Kigali Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Kigali.
Climate overview of Kigali
With consistently stable weather, Kigali, Rwanda, sees little seasonal temperature change. Daytime highs average 27°C (81°F), ranging from 28°C (82°F) in August to 26°C (79°F) in April.
Rainfall is high, totalling around 1007 mm (40 in) per year. April is the wettest month and July the driest. The city also experiences a distinct dry season from June to August. The most sunshine falls in July, with an average of 8.3 hours of daily 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.
Monthly Temperature in Kigali
The climate in Kigali remains fairly constant, offering comfortable temperatures throughout the year. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 28°C (82°F) in August, the warmest time of the year, to a comfortable 26°C (79°F) during cooler months like April.
At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 17°C (63°F) in August to around 16°C (61°F) during April.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Kigali
Kigali is known for its substantial rainfall, with annual precipitation reaching 1007 mm (40 in). Significant seasonal changes in precipitation occur throughout the year. In the wettest month, April it receives high rainfall, averaging 149 mm (5.9 in) of precipitation, recorded across 23 rainy days. In contrast, the driest month July brings less rainfall, with 5.2 mm (0.2 in) over 5 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Kigali Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Kigali
Seasonal changes in sunshine hours are quite dramatic in Kigali. While July receives considerable daily sunshine with up to 8.3 hours, February marks the darkest time of the year, where sunshine is scarce with only 4.0 hours of sunlight per day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Best Time to Visit Kigali
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: January, February, May, June, July, August and September
- Warmest weather: January, February, March, June, July, August, September and October
- Most sunshine: July
- Fewest rainy days: June and July
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from June to August
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Kigali
What is the best time to visit Kigali?
January, February, May, June, July, August and September typically offer the most optimal weather in Kigali. In contrast, March, April, October, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Kigali has a distinct dry season from June to August.
What temperatures can I expect in Kigali?
Daytime highs range from 26°C (79°F) in April to 28°C (82°F) in August. Nighttime lows range from 16°C (61°F) to 17°C (63°F). Temperatures stay relatively stable year-round.
How much rain does Kigali get?
Annual rainfall is around 1007 mm (40 in). April is the wettest month with 149 mm (5.9 in), while July is the driest with 5.2 mm (0.2 in).
How sunny is Kigali?
Kigali receives around 2,109 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 248 hours, while February is the cloudiest with just 119 hours. Overall, Kigali enjoys abundant sunshine.
Kigali 3-Day Forecast
Kigali on the map
Kigali is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
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