Rwanda in December: Is It a Good Time to Visit?
December sits at the beginning of Rwanda's short dry season — and it is genuinely one of the better months to visit. Here is the full picture.
December Weather in Rwanda
The long rains end in late October/early November. By December, conditions are improving rapidly:
- Early December: Some residual showers possible, mostly in the afternoons. Mornings are usually clear.
- Mid-December onwards: Increasingly dry and sunny. Temperatures are warm but not hot — Kigali averages 19–24°C in December.
- National parks: Trails are still slightly muddy from November rains in the first two weeks, then drying out. A 4x4 is recommended for Volcanoes and Nyungwe access.
Gorilla Trekking in December
December is a good month for gorilla trekking — not peak (that is June–September), but very manageable. The gorilla families are active, forest conditions are acceptable, and permit availability is better than in peak season. Book 2–3 months ahead for mid-December; earlier December can be booked closer to the date.
Crowds and Prices in December
- Christmas week (Dec 22–Jan 2): Kigali hotels fill up — this is a popular holiday period for the Rwandan diaspora and regional visitors. Book accommodation early.
- Before Christmas (Dec 1–20): Relatively quiet. Good hotel rates, easy restaurant access.
- Gorilla permit availability: Better than June–September. Some last-minute permits available in early December.
- Car rental rates: Standard rates apply throughout December. No holiday surcharge from us.
What Is Particularly Good in December
- Birdwatching — migratory birds are present and the vegetation is lush after the rains
- Landscape photography — Rwanda is green and dramatic in December
- Lake Kivu — calm water, warm temperatures, perfect for swimming and kayaking
- Fewer international tourists than peak season
What to Watch Out For
- Early December can still have afternoon showers — pack a light rain jacket
- Some mountain dirt tracks near Nyungwe and Volcanoes NP still muddy — 4x4 needed
- Christmas week hotel prices spike in Kigali — book early or stay outside the city
Our Verdict on December Rwanda
December from the 10th onwards is excellent. Early December is good with sensible preparation. Christmas week is festive but hotel-heavy in Kigali. Overall: if December is your window, go — it is a great time to visit Rwanda.
Booking a December trip? Car rental demand in the holiday period means vehicles go fast. WhatsApp us now to confirm your dates.
