Nyungwe National Park

Nyungwe National Park

Nyungwe Forest National Park, located in southwestern Rwanda near Cyangungu, close to Lake Kivu and the borders with Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo, covers an area of 970 km². Initially established as a forest reserve in 1903, it was officially designated a National Park in 2004.

The park’s primary treasure is Nyungwe Forest, the largest remaining montane forest in Africa, which has existed since the Ice Age. Nyungwe is believed to be one of the sources of the mighty River Nile. The park’s varied terrain, which includes mountains, hills, and flat areas, supports an incredible diversity of plant life. Over 1,060 species of plants and trees thrive in the park, with some tree species, like Carapa and Cyathea manniana, reaching heights of 1,900 meters above sea level. At higher altitudes of 2,500 meters and above, species such as Balthacaria, Hagenia, and Syzygium flourish, while at 2,950 meters, subalpine plants like Erica johnstoni and Phillipia are found, along with mosses and ferns scattered throughout the forest.

The combination of mountainous terrain, rich vegetation, and its position within the Albertine Rift creates an ideal habitat for a variety of wildlife. The park is home to 85 mammal species, including 13 primates, such as the rare owl-faced monkeys, golden monkeys, and Angola Colobus monkeys.

With its rich biodiversity, the Rwandan government, supported by conservation organizations, has made significant efforts to transform Nyungwe Forest National Park into a major tourist attraction. These efforts have led to the near eradication of poaching and increased awareness among local communities about the importance of conservation. Visitors can enjoy a comprehensive experience, including several activities that one can partake in.

Things to Do at Nyungwe Forest National Park

Visitors to Nyungwe Forest National Park are in for an unforgettable adventure, thanks to the variety of exciting activities available. With its stunning mountain views, picturesque water bodies, and lush greenery, the park provides the perfect setting for scenic forest walks and wildlife encounters. During your visit to Nyungwe, you can enjoy the following activities:

Chimpanzee Tracking at Nyungwe Forest

Nyungwe Forest is one of the best destinations in Rwanda for chimpanzee tracking. Home to around 400 chimpanzees living in various clans, the park offers a unique opportunity to observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitat. However, only two of the chimpanzee groups are habituated for tracking: one in the Uwinka section and the other in the Cyamudongo section of the park.

Chimpanzee tracking is available year-round, with groups of tourists setting off early each morning, usually as early as 4:00 am, guided by experienced rangers. The activity can be physically demanding, as the chimpanzees are highly mobile and often wander off the main trails into dense, untouched forest areas. Visitors must be prepared for a bit of a challenge, but the reward comes when the chimps settle down, allowing you to watch them feeding, grooming, and interacting in their natural environment. Their behaviors can be surprisingly human-like, offering an insightful and awe-inspiring experience.

To ensure the best experience, it’s recommended to bring long sleeves, pants, hiking boots, a hat, a rain jacket, a walking stick, and binoculars for spotting the chimps high in the trees. It’s also a good idea to carry plenty of water and light snacks to keep your energy up. Hiring a porter to assist with carrying heavy luggage or equipment can also make your trek more comfortable.

A chimpanzee trekking permit costs $250 for international visitors and $175 for foreign residents, and $35 for East African citizens, which can be obtained directly from the Rwanda Development Board or through a reputable tour operator. The above price includes park entrance fees. Please note that the minimum age for chimpanzee tracking is 15 years.

For those seeking a less strenuous trek with a higher success rate in chimp sightings, Uganda’s Kibale Forest National Park may be a better option, where the chance of seeing chimpanzees is over 95%.

For more information, contact us for a satisfying chimpanzee trekking experience in Nyungwe National Park.

Tracking Other Primates in Nyungwe National Park

Nyungwe National Park in Rwanda is one of the top destinations in Africa for observing small primates. While chimpanzee tracking is the main attraction, many visitors come specifically to see the park’s diverse monkey species, including Angola Colobus Monkeys, Dent’s Mona Monkeys, Grey-Cheeked Mangabeys, Hamlyn’s Monkeys, L’Hoest’s Monkeys, Olive Baboons, Red-Tailed Monkeys, Silver Monkeys, Vervet Monkeys, and Black-and-White Colobus Monkeys.

Among the various species, the Rwenzori Colobus is the most sought-after by tourists. This arboreal monkey, recognizable by its striking black-and-white fur, primarily feeds on leaves. Many monkey species in the park travel in large troops, sometimes exceeding 100 individuals.

You can book other primates’ trekking either through Nyungwe Management Company or contact us. We’ll save you from bureaucracy while booking chimpanzee and other primate permits in Nyungwe.

Visitors can track Nyungwe’s primates along four main trails:

• Kamiranzovu Trail. This is a route through orchids and marshes, offering excellent opportunities to observe primates.
• Bigugu Trail. The trail Leads to the summit of Mount Bigugu, this trail provides sightings of monkeys found on lower trails as well as species that inhabit higher altitudes.
• Waterfall Trail. This trail is Ideal for spotting Colobus Monkeys, this trail begins near Gisakura Guest House and extends through the tea estates.
• Uwinka Campsite Trail – Divided into two sections, the Red Trail (10 km) and the Grey Trail (1 km), this route is known for its high primate diversity and offers the chance to see over 400 Colobus Monkeys.

With its rich biodiversity and well-established trails, Nyungwe National Park is a prime location for primate enthusiasts who are eager to observe these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.

Forest and Canopy Walks in Nyungwe National Park

Visitors exploring Nyungwe National Park have two main options for experiencing its breathtaking landscapes— a canopy walk or a low-ground forest walk. Nyungwe is unique in that it is the only national park in the region offering an authentic canopy walk, widely regarded as the best in East Africa.

The canopy walk begins at the Uwinka Visitors Center and takes adventurers across a suspended platform, soaring 45 meters above the forest floor. From this vantage point, visitors are treated to panoramic views of the lush rainforest, as well as glimpses of its diverse wildlife and bird species. While the experience is exhilarating, it may not be suitable for those with a fear of heights.

For those who prefer to stay grounded, forest walks offer an alternative way to explore Nyungwe’s interior. The park features multiple hiking trails, each marked with different features to help visitors navigate and spot wildlife along the way. Some trails require up to eight hours to complete.

Nature enthusiasts with ample time often take the opportunity to complete multiple trails, immersing themselves fully in the wonders of this ancient rainforest. By the end of their journey, they will have encountered an incredible variety of wildlife, including primates, and gained a deeper appreciation of Nyungwe’s rich biodiversity.

Birding Walks in Nyungwe National Park

For bird lovers, Nyungwe Forest is considered the best birding destination in Rwanda. According to BirdLife International, the park is home to over 300 bird species, 27 of which are endemic to the Albertine Rift. Due to its exceptional biodiversity and diverse bird population, it is recognized as Rwanda’s most important conservation site.

Visitors walking through the park’s established trails can spot a variety of rare and colorful bird species, including the Archer’s Robin-Chat, Barred Long-Tailed Cuckoo, Great Blue Turaco, Chapin’s Flycatcher, Doherty’s Bush Shrike, Grey-Chested Kakamega, Handsome Francolin, Lagden’s Bush Shrike, Mountain Sooty Boubou, Rockefeller’s Sunbird, Purple-Throated Sunbird, Red-Collared Mountain Babbler, Rwenzori Double-Collared Warbler, Rwenzori Nightjar, Rwenzori Turaco, Rwenzori Batis, White-Bellied Robin-Chat, White-Tailed Flycatcher, and Yellow-Eyed Black Flycatcher.

Since some bird species inhabit specific sections of the park, a guided bird walk is recommended. These walks must be booked through the Rwanda Development Board at a cost of $50. Expert birding guides, familiar with the behavior and habitat of different species, rely on bird calls to identify and locate them. To increase the chances of seeing a wide range of species, it is advisable to explore multiple trails. The dry season is the best time for birding, as migratory birds arrive in the forest to find food and escape the harsh winter conditions of Europe.

Biking Through the Congo Nile Trail

The Congo Nile Trail runs through Nyungwe National Park, giving visitors a unique opportunity to explore this section of the park by bike. Cycling along the trail provides an immersive experience, allowing riders to take in the park’s diverse wildlife, including numerous bird species, primates, and other forest animals. The journey also offers breathtaking views of Nyungwe’s rich plant life, making it an ideal adventure for nature lovers.

Camping is an essential part of the biking experience, so it is important to carry appropriate clothing, camping gear, snacks, and sufficient water.

Activities in Nyungwe Forest take place year-round, but the best time to visit is during the drier months of June to August and December to January. During these periods, rainfall is less intense, making the trails more accessible and the forest easier to navigate.

Accommodation in Nyungwe National Park

Visitors to Nyungwe National Park have a variety of accommodation options, ranging from luxury lodges to mid-range and budget hotels. For those who prefer camping, a few established campsites are available near the park’s reception center.

It is advisable to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons when lodges tend to fill up quickly. Most lodges require guests to present proper identification, such as a passport, upon check-in. Additionally, travelers should be prepared for possible extra charges beyond the initial booking and should carry a credit card for convenience.

Contact us to book accommodation that suits your budget and preference.

One & Only Nyungwe House

One & Only Nyungwe House is the only true luxury five-star lodge near Nyungwe Forest. Formerly known as Nyungwe Forest Lodge, it is now managed by the prestigious One & Only hotel group. Nestled within a scenic tea plantation, the lodge features six high-end wooden villas and 22 luxury rooms, offering breathtaking views of both the lush forest and the surrounding tea fields.

Beyond its exceptional comfort and elegance, the lodge provides an ideal base for exploring Nyungwe National Park, making it the top choice for visitors interested in primate tracking, including chimpanzee trekking.

Kitabi Eco-Center

Kitabi Eco-Center is located in Kitabi and offers stunning views of Mount Kitabi. The lodge provides a range of amenities, including an in-house restaurant serving international dishes, a morning continental breakfast, and a spacious terrace for relaxation. It also features a playground for children, ample parking space, and comfortable accommodations, making it a great option for travelers looking for a peaceful stay near Nyungwe National Park.

Nyungwe Nziza EcoLodge

Located in Kitabi, Nyungwe Nziza EcoLodge offers comfortable mid-range and budget accommodations with free Wi-Fi, a lounge, and barbecue facilities. Guests can enjoy an early morning continental breakfast, served either in their rooms or at the main restaurant, which specializes in both local and international cuisine, including delicious pizza. The surrounding area features excellent biking trails, and bikes can be rented upon request, making it a great choice for adventure seekers exploring Nyungwe National Park.

Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel

Opened in 2011, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel is conveniently located near the park headquarters, offering breathtaking views of the forested mountains. The hotel provides front desk services, a spacious restaurant serving meals and drinks to all guests, and a cozy sitting area with a TV. Additional amenities include barbecue facilities, shuttle services, and banquet and meeting facilities. Each room features a private balcony with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Due to its central location within the park, the hotel is an excellent choice for visitors interested in hiking and exploring Nyungwe’s diverse trails.

Gisakura Guest House

Located just 2 kilometers from Nyungwe Forest National Park, Gisakura Guest House is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers a simple, functional design perfect for budget travelers. The guest house features affordable rooms, with shared showers and toilets, all maintained to a high standard by the friendly staff. The on-site restaurant serves lunch and dinner at reasonable prices, typically around $18 per meal, making it an excellent choice for those seeking basic yet comfortable accommodations close to the park.

Uwinka Campsite

For those who prefer camping, the Uwinka Campsite, located at the park’s reception center, is an excellent option. It is the only campsite in the area and offers several spots with stunning views of the surrounding forest. One of the sites features a wooden platform, providing protection from heavy rains during the wet season. Water for showering is available in buckets.

In addition to the mentioned hotels, lodges, and campsites, there are other accommodation options worth exploring, including the Rustic Rest House, Peace Guest House along the shores of Lake Kivu, Golden Monkey Hotel, Hotel Credo, Hotel Ibis Butare, Hotel Faucon Butare, and Ten to Ten Changugu Paradise.

Best Time to Visit Nyungwe National Park

Nyungwe National Park is open to tourists year-round, but the best time to visit is during the drier months from June to September. During this period, the ground is drier, and chimpanzees are more likely to feed closer to the ground, making them easier to spot. Additionally, the trails are less covered by undergrowth, allowing for smoother hiking experiences.

The dry season is also the ideal time for birdwatching, as many bird species breed and are more active. Birders will have better opportunities to spot various species, as the birds are busy constructing nests in preparation for the wet season. With a constant flurry of activity, the park offers a “bird fiesta” throughout the day, making it a perfect time for keen birders to explore.

How to Get to Nyungwe National Park

By Road
A road trip from Kigali Airport to Nyungwe National Park typically takes around 5 hours. Along the way, travelers can enjoy several optional stopovers, including Nyinza Palace in Nyabisindu, the former residence of the Rwandan king, the Gikongoro Genocide Memorial, the National Museum, the Arboretum, and much more, making the journey both scenic and culturally enriching.

By Air
For those preferring a quicker route, Rwanda Air offers charter flights from Kigali Airport to Nyungwe National Park, available upon request and with advance booking.

Contact us for more information and planning a Rwanda and Uganda Primate and wildlife safari.