Weather and Climate in Rwanda: Rwanda has a tropical climate and a mountainous topography that stretches from east to west. The nation is divided into four major climatic zones: the eastern plains, the central plateau, the highlands, and the area around Lake Kivu.
The eastern plains receive 700 mm to 1,100 mm of rain each year, with typical annual temperatures ranging between 20°C and 22°C. The central plateau region receives between 1,100 mm and 1,300 mm of rainfall each year, with an annual mean temperature ranging between 18°C and 20°C. The highlands, which include the Congo-Nile Ridge and the volcanic ranges of Birunga, get an average rainfall of 1,300 mm to 1,600 mm and have annual mean temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C.
Annual rainfall in the Lake Kivu and Bugarama plains ranges between 1,200 and 1,500 mm, with annual mean temperatures ranging between 18°C and 22°C. Overall, the country’s four climatic seasons are represented by the long rainy season, which runs from March to May, and the short wet season, which runs from September to November.
These seasons alternate with the long dry season, which lasts from June to August, and the short dry season, which lasts from December to February. Rwanda’s average yearly temperature is 19.1°C, with average monthly temperatures ranging from 19.5°C (September) to 18.5°C (October) (July). The annual precipitation total is 1,170.2 mm. Rainfall falls throughout the year in Rwanda, with the most substantial amounts falling between September and May.
The high degree of inter-annual and inter-decadal climatic variability in Rwanda, combined with a dearth of historical data, has made determining climate trends in the nation challenging , Weather and Climate in Rwanda.
Temperatures in high altitude places range from 15°C to 17°C, whereas lowlands in the east and southwest can reach 30°C. From 1985 to 2021, regional temperatures in Central-East Africa increased by 0.29°C on average every decade.
Temperature rises have occurred, with an increase in mean temperature of between 1.4°C and 2. 6°C in Rwanda’s south-west and eastern areas from 1971 to 2021.
Increased interannually variability has also been reported in recent decades, with the average temperature rising by 0.79°C from 2012 to 2021.
Since 1961 to 2021, yearly rainfall in Rwanda has fluctuated greatly. During this time, mean rainfall declined substantially in January, February, May, and June, but increased significantly from September to December across the country.
From September through December, the eastern area of Rwanda had periodic dry spells. Rainy seasons are getting shorter and more intense in the northern and western provinces, increasing the risk of erosion in these mountainous parts of the country.
Best Time for Gorilla Trekking and Chimpanzee Trekking in Rwanda.
Gorilla tracking in Volcanoes National Park is possible during the brief rainy season, albeit the trail may be muddy and hazardous. Because lower elevations are warmer than higher altitudes during the wet season, gorillas are more inclined to stay there. Furthermore, food is more easily accessible, so they may not roam far.
This is an excellent time to see some of Nyungwe National Park’s beautiful butterfly species and unique orchids. The summit of Karisimbi (4507m), Rwanda’s highest peak, is frequently covered with snow , Weather and Climate in Rwanda.
Nyungwe Forest is comparable to Volcanoes National Park in that walking and trekking chimpanzees in Cyamudongo forest during the wet seasons takes less time because they prefer lower altitudes as well.
The fact that most lodgings and activity providers provide discounts during the off-season is a benefit of traveling during the off-season. As a result, if you are looking for a low-cost vacation, this is the time to go.
The pathways are less muddy, the thicket is thinner, and there are less pests, such as mosquitoes, making tracking mountain gorillas in Volcanoes national park and chimpanzees in Nyungwe forest national park simpler.
The sweeping hills appear desolate, in stark contrast to the lush greens of the wet season. The journey may be protracted since primates migrate further out in quest of food.
Maximum daytime temperatures range from 25°C to 27°C. In these seasons, the lowest night time temperatures remain between 13°C and 16°C. Expect periodic rains even in the drier months due to climatic fluctuations. Temperatures in the mountain parts of Volcanoes National Park and Nyungwe Forest Park are slightly colder, and you may need warm clothes in the early mornings or late evenings.
Best Time for Wildlife Viewing in Akagera National Park.
Wildlife viewing in Akagera National Park is good during this time of year since animals cluster around water sources and the foliage is generally thin, making it easy to observe wildlife.
Best Time to visit Kigali City in Rwanda.
The dry season is also great for spending time in Kigali’s clean, gorgeous city or relaxing on Lake Kivu’s lovely sandy beaches. June to September and from December to February are the best months to explore Kigali City in Rwanda.
What to pack for your Rwanda Wildlife Safari.
You must pack appropriately and be prepared for the Rwandan weather. A raincoat or poncho, sunscreen, insect repellent, light clothes, warm clothing for early mornings or late evenings, sturdy hiking shoes, anti-malarial, long-sleeved shirts and pants, and other items are required.
What is the Best Time to Visit Rwanda on a Wildlife Safari?
Rwanda may be visited at any time of year. Because weather patterns are becoming less predictable, it is better to be prepared for any and all weather circumstances!
The paths are drier and simpler to travel during the dry seasons. There is less vegetation, making animal observation simpler. Because primates traverse large distances in quest of food, you may have to trek for longer periods of time.
In Rwanda, you may still enjoy a range of activities throughout the rainy season. The rainy season does not always imply that it rains all day; the sun shines brightly soon after the showers. Although tracking may be muddy or slippery, primates are readily located at lower altitudes. You may also get cheap hotel prices from lodging places , Weather and Climate in Rwanda.
Whatever season you visit, you will undoubtedly appreciate the various ecosystem, animal viewing, hiking the gorgeous primates in their natural habitat, and the great hospitality and kindness of the Rwandese, who go out of their way to make you feel welcome and at home.
Overall, the weather in Rwanda is pleasant, and most people appreciate the environment and weather that greets them; it appears to be just ideal for the majority of visitors.
