Climate in Rwanda

Rwanda has a highly diverse climate, with major differences between regions. Annual temperatures range from lows of -1°C in the coldest regions to highs of 38°C in the warmest areas. Annual precipitation ranges from 143mm in drier regions to 393mm in wetter parts of the country. Some regions receive significant snowfall, with up to 173cm annually, while other areas see little to none. The warmest areas are warm year-round while the coldest regions remain cool, making Rwanda a country of sharp climate contrasts.

Temperature patterns across Rwanda vary by region, with distinct differences between areas. The Southwest is the warmest part of the country, with peak temperatures reaching 38°C and an annual average of 24°C. Cooler conditions are found in the East, where winter lows drop to -1°C and an annual average of 3°C. This 21°C difference in annual averages between regions means travellers can experience vastly different conditions depending on which part of Rwanda they visit. Regional temperature differences remain relatively consistent across seasons, with around 21°C of variation in both summer and winter. For example, Nzega in the Southern Province averages 24°C annually, while Kibungo in the Eastern Province averages 3°C.

Rwanda sees notable variation in rainfall across its regions, ranging from 143mm to 393mm per year. The Southeast receives the most rainfall, at approximately 393mm annually. The West is the driest, with around 143mm per year. Winter tends to be the wetter season across most of Rwanda, though precipitation occurs throughout the year. The East sees the most snowfall, with up to 173cm annually, while other parts of the country receive little to none. Visitors heading to wetter areas can expect more frequent rain than those staying in drier parts of the country.