Volcanoes National Park

Weather & Climate

255 Volcanoes NP Gorilla Tours

Expert

By Philip Briggs

Philip is the author of the Bradt guidebook to Rwanda.

Climate Chart Volcanoes National Park – 1,881-4,202m / 6,171-13,786ft

Volcanoes National Park receives a steady stream of rain and mist. Combined with the high altitude, this means that the climate is wet and cold. Temperatures don’t change much throughout the year. It is about 15°C/59°F during the day. At night, it cools off to about 7°C/45°F.

Dry Season –June to August

It rains a lot throughout the year, but there is a short, drier season from June to August. Whenever you plan to visit, we recommend that you pack warm, waterproof clothing and good walking shoes for hiking.

June & July – Although it can rain at any time, these are the driest months of the year. It’s an excellent time for hiking and gorilla trekking. Daytime temperatures average 15°C/59°F, while the mercury hovers around 7°C/45°F at night.
August – The rains pick up slightly in August. However, temperatures stay about the same. This is still a great month for gorilla trekking.

Wet Season –September to May

There’s plenty of rain around at this time of the year, but more in the afternoons than in the mornings. Don’t forget to pack sturdy shoes for hiking and warm, waterproof clothing for the cold, damp conditions.

September – It rains regularly in September. Temperatures are around 14°C/57°F during the day. Nights are cold with an average of 8°C/46°F.
October & November – It rains a lot, with November a peak month for rainfall. Temperatures remain about the same.
December, January & February – It rains a bit less than in October and November, but the rain can come at any time. Wet-weather gear is still a must.
March & April – These are the wettest months. Hiking can be difficult as the trails get very slippery. Temperatures don’t really change.
May – Sometime in May, the rain diminishes and there are more sunny days. Daytime temperatures stay the same.