Best time to Visit Volcanoes National Park: Visiting the park is possible year-round, regardless of whether it is rainy or wet. However, many visitors opt to explore during the drier months due to the challenges posed by wet conditions. The preference for dry months is particularly notable for activities like gorilla trekking and hiking in volcanoes national park, where slippery trails can impede movement. Additionally, wildlife sightings are generally better during dry seasons, as visibility improves.

Best time to Visit Volcanoes National Park

 June to Mid-September and December to February

This period is exceptionally dry, making it ideal for visiting Rwanda, especially Volcanoes Park for a gorilla tours. It is the prime time for gorilla trekking, as the rainforest will be relatively dry, improving trekking conditions. However, it is advisable to bring rain gear and boots since rain can occur unexpectedly in these tropical rainforests.

In the dry season, hiking becomes significantly easier, as the tropical rainforests are less saturated. This benefits those planning to hike while in Rwanda. Additionally, wildlife viewing is greatly facilitated during these months, as animals frequently gather around water sources due to scarce water availability in certain areas of the park. This predictable behavior ensures that animals can be easily located during game drives.

From June to mid-September marks the extended dry period, while December to February signifies the shorter dry spell. It is important to acknowledge that despite Rwanda’s proximity to the equator and its hilly terrain, occasional showers may occur even during these relatively dry months.

 March to May and October to November

Between March and May, Rwanda experiences an extended wet season with heavy rainfall, while October and November constitute a shorter wet period. Unlike Europe, where rain may persist, Rwanda typically encounters brief showers followed by sunny weather for most of the year, allowing activities to proceed uninterrupted. During the short rainy periods, primate trekking remains feasible but may pose some challenges. However, it is an ideal time for birdwatching enthusiasts as flowering plants and trees attract a plethora of birds. Birding safaris typically commence towards the end of the rainy season. Additionally, photographers can capitalize on this time to capture stunning images, as flourishing flowers, lush greenery, and clear blue skies provide an excellent backdrop.

Note:

As June to September is a popular travel period, it is advisable to plan and book your trip well in advance due to the daily visitor limit enforced at Volcanoes Park.