Best Travel Months to Visit Rwanda for Gorillas & Safari
Remember, all our itineraries are totally flexible and can be changed to suit you.
Why Go On A Safari In Rwanda
Visit Rwanda on an enchanting journey through the land of a thousand hills. Volcanoes National Park beckons with its mystical gorillas, while offering primate walks, volcano hikes and bird watching in Nyungwe National Park, plus boat trips on Lake Kivu in the Rift Valley. Rwanda is famous for its gorilla trekking opportunities in the Virunga Mountains. This is where Dian Fossey researched and habituated mountain gorillas in the 1960s. Although gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, the country has a lot more to offer. With chimpanzees in the south, Big Five game drives in the east in low-key Akagera National Park, plus boat trips on Lake Kivu in the Rift Valley – there is an abundance of things to see and do in the Land of 1,000 HIlls. Most famous for its gorilla trekking packages in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda offers far more than only gorilla trekking.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Rwanda For Safari?
As a traveler, being on this page means you are probably planning for safaris in Rwanda or rather thinking of when to go for gorilla trekking in Rwanda. First things first, same as all other East African safari countries, Rwanda safari seasons are marked by short dry seasons, short wet seasons, long dry seasons and long wet seasons, meaning you can identify some of the best months for visiting Rwanda. Being a top safari destination for primates tracking, you’ll also be looking for the best times to see gorillas in Rwanda. That said, you still want to make sure you are also keeping an eye at some of Rwanda’s climate guide so as to better understand what to expect on your first trip to Rwanda.
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Month-By-Month Guide On When To Go To Rwanda
In this guide, we explain further about the best time of the year to visit Rwanda for a safari by month, and apart from sharing with you insights to Rwanda’s best safari months, our listed Rwanda monthly climate guide is designed to assist you plan your ultimate safaris in Rwanda.
Overall Best Time to Visit Rwanda
Travelling to Rwanda from June to September (Dry Season) – Best months for wildlife game viewing and for gorilla trekking
Travelling to Rwanda from October to May – It’s the best time for chimpanzee trekking
Best Weather – June to August
Visiting Rwanda In January
Travelling for Rwanda safari in January?
Rwanda in January – the climate is warm and dry, it’s a good time for Gorilla trekking through the rainforests and tracking chimpanzees, as for other hikes in Volcanoes and Nyungwe National Parks. Low-lying Akagera National Park is hot by day, and warm by night, you’ll certainly appreciate the drier and cooler months of January and February, and June to September.
Visiting Rwanda In February
Travelling for Rwanda safari in February?
Rwanda in February is known as the short dry season which also is the best time to see gorillas in Rwanda, including chimpanzees and enjoy the Rwanda cultural experiences. The low-lying Akagera National Park is hot by day, and warm by night providing excellent conditions for these unforgettable adventures.
This is a popular time to go on a Rwanda safari and is a great opportunity to take in the breathtaking scenery of this beautiful country. Just be aware that towards the end of February in Rwanda, you are more likely to run into rain, especially near Volcanoes National Park.
Visiting Rwanda In March
Travelling for Rwanda safari in March?
Rwanda in March is the start of the rainy season, with showers continuing right through until mid-May. Despite the wet weather, these conditions are best for tracking chimpanzees that inhabit this magical landscape. The scenery during this period is lush and breathtaking, and with good quality rain-gear, primate treks are still possible during this period.
Visiting Rwanda In April
Travelling for Rwanda safari in April?
Rwanda in April follows suit with May’s wet conditions – it’s the middle of the main rainy season and the wettest month in many parts of the country with a Monthly rainfall is around 150-200mm.
April in Rwanda is not a good month for trekking gorillas and chimpanzees, since conditions tend to be very wet underfoot and there are showers most days.
When deciding on places to visit in Rwanda on this month, it’s also best to know that climbing the volcanic peaks of the Virungas will be tough at this time of the year.
Visiting Rwanda In May
Travelling for Rwanda safari in May?
Rwanda in May, the rains begin to ease by mid-May. This is a good month to avoid the tourist crowds, and you may have a better chance of grabbing a last-minute gorilla trekking permit – Gorilla trekking is less suited to this period, although if you are looking to track the chimpanzees in the Nyungwe area this can be an ideal time, as the figs and fruits within the forest ripen and they tend to be seen lower down in the trees eating, are more stationary and also seen in larger groups. For passionate birdwatchers, May falls into the breeding season and the skies are filled with colourful, winged beauties.
Visiting Rwanda In June
Travelling for Rwanda safari in June?
Rwanda in June offers an ideal safari climate for exploration – Between June and September it’s the dry season and is a popular time to go to Rwanda.
June brings pleasant temperatures and often light clouds covering the forests, making it a comfortable climate for gorilla trekking safaris.
Visit Rwanda in June for the popular Kwita Izina Ceremony – This is when all the baby gorillas born over the previous twelve months are named, whereas in September the Rwanda Film Festival is another highlight on the calendar, showcasing local filmmakers and a selection of international favourites.
Visiting Rwanda In July
Travelling for Rwanda safari in July?
Rwanda in July – is part of the dry season characterized by less rainfall, clear skies, and more manageable gorilla trekking trails. The dry weather significantly reduces the risk of slippery and muddy hiking paths, making the trek safer and more adaptable. This dry season falls between July and September and is definitely the best time to visit Rwanda.
Visiting Rwanda In August
Travelling for Rwanda safari in August?
Rwanda in August is an excellent month for gorilla trekking, chimpanzees tracking, and for other hikes in Volcanoes and Nyungwe National Parks, since conditions tend to be dry underfoot and the odds of being drenched by a shower are as low as it gets in a rainforest.
Although August in Rwanda is a dry month, the short rains may start towards the end of the month. Monthly rainfall in most parts of the country is low (under 50mm).
Visiting Rwanda In September
Travelling for Rwanda safari in September?
Rwanda in September is part of the dry season which ensures a manageable gorilla trekking ground, lower malaria risk, and breathtaking landscapes.
September can feel slightly humid in the rainforest although it’s a great time to spot mountain gorillas. This is a great safari month across most destinations, therefore you can consider combining Rwanda with a safari in Kenya or Tanzania for wildlife adventures.
Visiting Rwanda In September features the Rwanda Film Festival, yet another highlight on the safari calendar, showcasing the work of promising local filmmakers as well an international selection of Africa-themed movies whereas the other highlight includes the Kwita Izina annual gorilla –naming ceremony also takes place in this month and is a fantastic celebration of the newborn mountain gorillas.
Visiting Rwanda In October
Travelling for Rwanda safari in October?
If you’re planning to go to Rwanda in October, offers a pleasant tropical highland climate, a short rainy season with brief bursts of showers that quickly disappear are common in these months that clear to reveal blue skies.
If you are still willing to visit Rwanda in September – not willing to let a little mud and rain discourage you, it will be a good chance also take advantage of lower costs on gorilla trekking tours, hotels and Rwanda lodges.
Visiting Rwanda In November
Travelling for Rwanda safari in November?
Rwanda in November is not an ideal month for tracking mountain gorillas and chimpanzees, since conditions tend to be quite wet underfoot and there are frequent showers. If you’re planning to go to Rwanda between November and December, you will be arriving during the short rainy season. Short bursts of showers are common in these months that clear to reveal blue skies.
That said, plenty of people do track gorillas in November and you have a better chance of getting lower costs on gorilla trekking permits, hotels and Rwanda lodges.
Visiting Rwanda In December
Travelling for Rwanda safari in December?
Rwanda in December falls within the short rainy season and monthly rainfall in most parts of the country is high (100mm or higher). December is not an optimum month for tracking mountain gorillas and chimpanzees, since conditions tend to be quite wet underfoot and there are frequent showers, though this is less of a risk towards the end of the month.
Rwanda in Mid-December to early February, known as the short dry season, also provides excellent conditions for these unforgettable adventures. Hiking conditions are at their best with firm terrain underfoot, and the risk of malaria is minimal.
That said, plenty of people do track gorillas in December and you have a better chance of a last-minute gorilla trekking permits.
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Ready to Start Planning Your Visit to Rwanda?
Not yet close to finding your best time to travel to Rwanda? Worry not, chat with someone who’s been there. Get in touch with one of our African safari experts to help tailor-make a trip that’s right for you.
Discover Kenya Safaris
When it comes to choosing the best places for an African safari, it’s difficult to beat a safari to Kenya’s national parks and conservancies. Kenya delivers some of the best African safaris so far, from unforgettable African family safaris with child-friendly safari lodges to exclusive hide-outs for couples and honeymoon trips, there’s not much that beats a Kenya safari.
9 Days | 8 Nights
Frequently Asked Rwanda Safari Questions
Q. Passport, Visa & Other Kenya Entry Requirements
As for the documentations you need for your holiday in Kenya, keep in mind entry requirements can change, so please contact your local Kenyan embassy or high commission to verify that the following information below is up to date.
-A passport is required for all foreign visitors and must be valid for at least six months.
-No visa is required. Instead, all visitors must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA).
-Visitors must apply in advance for the eTA on www.etakenya.go.ke.
-The standard processing time is three days, but you can apply up to three months prior to travel and early application is recommended.
-When arriving from a yellow-fever-infected country in Africa or the Americas, a yellow-fever vaccination certificate is required.
-For more information we strongly direct checking the website of your local Kenyan embassy/high commission or the government travel advisories below:
Australia – www.smartraveller.gov.au
Canada – travel.gc.ca
EU Member States – ec.europa.eu
Ireland – www.ireland.ie
New Zealand – www.safetravel.govt.nz
United Kingdom – www.gov.uk
United States – travel.state.gov
Q. How much does a safari in Kenya cost?
The cost for a Kenya safari starts from USD $250 to USD $2,500 per person per day depending on your level of safari; either travelling on a mid-range comfort safari or a luxury Kenya safari. Talk to one of our African travel experts to ensure the best Kenya safari experience in line with your time and budget. Your final Kenya safari cost depends on the following factors:
– Time of year you’re travelling; low and high season prices.
– Your choice of luxury safari lodges and tented safari camps.
– Duration of your stay in Kenya.
– Where you are visiting and in what means, you have the option to choose between fly-in Kenya safaris or by road, using a comfy 4 X 4 Land Cruiser jeep with open rooftop. The cost for the two greatly differ.
– Your choice of additional safari activities which range from inclusive wildlife activities to optional activities like hot air balloon rides and visits to the Masai villages for cultural interactions.
Q. What medication do I need for Kenya safari?
About medicine on your trip to Kenya, we recommend anti-malarial medication no matter what time of year you plan on visiting Kenya for safari. Kindly consult with your doctor at home for advice on the right choice of prophylaxis for your body well in advance of your departure date. Additionally, if you live in a yellow fever region or plan to travel through a region where it is endemic during your stay, you will need a yellow fever vaccination and certificate.
Q. Where to stay on safari in Kenya
With hundreds of excellent luxury safari lodges and tented safari camps, you will be spoilt with lots of choices to pick from during your stay. But worry not, we will help you select the best lodges to stay in during your trip.
Additionally, when we talk about safari standards, the service level is high, with the ability to deliver the best luxury African safaris, suitable accommodations from lavish safari lodges to modern day boutique hotels and classic tented safari camps.
We shall share our list of top luxury accommodation options in Kenya – from eco-friendly architecture to the best luxury tented camps with a front-row seat to experience African wildlife mostly near game viewing hot spots like the Mara River where the Wildebeest Migration safari takes place. Our list of the best Kenya safari lodges also covers mid-range camps which can come in handy If you are travelling on budget.
Q. Where are the places to visit in Kenya?
When you think of Africa, Kenya is most likely the image you have in mind. Therefore, some of the top 10 best places to visit in Kenya, include the following destinations;
- Masai Mara: Catch the Wildebeest Migration & all year-round excellent game-viewing.
- Lamu Archipelago: Experience a classic barefoot luxury beach experience.
- Nairobi City: Feed the giraffes and visit the baby elephant’s shelter.
- Mombasa & Kenya Beaches: Explore coastal family resorts & luxury lodges, good with family trips to Kenya.
- Amboseli National Park: Photography safari destination, watch the big tusked elephants and the best views of Mt Kilimanjaro.
- Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Laikipia: Kenya’s hidden gem; visit the chimpanzee sanctuary, feed and touch the blind rhino and spend your nights in some of the top luxury lodges.
- Mount Kenya: for the mountain trekking enthusiasts, go on a 5 days trekking tour at Mount Kenya (the second tallest mountain in Africa after Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania)
- Lake Nakuru: Excellent game viewing, from rhino’s, leopards, tree climbing lions, endangered giraffes to birdlife, Lake Nakuru has it all.
- Shaba and Samburu: Kenya’s hidden gem, more than a wilderness where the special 5 wildlife roam; additionally, all the big 5 are here.
- Kenya South-Coast beaches.
Rwanda Safari Reservations
Q. What type of clothes do I wear on Kenya safari?
Pack lightweight, comfortable, and casual clothing for a Kenyan safari, including long sleeves, pants, comfortable closed-toe shoes, a wide-brimmed hat, and layers for cooler mornings and evenings on game drives. For more details, we suggest you do your own safari packing essentials and find out what fits your interests.
Browse our safari clothing packing advice on what to pack for your African tour:
- Lightweight trousers /shorts and t-shirts remain ideal for the daytime drives.
- Lightweight jacket / fleece for the early mornings and evenings.
- Remember to also pack some warm socks and a woolly hat would be suggested for early morning and evening game drives.
- Hiking shoes
Other items we would suggest you bring along with you include:
- Sunscreen glasses & hat/cap
- Comfy Shoes / Sandals
- Flip Flops to wear during the day
- A Torch / Lamp
- Binoculars
- Phone/laptop charger
- Pack your medication, and a spare set of spectacles or contact lenses if you wear these.
Q. What is the best time to see the Masai Mara wildebeest migration in Kenya?
The best time to witness the dramatic Masai Mara wildebeest migration in Kenya is typically between mid-July through mid-September where your chances of witnessing a river crossing are generally much higher. In early October marks the end of the herd crossing the river from Kenya down into Tanzania, as thunderstorms begin in the north the herds will embark on their return journey back to the Serengeti.
Checkout our Migration safari offers.
Q. Kenya Vs Tanzania: Which Is Better for an African Safari?
Choosing between Kenya and Tanzania for an African safari depends on personal preferences, BUT Kenya is the most chosen being cost & budget friendly during both high and low seasons. Secondly, when it comes to the best places to stay in Kenya and Tanzania, both destinations offer fantastic accommodations. Thirdly in terms of Big 5 sightings, the wildebeest migration & general game viewing, both destinations are safari heavyweights. In terms of privacy and extending your safari beyond game drives, there are more private conservancies in Kenya than Tanzania which offer you plenty of activities inside the park.
Lastly, Kenya safari is the most sought-after destination for the world’s best safari experiences, evident from the large number of celebrities visiting year in year out.
Q. Will I have a private vehicle or shared game drives with other people?
We tend to enforce a maximum person per vehicle policy of 6. Meaning, although you’ll be sharing with other guests, everyone will get a side-view seat with unhindered views.
Some trips are designed in such a way that a private vehicle and guide are included for a portion of the trip, but the use of a private vehicle throughout your safari comes at an additional cost.
Rwanda Flying Safaris
Q. How many days do you need for an Africa safari?
The ideal duration for an East Africa safari package often ranges from 5 to 14 days, this allows you to enjoy a comfortable and a well-rounded rewarding safari experience during this African tour package. It also depends on the destinations you will visit, wildlife interests, and personal preferences.
Q. What do I do in case of an emergency?
We have a 24 hour emergency line. If anything goes south, we’re ready to assist you regardless of time or date.
Q. Are there malaria mosquito nets in Africa safari tented camps?
Many tented camps in Africa provide fitted mosquito nets in all rooms which are also insect proofed to protect you against malaria mosquito bites and other insect bites, ensuring a comfortable and safe stay.
It’s also advisable to carry insect repellent to further protect yourself especially in the outdoors during evenings.
Q. Is there Wi-Fi at the safari lodges & tented camps on safari?
Almost all Africa safari lodges and tented camp accommodations during your safari provide free Wi-Fi. You’ll find this available in all three accommodation levels – comfort or luxury accommodations.
Wi-Fi is provided in the public areas of the safari lodges/tented camps including the reception, dining areas, and lounge. It is not provided in the individual rooms/tents.
Moreover, because you will be inside a wilderness park, we still request that you come prepared with your own network data to avoid any inconveniences.
Rwanda Safari Payment Methods
Q. Do you provide drinking water on safari?
East Africa is within the tropics and near the Equator, separating the northern and southern hemispheres. The tropical temperatures are relatively high on the safari route and even within the national parks/game reserves.
Because you’ll need to frequently hydrate during your safari, we ensure unlimited supplies of drinking water.
All Vulture Africa Safari vehicles are fitted with a cooler box or mini fridge with a constant supply of cool, bottled water.
We replenish our supplies of drinking water during stops along the safari route.
Here’s everything you need to know about packing for your Africa safari trip.
Q. Are mosquito nets provided in safari lodge rooms/tents?
We carefully research and choose our selection of top safari lodges and tented camps to offer the best in terms of comfort, relaxation, amenities, and atmosphere during your safari.
We fully understand the need for your protection against mosquitos and other insects.
All rooms/tents during your safari are fitted with mosquito nets or are insect-proofed to protect you against bites.
Tented camp showing bedroom with mosquito nets
You are also advised to use insect repellent to further protect yourself especially outdoors in the evenings.
Q. Is it possible to store excess luggage while on safari?
Vulture African Safaris understands that your holiday travel may be lengthy and could involve different activities during your trip. You may find the need to store some of your luggage at various times.
You can safely store your extra luggage at our Nairobi office for safekeeping until you have completed your safari.
This is a free service extended to all our safari guests.
Packing luggage for an East African safari holiday tour
Additionally, our 4×4 safari Jeeps accommodate generous luggage space in its rear luggage compartment.
Q. Do you handle requests for special dietary needs?
Kenya and Tanzania welcomes visitors from all over the world and their diverse diet preferences. These preferences may be due to religious beliefs, lifestyles, or health concerns.
The menus in all safari lodges & tented camps are continental cuisine however, vegetarian, kosher, halal, gluten-free, etc. meals are also provided.
We request you indicate your special diet needs during safari booking/confirmation.
Why Book Your Safari in Advance?
Q. Do you provide airport hotel airport transfers when we arrive and depart Nairobi?
As part of our safari tour services, Vulture African Safaris provides free pickup and return to the airport/hotel for any guests who are booked for a 3-day or more safari tour with us.
The transfers are provided even if you arrive or depart several days before or after your safari start/end.
Please let us know your arrival & departure flight details including airline codes and arrival/departure times. We will provide you with the name of your driver and telephone contact in advance of your arrival/departure.
Q. Do you book or can you recommend a Nairobi hotel for our pre or post-safari stay?
If you are arriving in Nairobi earlier than your safari starting date or are intending to stay a few days more after your safari finish, you will require a Nairobi hotel.
Our listed safari tours and advertised prices do not include your Nairobi hotel.
Nairobi has a wide range of hotels in the economy, comfort, and luxury categories suitable for your 1 night or extended stay.
As part of your safari tour, Vulture Africa Safaris will pick you up at the airport and bring you to your respective Nairobi hotel or residence. This includes most areas around Nairobi.
We suggest that you look up and book online your preferred Nairobi hotel. If you should require advice, suggestions, or booking assistance for your Nairobi hotel, we will be happy to assist.
We can make suggestions depending on your budget and what area of the city you are interested in staying.
Q. Can we purchase a local Sim card for use while in Kenya?
A Kenyan Sim card will greatly reduce your telephone roaming bills during your visit and while on safari in Kenya
1 GB of data costs an average of $5.
Safaricom, a telco provider in Kenya is the market leader with the best national coverage and better deals.
Sim cards can be purchased from official stores or approved resellers. You can purchase them at the Nairobi airport upon arrival. Cost is approximately $1 or Ksh.100
To purchase local sim cards, you are required to have a Sim-unlocked GSM-compatible phone.
Q. What are your recommended safari tipping guidelines?
Tipping in guidelines for Kenya and Tanzania safaris – although not mandatory, is expected in return for good service.
All hotels, lodges, and porterage gratuities are included in the cost of your safari – these are collectively referred to as the service charge.
You may also decide to tip individual waiters, porters, and other hotel service employees who provide exemplary service. Usually, $1 – $5 per meal or move is appropriate and appreciated.
It is, however, customary to tip your safari driver/guide at the end of the safari tour. The amount is dependent on your evaluation of the quality of the service rendered. An average of $10 per guest per day or 5-10% of your safari-only cost is suggested. However, the amount is at your discretion – you are welcome to provide additional compensation to any staffer who has provided special services. A bar gratuity of $1 is acceptable.
You may tip in Kenya shillings, USD, or in Euro at the end of your safari and preferably in an envelope.