The climate of Burundi
Burundi, a landlocked country located in the Great Rift Valley where the African Great Lakes region and East Africa converge, is endowed with a tropical highland climate. With an average elevation of 1,800 meters above sea level, the country's geography plays a significant role in its weather patterns, marked by considerable temperature variations.
Burundi experiences a blend of the Marine West Coast Climate (Cfb) and Subtropical Highland Climate (Cfb), combining temperate, fully humid conditions with a warm summer. Average temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) to 23°C (73.4°F) throughout the year. Precipitation levels remain relatively constant, but certain months see an increase due to the occurrence of two rainy seasons. This climate results in moderate temperatures with less intense heat and humidity compared to the country's equatorial neighbors.
The best time to visit Burundi
From
June to
August, the country experiences its dry season, which is often considered the most favorable time for travel to
Burundi. During this period, temperatures are mild, generally hovering around 20°C (68°F). This season offers ideal conditions for outdoor activities, such as exploring the country's national parks or visiting the shores of Lake Tanganyika, with minimal chances of rain disruption. Additionally, with roads being more passable, accessibility to remote regions is easier compared to the rainy seasons.
The worst time to visit Burundi
The least preferable times to visit
Burundi are during its two rainy seasons, from
February to
May and from
September to
November. These periods are characterized by heavy downpours, and temperatures slightly drop, hovering between 17°C (62.6°F) to 20°C (68°F). The increased precipitation can lead to difficult travel conditions, especially in rural areas where infrastructure is less developed, limiting the exploration of the country's natural landscapes. Additionally, the heavy rains may increase the risk of diseases such as malaria.
Spring weather in Burundi
While
Burundi does not experience a traditional spring due to its proximity to the equator, the months of
February to
May are considered its long rainy season. During this time, temperatures typically range from 17°C (62.6°F) to 20°C (68°F), and the country receives substantial rainfall, typically more than 100mm (3.94") per month. These weather conditions contribute to the lush greenery that characterizes the country's landscapes, making it a vibrant time to experience the natural beauty of Burundi.
Summer weather in Burundi
Summertime in
Burundi, from
June to
August, corresponds to the dry season. This period sees less rainfall, with monthly precipitation dropping significantly. Temperatures during these months are relatively stable, maintaining an average of 20°C (68°F). The milder temperatures and reduced rainfall make summer an excellent time to engage in outdoor activities and explore the country's breathtaking landscapes.
Autumn weather in Burundi
The autumn period, from
September to
November, is the short rainy season in
Burundi. The country experiences increased precipitation during these months, often reaching up to 100mm (3.94") or more. Temperatures during the autumn months vary from 17°C (62.6°F) to 20°C (68°F). Despite the rainfall, the country's flora and fauna thrive, adding to the country's scenic beauty during this season.
Winter weather in Burundi
In the months of
December and
January,
Burundi experiences a short dry season. These months are characterized by temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 23°C (73.4°F), and lower levels of rainfall. Despite the lack of traditional winter cold, this period sees cooler temperatures, especially at higher altitudes. This season provides an opportunity to explore the natural landscapes and wildlife of Burundi, with less risk of rain disrupting plans.
Weather in January
January in
Burundi marks the middle of the short dry season, with generally clear skies and less rainfall. During this month, the country experiences cooler temperatures compared to other months, with averages between 20°C (68°F) and 23°C (73.4°F).
Weather in January » Weather in February
February in
Burundi marks the beginning of the long rainy season, characterized by increased precipitation and a shift from the dry conditions of
January. Rainfall levels begin to rise this month, but they are not as high as they will be in the peak of the rainy season in the following months.
Weather in February » Weather in March
In
Burundi,
March signifies the continuation of the long rainy season, with even more precipitation than
February. Rainfall levels continue to increase, typically reaching between 150mm (5.91") and 180mm (7.09"). This makes March one of the wettest months in Burundi.
Weather in March »Weather in April
April is the peak of the long rainy season in
Burundi, recording the highest rainfall levels of the year. Average precipitation in April can range from 190mm (7.48") to 220mm (8.66"), showing a significant increase from
March. This high level of rainfall contributes to lush landscapes, especially in natural parks and reserves, where the flora and fauna thrive. Despite the rain, average temperatures in April remain stable, ranging between 20°C (68°F) and 23°C (73.4°F).
Weather in April » Weather in May
May signifies the transition period between the long rainy season and the short dry season in
Burundi. The month starts with the continuation of the rainy season, with high precipitation levels similar to
April, ranging from 170mm (6.69") to 200mm (7.87").
Weather in May » Weather in June
June in
Burundi marks the onset of the short dry season. During this month, there is a significant drop in precipitation compared to
May, with rainfall levels falling to an average of between 20mm (0.79") and 50mm (1.97"). This drastic reduction in rainfall indicates the full transition from the rainy season to the dry season. Despite the decrease in rainfall, temperatures remain relatively stable, ranging between 20°C (68°F) and 23°C (73.4°F).
Weather in June » Weather in July
July in
Burundi is characterized by the continuation of the short dry season. Precipitation levels remain low during this month, similar to
June, with averages between 20mm (0.79") and 50mm (1.97"). This low rainfall contributes to clearer skies and less humid conditions across the country. Temperature averages remain stable, with ranges between 20°C (68°F) and 23°C (73.4°F).
Weather in July » Weather in August
August in
Burundi is the transition month from the short dry season back to the rainy season. The month begins with the continuation of the dry weather, with low rainfall similar to
July, averaging between 20mm (0.79") and 50mm (1.97").
Weather in August » Weather in September
September in
Burundi marks the beginning of the long rainy season. During this month, the country sees a significant increase in rainfall compared to
August, with precipitation levels averaging between 100mm (3.94") and 130mm (5.12").
Weather in September » Weather in October
October in
Burundi is characterized by the continuation of the long rainy season. During this month, rainfall levels increase further compared to
September, with averages between 140mm (5.51") and 170mm (6.69"). This makes October one of the wetter months in Burundi, contributing to the thriving of the country's vegetation. Temperature averages during October fluctuate between 20°C (68°F) and 23°C (73.4°F).
Weather in October » Weather in November
November in
Burundi is the peak of the long rainy season, with the highest levels of rainfall in the year. Average precipitation during November typically ranges from 180mm (7.09") to 210mm (8.27"), reflecting a significant increase from
October.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December in
Burundi marks the beginning of the short dry season. The month starts with a gradual decrease in rainfall, dropping from the high levels seen in
November, with averages between 110mm (4.33") and 140mm (5.51"). This reduction in rainfall indicates the transition from the long rainy season to the short dry season. Despite the decrease in rainfall, temperatures in December remain quite stable, ranging between 20°C (68°F) and 23°C (73.4°F).
Weather in December »