The rainy and dry seasons
Rwanda is generally a year-round destination for safari travel. Due to the high altitude and proximity to the equator, you can expect to find a remarkably pleasant tropical highland climate. Daily temperatures vary between 20 degrees C and 30 degrees C, with the northern areas having overall warmer weather generally.
There are two seasons - rainy and dry.
The Rainy Season
The rainy season normally happens from March to May, and again in October and November.
April and May receive the highest rainfall (around 18 days per month) and some camps and lodges close due to the poor road conditions and forest trails as a result of so much rain.
If you want to trek gorillas, it is best to avoid these months as whilst the gorillas do not hide from the rain, the constant rainfall can make the ground underneath very slippery and difficult for trekking. On the plus side, however, porters are available to help you through the mud so if you are adventurous, you will also be able to enjoy the experience without many other tourists around.
The Dry Season
The dry season is between December and February, and June to August. January and February are the hottest months; July is the coldest month of the year.
The best time to trek the mountain gorillas and chimpanzees is January/February or late July/August - so towards the end of the two dry seasons - by which time the ground is as dry as it will ever get. July/August is one of the most popular times, so you need to book your gorilla permits at least a year in advance to avoid disappointment.