Weather and climate in Gishwati-Mukura National Park : The park is Rwanda’s newest National Park which was established in 2015 merging Gishwati forest and Mukura Forest it is the smallest with 34 square kilometers and least visited national park in Rwanda. The park is largely home to monkeys, possibly because it is a forest and also because it has encrusted the villages, driving out most of the big creatures like buffaloes. Chimpanzees, golden monkeys, L’hoest Monkeys, Blue Monkeys, Olive Baboons, Vervet Monkeys, and Black and White Colobus Monkeys among others. More so, the park is home to over 395 bird species in Gishwati Mukula National Park. There are 232 bird species in the Gishwati woodlands and 163 in the Mukula Forest Reserve.
Gishwati-Mukura National Park experiences a wet and cool climate. Due to the close proximity to the equator, temperatures are very uniform throughout the year. Daytime temperatures are around 19°C/66°F and it cools off at night to about 11°C/52°F. Bring warm, waterproof clothing and good hiking shoes whenever you visit.
Dry Season–June to September
Gishwati-Mukura is quite wet throughout the year, but there is a drier period from June to September (the Dry season).
During June, July, and August, the skies are usually bright and clear, making it a great time for hiking. You can expect daytime temperatures to be around 19°C (66°F), while the nights tend to cool down to about 11°C (52°F).
As September rolls in, the weather begins to change. Rain starts to fall more often, especially as the month goes on. Meanwhile, the temperatures remain pretty steady and don’t vary much.
Wet Season–October to May
While on a safari in You can expect regular rainfall, but there are always dry, sunny periods in between. Rain mostly falls in the afternoon, so mornings are best for activities.
During October, November, and December, the weather changes significantly, bringing more rainy days. November usually sees the highest amount of rainfall, making it feel especially wet. As the sun goes down, the evenings become chilly and damp, inviting a cozy atmosphere.
January and February mark a unique time during the Wet season. While these months are generally drier compared to what follows, you can still expect plenty of bright, sunny days mixed with occasional rainfall.
In March, the rain starts to increase, and by April, it reaches its highest point. April is the month with the most rain, making hiking trails quite slippery and challenging to navigate.
Frequently asked questions about weather and climate of Gishwati-Mukura National alongside it’s attractions
What is the weather like in Gishwati-Mukura National Park?
Gishwati-Mukura National Park has mild temperatures and moderate rainfall, with two rainy seasons, creating a humid and subtropical climate ideal for its diverse flora and fauna, making it a unique ecosystem in Rwanda. The mornings often bring a chill, while afternoon can warm, making its ideal for hiking and exploring. the atmosphere feels refreshing, and mist often blankets the area, providing a mystical experience.
What should I pack for a safari in Gishwati-Mukura National Park?
When heading out for a Rwanda safari in Gishwati-Mukura National Park, it’s essential to pack wisely. Some of the most important items to pack for a safari here includes long trousers, A long-sleeved shirt, Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots, A lightweight rain jacket, A pair of hiking gloves, Energy-giving snacks, Camera, Insect Repellent to protect you against flees, mosquitoes and even tsetse flies in the wilderness, Cash and Credit, Travel and health Insurance, Immunization card for yellow fever, Visa, First-Aid Kit. Other essentials include shampoos, deodorant, cleansers, brush/combs, lip balm, toothbrush/toothpaste, a small towel and toilet paper.
Can I see wildlife during the wet season?
Yes, you can definitely see wildlife during the wet season in Gishwati-Mukura National Park. While some animals may be harder to spot as they seek shelter during heavy rain, the lush landscapes attract many species, making this a unique time for wildlife viewing. Animals like Chimpanzees, golden monkeys, L’hoest Monkeys, Blue Monkeys, Olive Baboons, Vervet Monkeys, and Black and White Colobus Monkeys are the most common primates in Gishwati-Mukura Park. other animals that you may also see here includes red river hog, the black front duiker, the southern tree hyrax, the serval, and Felis aurata.
The park is also the home of 350 of birds with over 232 species spotted in Gishwati forest and over 163 in Mukura Forest, amazingly 20 are endemic to the Albertine rift and others are forest bird such as White-backed Vulture, Hooded Vulture, White-headed Vulture, Bateleur, Martial Eagle, Crowned Eagle, Pallid Harrier, Dwarf Honeyguide, Lagden’s Bush shrike, Shelley’s Crimsonwing. The wet season also means there’s a higher likelihood of seeing newborn animals. Just be prepared for sudden rain showers and stay alert, as the wildlife remains active even in the wet conditions.
Are there guided tours available in Gishwati-Mukura National Park?
Yes, Gishwati-Mukura National Park offers various guided tours, which are highly recommended for the best experience. Visitors to Gishwati Mukula National Park can go on guided golden monkey hikes, bird watching, chimpanzee tracking, waterfall hikes, village visits, and guided nature excursions among others
What are the accommodation facilities available here?
Gishwati-Mukura National Park has various accommodation options available within and outside the park, catering to different budgets. These accommodation ranges from luxury, mid-range and budget. Some of these accommodations available Here Gishwati Lodge, Hill View Hotel Lake Kivu, Lake Kivu Serena Hotel, Cormoran Lodge, Rushel Kivu Resort and Gorillas’ Lake Kivu Hotel among others.
