Situated in the southwest of Rwanda, Nyungwe National Park is a stunning tropical rainforest that shares borders with Burundi to the south, the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west, and Lake Kivu to the west.

One of the oldest and best-preserved lowland rainforests in East Africa is Nyungwe Forest! This magnificent biodiverse park, which spans approximately 1,019 km², was created in 2004 and includes bamboo forests, grasslands, wetlands, and a rainforest.

Although chimpanzees are the main attraction in Rwanda’s Nyungwe Forest National area, twelve other primates also call this area home. These include baboons, vervet monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and Ruwenzori colobus monkeys, among others. Although they do exist, bush pigs, bushbucks, and forest elephants are rarely seen because of the dense forest.

Birdwatchers on safari tours in Rwanda should only skip Nyungwe if absolutely necessary! There are approximately 345 birds in Nyungwe NP, including 30 endemic species from the Albertine Rift, such as the Rwenzori Turaco.

The primary activity in Rwanda’s Nyungwe NP is chimpanzee trekking, although there is also the Nyungwe canopy walk. It is also possible to track Colobus monkeys and go on guided nature treks when you visit Nyungwe Forest.

Visitors on Rwanda safaris in Nyungwe NP can anticipate seeing various spectacular wildlife, like reptiles, amphibians, and even beautiful trees, in one of the oldest rainforests in Africa.

Nyungwe Park in Rwanda is open all year round. For reasonably priced Rwandan trips in Nyungwe NP, contact us!

What Is the Location of Nyungwe National Park?

In the southwest of Rwanda, in the Albertine Rift Valley, sits Nyungwe NP. It shares borders with Lake Kivu and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west and the Burundi Kibira National Park to the south. It forms the vital watershed dividing the Congo and Nile River basins on the east side near the Congo.

Kigali City is roughly 220 kilometers away from Rwanda Nyungwe NP, which can be reached in 5–6 hours by car. The park contains three reception centers for visitor access.

Geographical Coordinates: 2°29′24″ S 29°17′34″ E.

Nyungwe National Park’s History

In 1993, the Belgian colonial authority first designated Nyungwe NP as a forest reserve in order to save the local fauna and a healthy number of chimpanzees and other primates.

In order to expand tourism beyond gorilla trekking in the Volcanoes National Park area and animal safaris in Akagera National Park, the Rwanda Development Board, which is overseen by the Rwandan administration or government, elevated this environmentally sound and ecologically healthy area to national park status in 2005.

Back in 2020, the Rwandan government, through the Rwanda Development Board and African Parks formed a fruitful and successful partnership/agreement to oversee and manage Nyungwe Park for 20 years as well as protect wildlife for long-term economic sustainability.

Today, Nyungwe NP is one of the biggest national parks, boosting Rwanda’s tourism industry and generating millions annually for the economy.

Nyungwe Forest National Park’s Top Tourist Attractions

There is a lot to see in Nyungwe NP. These include, among other things, the exquisite birds, simians, and plants.

The primary points of interest for visitors who wish to experience Nyungwe National Park on Rwanda safari trips are:

1. Nyungwe National Park Primate Species

The main draw for visitors to Nyungwe NP is the primates. Although there are about thirteen different kinds of primates known to exist in Nyungwe, chimpanzees are the most common. Because they share between 98 and 99 percent of the human beings’ DNA, it is safe to say chimpanzees and humans are close cousins.

Chimps possess the highest level of intelligence when compared to other apes. These incredible giant apes behave and communicate similarly to humans, and they have even been observed utilizing tools in the same way that people do!

A chimp trek in the Nyungwe Jungle is the finest way to experience up-close interactions with chimps.

THE THIRTEEN PRIMATES IN RWANDA’S NYUNGWE FOREST NATIONAL PARK

1. The Chimpanzee
2. Colobus monkeys from the Rwenzori
3. Monkeys with black and white colobus
4. Dent’s Mona Monkey
5. Mangabey with a grey cheek
6. Vervet Monkeys
7. Baboons with olives
8. Monkeys with red tails
9. The Monkey of Hamlyn
10. The Albertine Rift Valley is home to the endemic blue monkey types.
11. The Monkey of L’Hoest
12. The Silver Monkey
13. Monkeys of Angola colobus

We don’t have mountain gorillas in Nyungwe NP, but according to certain Rwanda safari guides, there are golden monkeys there!

2. Nyungwe Forest Bird Species

Nyungwe Forest National Park is home to about 300 bird species, including 30 endemics of the Albertine Rift.

Taking a guided forest walk in Nyungwe is the greatest method to see birds in the park. You will explore most of the ecosystems in search of various bird species with a knowledgeable local tour guide.

The Red-throated Alethe, Regal Sunbird, Rwenzori Turaco, Bar-tailed Trogon, Handsome Francolin, Archer’s Robin-chat, and Stripe-breasted Tit are some of the notable woodland birds found in Rwanda’s Nyungwe NP.

Common birds include the Red-collared Babbler, Albertine owlet, Purple-breasted Sunbird, Neumann’s Warbler, Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher, and Shelley’s Crimsonwing.

3. Nyungwe Park’s Other Wildlife Species

Apart from simians, Nyungwe Forest National Park is home to other game animals (85 different mammal species), albeit difficult to spot. Giant forest hogs, bushbucks, bush pigs, genets, and duikers are some of the animals that have been observed in Nyungwe NP.

The aforementioned species can be seen during Nyungwe’s woodland treks by fortunate visitors on safari expeditions in Nyungwe NP.

4. Nyungwe Forest

The magnificent Nyungwe Forest vistas resemble a scene from a fairy tale! One of Africa’s oldest woods, this biodiverse tropical rainforest is said to have withstood the previous ice age.

The largest high-altitude montane forest in Eastern and Central Africa is Nyungwe Forest. Most of the time, this jungle is gorgeously blanketed in breathtaking mist in the morning.

Nyungwe is home to about 1,100 plant species, including 200 tree species, 200 species of orchids, etc. The largest trees in Nyungwe Forest are African mahogany trees. These trees typically reach a height of 60 meters.

5. Canopy Walkway in Nyungwe

Among the three forest canopy walks in Africa, the Nyungwe canopy walk in Rwanda’s Nyungwe Forest National Park is the first in East Africa. Opened in 2010 and one of the first high-level bridges of its kind in Africa, it is breathtakingly magnificent.

About 160 meters long and 70 meters high, the Rwanda Nyungwe canopy walk is a suspension bridge that rises above the Nyungwe tree tops.

Visitors of all fitness levels can enjoy an accessible, easy walk on the thrilling canopy walkway suspended high above the forest floor.

Magnificent views of the largest expanse of the Nyungwe Forest, Kivu Lake, and even nearby communities can be seen from this canopy walkway in Nyungwe.

It’s difficult to overlook the many simians, butterflies, and vibrant birds that may be seen during the canopy walk trip Nyungwe offers.

OTHER ATTRACTIONS IN NYUNGWE

Beyond chimpanzees and colobus monkeys, Nyungwe NP offers a variety of other attractions:

• Waterfalls & Tea Estates: Trek to the dramatic Isumo Waterfall or wander through lush tea plantations such as Gisakura Tea Estate.
• Rivers & Lakes: Explore the Nyungwe River or take a side trip to scenic Lake Kivu.
• Hiking Network: Over 130 km of marked trails range from gentle walks to strenuous climbs, including the ascent to Bigugu Mountain, the park’s highest peak, for panoramic views.
• Special Ecosystems: Visit the isolated patch of the Cyamudongo Forest, a biodiversity hotspot in the middle of Nyungwe with rare avians and a distinct habitat, and Cyinzobe, rich in diverse wildlife.
• Unique Flora: Discover more than 1,068 plant species beneath a dense rainforest canopy—one of the best-preserved in Central Africa.

Visit Rwanda today and see all these magnificent highlights firsthand for lasting memories on the African continent!

The Best Things to Do in Nyungwe National Park for Tourists

The primary activity in Rwanda Nyungwe NP is chimpanzee trekking, but there are other activities to be had there! Bird viewing, Nyungwe forest canopy walking, and even guided forest nature walks are among the numerous activities available in Nyungwe NP.

The detailed list of activities at Nyungwe Forest National Park is as follows:

1. Trekking With Chimpanzees in Nyungwe NP 

The main attraction of most safaris in Rwanda’s Nyungwe NP is trekking with chimpanzees. This unique opportunity allows you to interact with chimpanzees in their stunning natural environment.

After a lecture in the early morning, Rwandan chimpanzee tracking tours in Nyungwe NP typically conclude at 2:00 pm.

More than 400 chimps can be found in Nyungwe, and two communities have become accustomed to Rwandan chimpanzee trips.

There are over 30 members of the Cyamudongo group in the secluded Nyungwe patch of Cyamudongo Forest, and there are over 60 members of the Uwinka group. Taking advantage of its accessibility, tourists typically follow the Cyamudongo chimp colony.

Chimpanzee tracking safaris in Nyungwe might last anywhere from two to five hours. The way these huge apes move determines how long it takes. Trackers constantly keep an eye out for them to ensure that visitors don’t miss them!

The total distance of a chimpanzee trek is approximately 4.2 km, with an altitude gain of about 240 meters, and it involves following a rough track that may include steep trails.

Along the Nyungwe Forest Park chimpanzee trekking track, visitors will come across a variety of fascinating wildlife species, including butterflies, birds, and simians.

Tourists are allowed to spend only one hour with the chimpanzees during a trek.

Chimpanzee trekking requires a permit that can be purchased online in advance of the visit to the park from RDB. It costs $250 USD to track chimpanzees in Nyungwe NP.

The best time for chimpanzee trekking is in the early mornings, particularly in June, July, and August, and it is worth noting that binoculars, rain gear, hiking boots, water, and snacks are essential items to carry for chimpanzee trekking.

2. Walking The Nyungwe Forest Canopy

The greatest way to see the old Nyungwe Forest with 360° views is to take the Nyungwe Forest Canopy Walk. The Uwinka visitor center is where this walk begins.

A two-hour guided walk along a 160-meter-high bridge suspension over the forest, the Nyungwe canopy walk, which is one of East Africa’s highest and longest (approximately 200 meters in length), is perfect for taking pictures.

This trek costs $60 USD per person and is available to anyone over the age of six. Children should be accompanied by their parents!

At 8 a.m., 10 a.m., 1 p.m., and even 3 p.m., the Nyungwe Forest Canopy Walk, integrated into the Igishigishigi trail, is conducted in shifts, and it involves a round-trip walk of approximately 2 km.

Since rainfall won’t bother you as much, the best experience is typically had during the dry months.

3. Nyungwe Forest Nature Walk 

Nyungwe Park’s rugged terrain makes it an excellent place for hiking excursions. Along with Akagera and Volcanoes National Park, it’s one of Rwanda’s top national parks for wildlife walking safaris!

The majority of the park’s trails are easy to hike and range in length. Each has its own tourism attractions.

PART OF NYUNGWE PARK’S MAIN HIKING TRAILS

1. Lake Kivu and the Democratic Republic of the Congo can be seen from the Bigugu Trail. It transports you to Nyungwe Park’s highest peak.
2. The most difficult but worthwhile path is the Congo Nile Divide path. The spot where the Congo and Nile River basins diverge can be explored during this multi-day journey through the center of the bush.
3. On a clear day, the Muzimu Trail provides a stunning distant perspective of Lake Kivu and the volcanoes. It passes through forests of pine and eucalyptus.
4. The most well-known route in Nyungwe NP, the Rukuzi route, is about 9.1 kilometers long and provides stunning views of Lake Kivu and the surrounding settlements.
5. The Umugote Trail offers views of ridges, flowers, and butterflies, and is a fantastic place to observe simians and birds in Nyungwe Forest. You can see Burundi’s Kibira National Park on a clear day. It is rare to miss black and white colobus monkeys on the hike.
6. Another great place to go birdwatching in Nyungwe NP is the Karamba Trail. Found on the location of the old army camp, market, and gold mine, it is surrounded by a number of fern tree species.
7. The about 2-kilometer Igishigishigi walk offers a stunning view of the Nyungwe forest canopy, as well as magnificent wildflowers, monkeys, and a variety of birds.
8. You can explore the verdant tea plantations by following the Isumo route. Among other things, you can participate in tea picking if you have the time. You may also see the largest waterfall in Nyungwe and the park’s largest area from this hike.

9. Tracking Monkeys in Nyungwe Forest

Monkey tracking is feasible since Nyungwe Forest NP is a haven for a variety of primate species! Chimpanzees, L’Hoest’s monkeys, Rwenzori Red Colobus Monkeys, Black and White Colobus Monkeys, and Owl Faced Monkeys are among the more than 25% of primates that call Nyungwe NP home.

Visitors typically track Colobus monkeys, and the fee for this excursion is $140 USD per person. These stunning primates are seen in groups of 400–500 individuals.

The Kitabi, Gisakura, and even Uwinka Trails are the most popular routes for monkey tracking tours in Nyungwe. Each of them leads you through the center of this heavenly deep forest.

Keep in mind that Uganda’s Kibale National Park, the primate capital of Africa and home to more than 1500 chimps and 12 other primate species, is the only place that can match Nyungwe Park’s primate population.

5. Nyungwe National Park Bird Watching 

Birdwatchers should not miss the excitement of Nyungwe NP, which is a haven for Rwandan safaris.

A knowledgeable local birding guide who is acquainted with the local bird species leads many of the birding tours at Nyungwe NP, which start early in the morning.

The following birds can be found on several birding trails: Chapin’s flycatcher, Mountain sooty boubou, Dusky crimsonwing, Yellow-eyed black flycatcher, Red-throated alethe, and Black and white casqued hornbill.

The Rukuzi Trail, Igishigishigi Trail, and Umugote Trail are a few of Nyungwe Park’s well-liked birding routes.

What Time of Year Is Best to Visit Nyungwe National Park in Rwanda? 

Although visitors can visit Rwanda Nyungwe Forest National Park at any time of year, the most exciting experiences are had during the dry months. There is minimal rainfall during chimpanzee tracking trips and other forest treks during these dry months (June-July and August-September, as well as December, January, and February).

During the rainy months of March, April, May, and October to November, it typically rains for most of the day. Because there is plenty of food in the forest, this is the best time of year for birdwatchers.

Packing List for the Best Rwanda Safari Tour of Nyungwe National Park

Make sure to pack correctly for your Rwandan chimpanzee safari in Nyungwe Forest National Park. This packing list can also be used for Volcano Comfortable Hiking and gorilla trekking expeditions.

• Use insect repellents to shield your body from insect bites while trekking with chimps.
• A camera for pictures
• Sunhats and sunscreens
• The rain jacket
• A lightweight backpack
• Energy-boosting foods that are perfect for a chimp hike
• Water in bottles
• Shirts and pants with long sleeves
• A medical kit
• Documents related to travel

Long-sleeved shirts and slacks are recommended for visitors following chimps in Nyungwe NP in order to shield their beautiful bodies from wounds and insect bites.

Additionally, since they protect your feet during the chimp hike, hiking boots are essential.

Wearing a warm jumper will be beneficial when you’re in the parkland during the chilly morning hours.

Accommodations In Nyungwe National Park

All types of travelers on Rwanda primate safaris are welcome at the lodgings or lodges in Nyungwe MP. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about lodging throughout the safari excursion in Nyungwe Park.

NYUNGWE FOREST NATIONAL PARK’S TOP HOTELS

1. The Gisakura Guesthouse

This fantastic low-cost facility is located approximately 2 kilometers outside Nyungwe Park’s gates. The Gisakura tea estate is next to it. This guest house has showers in all of its rooms (double, triple, and twin), and warm water is available upon request.

1. One of Nyungwe’s finest luxury lodges is One & Only Nyungwe House (formerly Nyungwe Forest Lodge).

This opulent establishment is situated within tea plantations close to Nyungwe Forest National Park. It has opulent rooms and suites. There is a bar, lodge area, fireplace, exercise center, and swimming pool. Every room has free WiFi, a digital TV, a hair dryer, a private minibar, and air conditioning.

For visitors on Rwanda chimpanzee tours, it’s one of the park’s most well-liked lodgings, with a beautiful view of the surroundings and a base for these chimp treks to see chimps in the middle of tree tops.

1. Hotel Nyungwe Top View Hill

Travelers on Rwanda chimpanzee excursions in Nyungwe NP typically stay at the midrange Nyungwe Top Hill View Hotel, which is perched above the hill. The hotel offers tasteful lodging in 12 units, including 8 apartments with queen-sized beds, all of them being self-contained, and 4 twin rooms. It is a convenient base for exploring the jungle, even though it is not luxurious.

1. Campsite at Uwinka

The Uwinka visitor center has a tented camping ground for camping services. It has two cute and comfortable campsites with tents, a shower, and a toilet with a beautiful view of the surroundings.

How Can I Travel to the National Park of Nyungwe? 

Nyungwe Forest National Park may be reached from Kigali by either plane or car. Depending on the stops taken, the 220-kilometer travel from Kigali to Nyungwe Forest Park in the southwest of the country takes between five to six hours.

Among them are trips to the Ethnographic Museum in the Butare region and the King’s Palace in Nyanza. The speed limit in Rwanda is 60 km/h.

RwandaAir, which operates daily flights from Kigali to Rusizi, provides the shorter (less than an hour) flight to Nyungwe from Kigali. You’ll connect to the park from here.

Keep in mind that the majority of people utilize the route to reach Nyungwe Rwanda Park. We will transport you in a cozy 4×4 safari car.

Nyungwe National Park FAQs 

1. What Makes Nyungwe National Park Special? 

Nyungwe NP is a special place to visit during your Rwanda safari because of its distinctive flora and animals. The park provides tourists with a variety of engaging activities, including birdwatching, forest canopy walking, and chimpanzees trekking, to name a few.

It’s a fantastic region for primate conservation.

2. Is Nyungwe National Park Located in Which District? 

In Rwanda‘s southwest, in the Rusizi District, is where Nyungwe Forest NP is found. It is a financially self-sufficient asset with strong tourism offering tourist facilities and safari activities like the popular Rwanda chimpanzee trek, birding for Albertine Rift endemics, visits to local communities, etc., for tourists to have a memorable experience in Rwanda.

3. What Is the Cost of Admission to Nyungwe Forest National Park? 

Each participant must pay $100 to enter Nyungwe National Park. The cost is $150 for two nights in the park and $200 for three nights.

Conclusion

Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of the must-see destinations on Rwanda safari excursions. There is a lot to do in the park! Enjoy chimpanzee trekking, the Nyungwe forest canopy walk, and amazing birding tours while visiting the Nyungwe National area, a breathtaking ancient tropical rainforest. This area is a birdwatcher’s paradise for Rwandan tours.

If you have any questions concerning Rwanda safari excursions, send an email to our helpful staff.