Rwanda safari in April

Monthly Safari Guide

Rwanda Safari in
April

Peak Long Rains 15-25°C 170mm rain 2284 tours
April is Rwanda's wettest month, with heavy rains making gorilla trekking physically challenging. However, the experience can be extraordinary as mountain gorillas are unfazed by rain and continue their daily routines. The dramatic mist-shrouded volcanoes create atmospheric encounters that many trackers consider their most memorable. This is Rwanda's cheapest month for accommodation, though the $1,500 gorilla permit remains fixed. Serious trekkers who embrace the challenge are rewarded with near-solitary gorilla encounters and dramatic photography.

Season overview

Peak Long Rains in Rwanda

April falls within Rwanda's peak long rains, characterised by daytime highs of 25°C and overnight lows of 15°C. Average rainfall is 170mm, making this a rainy period.

The rainy season brings lush green landscapes, baby animals, and exceptional birdwatching. Rain typically falls in afternoon bursts, leaving mornings clear for game drives. The trade-off for occasional rain is significantly fewer tourists and lower prices.

Wildlife & nature

Wildlife Highlights in April

  • ● Gorillas active despite rain, feeding on fresh growth
  • ● Maximum butterfly and insect diversity
  • ● Forest amphibians vocal and visible
  • ● Dramatic misty mountain landscapes

Where to go

Best Parks in Rwanda for April

★ Volcanoes NP

Top pick this month

Nyungwe Forest

Recommended for April

Planning

Crowds & Pricing in April

Crowd Level

Low

Price Level

Low Season

Average price per person

Budget

$2490

from $160 · 345 tours

Mid-range

$2965

from $80 · 605 tours

Luxury

$4426

from $350 · 103 tours

Ultra-Luxury

$7679

from $1111 · 14 tours

April is one of the most affordable months for a Rwanda safari. Lodges and camps offer significant discounts, sometimes 30-50% below peak rates. This is the time to experience premium properties at mid-range prices.

Preparation

What to Pack for April

✓ Full waterproof gear essential
✓ Waterproof boots with excellent grip
✓ Multiple dry bags
✓ Warm waterproof layers
✓ Patience and good humor

Waterproof gear is essential for April in Rwanda. Pack a good rain jacket and waterproof bag for electronics. Quick-dry fabrics are more practical than cotton. Despite the rain, sunscreen is still necessary for the strong tropical sun between showers. Neutral safari colours remain the best choice.

Book your adventure

Top Rwanda Safari Tours

Golden Rwanda Safaris

3-Day Gorilla Trekking and Mountain Biking at Lake Kivu

3 days standard 4.9★

From $3,190

Golden Rwanda Safaris

3-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking

3 days standard 4.9★

From $3,630

Golden Rwanda Safaris

4-Day Gorilla Trekking & Golden Monkeys

4 days standard 4.9★

From $4,400

Golden Rwanda Safaris

6-Day Middle Range Chimps & Nyungwe National Forest

6 days standard 4.9★

From $3,960

Golden Rwanda Safaris

5-Day Rwanda Gorillas & Lake Kivu Tour for 4 Nights

5 days standard 4.9★

From $5,500

Golden Rwanda Safaris

1-Day Akagera Private Safari with Lunch and Breakfast

1 days luxury 4.9★

From $550
View all 2284 Rwanda tours →

Frequently asked questions

Rwanda Safari in April FAQ

Is April a good time for a safari in Rwanda?

April falls in Rwanda's peak long rains, with temperatures of 15-25 degrees Celsius and 170mm average rainfall. Crowd levels are low, and pricing is at low season rates. Gorillas active despite rain, feeding on fresh growth. Overall, April is an excellent value month for a Rwanda safari.

How much does a Rwanda safari cost in April?

Rwanda safari costs in April vary by comfort level. Budget safaris average $2490/person from $160. Mid-range options average $2965/person. Luxury safaris average $4426/person. Ultra-luxury experiences average $7679/person. Prices are at their lowest in April. Compare 2284 tours on SafariPicked.

What wildlife can I see in Rwanda in April?

April wildlife highlights in Rwanda include: Gorillas active despite rain, feeding on fresh growth. Maximum butterfly and insect diversity. Forest amphibians vocal and visible. Dramatic misty mountain landscapes. The best parks to visit this month are Volcanoes NP, Nyungwe Forest.

What should I pack for a Rwanda safari in April?

Essential packing for a April Rwanda safari: Full waterproof gear essential, Waterproof boots with excellent grip, Multiple dry bags, Warm waterproof layers, Patience and good humor. Temperatures range from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius with 170mm rainfall, so waterproof gear is essential.

Which parks are best to visit in Rwanda in April?

The top parks in Rwanda for April are Volcanoes NP, Nyungwe Forest. During the peak long rains, these parks offer the best game viewing conditions. Volcanoes NP is particularly recommended this month. Browse all Rwanda park guides and tour options on SafariPicked.