Nyungwe Forest National Park is located in southwestern Rwanda and covers about 970 square kilometres. It is one of Africa’s oldest and most important montane rainforests and a key destination for chimpanzee trekking, primate viewing, bird watching, and nature walks. The forest is home to several primate species including chimpanzees, black and white colobus monkeys, mangabeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys. In addition to primates, Nyungwe supports a rich ecosystem with plant species, orchids, butterflies, and a large number of bird species found within the Albertine Rift.
Nyungwe Forest is one of the best destinations in Rwanda for travellers interested in primates, rainforest experiences, and nature-based activities. It offers a different experience compared to gorilla trekking by focusing on forest ecosystems, hiking, and biodiversity. The park is also important for bird watchers because it hosts many species associated with the Albertine Rift region.
What to Do in Nyungwe Forest National Park
Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest
Chimpanzee trekking is one of the main activities in Nyungwe Forest National Park. Visitors track habituated chimpanzee groups with the help of trained guides. The experience usually starts early in the morning and involves walking through the forest in search of chimpanzees. Because chimpanzees move quickly, the trek can be active and requires moderate fitness. During the trek, visitors may also see other primates, birds, and forest vegetation.
Primate Walks and Monkey Tracking
Primate walks involve guided forest walks where visitors search for different monkey species. Nyungwe is home to about 10 to 13 primate species, including black and white colobus monkeys, mangabeys, blue monkeys, and baboons. Colobus monkey tracking is especially rewarding because large groups can sometimes be seen moving through the trees.
Bird Watching in Nyungwe Forest
Nyungwe Forest is one of the best birding destinations in Rwanda. It is part of the Albertine Rift, which is known for species that are not easily found elsewhere. Over 280 bird species have been recorded in the park, including several that are restricted to this region. Birding is best done early in the morning with an experienced guide.
Forest Walks and Hiking Trails
Nyungwe Forest has a well-maintained network of walking trails that allow visitors to explore the rainforest. These trails pass through hills, streams, and forest areas and can lead to waterfalls and scenic viewpoints. Guided walks are recommended to help visitors understand the forest ecosystem and safely navigate the terrain.
Nyungwe Canopy Walk Experience
The canopy walk is one of Nyungwe’s most popular activities. It is done at specific times of the day and usually takes between 30 minutes to 1 hour. The walkway is suspended above the forest, allowing visitors to see the canopy, birds, and surrounding landscape from a higher viewpoint. It offers a different perspective compared to ground-level forest walks
How to Get to Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe Forest National Park is located about 220 kilometres from Kigali. The drive takes around 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic and stops along the way. Travellers can include stops in Nyanza or Huye before reaching the park. The route also connects well with Lake Kivu and southern Rwanda. By air, domestic flights operate from Kigali to Kamembe Airport, which is about one hour from Nyungwe. Helicopter transfers are also available for travellers who prefer a shorter journey.
Where to Stay in Nyungwe Forest National Park
Listed below are some of the lodges you can consider staying at whilst visiting Nyungwe National Park. These hotels are close to the start point and therefore, make it easy for you, especially for those tracking chimpanzees in the park. Chimpanzee tracking requires an early start. If your hotel is close by, then it makes your trek easier
Gisakura guest hotels.
This is a budget clean and one of the long-standing lodges in the area. It is perfect for those on a tight budget. Although the facilities are basic, the services are good, and they try to make your stay memorable. The price quote of this guest house ranges between 35 to 65 US dollars per person per night.
Nyungwe Top Hill View
Set on a mountain near Gisakura is this 3-star hotel with a perfect view of the forests. Nyungwe to Hill View ranges between 250 and 400 US dollars per night, depending on the rooming arrangement.
One and Only Nyungwe house;
A true definition of luxury as it sits aside within a tea plantain and has excellent views of the forest. This is a 5-star hotel and the only one of its kind in the area for those looking to stay in deluxe facilities.