Rwanda in November

November is part of the low season in the world of Rwanda safaris. The end of the year sees the short rainy period, with showers deteriorating rainforest trails, making gorilla and chimpanzee trekking challenging endeavours.

However, there are still many pros to a safari in Rwanda during November. For birders, this is an ideal time to check a range of incredible species off your list, as the rain brings with it migrants from the northern hemisphere.

Weather in November

Weather in Rwanda during this month is characterised by rainy conditions (an average of about 4 inches in November). Daytime temperatures are pleasant and warm, hovering around 26°C/79°F. In rainforest areas, it is colder due to the high altitude, so pack warm layers. The rain causes incredibly lush scenery, which is spectacular to see and capture during photography safaris.

Destinations to Visit in Rwanda During November

Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park doesn’t see as much rain as the rest of the country during this time of the year, so November can be an excellent time for a Big Five safari in Rwanda.

Besides lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes, you may be able to spot hippos bobbing about in lakes along with crocodiles, waterbucks navigating the swamplands, and giraffes towering over the land.

Nyungwe National Park

Birdwatching is excellent during the wet season in Nyungwe National Park. While rainfall can make navigating the forest trails difficult, rates are often lower, and you’re often rewarded with fewer crowds.

A range of primates call this national park home. While walking through this forest, you may see chimpanzees swinging above in the canopy, beautiful l’Hoest’s monkeys, and charismatic colobus monkeys, among others.

Activities to Do in Rwanda in November

• Chimpanzee trekking safaris
• Gorilla trekking safaris
• Game drives
• Birdwatching safaris
• Photographic safaris