Weather & Climate of Rwanda
The Republic of Rwanda is a small, landlocked nation in east-central Africa, flanked by the Congo, Tanzania, Burundi and Uganda. Also known as “the Land of a Thousand Hills” and positioned only a few degrees south of the equator, Rwanda boasts moderate temperatures and ample rainfall year-round thanks to its towering altitudes.
Rwanda boasts an agreeable tropical climate that’s not too hot or too cold. Though it’s located just south of the equator, the country’s high altitude helps keep temperatures moderate throughout the year. The country’s weather and climate are also characterized by frequent showers during the better part of the year and about 40 inches of annual rainfall on average.
It’s especially rainy in the northeastern corner of the country, steeped in the rainforest. Average daytime temperatures in Rwanda hover around 75 degrees Fahrenheit in the lower mountains, and a much cooler 55 degrees Fahrenheit along the higher mountains, while nighttime temperatures average in the 60s.
In Rwanda, there are two rainy seasons, the first from January to April and the second from October to mid-December. In between the two rainy seasons is a short dry season characterized mostly by sunshine and some light clouds. Even during the dry season, there is occasional light rainfall in Rwanda. This plentiful rain supply in spite of Rwanda’s short distance from the equator is due to its high altitude.
When to Go
While visitors can explore Rwanda at just about any time of year, the dry season from the middle of May to mid-October can be an easier time to get around. For those planning to observe the country’s mountain gorilla population, the dry season is also best, as are any months except for July and August; the most crowded time for gorilla tracking.
When deciding what to pack, visitors to Rwanda should consider the typical weather patterns of the particular time of year when they plan to visit. However, there are certain essential items needed throughout the year in Rwanda. These include lightweight clothing and a few warmer items for nighttime, especially in the uplands and more mountainous parts of the country. Visitors are also advised to bring rainproof clothing, regardless of when they travel to Rwanda.
Similarly to the rest of Africa, Rwanda’s weather is becoming more and more difficult to predict, which some scientists attribute to global warming. According to a Rwanda News Agency article, climate change and a predicted rise in sea levels threatens to undermine agricultural development throughout Africa, including Rwanda.
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