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Weather in Бутаре: What to Expect by Season

Photo: Galinier, CC BY-SA 3.0

Weather overview

Бутаре sits in the highlands of Rwanda, where the climate remains mild and consistent throughout the year. Unlike many tropical destinations, Бутаре rarely experiences extreme heat or cold, making it a comfortable place to visit in any season. The average temperature hovers around +21 °C, with only slight variations between months.

The year in Бутаре is divided into distinct wet and dry periods. The dry season, from June to August, offers the most stable weather, while the rainy seasons—March to May and September to December—bring frequent showers. Travelers should plan accordingly, as rain can influence outdoor activities and road conditions in Бутаре.

Temperature

Temperatures in Бутаре stay pleasant year-round, with daytime highs typically reaching +25...+28 °C and nighttime lows around +17 °C. The warmest month is August, when averages climb to +22.5 °C, while November tends to be the coolest at +20.2 °C. These modest fluctuations mean you won’t need to adjust your plans drastically based on heat or cold.

Even during the cooler months, Бутаре maintains a mild climate. In June and July, temperatures dip slightly to +21.7 °C and +21.9 °C, respectively, but the difference is barely noticeable. The consistency makes Бутаре an appealing destination for those who prefer steady weather without sharp seasonal shifts.

Average air temperature °C
Average air temperature
Month Minimum Maximum
January 17 27
February 17.2 27.2
March 17.1 26.9
April 17.3 25.9
May 17.6 26.1
June 17.2 26.3
July 17 27
August 17.5 27.8
September 17.3 27.7
October 17.1 27
November 16.8 25.9
December 16.8 26.5

Precipitation

Rainfall in Бутаре follows a clear pattern, with two distinct wet seasons. The heaviest rains occur from March to May, peaking in April with 154 mm of precipitation. A second rainy period spans September to December, with November being the wettest month at 170.7 mm. These months can see frequent downpours, though they rarely last all day.

The dry season in Бутаре, from June to August, is marked by minimal rainfall, with July recording just 4 mm. Even the transitional months, like January and February, see moderate rain, making them a good time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds and lighter showers. Travelers should pack accordingly, as the wet seasons can make trails and roads muddy in Бутаре.

Precipitation amount mm
Precipitation amount
Month Precipitation
January 102
February 76.7
March 149.5
April 154
May 92
June 8.9
July 4
August 37.6
September 143.1
October 108.7
November 170.7
December 152

What to pack

For a trip to Бутаре, lightweight clothing is ideal year-round, given the mild temperatures. During the dry season, from June to August, a light jacket or sweater may be useful for cooler evenings. In the rainy seasons, waterproof footwear and a compact umbrella are essential, as showers can be sudden and heavy.

Since Бутаре sits at a higher elevation, the sun can feel strong even when temperatures are moderate. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended for daytime outings. If you’re visiting during March to May or September to December, quick-drying layers and a waterproof bag will help keep your belongings safe from unexpected rain.

Average monthly wind m/s
Average monthly wind
Month Wind speed
January 2.2
February 2.3
March 2.2
April 2.1
May 2.1
June 2.2
July 2.4
August 2.5
September 2.6
October 2.4
November 2.3
December 2.2