Kigali
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Kigali Weather in January

Kigali in January sees high temperatures, with highs around 27°C (81°F) and overnight lows of 16°C (61°F). Rainfall is fairly high at around 87 mm (3.4 in) on average, so pack waterproofs just in case.

Rainfall in Kigali in January

Historically, January sees about 17 days of rain, with a monthly average of 87 mm (3.4 in). Expect a fairly normal spread of rainfall this month, with no particular pattern of very heavy or very persistent showers.

Temperature in Kigali in January

Kigali has excellent weather in January, with days reaching 27°C (81°F) and nights cooling to 16°C (61°F). Overall, the month follows a fairly predictable daily temperature pattern. Nights cool down to 16°C (61°F), so a light jacket or extra layer is useful once the sun goes down. On the plus side, the cooler nights make for comfortable sleeping conditions.

Sunshine in Kigali in January

The area experiences a moderate amount of sunshine, with approximately 165 hours of sunlight expected. This means a decent mix of sun and overcast.

Our weather planner can help you find worldwide destinations with pleasant weather during this period. January, February, May, June, July, August and September typically offer the best weather for Kigali.

Kigali Temperature in January

Min Temperature
16°C (61°F)
Max Temperature
27°C (81°F)
Chance of Rain
57%
Precipitation
87 mm (3.4 in)
Rainy days
17 days
Sunshine
165 hours
Percentage Sunshine

Kigali Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Kigali - and find the best time to visit.

Daily Historical Temperatures

36-year average (1984-2026)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Kigali typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 27°C (81°F). Nights are pleasant, with lows around 17°C (63°F).

Average temperatures in January

Daily Historical Precipitation

36-year average (1984-2026)

Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.

Average precipitation in January

Historical weather records for Kigali in January

Browse day-by-day weather records for Kigali spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.

Kigali historical weather extremes in January

The extremes listed below come from historical weather data collected in Kigali from 2006 through 2025.

  • On January 26, 2006, temperatures climbed to 33°C (91°F), marking the warmest January day on record.
  • The coldest January day was on January 11, 2018, with a maximum of 20°C (68°F).
  • Kigali registered its coldest January night on January 27, 2014, with temperatures dropping to 9°C (48°F).

Best Places in Rwanda in January

Find out more about the weather in Rwanda and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Rwanda in January →

perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor

Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).

What to Wear in Kigali in January

Warm temperatures in January make for comfortable sightseeing weather. Pack breathable fabrics like cotton shirts, knee-length shorts or skirts, and comfortable walking shoes. A thin long sleeve for indoor spaces is handy. Prepare for significant rainfall with proper waterproof clothing and shoes. Sunglasses could come in handy during the sunnier parts of your trip.

What To Do in Kigali in January

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.

  • Swimming
    7/10
  • Cycling
    7/10
  • Walking
    7/10
  • Camping
    8/10
  • Outdoor sports
    7/10

Kigali 3-Day Forecast

More climate data for Kigali

Popular in January

Where to go in January - average daytime high across popular destinations.

Bucket list

Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.