Monthly Safari Guide

Rwanda Safari in
February

Short Dry Season 15-27°C 80mm rain 2284 tours

February is arguably Rwanda's best gorilla trekking month. Dry conditions prevail on the Virunga slopes, visibility is excellent, and the gorillas are typically found at lower elevations where the forest is more open. Nyungwe Forest's famous canopy walk is spectacular with clear views. Akagera continues to develop as a Big Five destination with recently reintroduced lions and rhinos. Tourist numbers are moderate to high, so book permits well in advance. The dry conditions make February ideal for combining primates with savannah game viewing.

Season overview

Short Dry Season in Rwanda

February falls within Rwanda's short dry season, characterised by daytime highs of 27°C and overnight lows of 15°C. Average rainfall is 80mm, making this a moderately wet period.

The dry conditions mean vegetation is thinner, making wildlife easier to spot. Animals concentrate around permanent water sources, creating dense and dramatic viewing opportunities. Clear skies provide excellent visibility and photography conditions.

Wildlife & nature

Wildlife Highlights in February

● Peak gorilla trekking conditions
● Nyungwe canopy walk with clear visibility
● Akagera lions and elephants active
● Colobus monkey troops visible in Nyungwe

Where to go

Best Parks in Rwanda for February

★ Volcanoes NP

Top pick this month

Nyungwe Forest

Recommended for February

Akagera

Recommended for February

Planning

Crowds & Pricing in February

Crowd Level

High

Price Level

High 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

February commands high-season pricing in Rwanda due to excellent conditions and strong demand. Booking 3-6 months ahead is recommended for the best selection of camps and lodges.

Preparation

What to Pack for February

✓ Quality hiking boots

✓ Long protective clothing

✓ Warm layers for altitude

✓ Good binoculars

✓ Camera with no flash

With temperatures between 15 and 27 degrees Celsius, layering is essential. Early morning game drives can be cold, while midday is warm. Neutral colours (khaki, olive, brown) are best for safari. Avoid bright whites and dark blues which attract tsetse flies in some areas.

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 February FAQ

Is February a good time for a safari in Rwanda?

February falls in Rwanda's short dry season, with temperatures of 15-27 degrees Celsius and 80mm average rainfall. Crowd levels are high, and pricing is at high season rates. Peak gorilla trekking conditions. Overall, February is a solid choice for a Rwanda safari.

How much does a Rwanda safari cost in February?

Rwanda safari costs in February 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 moderate in February. Compare 2284 tours on SafariPicked.

What wildlife can I see in Rwanda in February?

February wildlife highlights in Rwanda include: Peak gorilla trekking conditions. Nyungwe canopy walk with clear visibility. Akagera lions and elephants active. Colobus monkey troops visible in Nyungwe. The best parks to visit this month are Volcanoes NP, Nyungwe Forest, Akagera.

What should I pack for a Rwanda safari in February?

Essential packing for a February Rwanda safari: Quality hiking boots, Long protective clothing, Warm layers for altitude, Good binoculars, Camera with no flash. Temperatures range from 15 to 27 degrees Celsius with 80mm rainfall, so layering is key for variable temperatures.

Which parks are best to visit in Rwanda in February?

The top parks in Rwanda for February are Volcanoes NP, Nyungwe Forest, Akagera. During the short dry season, 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.