Best Time To Visit Volcanoes National Park.
Nestled in the northwestern corner of Rwanda, volcanoes national park is one of Rwanda’s most iconic ecotourism destinations. The national park is famous due to its endangered mountain gorillas, soaring volcanoes and lush montane forests. The national park offers an amazing experience of wildlife and nature. The climate, wildlife movement, trekking conditions as well as permit availability all depends on the time of the year.
Rwanda is located in the south of the equator and thus enjoy a mild tropical highland climate this is attributed to its elevated terrain. Rwanda’s year is divided into two seasons that is the two wet season and the two dry seasons.
- Short dry season: Mid December to February
- Long wet season: march to may
- Long dry season: June to mid-September
- Short wet season: mid-September to mid-December
The temperatures in the volcanoes national park vary with the altitude ranging between 100C to 250C (500 F to 770F) and evenings are cool especially in the mountainous areas.
JUNE TO MID-SEPTEMBER (LONG DRY SEASON)
The best time to visit the volcanoes is in June to mid-September. The long dry season is particularly June, July, august and early September and thus widely considered the best time to visit the volcanoes national park
Why this season is the best:
- There is excellent trekking conditions because the trails are drier and less slippery.
- This makes the hikers to see gorillas or climb volcanoes more manageable.
- Great visibility because the skies offer a breathtaking view of the Virunga volcanoes and its ideal for photography
- Wildlife accessibility since the gorillas tend to stay within the lower altitudes hence reducing trekking time
- Peak season for tourists is when most of the visitors come so the price of the accommodation rates is high and permits sell out.
Therefore, one needs to book gorilla trekking permits in advance ideally 3-6months ahead.
SHOULDER SEASON: MID DECEMBER TO FEBRUARY (SHORT DRY SEASON)
The second dry season is also a great time to visit although its slightly more unpredictable in terms of rain.
Why this season?
- The park has good trail conditions though not dry as in the months of June -august.
- The national park receives fewer crowds than in the peak season.
Who should visit during this time;
- Travellers seeking slightly quieter trails and availability.
- Budget conscious tourists as some accommodations may offer better rates than in the peak season.
MARCH-MAY (LONG WET SEASON)
The long rains make this season to be a low season for tourism within the volcanoes national park. However, this doesn’t mean it should be completely ruled out.
A tourist should consider heavy rainfalls which make the trekking trails muddy and difficult to navigate.
Landslides and transportation delays and difficulties may occur especially in the mountainous areas.
Gorilla sightings are likely still but treks can take longer.
However, the tourists can expect the following:
- Lush landscapes thus the volcanoes national park is incredibly green and photogenic.
- Bird watching is excellent with the existence of migratory species.
- Fewer tourists which mean quieter treks and more intimate experiences.
- Potentially lower accommodation costs and easier permit availability.
This season is ideal for adventurous travellers, photographers looking for vibrant scenery as well as budget conscious nature lovers.
MID-SEPTEMBER TO MID DECEMBER (SHORT WET SEASON)
This short season is a bit mixed as rainfall begins to increase but not as heavy as in the wet season of march-May.
Why this season:
- Gorilla trekking is still possible and sightings remain strong.
- Moderate rainfall because it’s not constant but enough to muddy the trails occasionally.
- Good time to combine gorilla trekking with cultural activities in nearby Musanze and Kwita Izina which is held annually in September.
However, tourists should be well prepared for the unpredictable weather, still shoulder season so bookings and permits are more flexible.
WHAT TO PACK ACCORDING TO THE SEASON
During the Dry season (June-august, December- February)
- Light weight waterproof jacket
- Hiking boots with good grip
- Long sleeved shirts and trousers
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Daypack with water and snacks
Wet season (March-May, October-November)
- Poncho or heavy-duty rain gear
- Gaiters for muddy trails
- Quick dry hiking trousers
- Water proof bag covers
- Extra socks and gloves
Additional seasonal events and wildlife highlights
Gorilla trekking: this is the jewel of the volcanoes national park. Therefore, weather has an impact on the trail conditions. Mountain gorillas can be tracked year-round. This is so because they live at high altitudes and their movements are not drastically affected by seasonal changes.
But during the wet seasons, gorillas tend to stay in lower altitudes and within thicker forested areas thus making treks shorter but slightly more challenging due to muddy paths.
Kwita Izina (Gorilla naming ceremony): This is held annually in September in kinigi’s a cultural celebration attended by conservationists, celebrities and locals.
Birdwatching: This is best from November to April when migratory species are present.
Volcano hiking (Mount Bisoke and Karisimbi): This is best when the trails are safe and visibility is high thus the best month is the dry season. Mount Karisimbi is demanding and dangerous in heavy rains.
Golden monkey tracking: This available year-round but the trails are easiest in the dry seasons. These energetic creatures are more active and visible during the dry weather.
Nature walks and cultural experiences: these are available year-round but more enjoyable when its dry. Communities like the cultural village of Iby’iwacu offer immersive local heritage.
Photography and scenery: for a photographer or one that love dramatic landscapes, the dry season offers clearer views of the volcanoes most especially in the mornings. However, the wet season offers the forest a mystical, moody vibe with clouds clinging to the hills magical in its own right.
ACCOMODATION AVAILABILITY
During the high peaks in the months of June-September and December -February, lodges near the park especially the luxury ones and midrange book out quickly. Prices are high and thus early reservations are essential. Whereas in the wet seasons one is more likely to find deals or get upgraded for less. Some lodges even run off-season specials.
In conclusion, there is no bad time to visit the volcanoes national park since every season offers something unique whether its in the lush greenness of April, dry season of July or the cultural festivities of September. The best time depends on your travel goals, ease of trekking, cost considerations, photography or crowd levels.
For the best weather and highest chances to see the gorillas is June and august. However, whichever season you choose, volcanoes national park is ready to offer an unforgettable experience.