Best Places to Visit in Rwanda in March

Summary: Rwanda in March is defined by a transition toward more frequent rainfall, which encourages lush, green landscapes across the country. Key destinations include Volcanoes National Park for immersive forest treks, Lake Kivu for lakeside quiet, and Nyungwe Forest National Park for expansive, high-altitude canopy walks.

Our Hidden Earth maps 300,000+ verified hidden gems across 230 countries. Open the map to find the quiet places near the ones below.

Rwanda in March: at a glance

• Volcanoes National Park: Trek through dense mountain vegetation where the terrain becomes particularly lively after the arrival of seasonal rains.

• Nyungwe Forest National Park: Explore the dense, ancient rainforests and elevated canopy walkways that offer wide views over the verdant valleys.

• Lake Kivu: Enjoy the calm, contemplative atmosphere of the shoreline towns, which remain shielded from the more intense mountain weather patterns.

• Kigali: Benefit from the capital’s proximity to cultural institutions and museums, providing a grounded urban experience between outdoor excursions.

Is March a good time to visit Rwanda?

March represents a period of transition in Rwanda, marking the lead-up to the longer rainy season. It is an ideal time for those who prefer thinner crowds and a landscape that is rapidly transforming into a deep, vivid green.

While the weather is less predictable than during the drier months, the increased rainfall creates a fertile environment that is particularly attractive for photography and those interested in the thick, lush character of East African montane forests. Visitors should be prepared for changing conditions, meaning activities in high-altitude regions require patience and a flexible approach to outdoor plans.

Weather in Rwanda in March

The climate in March is influenced by the proximity to the equator and the country's varied topography. In the central highlands and the capital, Kigali, conditions are typically mild, though the likelihood of afternoon showers increases as the month progresses.

The mountainous northern and southwestern regions experience cooler, more humid air, with mist frequently clinging to the ridges and slopes. While the valleys remain humid, the higher elevations often feel quite crisp, particularly during the early morning hours.

Visitors should anticipate a pattern of bright, clear mornings followed by periodic, heavy downpours that refresh the soil and contribute to the country’s well-known agricultural productivity.

Best places to visit in Rwanda in March

1. Volcanoes National Park

Located in the northern reaches of the country, this park is defined by its series of dormant volcanic peaks and dense bamboo forests. In March, the slopes are particularly lush, making for a dense, immersive experience while walking the forest paths.

The focus here is on the dramatic scale of the landscape and the interplay between the cloud-covered summits and the thick, green undergrowth. While the ground can be muddy during this time, the trade-off is the quietness of the trails and the lively clarity of the foliage.

It is a region suited for those who appreciate the physical demands of high-altitude environments and the unique beauty of an ecosystem that thrives on consistent moisture.

2. Nyungwe Forest National Park

This vast, ancient montane forest in the southwest is known for its sprawling canopy and diverse tree species. The park features a well-known elevated walkway that sits high above the forest floor, providing a perspective into the upper layers of the trees.

During March, the forest is at its most active, with moisture fueling the growth of mosses and epiphytes that cover the trunks and branches. It is a place to observe the density of the Rwandan interior, where the atmosphere is frequently cool and quiet.

The park is better suited for those who enjoy extended, steady walking and the sensation of being deep within a remote, thriving wilderness.

3. Lake Kivu

Situated along the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Lake Kivu acts as a serene counterpoint to the rugged mountains of the interior. The towns that hug its shoreline, such as Rubavu and Karongi, provide access to the water's edge and views of the surrounding terraced hills.

March offers a peaceful environment here; the lake is often calm, and the surrounding plantations benefit from the season’s rain. It is a destination for those seeking a slower pace, where the primary activity is observing the activity of local fishing boats or walking along the quiet paths that trace the irregular, jagged coastline of the lake.

4. Kigali

The capital city serves as the central hub for most travel in Rwanda. It is built across a series of rolling hills, providing high vantage points that offer views of the city’s development and the surrounding countryside.

Kigali is home to significant historical and cultural sites, including institutions that document the nation’s journey through the late 20th century. In March, the city’s gardens and public green spaces are exceptionally verdant.

Spending time here allows for a deeper understanding of the country's social fabric, and the city’s compact design makes it an accessible base for organising travel to more remote parts of the nation.

5. Akagera National Park

Found in the eastern part of Rwanda, Akagera offers a different landscape compared to the mountainous west. It is characterised by savannah plains, wetlands, and rolling hills dotted with acacia trees. The terrain is lower in altitude and generally warmer than the mountain regions.

In March, the savannah is returning to life, with the grasses appearing in shades of bright green. This provides a clear contrast to the dry, brown conditions of other seasons.

It is an appropriate destination for those who want to observe the changing biology of the plains and enjoy a landscape that is less physically demanding than the steep ascents of the northern parks.

6. The Congo-Nile Trail

This route stretches along the eastern shore of Lake Kivu, connecting a series of villages through paths that wind through coffee and tea plantations. The trail is designed for those who wish to experience the rural interior at a steady, deliberate pace.

In March, the slopes along the trail are lively, as the crops benefit from the increased rainfall. The journey provides glimpses into the daily lives of those living on the lake’s edge, moving through small communities and high ridges.

It is an excellent choice for travellers looking to move between locations on foot or by bicycle, provided they are comfortable with the damp, earthy conditions of the season.

7. Musanze

Serving as the gateway to the northern volcanic mountains, Musanze is a busy town set in a basin surrounded by peaks. The town acts as a necessary stop for those visiting the nearby forests, but it also carries its own atmosphere of activity and commerce.

March in Musanze is frequently characterised by mist, which gives the surrounding volcanic cones a dramatic, ethereal appearance. It is an ideal base for travellers who want to stay in a location that feels connected to the natural landscape while still offering the basic comforts of a regional centre, such as local markets and proximity to the main northern transport routes.

8. Huye

Located in the south, Huye is a town known for its educational and cultural prominence. It houses notable research centres and a museum that showcases the ethnography and history of the region. The town is smaller and quieter than Kigali, with an academic air that encourages long walks through its tree-lined streets.

In March, the surrounding fields and hills are dense with greenery, reinforcing the town’s role as an agricultural centre. It is a recommended visit for those interested in the cultural history of Rwanda and who prefer a base that feels lived-in and quiet, removed from the main tourist circuits of the north.

9. Gishwati-Mukura National Park

This is one of the smaller, more recently protected forest areas in the country, located on the ridge that divides the Congo and Nile watersheds. It is a region defined by its restoration efforts and its high-altitude montane forest.

Visiting in March allows one to see the forest in a state of active regrowth, where the humidity helps maintain the health of the newly reforested slopes. It is a destination for those who are interested in environmental conservation and the specific, delicate ecology of Rwanda’s high ridges.

The area is less developed than the larger national parks, offering a more solitary experience.

10. The Burera and Ruhondo Twin Lakes

These two lakes, positioned near the border with Uganda, are set within a series of deep valleys and steep hillsides. The landscape is marked by the presence of volcanoes rising in the distance. The area around the lakes is quiet and agricultural, with little in the way of large-scale infrastructure.

During March, the contrast between the dark, reflective water of the lakes and the bright green vegetation of the surrounding hills is striking. It is a destination for those who appreciate landscape photography and a sense of stillness, as the region remains largely untraversed by high volumes of visitors.

Planning and packing for March

When travelling in Rwanda during March, base yourself in Kigali if you intend to visit multiple regions, as the city serves as the main transit point. For those focusing on the north, a base in Musanze is more practical. Regardless of the destination, pack for variable conditions.

Waterproof footwear with good grip is essential, as trails can be slippery and mud is common. Lightweight, moisture-wicking layers are better than heavy cotton, which holds water.

Include a sturdy, waterproof jacket that can be easily stowed in a daypack, along with a warm fleece for the cooler evenings in higher-altitude parks. Carry dry bags for electronics and important documents to protect them from the sudden afternoon showers.

Frequently asked questions

Is the weather in March too wet for outdoor activities?

While rainfall increases in March, it rarely lasts all day. Showers are often concentrated in the afternoons, leaving mornings and early hours bright and suitable for walking and forest exploration.

With appropriate gear, outdoor activities remain entirely feasible and often benefit from the cooler, refreshed atmosphere of the season.

Which region is best for someone avoiding steep climbs?

Akagera National Park in the east is significantly flatter than the mountainous western and northern regions. It provides access to open savannah and wetland landscapes, making it a better choice if you prefer avoiding the strenuous inclines found in the volcanic or forest park areas.

Do I need specialised gear for the rain?

Yes, durable, waterproof clothing is necessary. A high-quality rain shell, waterproof trousers, and sturdy walking boots with reliable tread are the most important items. Your gear will likely be exposed to mud and moisture, so ensure your clothing is quick-drying to remain comfortable between excursions.

Are the parks less crowded in March?

March is generally considered a quieter period for tourism in Rwanda. You will likely encounter fewer people on the trails and within the major parks compared to the drier months. This can create a more personal, contemplative atmosphere when visiting remote locations like the Twin Lakes or Nyungwe Forest.

Is Kigali a good base for a full trip?

Kigali is an excellent logistical base because of its central location and the quality of its roads leading to the provinces. While it is a city, it is well-connected to all major national parks, allowing you to venture out for day trips or longer stays in the rural interior.

How does the landscape change in March?

The primary change is the rapid intensification of colour. The rains transform the hillsides into lively, deep green, and the dust of the dry season is washed away. This makes March a preferred time for those looking to photograph the Rwandan landscape, as the scenery is at its most vivid.

Should I choose Volcanoes or Nyungwe for a first visit?

Choose Volcanoes National Park if you are drawn to dramatic mountain scenery and high-altitude trekking. Choose Nyungwe Forest National Park if you prefer being submerged in vast, ancient rainforests and are interested in elevated canopy walks.

Both are distinct, and the choice depends on your preference for open peaks versus dense canopy.

Is travel between districts reliable during the rainy season?

Main arterial roads between major towns remain well-maintained and reliable throughout the year. However, be aware that travel times can increase due to heavier downpours, which may slow traffic on unpaved roads leading into more remote park areas. Always factor in extra time for your journeys.

Final thoughts

For a trip defined by dramatic landscapes, choose Volcanoes National Park; the combination of mist, volcanic peaks, and verdant growth is unique to this time of year. If you prefer a slower, more introspective journey, Lake Kivu is the better option, as it offers a tranquil environment that remains largely unaffected by the mountain weather.

Use Kigali as your anchor point for travel between these regions to balance urban convenience with the quiet of the rural interior.

Weather, opening times and transport details in this guide were correct as far as we could check. Always confirm directly before you travel.

Planning a March trip? The Our Hidden Earth map has 300,000+ verified hidden gems across 230 countries. Find the quiet places near wherever you are heading.

More guides to Rwanda.