When Is Winter in Rwanda?

Rwanda, located near the equator, has a temperate climate with two main rainy seasons and mild temperatures throughout the year. Unlike many countries that experience harsh winters, Rwanda does not have a traditional winter season. However, it does experience cooler periods during the year, particularly in the highland areas.

The cooler months typically occur between June and September, when temperatures are lower, especially in the evening and early morning. This is the dry season in Rwanda, which makes it a popular time for tourists to visit. During this period, the weather in the lowlands remains mild, while the highlands, including Kigali and Volcanoes National Park, can feel chillier, especially at night.

While Rwanda does not have snow or extreme cold temperatures, visitors to the higher elevations may need to pack warm clothing for the cooler temperatures. The daytime temperatures in Kigali and other cities usually range from 22°C to 27°C (72°F to 81°F), but in the mountains, temperatures can dip as low as 10°C (50°F) at night.

In summary, Rwanda doesn’t have a traditional winter season, but from June to September, it experiences cooler, drier weather, especially in the highland regions.