain and flat plains. The climate here is a mix of the central plateau's temperate conditions and the eastern region's warmer, drier weather. This diversity supports a range of agricultural activities, including the cultivation of crops like bananas, beans, and maize.

The southern region has warmer temperatures

There are two main types of seasons in Rwanda

The climate of Rwanda is classified as a temperate tropical highland. The country experiences two main seasons: the wet season and the dry season, each of which is further divided into two periods. The primary rainy season extends from March to May, followed by a shorter rainy season from September to November. The main dry season spans from June to mid-September, while the shorter dry season occurs from December to February.

Rainy Seasons

During the rainy seasons, the climate of Rwanda receives the majority of its annual rainfall. The primary rainy season (March to May) is characterized by heavy and consistent rainfall, with the northern and western parts of the country receiving the most precipitation. This period is crucial for agriculture, as it coincides with the planting season for many crops. The secondary rainy season (September to November) is generally less intense but still significant for the country's water supply and agriculture.

Rainfall during these periods can be both a blessing and a challenge. While it supports agriculture, heavy rains can lead to soil erosion, landslides, and flooding, particularly in mountainous regions. Rwanda's government and various organizations have implemented soil conservation and water management practices to mitigate these risks.

Travelers might feel inconvenient with the climate during rainy seasons

Dry Seasons

The main dry season (June to mid-September) sees a significant reduction in rainfall, especially in the eastern and central regions of the country. This period is marked by cooler temperatures, particularly in the high-altitude areas. The shorter dry season (December to February) is generally warmer and drier, providing a respite from the heavy rains of the preceding months.

During the dry seasons, water becomes a critical resource, and the country relies on its network of rivers, lakes, and wetlands to sustain its water needs. Efforts to manage and conserve water resources are essential to ensure the sustainability of both agriculture and daily life.

In the dry season, travelers can experience many outdoor activities

Climate of Rwanda - When To Visit And What To Pack

Rwanda is home to nearly one-third of the world's Mountain Gorilla population. The country offers a mix of savannah and rainforest safari experiences, so the best time to visit depends on the region you plan to explore.

For wildlife viewing, the dry periods from June to September and January to February are ideal, as animals tend to congregate near lakesides and riverbanks. In the rainforest regions of the west and northwest, gorilla viewing is possible year-round, although trekking is easier during the drier months. In Nyungwe Forest, primate sightings are more predictable during the wetter months when monkeys and apes feed in established territories.

During the winter months of June to August, as well as in spring and autumn, it is advisable to wear a jacket and sweater in the evenings. Warm clothing is necessary for the Virunga Mountains. For nature walks and hikes, it is recommended to wear long-sleeved shirts, long trousers, light rain jackets, and a hat.

Last but not least, even if you are ready and pack enough items, a visa is a must if you want to enter Rwanda legally. Rwanda Immigration Services is here to help you get a Rwanda travel document in the easiest way with a simple process within 03 business days. Guarantee to boost the high visa success rate, travelers are no longer able to spend a lot of time on visa progress. We are available throughout the week if you need us to support the visa process and purchase other add-on services.

Rwanda Weather FAQs

What is the weather like in Rwanda?

The country experiences two primary rainy seasons:

• Long Rainy Season: From March to May, characterized by heavy and persistent rainfall.
• Short Rainy Season: From October to November, featuring lighter rains.

These are interspersed by two dry seasons:

• Long Dry Season: From June to September, typically the best time to visit due to clear skies and warm temperatures.
• Short Dry Season: From December to February, marked by light cloud cover and occasional light rain showers.

When is the rainy season in Rwanda?

Rwanda experiences two distinct rainy seasons annually: the long rains from March to May and the short rains from October to November. The long rains are typically heavier and more persistent, with April often being the wettest month.

How cold does Rwanda get during rainy season?

Rwanda's climate is characterized by two rainy seasons: the long rainy season from March to May, and the short rainy season from September to November.

During these periods, temperatures vary by region due to differences in altitude.

• Kigali (Central Region): Average daily temperatures are around 21°C (70°F).
• Eastern Plains: Mean annual temperatures range between 20°C and 22°C (68°F to 72°F)
• Central Plateau: Annual mean temperatures range between 18°C and 20°C (64°F to 68°F)
• Highlands (e.g., Volcanoes National Park): Daytime temperatures are around 16°C (61°F), dropping to approximately 6°C (43°F) at night.

Conclusion

The weather and climate of Rwanda are integral to its identity and development. The country's temperate tropical highland climate, with its distinct wet and dry seasons, supports diverse ecosystems and agricultural practices. However, the impacts of climate change pose significant challenges, necessitating comprehensive adaptation and mitigation strategies.

Through sustainable agriculture, reforestation, renewable energy, climate-smart infrastructure, and robust policy frameworks, Rwanda is demonstrating its commitment to building a resilient and sustainable future. As the country continues to navigate the complexities of climate change, its proactive approach serves as a model for other nations facing similar challenges.

Understanding Rwanda's weather and climate is not only important for appreciating its natural beauty but also for recognizing the resilience and ingenuity of its people in the face of environmental changes.