Last updated: August 31, 2025
May in Kigali, Rwanda, presents a delightful blend of mild temperatures and lush greenery. With a maximum temperature of 28°C (82°F) and an average of 20°C (69°F), the climate is inviting, perfect for outdoor explorations. However, visitors should be prepared for frequent showers, as the city experiences 112 mm (4.4 in) of rainfall over 20 days, contributing to its vibrant landscapes. The humidity level hovers around 87%, enhancing the tropical atmosphere. Whether you're wandering through local markets or enjoying the rich cultural heritage, May's refreshing ambiance captures the essence of Kigali's charm.
In May, Kigali experiences a harmonious blend of warmth and coolness, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 13°C (55°F) to a pleasant average of 20°C (69°F) and a maximum of 28°C (82°F). This month marks the transition into the rainy season, yet the temperatures remain relatively stable compared to the preceding months. With warmer days and cool nights, May is ideal for outdoor adventures, making it a lovely time to explore the rich culture and stunning landscapes of Rwanda. As the temperatures shift into June, you can expect a slight increase in warmth, but May still offers a cozy climate for visitors and locals alike.
In May, Kigali experiences a notable transition in its rainfall pattern, delivering 112 mm (4.4 in) of precipitation over approximately 20 days. This amount signifies a decrease from the more intense rainfalls of April, which reached a peak of 173 mm (6.8 in) over 26 days. Despite this reduction, May still contributes significantly to the region's lush landscape, bridging the gap to the drier months ahead. As the wet season starts to wane, the rainfall becomes more intermittent, highlighting a shift towards drier conditions that will characterize the following months. This gradual tapering not only influences the local climate but also impacts agricultural practices, making May a crucial month for farmers to optimize their harvest strategies before the dry spell sets in.
In May, Kigali experiences a notable increase in humidity, reaching 87%, which marks the highest level since January. This spike contrasts with the slightly lower figures observed in the preceding months, with April recording 81% and a gradual decline from January's 84%. As the last month of the rainy season, May sets the stage for a more humid climate, paving the way for the drier months of June and July, where humidity drops significantly to 78% and 70%, respectively. This trend of fluctuating humidity levels underscores Kigali's unique climate, where vibrant wet seasons give way to cooler, drier periods.
In May, Kigali experiences a UV Index of 14, maintaining its status as an extreme exposure category month, with a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. Throughout the first half of the year, the UV Index values have consistently remained high, peaking at 16 in February and March before gently declining in the following months. This slight decrease to 14 in May indicates a shift, yet the sun's intensity remains formidable, requiring vigilance and protective measures for outdoor enthusiasts. As the year progresses, staying informed about the UV Index is essential for health and safety—learn more about Kigali's UV Index here.
UV Risk Categories
As May unfolds in Kigali, Rwanda, the city basks in an impressive 334 hours of sunshine, marking a peak in the vibrant tapestry of its weather patterns. This month stands out, reflecting a gradual increase in sunlight since January, which started with 264 hours. Each month has seen a steady rise, with particularly bright spells in March and July, reaching 321 and 327 hours respectively. Comparatively, May outshines its predecessors, hinting at the city's radiant ambiance as it transitions into the heart of the dry season. Overall, as the year progresses, Kigali consistently delights with abundant sunshine, providing an ideal backdrop for exploration and outdoor activities during this enchanting time of year.
As May rolls into Kigali, Rwanda, the likelihood of sunny weather shows a promising increase, with a 26% chance of sunshine. This slight rise from the preceding months of April and March, which saw lower probabilities of 17% and 22%, respectively, hints at the onset of more favorable weather patterns. May's sunshine forecast is a prelude to the brighter months ahead, as June and July both boast a 37% chance of clear skies, culminating in the sunniest period from August, which shines at 45%. Overall, the progression from the rainy season suggests that May can be seen as a transition month, gradually welcoming back the warmth and light that characterize the Rwandan landscape during the dry season.
In Kigali, Rwanda, the duration of daylight remains remarkably consistent throughout the year, with each month enjoying a generous 12 hours of sunlight. This steadiness creates a stable rhythm for both residents and visitors, ensuring that the vibrancy of the city shines brightly all year long. The identical daylight hours each month highlight Kigali’s equatorial positioning, allowing for a harmonious balance of day and night that nurtures its lush landscapes and bustling activities. Whether it’s the golden mornings of May or the serene evenings of December, the constant 12-hour daylight invites exploration and celebration of this vibrant capital.
In Kigali, Rwanda, the wind conditions experience a subtle yet noticeable evolution as the year unfolds. Beginning with a gentle average wind speed of 1.3 m/s (3 mph) in January and February, the breezes remain soft through March and April, only slightly increasing to 1.4 m/s (3 mph). As May arrives, this gentle wind persists, marking a transition into the upcoming months. A notable increase occurs in June, where the average reaches 1.6 m/s (4 mph), and this trend of strengthening winds continues into the dry season with July peaking at 1.8 m/s (4 mph). By August and September, the winds stabilize at around 1.6 m/s (4 mph), providing a refreshing contrast to the warm days. This gradual uptick in wind speed tapers off into the autumn months, aligning with the cooler temperatures of November and December, when gusts settle back down to 1.6 m/s and 1.3 m/s respectively. Overall, May serves as a pivotal month, where the winds start to hint at the more robust breezes that characterize the dry season ahead.
Weather in Kigali varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Kigali, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In comparing the weather of May and January, both months exhibit relatively mild temperatures, but January tends to be slightly warmer on average. May features temperatures ranging from a minimum of 13°C (55°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), along with higher humidity at 87% and more days of precipitation—20 days, totaling 112 mm (4.4 in). In contrast, January sees temperatures between 13°C (56°F) and a peak of 30°C (86°F), with lower precipitation at 79 mm (3.1 in) over 14 days and a marginally lower humidity level of 84%. For more detailed information, you can check out Kigali weather in January.
In comparing the weather of May and February, both months feature similar minimum temperatures around 13°C (55°F), but February tends to be slightly warmer on average, with an average temperature of 21°C (69°F) compared to May's 20°C (69°F). February also experiences higher maximum temperatures, reaching up to 30°C (86°F), while May's peak is 28°C (82°F). Precipitation is more prominent in May, with 112 mm (4.4 in) spread over 20 days, compared to February's 87 mm (3.4 in) over 17 days. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly higher in May at 87%, compared to 82% in February. For more details, check out the Kigali weather in February.
In comparing the weather of May and March, we observe that both months feature similar average temperatures, around 20°C (69°F), but they do present some notable differences. March tends to have slightly higher maximum temperatures, reaching 29°C (85°F), compared to May's maximum of 28°C (82°F). Additionally, March experiences more precipitation, with 138 mm (5.4 in) falling over 23 days, while May has 112 mm (4.4 in) across 20 days. The humidity in May is higher at 87%, compared to March's 78%, making May feel more humid overall. For a detailed look at March weather patterns, visit Kigali weather in March.
In comparing the weather of May and April, we see some notable similarities and differences. Both months feature a minimum temperature of around 13°C (55°F), with an average of 20°C (68°F in April and 69°F in May). The maximum temperatures are quite similar as well, hovering between 28°C (82°F) and 28°C (83°F). However, April is marked by significantly higher precipitation at 173 mm (6.8 in) over 26 days, compared to May's 112 mm (4.4 in) over 20 days. Additionally, the humidity in May is slightly higher at 87%, while April maintains a relative humidity of 81%. For a more detailed look at the weather in April, you can check Kigali weather in April.
In May, the weather typically features a minimum temperature of 13°C (55°F), an average of 20°C (69°F), and a maximum of 28°C (82°F), accompanied by high humidity levels at 87%. This month tends to be quite wet, with precipitation reaching 112 mm (4.4 in) over 20 days. In contrast, June offers slightly warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures remaining the same at 13°C (55°F), an average bump to 21°C (70°F), and a maximum of 29°C (84°F). The month experiences significantly lower precipitation at just 14 mm (0.5 in) over only 1 day, resulting in a more comfortable humidity level of 78%. For more details on June weather, you can check Kigali weather in June.
May and July display distinct weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 13°C (55°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), with an average of 20°C (69°F). The month is marked by significant precipitation, totaling 112 mm (4.4 in) over about 20 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 87%. In contrast, July experiences smoother conditions with temperatures slightly cooler, ranging from 12°C (54°F) to a maximum of 29°C (85°F), and an average of 21°C (70°F). July is notably drier, with only 5 mm (0.2 in) of precipitation and no rainy days, resulting in a lower humidity of 70%. For a closer look at July's weather, check out Kigali weather in July.
May and August exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In May, the temperatures range from a minimum of 13°C (55°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), with an average temperature of 20°C (69°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 112 mm (4.4 in) over approximately 20 days, coupled with high humidity at 87%. In contrast, August sees a slight increase in average temperature to 22°C (71°F), with maximums reaching 31°C (89°F) and minimums remaining relatively stable at 13°C (56°F). Additionally, August is much drier, with only 41 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation over just 6 days and lower humidity at 66%. For more details on August weather, you can check this link: Kigali weather in August.
May and September present distinct weather patterns, showcasing the transition from the rainy season to the drier months. In May, temperatures range from a mild 13°C (55°F) at night to a warm 28°C (82°F) during the day, with an average of 20°C (69°F). The month is characterized by frequent rainfall, accumulating to 112 mm (4.4 in) over about 20 days, coupled with high humidity at 87%. In contrast, September offers slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 13°C (56°F), an average of 21°C (70°F), and a maximum reaching 31°C (87°F). Precipitation is significantly lower at 67 mm (2.6 in) over just 10 days, and humidity drops to a more comfortable 70%. For more detailed insights on September weather, you can refer to Kigali weather in September.
When comparing the weather in May and October, both months exhibit similar average temperatures, ranging around 20°C (69°F), with minimums of 13°C (55°F). However, October tends to have slightly warmer maximum temperatures, reaching up to 29°C (85°F) compared to May's 28°C (82°F). Precipitation is more pronounced in October, with an average of 129 mm (5.1 in) falling over 19 days, compared to May's 112 mm (4.4 in) over 20 days. Notably, humidity levels remain relatively high in both months, with October slightly lower at 83% compared to May's 87%. For further details, you can check Kigali weather in October.
In comparing May and November weather, both months exhibit relatively mild temperatures, with November slightly edging out May in terms of maximum temperatures, averaging around 29°C (85°F) compared to May’s high of 28°C (82°F). Both months share an average temperature of roughly 20°C (68°F), making them quite comfortable for outdoor activities. However, November tends to be wetter, experiencing about 128 mm (5.0 in) of precipitation over 22 days, compared to May’s 112 mm (4.4 in) over 20 days. Additionally, November's humidity is slightly higher at 91%, compared to May’s 87%. For more specifics, you can check out Kigali weather in November.
In both May and December, the weather in Kigali exhibits a similar temperature range, with minimums around 13°C (55°F), averages at 20°C (69°F), and maximums reaching 28°C (82°F) to 28°C (83°F). However, December is slightly drier, with 104 mm (4.1 in) of precipitation over 19 days compared to May's 112 mm (4.4 in) over 20 days. Additionally, December experiences higher humidity at 92%, compared to May's 87%. For a more detailed look at December's weather, visit Kigali weather in December.
May in Kigali marks a noticeable shift in climate, as temperatures average around 20°C (69°F), offering a refreshing respite compared to the hotter months preceding it. This month is characterized by increased humidity at 87% and frequent rainfall, with 112 mm (4.4 in) expected over about 20 days. Unlike the drier months, the vibrant green landscapes of Kigali come alive during this period, enhancing the city’s natural beauty. For more insights and detailed information on Kigali's unique weather patterns, visit Kigali Climate.