Rwanda in May
May weather, activities, events & insider tips
May Weather in Rwanda
Is May Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak dry season continues - gorilla trekking trails are still accessible with minimal mud, visibility remains excellent at 80-90% success rates
- Perfect temperature range 16-25°C (61-77°F) for hiking - cool enough for strenuous mountain treks without overheating, warm enough for comfortable early morning starts at 6am
- Shoulder season pricing begins - accommodation rates drop 15-20% from April peak while weather remains optimal, flight prices from Europe decrease significantly after Easter holidays
- Migrant bird species peak - over 340 species active including seasonal arrivals, making it exceptional for birding in Akagera National Park with comfortable morning temperatures
Considerations
- Transition period brings unpredictable afternoon showers - 10 rainy days means 30% chance of precipitation during afternoon activities, requiring flexible scheduling
- Cool evening temperatures 16°C (61°F) catch visitors unprepared - significant 9°C (16°F) daily temperature variation means layering essential for comfort
- Tourist numbers increase toward month-end as word spreads about good conditions - popular lodges near Volcanoes National Park fill up, especially weekends
Best Activities in May
Mountain Gorilla Trekking
May offers ideal conditions with dry trails but cooler temperatures 16-25°C (61-77°F) preventing overheating during 2-6 hour treks. Afternoon showers typically start after 2pm, while treks begin 8am, ensuring dry conditions. Vegetation is lush from previous rains but paths remain firm. Success rates remain high at 85-90% as gorilla families stay in accessible lower elevations.
Akagera National Park Game Drives
May's dry conditions concentrate wildlife around permanent water sources while cooler mornings 16°C (61°F) keep animals active until 10am. Over 12,000 animals including recently reintroduced lions and rhinos. Afternoon temperatures 25°C (77°F) are comfortable for 4-6 hour game drives. Roads remain passable despite occasional showers.
Lake Kivu Island Hopping and Water Activities
Water temperature peaks at 24°C (75°F) in May, perfect for swimming and kayaking. Morning conditions remain calm before afternoon breezes. Napoleon Island and Peace Island boat trips offer excellent weather windows 8am-2pm before potential afternoon showers. Clear visibility for photography of terraced hillsides surrounding the lake.
Nyungwe Forest Canopy Walk and Chimpanzee Tracking
Cool forest temperatures 18-22°C (64-72°F) provide comfortable conditions for the 70m (230ft) high canopy bridge and 3-4 hour chimp tracking. May's moderate rainfall keeps forest lush while established trails remain navigable. Chimp tracking success rates reach 70% as families stay in predictable territories.
Cultural Village Experiences and Community Tourism
May's pleasant temperatures make walking village tours comfortable while avoiding peak tourism crowds. Traditional farming activities are visible as communities prepare for long dry season. Iby'iwacu Cultural Village near Volcanoes National Park offers real feels without weather concerns. Cool evenings perfect for traditional dance performances around fires.
Kigali City Tours and Genocide Memorial Sites
May's moderate temperatures 20-25°C (68-77°F) are ideal for walking city tours and outdoor memorial sites. Afternoon showers provide natural breaks for indoor museum visits. Clear visibility for panoramic city views from various hills. Comfortable weather for 4-5 hour complete city exploration including markets and craft centers.
May Events & Festivals
Kwita Izina Gorilla Naming Ceremony Preparation
While the main ceremony occurs in September, May marks the beginning of community preparations and conservation awareness campaigns. Local communities increase cultural performances and conservation education programs, offering real feels of Rwanda's gorilla conservation efforts.