Weather and Climate in Volcanoes National Park : Volcanoes National Park is situated in the northern province of Rwanda, covers an area of about 160 square kilometers. The park was first gazetted in 1925, as a small area bounded by Karisimbi, Bisoke and Mikeno, intended to protect the gorillas from poachers. It was the very first national park to be created in Africa. Volcanoes national park is part of the great Virunga volcano conservation region spanning to cover Virunga National Park Congo and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda. Volcanoes National Park Rwanda, one of the few protected areas housing the endangered mountain gorillas within the Virunga Mountains. Other mountain gorilla destinations include Virunga national park in the democratic republic of Congo, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda. Besides gorillas, Volcanoes National Park is a home for golden monkeys, a variety of birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects among other creatures
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
Rainfall is heavy in this region all year round, except for a brief dry period between June and August. To make the most of your visit, it’s a good idea to prepare with warm, rainproof clothes and sturdy trekking shoes for your outdoor excursions.
During June and July, the weather tends to be drier compared to other months, even though rain can still occur. This period is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and gorilla trekking. During the day, you can expect temperatures to be around 15°C, or 59°F, while at night, it cools down to about 7°C, which is 45°F.
As we move into August, the atmosphere starts to get a bit more lively with increased rainfall. Despite this change in weather, the temperatures remain relatively stable, not deviating too much from the previous months. This consistent temperature makes it an ideal time for tourists to visit and enjoy activities like gorilla trekking in their natural habitats.
Wet Season–September to May
When visiting Volcanoes National Park, the weather plays a big role in planning your day. During this time of the year, you can expect a lot of rain, especially in the afternoons. Don’t forget to pack sturdy shoes for hiking and warm, waterproof clothing for the cold, damp conditions.
In September, you can expect a fair amount of rain at the park. During the daytime, temperatures hover around 14°C (57°F), providing a cool but comfortable atmosphere. However, when night falls, it gets noticeably colder, with temperatures dropping to about 8°C (46°F). So, if you plan to visit, be prepared for some wet weather and chilly evenings.
In October and November, this remarkable Park experiences considerable rainfall, with November often being the wettest month of the year. During this time, the temperatures don’t change much and tend to stay steady.
In December, January, and February, the weather at the park sees a slight drop in rainfall compared to the previous months of October and November. However, visitors should be prepared for sudden showers, as rain can occur unexpectedly. It’s important to pack rain gear to stay comfortable while exploring the park during these months.
March and April bring the most rain. This can make hiking tricky since the trails tend to become slippery. However, the temperatures during this time stay pretty much the same, so you won’t have to worry about drastic changes in the weather.
And finally in May, the weather in Volcanoes National Park starts to change. You’ll notice that the rain decreases, leading to more sunny days. While the warmer weather is enjoyable, daytime temperatures remain fairly consistent compared to earlier months.
Frequently asked questions about weather and climate in Volcanoes National Park alongside its safaris.
What can I expect on a safari in Volcanoes National Park?
When you go on a safari at Volcanoes National Park, you’ll get the chance to see amazing wildlife, including the famous mountain gorillas, Golden monkeys, Mona monkey, velvet monkey, dent monkey, black and white colobus monkey, silver monkey, and gray cheetah mangabey. Other wildlife you may also see in this remarkable park includes hyena, forest elephant, buffalo, bush pig, forest pig, duiker.
A safari to Volcanoes National Park is popular for gorilla trekking experiences, which allows tourists to spend an hour hiking up Mount Virunga, the home of these rare mountain gorillas. The park is also a Birders paradise with about 200 species recorded including 17 Albertine Rift endemics, making it the best safari destination for bird watching in Rwanda. Some of the bird species you may see here includes he Cocky Francolin, Long-tailed Chicory, and Bubbling Chicory. African Ruwenzori, double-collared sunbird, marsh harrier, Ruwenzori turaco, common moorhen, Ruwenzori nightjar, gray-throated tit, dusky crimson wing, Golden eagles, francolin, Rwenzori batis dusky tortoise love, paradise flycatcher, Archer’s grand robin, Rockefeller’s sunbird, chapin flycatcher, Rwenzori batis, strange weaver among others.
because the park has over 115 bird species with a variety of Albertine birds these include the Yellow-Vented Bulbul, yellow-throated long claw, White-starred Robin, White-necked raven, White-naped Raven, White-naped Raven, White Starred Robin, Western Green Tinker bird, Shelly’s Dusky Crimsonwing, Rwenzori Turaco, Rwenzori Nightjar, Rwenzori double-collared sunbird, Rwenzori Batis, Rufous chested swallow, Regal Sunbird, red-throated alethe, Red-faced Woodland Warbler, Wax Bills, Thrush and Cinnamon Bracken Warbler, Striped breasted Tit, Streaky Seedeater among others.
What to pack for a safari in Volcanoes National Park
Tourists planning to explore the hidden gems of Volcanoes National Park and its famous mountain gorillas are recommended to move along with the following essentials such Your gorilla trekking permit, ID/Passport, Cash, Rain Jacket, hiking shoes, Long-Sleeved Shirts and Long Pants, Hat and Gloves, hiking stick, reuseable Water Bottle, Binoculars, Camera, Insect Repellent, Wet Wipes and Hand Sanitizer, Sunscreen, First Aid Kit, Notebook and Pen, Waterproof Bag among others.
Are permits required for gorilla trekking, and how can I get one?
Yes, permits are required for gorilla trekking, the cost of Rwanda gorilla permit costs USD 1,500 for non foreign residents, USD 500 for foreign residents and USD 200 for east African citizens including Ugandans and it’s essential to secure one in advance, as they can sell out quickly. You can purchase permits through the Rwanda Development Board or authorized tour companies. Rates include, guide fee, park entrance fees for the day and community development contributions.
What is the best time to visit Volcanoes National Park?
The best time to visit Volcanoes National Park is during the dry season, from December to February and June to September. During these months, the weather is more favorable for trekking, but remember, it can still rain, so be prepared for changing conditions.
Are there any accommodation facilities available for visitors while on a safari in the park?
Yes! Volcanoes National Park renowned for its famous mountain gorillas, offers an array of exceptional accommodation facilities that cater to the varied preferences of visitors. The accommodation here ranges from Budget, mid-range to luxury options such as Bisate lodge, Gorilla Nest, Virunga lodge, Sabinyo Silverback Lodge, Five Volcanoes Lodge, Le bamboo Mountain gorilla lodge, Kinigi guesthouse, Hotel Muhavura and gorilla volcanoes lodge among other.
