Gishwati-Mukura National Park is the newest national park in Rwanda. It was officially established in 2015 and is located in the western part of the country, near Lake Kivu. The park is made up of two separate forests: Gishwati Forest and Mukura Forest. Together, they cover about 34 square kilometers. Though it is small in size, Gishwati-Mukura is important for conservation and is rich in plant and animal life. It is part of a larger effort to protect Rwanda’s remaining natural forests and connect wildlife corridors.
Forest and Ecosystem
Gishwati-Mukura is a tropical rainforest with rolling hills, thick vegetation, and small rivers. It is located in the Albertine Rift, which is known for its high levels of biodiversity. The park was once damaged by deforestation and farming, but efforts have been made to restore the forest. Today, it is slowly growing back, with more trees being planted and wildlife returning. The forest plays an important role in keeping the soil healthy, protecting water sources, and fighting climate change.
Wildlife in the Park
The park is home to a small but growing number of animals. One of the main attractions is the chimpanzees, which live in the Gishwati section of the park. These chimps are not yet habituated, meaning they are still shy around humans. With time, they may become more comfortable with visitors. Other primates in the park include golden monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and blue monkeys. Visitors may also see bushbucks, duikers, and various small mammals.
Bird Watching
Gishwati-Mukura is a good place for bird lovers. The park has over 230 bird species, some of which are found only in the Albertine Rift. You may see colorful birds such as the Ruwenzori turaco, mountain yellow warbler, red-throated alethe, and the Grauer’s swamp warbler. The mix of forest, grassland, and wetlands makes the park a perfect home for both forest and migratory birds.
Guided Nature Walks
One of the best ways to explore Gishwati-Mukura is through a guided nature walk. Local guides lead visitors through the forest, pointing out interesting plants, trees, birds, and animals. Walks vary in length, from short 1-hour walks to longer 3-hour hikes. Along the way, visitors can enjoy the peace and quiet of the forest, learn about conservation, and discover beautiful spots like waterfalls and streams.
Cultural Encounters
Visitors to Gishwati-Mukura can also enjoy cultural experiences in the nearby communities. These include traditional music and dance performances, visits to local farms, and storytelling sessions with elders. You can learn how to make local crafts or taste traditional Rwandan food. These experiences allow you to connect with the people who live near the park and understand their way of life.
Conservation Efforts
Gishwati-Mukura National Park was created as part of a large conservation project to protect Rwanda’s remaining forests and wildlife. For many years, the forest was heavily cleared for farming, but today it is being restored. The Rwandan government, with help from partners, is planting trees, protecting water sources, and creating a wildlife corridor that will link Gishwati-Mukura to Nyungwe Forest in the future. These efforts will help animals move safely between forests and increase biodiversity.
Community Involvement
Local communities play a big role in protecting Gishwati-Mukura. People living near the park are involved in eco-tourism, guiding, and forest restoration. By offering jobs and income from tourism, the park helps reduce poverty and teaches people to care for nature. A portion of park revenue goes back to the communities to fund schools, clinics, and clean water projects. This shared benefit helps create a strong partnership between people and conservation.
Best Time to Visit
The park can be visited all year round. However, the dry seasons from June to September and December to February are the best times for walking and wildlife viewing. During the rainy season (March to May and October to November), the trails can be muddy, but the forest is lush and green. Bird watching is especially good during the wet season when migratory birds are present.
How to Get There
Gishwati-Mukura National Park is about 2.5 to 3 hours by road from Kigali. The park is located between Rubavu (Gisenyi) and Karongi (Kibuye), two towns along the shores of Lake Kivu. Most visitors include a stop at Gishwati-Mukura as part of a longer trip through western Rwanda or when traveling along the Congo Nile Trail. The roads to the park are improving, and guided visits can be arranged through the Rwanda Development Board.
Where to Stay
Accommodation near the park is still developing. Options include eco-lodges, guesthouses, and hotels in Rubavu and Karongi towns. Plans are in place to build more lodges closer to the park in the future. For now, visitors can stay in nearby towns and travel to the park for day trips. Camping may also be possible with permission from park authorities.
Future Potential
Gishwati-Mukura may be small, but it has big potential. As forest restoration continues and tourism grows, the park will offer even more activities and wildlife encounters. The creation of a corridor linking Gishwati-Mukura with Nyungwe Forest will allow animals like chimps and monkeys to move safely and increase the forest’s value for conservation. The park is an important step in Rwanda’s green future.
Conclusion
Gishwati-Mukura National Park is a peaceful and promising destination. With its rich forest, rare animals, colorful birds, and friendly communities, it offers a quiet escape into nature. While not as famous as other parks in Rwanda, it is perfect for travelers who want to explore hidden gems and support conservation efforts. A visit to Gishwati-Mukura is not only a journey into the forest—but a step toward protecting it for future generations.
