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Understanding gorilla trekking weather in Rwanda is one of the most important steps when planning your safari. Weather affects trail conditions, trekking difficulty, visibility, photography, and overall comfort. While gorilla trekking is possible year-round, each month offers slightly different conditions.
Gorilla trekking in Rwanda takes place mainly in Volcanoes National Park, a high-altitude rainforest located in the Virunga Mountains. Because of elevation, temperatures remain mild throughout the year, but rainfall patterns vary significantly.
This month-by-month weather guide explains exactly what to expect, helping you choose the best time for your gorilla trekking adventure.
Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Climate Overview
General Climate Facts
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Average daytime temperature: 16°C – 22°C (60°F – 72°F)
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Cool mornings and evenings year-round
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Rainfall influenced by altitude and forest cover
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Weather can change quickly in the mountains
Rwanda does not have extreme seasons like deserts or savannahs—gorilla trekking remains comfortable throughout the year with proper preparation.
January – Dry & Clear Gorilla Trekking Weather
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Rainfall: Low
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Trail conditions: Mostly dry
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Trekking difficulty: Easy to moderate
January is an excellent month for gorilla trekking. Trails are less muddy, visibility is good, and photography conditions are ideal.
Best for: First-time trekkers, photographers, honeymooners
February – Warm & Stable Conditions
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Rainfall: Low
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Temperatures: Slightly warmer
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Forest conditions: Clear and green
February remains part of the short dry season and is considered one of the best months for gorilla trekking in Rwanda.
Best for: Luxury travelers, easy trekking routes
March – Start of the Long Rains
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Rainfall: Increasing
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Trails: Becoming muddy
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Vegetation: Lush
March marks the beginning of the long rainy season. Treks are still rewarding, but require good hiking boots and rain protection.
Best for: Adventurous travelers, budget seekers
April – Wettest Month of the Year
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Rainfall: High
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Trail difficulty: Moderate to challenging
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Visitor numbers: Low
April is the wettest month. While trekking is more physically demanding, it offers quiet trails and fewer tourists.
Best for: Fit travelers who want solitude and lower lodge rates
May – Rain Eases & Forest Blooms
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Rainfall: Decreasing
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Trails: Still muddy but improving
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Scenery: Extremely green
May is a transition month. Conditions improve toward the end of the month, making it a good value period.
Best for: Nature lovers, photographers
June – Start of the Long Dry Season
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Rainfall: Low
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Trails: Dry and stable
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Trekking comfort: Excellent
June signals the start of the best overall gorilla trekking season in Rwanda.
Best for: All travelers, especially seniors
July – Peak Gorilla Trekking Season
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Rainfall: Minimal
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Conditions: Ideal
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Permit demand: Very high
July offers perfect weather but requires early booking due to high demand.
Best for: Peak-season travelers, families
August – Cool, Dry & Busy
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Rainfall: Very low
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Temperatures: Cool mornings
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Trail conditions: Excellent
August is consistently one of the best months for gorilla trekking.
Best for: Comfortable trekking and photography
September – Dry with Fewer Crowds
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Rainfall: Low
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Crowd levels: Slightly lower
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Weather: Stable
September combines dry conditions with fewer visitors.
Best for: Travelers seeking balance between weather and crowd levels
October – Short Rains Begin
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Rainfall: Moderate
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Trails: Mixed conditions
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Vegetation: Fresh and green
October starts the short rainy season, but rain is usually brief and manageable.
Best for: Budget travelers and photographers
November – Green & Quiet
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Rainfall: Moderate
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Visitor numbers: Low
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Trail difficulty: Moderate
November offers peaceful trekking and attractive off-season pricing.
Best for: Budget-conscious adventurers
December – Festive & Pleasant
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Rainfall: Low to moderate
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Conditions: Improving
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Demand: High during holidays
December is a popular month, especially around Christmas and New Year.
Best for: Holiday travelers and couples
Best Overall Time for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Best Weather
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June to September
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January to February
Best Budget Months
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March, April, November
Best Balance (Weather + Crowds)
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May, September, October
Does Weather Affect Gorilla Sightings?
No. Gorilla sightings remain above 95% year-round. Weather affects trekking comfort, not success rates.
Gorilla Trekking Weather in Rwanda Explained
Understanding gorilla trekking weather in Rwanda helps you choose the best month based on comfort, budget, and travel style. Whether you prefer dry trails and sunshine or lush forests with fewer crowds, Rwanda offers an exceptional gorilla trekking experience in every season.
With proper clothing, good planning, and realistic expectations, every month is a good month to trek gorillas in Rwanda.