Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe Forest National Park – A Complete Guide
Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of Africa’s most spectacular and oldest rainforests, located in southwestern Rwanda near the borders with Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Covering over 1,020 square kilometers, this vast montane rainforest is protected under African Parks and is celebrated for its rich biodiversity, breathtaking landscapes, and unique cultural value. The park is an essential destination for anyone seeking authentic experiences in Rwanda, offering a blend of wildlife encounters, adventurous activities, and scenic beauty. With its dense canopy, rolling hills, and mist-covered mountains, Nyungwe Forest National Park has become a cornerstone for eco-tourism in Africa.
Nyungwe Chimpanzee Tracking Tours
The park is especially famous for chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest National Park, where visitors follow experienced guides deep into the lush jungle to observe these intelligent primates. A highlight for many visitors is the Canopy Walk Way, a suspended bridge high above the forest that offers breathtaking aerial views of the treetops and a chance to spot monkeys, birds, and butterflies from a unique perspective. Tour itineraries vary in length, with options such as 3 days chimpanzee trekking for short visits, 5 days Nyungwe chimp tracking that combine primates with the canopy walkway, and extended safaris like 7 days and 9 days which also include gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park or wildlife viewing in Akagera. For those seeking a complete experience, the 15 days Rwanda safari is the ultimate journey, blending chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe with gorilla trekking, golden monkey safaris, cultural encounters, and the Big Five in Akagera National Park.
Activities in Nyungwe Forest National Park
Chimpanzee Tracking
One of the most unforgettable experiences in Nyungwe Forest National Park is chimpanzee tracking. Visitors set out early in the morning, guided by expert trackers, to follow the sounds of chattering and drumming echoing through the dense forest. Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe Forest National Park gives you the rare chance to observe these highly social primates in their natural habitat. Watching them swing through the treetops, forage for food, and interact within their families is both thrilling and humbling. This activity not only provides incredible photo opportunities but also deepens your understanding of primate behavior and conservation.
Canopy Walk Way
A signature highlight of Nyungwe is the Canopy Walk Way, the first of its kind in East Africa. Suspended 60 meters above the forest floor and stretching over 160 meters, this bridge offers breathtaking aerial views of the rainforest. The canopy walkway is not just an adventure—it is also a chance to see wildlife from a unique perspective. Birds, butterflies, and primates like colobus monkeys are often spotted from the treetops, and the panoramic views of the mist-covered hills are unforgettable. For many travelers, the canopy walkway is the most thrilling and visually rewarding activity in Nyungwe Forest National Park.
Colobus Monkey Tracking
Beyond chimpanzees, Nyungwe Forest National Park is home to the world’s largest troops of black-and-white colobus monkeys, sometimes numbering in the hundreds. Colobus monkey tracking allows visitors to get up close with these playful primates as they leap gracefully through the forest canopy. Unlike chimpanzees, colobus monkeys are less elusive, making this activity ideal for families and travelers seeking easier wildlife encounters. The sight of dozens of colobus monkeys moving together is a unique safari experience that few destinations can offer.
Birdwatching in Nyungwe Forest National Park
For bird lovers, Nyungwe National Park is a true paradise. With over 300 recorded bird species, including 29 Albertine Rift endemics, Nyungwe is one of the best birdwatching destinations in East Africa. Species such as the Rwenzori turaco, Grauer’s swamp warbler, and the blue turaco are just a few of the highlights. Birdwatching tours are guided by experienced ornithologists who help identify rare and colorful species, ensuring that every walk in the forest is rich with discoveries. The combination of biodiversity, pristine rainforest, and excellent guiding makes Nyungwe a must-visit for birdwatching enthusiasts.
Hiking and Nature Walks
Nyungwe is crisscrossed by over 130 kilometers of hiking trails, each offering a different perspective of the park’s ecosystems. From short nature walks to multi-day treks, hiking in Nyungwe provides opportunities to encounter diverse flora and fauna. Popular trails like the Igishigishigi Trail, the Isumo Waterfall Trail, and the Kamiranzovu Marsh Trail offer varying levels of difficulty and reward hikers with stunning scenery, cascading waterfalls, and serene swamps teeming with wildlife. These hikes are ideal for travelers who want to immerse themselves in the beauty of Rwanda’s rainforest beyond the famous primate safaris.
Cultural Encounters
While Nyungwe Forest National Park is primarily a wildlife destination, nearby communities offer cultural activities that enrich the visitor experience. Tourists can visit local villages to learn about traditional Rwandan practices such as basket weaving, banana beer making, and dance performances. These encounters not only support local livelihoods but also provide a deeper appreciation of the human history and culture that coexist alongside the natural wonders of the park. Combining cultural visits with primate tracking creates a balanced and authentic Rwandan safari experience.
Plan a Nyungwe Forest National Park Safari
Preparing for the Trek in Nyungwe Forest National Park
The trek requires moderate physical fitness, as the trails can be steep, muddy, and slippery, especially during the rainy season. Visitors are advised to wear sturdy hiking boots, bring waterproof clothing, carry drinking water, and use insect repellent.
A walking stick, often provided at the park entrance, is also helpful for navigating uneven terrain. Porters are available to assist with carrying backpacks, and hiring one is highly recommended as it also supports the local community.
The weather in Nyungwe Forest National Park can be unpredictable, so being well-prepared ensures a more enjoyable experience.
Booking for a Chimp Trek in Nyungwe Forest National Park
Booking a chimpanzee trekking permit in Nyungwe Forest is straightforward but must be done in advance due to limited availability. Permits are issued by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), and travelers can book through a trusted tour operator such as Universal Journeys Rwanda. The permit secures your place for a specific date and time, as the number of trekkers per group is strictly controlled to minimize disturbance to the chimpanzees. Once booked, visitors receive confirmation with details about reporting time, the trekking group they will join, and additional park guidelines. Payments are made prior to the trek, and it is always advisable to confirm your booking at least a few weeks before your travel date, especially during the high tourist seasons of June to September and December to February.