Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of the most beautiful and oldest rainforests in Africa. It is located in the southwestern part of Rwanda, near the border with Burundi and close to Lake Kivu. The park covers about 1,020 square kilometers and is full of green trees, hills, waterfalls, and wildlife. Nyungwe is especially known for its chimpanzees, monkeys, and birds, making it a favorite place for nature lovers and adventure travelers.
Rich Biodiversity
Nyungwe Forest is very rich in plant and animal life. It is home to over 1,000 plant species, more than 85 types of mammals, and about 310 bird species. Many of these are found only in the Albertine Rift region, which makes Nyungwe very special. Because of this great variety, scientists and researchers come from all over the world to study the forest.
Chimpanzee Tracking
One of the top activities in Nyungwe is chimpanzee tracking. The forest has around 500 chimpanzees, and visitors can join guided treks to find them in their natural home. The trek usually starts early in the morning and may take 2 to 4 hours. Once you find a chimpanzee group, you can spend one hour with them, watching how they move, eat, play, and communicate. It is exciting, fun, and emotional to see them up close in the wild.
Other Primates in the Park
Nyungwe is home to 13 different primate species. Besides chimpanzees, visitors may see monkeys such as the L’Hoest’s monkey, blue monkey, red-tailed monkey, vervet monkey, olive baboon, and the beautiful Ruwenzori colobus monkey. The colobus monkeys often move in large groups of up to 300 individuals, which is one of the largest monkey troops in Africa. Watching them jump through the trees is a fascinating experience.
Canopy Walkway Adventure
Another popular activity in Nyungwe is the canopy walk. This is a high suspension bridge that is about 90 meters long and 50 meters above the forest floor. Walking across it gives you a bird’s eye view of the treetops, valleys, and far hills. The canopy walk is exciting and safe, and it offers a unique way to see the forest from above. Many visitors say it is one of the highlights of their visit.
Bird Watching
Nyungwe is one of the best places for bird watching in Africa. With over 310 bird species, including 29 that are found only in the Albertine Rift, it’s a paradise for bird lovers. Some of the birds you can see include the great blue turaco, red-collared mountain babbler, Ruwenzori turaco, and the handsome francolin. Guided bird walks are available and are best in the early morning when birds are most active.
Nature Walks and Hiking Trails
Nyungwe has more than 130 kilometers of well-maintained walking trails. These trails take you through different parts of the forest, including waterfalls, swamps, and scenic ridges. You can choose short or long hikes depending on your interest and fitness level. Along the way, you may see butterflies, orchids, monkeys, and birds. The most popular trails include the Igishigishigi Trail (with the canopy walk), Isumo Waterfall Trail, and Kamiranzovu Swamp Trail.
Cultural Experiences
Visitors to Nyungwe can also enjoy cultural tours in nearby villages. These tours include traditional music and dance, crafts making, tea picking, and learning about local customs and history. You can visit tea plantations around the park and even join farmers in picking tea leaves. These experiences help support the local community and make your trip more meaningful and educational.
Best Time to Visit
Nyungwe Forest can be visited all year round. The best times are during the dry seasons—from June to September and from December to February. These months are good for hiking and chimp tracking because the trails are dry and easier to walk on. The rainy seasons—from March to May and October to November—bring heavy rains, but the forest is greener, and birding is very good. Rain jackets and hiking boots are helpful at any time of year.
How to Get There
Nyungwe is about 5 to 6 hours by road from Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda. The drive is scenic, passing through hills, villages, and tea plantations. You can also fly to Kamembe Airport, which is only about 1 hour’s drive from the park, and there are regular flights from Kigali. Once at the park, guided treks and walks start from the Uwinka Visitor Center or Gisakura area.
Where to Stay
There are various accommodation options near Nyungwe Forest, ranging from budget to luxury. Some popular places include One&Only Nyungwe House (luxury), Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel (mid-range), and Gisakura Guest House (budget). Most lodges offer beautiful views, warm hospitality, and easy access to park activities. It is best to book in advance, especially during the dry season.
Conservation and Community Involvement
Nyungwe is an important place for conservation. The Rwandan government and partners work hard to protect the forest and its animals. Local people are involved in park management through eco-tourism, jobs, and education. Tourism helps provide money for schools, health centers, and community projects. When you visit Nyungwe, you help protect the forest and support the people who live nearby.
Conclusion
Nyungwe Forest National Park is a treasure of Rwanda. With its thick rainforest, playful chimpanzees, colorful birds, and peaceful hiking trails, it offers a magical experience for every visitor. Whether you are walking through misty forests, standing on the canopy bridge, or listening to birds sing, Nyungwe gives you a chance to connect with nature in a deep and unforgettable way. It is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Rwanda.
