Half the world's remaining Mountain gorillas live in Rwanda
Gorillas, Chimpanzees, breathtaking landscapes and inspiring people make a Rwanda safari holiday truly special.
Landlocked and compact, verdant Rwanda is often affectionately called the ‘Land of a Thousand Hills’. In this absolutely charming little country, visitors can explore a spectrum of habitats and ecotypes that range from the dramatic Virunga volcanoes to the quintessentially African savannah, light woodland and plains of Akagera National Park. There is also the impressive and very beautiful Nyungwe Forest National Park, which protects the largest remaining swathe of tropical montane forest in East and Central Africa. Scenic, high-altitude Lake Kivu is one of the 20 deepest lakes in the world. Among Rwanda’s many other scenic highlights are pretty lakes such as Burera, Ruhondo, and Karago, which are ringed by steep hills; there are many waterfalls, and in often intensively cultivated rural areas, villages punctuate the farmlands, with the stunning Virungas providing a breathtaking backdrop.
Much of the western and central regions are hilly or mountainous, eastern Rwanda is characterized by lower and flatter terrain. There, the River Kagera, with its network of marshlands and lakes, runs along the border with Tanzania.
While Rwanda is still known for a bloody civil war - the ‘genocide’ - that lasted 3 months in 1994, the country has since returned to near normality; it is a peaceful place where the democratic government promotes harmony and a tangible optimism. Today, Rwandese are keen to share with the world what happened in 1994, so as to prevent it from ever happening again. Today’s Rwanda is regarded as a fine adventure and eco-tourism destination, with its capital, Kigali, being one of the most advanced hi-tech, cleanest, and orderly of African cities.
Best time to visit Rwanda
When to go to Rwanda
Find out the best time to visit Rwanda with our month by month guide.
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
January is the dry season in Rwanda, making it a popular time to visit - meaning prices are higher, so it is important to book in advance.
February
February is the dry season in Rwanda, making it a popular time to visit - meaning prices are higher, so it is important to book in advance. The sunny and warm weather makes it a perfect time to go tracking for gorillas in the highlands and enjoy activities across Rwanda.
March
The beginning of the long rainy season is the prime time to trek to see chimpanzees, fruit begins to ripen bringing them to the reaches of the forest canopy. Gorilla trekking can still be undertaken, with discounts on permits often given.
April
Continuing rains throughout April means chimp sightings are still at their best. April is a good time to track gorillas as you may be able to take advantage of deals and discounts.
May
Rains ease and Rwanda's parks and reserves are lush and bountiful, with newborn animals making their first journey through the parks.
- The Kigali International Peace Marathon takes place, with three events, full, half and a 10k marathon.
June
It is dry season in Rwanda, the peak time to travel. Wildlife sightings become more common, making a popular time of year to travel.
Top Tip - there is always the chance of showers so make sure you pack your waterproofs especially for the rainforest.
July
It is dry season in Rwanda, the peak time to travel. Wildlife sightings become more common, making a popular time of year to travel.
Top Tip - there is always the chance of showers so make sure you pack your waterproofs especially for the rainforest.
August
It is dry season in Rwanda, the peak time to travel. Wildlife sightings become more common, making a popular time of year to travel.
Top Tip - there is always the chance of showers so make sure you pack your waterproofs especially for the rainforest.
September
It is dry season in Rwanda, the peak time to travel. Wildlife sightings become more common, making a popular time of year to travel.
Top Tip - there is always the chance of showers so make sure you pack your waterproofs especially for the rainforest.
October
Photographers it is an excellent time to travel, rain showers clear as quickly as they came clearing to reveal beautiful clear skies. It is the ideal time to admire Rwanda's incredible mountainous scenery.
November
Photographers it is an excellent time to travel, rain showers clear as quickly as they came clearing to reveal beautiful clear skies. It is the ideal time to admire Rwanda's incredible mountainous scenery.
December
December is the dry season in Rwanda, making it a popular time to visit - meaning prices are higher, so it is important to book in advance. The sunny and warm weather makes it a perfect time to go tracking for gorillas in the highlands and enjoy activities across Rwanda.
What would you like to do in Rwanda?
Explore our Different Types of Rwanda Holiday
Call Us - 01768 603 715
Unsure where to start? Give us a call and talk to our team.
Ben
Where would you like to go on safari in Rwanda?
Best Places to Visit in Rwanda
Call Us - 01768 603 715
Unsure where to start? Give us a call and talk to our team.
Ben
Excellent service from start to finish
Sam & Nick travelled to Kenya in February 2019 on a trip organised by Ben.
An amazing experience showcasing the sights in India
Karen, Judy & Rachel travelled to India in August 2019 on a trip organised by Nathan.
Our brief was 'Unknown Adventure' and they delivered!
Michael & Teresa travelled to São Tomé and Príncipe in December 2018 on a trip organised by .
Even in the middle of the Serengeti our Travel Co-ordinator was on hand to sort any hiccups.
June & Steven travelled to Tanzania in February 2019 on a trip organised by Alistair.
A real trip of making memories
Heidi & Family travelled to Malawi in July 2018 on a trip organised by .
OUR FAVOURITE TAILOR-MADE RWANDA TRIPS
Unique Rwanda Holiday Ideas
Call Us - 01768 603 715
Unsure where to start? Give us a call and talk to our team.
Ben
Plan with an Expert
Have a look at our original holiday experiences and then contact us with your brief, or call 01768 603 715
A detailed itinerary in 24hrs
Our experts will send you a detailed holiday itinerary within 24 hours. It's our service promise to you.
Value Guarantee
Tailor-made doesn't mean expensive! Ask about our price promise and book with financial security.
OUR FAVOURITE RWANDA ACCOMMODATION
Best Places to Stay in Rwanda
Inspiration from the blog
Travellers Tales and Insider Insights
A detailed itinerary in 24 hours
Speak to a Rwanda expert to start planning your adventure
-
Ben
Rwanda Specialist
-
Alistair
Rwanda Specialist