Things to Do in Kigali in May
May weather, activities, events & insider tips
May Weather in Kigali
Is May Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect dry season weather with minimal rainfall - only 10 rainy days versus 20+ in peak wet months, making outdoor activities reliably accessible
- Post-harvest season brings fresh local produce and traditional celebration foods at markets, with vendors offering seasonal specialties like fresh honey and new season coffee
- Shoulder season pricing saves 20-30% on accommodations compared to peak tourist months (June-August), with most hotels offering flexible booking policies
- Ideal temperatures for Rwanda's famous gorilla trekking - cool mornings at 16°C (61°F) for comfortable hiking, warming to pleasant 26°C (79°F) by afternoon
Considerations
- May marks the transition between dry and wet seasons, creating unpredictable weather patterns that can shift from sunny to overcast within hours
- Higher humidity levels at 70% make midday outdoor activities feel warmer than actual temperature, requiring more frequent breaks and hydration
- Some rural roads may still show damage from April's heavier rains, potentially affecting access to remote attractions and extending travel times by 30-45 minutes
Best Activities in May
Volcanoes National Park Gorilla Trekking
May offers ideal gorilla trekking conditions with cool 16°C (61°F) morning temperatures perfect for the 2-4 hour hikes at 2,500m (8,200ft) altitude. The dry weather means clearer forest paths and better photography opportunities. Morning mist creates dramatic mountain views, and afternoon temperatures reach comfortable 22°C (72°F) at elevation.
Nyungwe Forest Canopy Walks
May's lower humidity and stable weather create perfect conditions for the 50m (164ft) high canopy bridge experience. Morning temperatures of 18°C (64°F) reduce forest fog, offering clearer views across the 130m (427ft) suspension bridge. Afternoon bird activity peaks during May's pre-wet season period.
Lake Kivu Water Activities
May offers Lake Kivu at its most pleasant - water temperatures reach 24°C (75°F) with minimal afternoon storms. The 10-day rainfall average means 20 clear days perfect for kayaking, boat trips, and beach relaxation. Lake altitude of 1,460m (4,790ft) keeps temperatures moderate even during 26°C (79°F) afternoon highs.
Kigali City Cultural Tours
May's comfortable temperatures make full-day city exploration ideal. Walking tours cover 5-8 km (3-5 miles) comfortably in moderate heat. The Genocide Memorial, local markets, and artisan cooperatives are best experienced before afternoon temperatures peak. Lower tourist volumes mean more personal interactions with local guides.
Akagera National Park Safari Drives
May marks excellent game viewing as animals concentrate around permanent water sources before wet season dispersal. Temperatures reach 28°C (82°F) in the park's lower altitude of 1,200m (3,937ft), but morning and evening game drives at 16-20°C (61-68°F) offer comfortable wildlife viewing across 1,122 sq km of savanna.
Coffee Farm Tours and Tastings
May falls during coffee processing season following April harvest, offering unique insight into bean preparation and drying processes. Moderate temperatures make farm walks comfortable across terraced hillsides. Local cooperatives demonstrate traditional washing and sorting methods while offering fresh seasonal tastings.
May Events & Festivals
Liberation Day Celebrations
Rwanda's most significant national holiday on July 4th builds momentum throughout May with cultural performances, historical exhibitions, and community preparation events. Local communities organize traditional dance rehearsals and craft displays leading up to the main celebration.
Coffee Cooperative Harvest Festivals
Local coffee cooperatives celebrate the completion of harvest processing with traditional ceremonies, coffee tastings, and cultural performances. These community events offer authentic rural experiences and direct interaction with farming families.