Best Time to Visit – Nyungwe Forest NP

Ariadne van Zandbergen
Expert
By Ariadne van Zandbergen

Ariadne is a renowned Africa expert. She and her husband form a team who write and update many Bradt guides, including the guide to Rwanda.

Ariadne is a renowned Africa expert. She and her husband form a team who write and update many Bradt guides, including the guide to Rwanda.

Ariadne is a renowned Africa expert. She and her husband form a team who author the Bradt guide to Rwanda.

Ariadne and her husband form a team who author the Bradt guide to Rwanda.

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Nyungwe Forest is open for chimpanzee trekking and hiking throughout the year. The wet months, from October to May, are the best time for chimp trekking and forest birding, but general hiking and spotting other primates might be easier in the drier months, from June to September.

Best Time October to February (These months are excellent for chimp trekking and avoid the worst rains)
High Season June to September (The park is busier as it is the most favorable time for gorilla trekking in Rwanda)
Low Season March, April, May, October and November (These are the peaks of the rains)
Best Weather June to September (Least rain)
Worst Weather March and April (Most rain, forest trails are slippery)

June to September –Dry Season

  • Drier trails make hiking easier and more pleasant
  • The sun is more likely to break through the clouds
  • Chimpanzee trekking is more hit-and-miss
  • Some of the special forest birds might be difficult to find

Wildlife Photos

View Photos (8)
+6 Photos Want to Visit

October to May –Wet Season

  • Chimpanzee trekking is best at this time as their food is plentiful
  • Forest birding is at its best and migratory birds are present
  • Rain can make forest trails challenging
  • It might rain for days at a time

Wildlife Photos
+6 Photos

Best Time to Go to Rwanda by Major Park

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Want to Visit Nyungwe Forest NP?