December brings full summer and festive spirit. The Cape enjoys long, sunny days perfect for beaches and outdoor adventures, while Kruger sees lush greenery and active wildlife. Coastal cities buzz with life and the country celebrates under blue skies. It’s the most vibrant and joyful month to explore South Africa’s beauty.

February stays dry and pleasant, keeping Rwanda easy to explore. Gorilla trekking remains excellent, with good visibility in the forest and a lower chance of slippery paths. Akagera continues to offer reliable wildlife sightings, and birdlife is active across the wetlands and savannahs. The air feels crisp and light, especially around the Virunga volcanoes. Kigali festivals and weekend events add a lively touch. It’s a balanced, comfortable month for both nature and cultural experiences.

March marks the beginning of the long rains. Skies stay cloudy and showers become more frequent, especially in the afternoons. Gorilla trekking is still possible and very rewarding, but the trails get muddy, so the hike can feel more demanding. The landscapes turn lush and green, creating beautiful photography possibilities. Akagera has more dispersed wildlife as water becomes more available. Crowds stay low, making the entire country feel quiet and intimate.

April is the peak of Rwanda’s long rainy season. Expect heavy showers, muddy trails, and reduced visibility in forested areas. Gorilla trekking becomes physically tougher, although sightings remain excellent once you reach the families. Park roads can be harder to navigate, especially in Akagera. Still, the green season has its charm with glowing hills, misty volcano panoramas, and peaceful parks free from crowds. This is the quietest month for travel.

May stays wet but begins to settle as the month progresses. Trails are still muddy, and showers come often, yet gorilla trekking remains possible with patience and the right gear. The landscape looks rich and vibrant, perfect for travelers who love green-season travel and quiet parks. Birdlife becomes more active again, especially in Nyungwe and Akagera. Travel is calm and uncrowded, though not as convenient as the drier months.

June marks the start of Rwanda’s long dry season and one of the very best times to visit. Trails become firm again, making gorilla and golden monkey trekking smooth and enjoyable. Nyungwe Forest feels crisp and clear, ideal for canopy walks. Wildlife viewing in Akagera surges as animals return to the main water sources. The country is at its prettiest, with rolling green hills under bright skies. Travel is reliable throughout.

July continues the dry season and remains one of Rwanda’s top months. Gorilla trekking is at its easiest, and the cool, crisp mornings around Volcanoes National Park feel refreshing. Nyungwe Forest trails are comfortable, and visibility is high for spotting colobus monkeys and other primates. Wildlife viewing in Akagera stays strong. The country sees more visitors, so booking gorilla permits early is important.

August keeps its dry, cool conditions, making it one of the most comfortable and predictable months to explore Rwanda. Gorilla trekking is excellent, and the lush volcanic slopes offer stunning views. Nyungwe is dreamy with its soft light and pleasant temperatures. Akagera’s wildlife sightings remain strong around wetlands and lakes. The country is vibrant with travelers, festivals, and outdoor activities.

September brings the tail end of the dry season, offering warm days and excellent visibility in the forests. Gorilla trekking remains strong, and this is one of the best months for photographers because the light softens slightly. Wildlife in Akagera is still easy to spot, and the overall travel experience remains stable and comfortable. Toward the end of the month, the first hints of the short rains may appear.

October brings the short rains. Showers return but are lighter and more predictable than in the long rainy season. Gorilla trekking is still manageable, though trails get a bit slippery. Akagera turns green and lively again, and birdlife becomes more active. The country feels refreshing as the air cools and the hills regain their bright color. It’s a good shoulder month for travelers who enjoy fewer crowds.

November is the heart of the short rains. Showers become more frequent, and trails in Volcanoes and Nyungwe forests turn muddy. That said, gorilla trekking continues year-round, and the experience stays rewarding once you reach the gorilla families. Akagera becomes lush and alive with bird activity. The country is quiet and peaceful, making travel feel personal and slow.

December opens another dry window and is a wonderful month to visit Rwanda. Gorilla trekking becomes comfortable again with firmer trails and clearer forest paths. Akagera’s wildlife viewing improves as water sources shrink slightly. Holiday travel makes Kigali lively and festive. The country shines with pleasant temperatures, good visibility, and reliable travel conditions. It’s a cheerful, rewarding month for all experiences.