June to September
Peak Gorilla Trekking
This is the best time to visit Volcanoes National Park and Nyungwe Forest – less rain, the steep, muddy slopes become significantly easier and safer to hike.
All destinations
Land of a Thousand Hills
Rwanda
Mountain gorillas in the Virunga volcanoes, a few hours’ drive from Kigali.
The journey
Mountain gorillas in the Virungas, chimpanzees and treetop walks in Nyungwe, lakeside downtime on Lake Kivu, and Big Five safari in Akagera, with Kigali to start or finish.
When to go
The best time to visit Rwanda.
December to February
The Short Dry Season
It is an excellent time for classic savannah game drives in Akagera National Park to see the Big Five, as animals gather around the lakes.
October to November
The Primate & Photography Window
This “short rains” period is ideal if your focus is chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest. Primates are easier to find because food is abundant on the lower branches, meaning you don’t have to hike as deep into the forest.
March to May
The “Green” Low Season
Heavy downpours can cause trekking trails to become incredibly slick and challenging. However, the scenery is vibrant and lush, making it the best time for landscape photography and birdwatching as migratory birds arrive.
Highlights
What not to miss.
From the rolling hills to the Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda offers travelers the chance to trek mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, walk the Nyungwe canopy, and experience a warm, immaculate country reborn.
An Hour in the Gorillas’ World
Tracking Playful Golden Monkeys
The Rhythm of Rwandan Culture
Eco-Luxury in the Land of a Thousand Hills
Walking Among the Treetops
Savannah Safari in Akagera
Questions
Planning a trip to Rwanda.
Quick answers before you start. Anything else, our travel advisors are a message away.
Ask about RwandaHow far in advance should gorilla permits be booked?
As early as possible, ideally six months or more ahead for peak season. Permits are limited to eight visitors per gorilla family per day, and we secure them as soon as travel dates are confirmed.
How many days should clients spend in Rwanda?
Three to four days is enough for gorillas and Kigali. We recommend 7 to 10 days to add golden monkeys, Nyungwe’s chimpanzees, Lake Kivu and Akagera.
How do clients travel around Rwanda?
Rwanda is compact, with excellent roads. Most itineraries use private road transfers with experienced driver-guides, and Volcanoes National Park is about two to two and a half hours from Kigali. Helicopter transfers are available for clients who are short on time.
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