What Is the Location of Nyungwe NP?

Nyungwe Park is situated in the Albertine Rift Valley that stretches from Lake Albert to Lake Tanganyika in Rwanda’s south western region on a working tea plantation.

It is bordered by the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Lake Kivu to the west, and the Burundi Kibira National Park to the south. One of the tributaries of the Nile River source is located on the east side of Nyungwe.

The Rwanda Nyungwe Park is approximately 230 kilometers from Kigali City, and the journey can be completed in 5-6 hours to reach any of its three reception centers (Kitabi, Gisakura, and Uwinka reception center).

Coordinates: 2°29′24″S 29°17′34″E

Nyungwe National Park’s Historical Background

Initially, the Belgian colonial government designated Nyungwe Park as a forest reserve in 1993 to safeguard a reasonable population of Chimpanzees and other primates, as well as fauna.

To expand tourism beyond gorilla trekking in Volcanoes NP and wildlife excursions in Akagera National Park, the Rwanda Development Board (governed by the Rwandan government) elevated this ecologically sound park to national park status in 2005, and later it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2023.

In 2020, Rwanda’s government established a successful partnership with the African Parks to oversee Nyungwe Park for a period of 20 years, which has so far helped in halting the exploitation of the jungle through illegal activities like gold mining, poaching, etc.

Top Tourist Attractions in Nyungwe Forest National Park

There are numerous attractions in Nyungwe Park. Among these are the lovely vegetation, birds, and attractive primates.

The primary tourist attractions in Nyungwe Park that tourists visit during Rwanda safari excursions include:

1. Primate Species in Nyungwe National Park

The primary tourist attractions in Nyungwe Park are primates. Chimpanzees are the most populous of the approximately 13 primate species that have been recorded in Nyungwe.

Chimpanzees are closely related to humans due to the fact that they share approximately 98-99% of our DNA.

Chimpanzees are the most intelligent of all primates, best seen early in the morning during chimp trekking activities.

The communication and behavior of these remarkable great apes are comparable to that of humans, and they have been observed employing instruments like those of humans.

The most effective method of engaging in intimate interactions with chimpanzees is to participate in a chimpanzee expedition through Nyungwe.

The 13 primates in Nyungwe Forest National Park, Rwanda

1. Chimpanzees
2. Rwenzori colobus primates
3. Colobus primates that are black and white
4. Dent’s Mona Monkey
5. Grey-cheeked Mangabey
6. Vervet monkeys
7. Olive Baboons
8. Red-tailed monkey
9. Hamlyn’s Monkey
10. Blue monkeys are an endemic species that inhabit the Albertine Rift Valley region.
11. Monkey of L’Hoest
12. Silver Monkey
13. Colobus primates of Angola

Golden monkeys are purportedly present in Nyungwe National Park, according to certain Rwanda safari guides. However, this park does not contain mountain gorillas.

2. Nyungwe Forest Bird Species

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

Guided forest treks in Nyungwe are the most effective method for observing birds in the park.

You will have the opportunity to investigate the majority of the ecosystems in search of a variety of bird species with the assistance of a seasoned local birding tour guide.

Notable forest species in Rwanda’s Nyungwe Park include the Red-throated Alethe, Regal Sunbird, Rwenzori Turaco, Bar-tailed trogon, white tailed crested flycatcher, Handsome Francolin, Archer’s Robin-chat, and Stripe-breasted Tit.

Neumann’s Warbler, Yellow-eyed black flycatcher, Albertine owlet, Purple-breasted sunbird, Red-collared Babbler, and Shelley’s Crimsonwing are frequently observed.

3. Additional Wildlife Species in Nyungwe Park

Aside from primates, Nyungwe NP is home to other wild animals, despite their difficulty in locating them.

Giant forest hogs, Bushbucks, Bush pigs, Genets, and Duikers are among the documented animals in Nyungwe Park.

During the forest walks in Nyungwe, the aforementioned animals may be observed by fortunate travelers on safari expeditions in Nyungwe Park.

4. Nyungwe Forest

The majestic vistas of Nyungwe Forest are reminiscent of a scene from a fairy tale.

It is believed that this biodiverse tropical rainforest, Nyungwe, which is one of the oldest forests in Africa, endured the last ice age and is Rwanda’s largest remaining tract of protected tropical rainforest.

Nyungwe Forest is the most extensive montane forest in Central Africa. This jungle is typically enveloped in a stunning mist in the morning.

About 1,068 plant species, including 200 tree species like fern trees and 248 species of orchids, have been documented in Nyungwe.

The African Mahogany Tree is the largest in Nyungwe Forest. These trees have the potential to reach a height of 60 meters on average.

5. Nyungwe Canopy Walkway

The Nyungwe suspended canopy walkway in Nyungwe Forest National Park is the first tree top forest canopy walk in East Africa and is one of three in Africa.

Nevertheless, the Nyungwe canopy walk in Rwanda is exceedingly beautiful and accessible via a guided tour along the Igishigishigi trail.

The Nyungwe canopy walk in Rwanda is approximately 160 meters in length and 70 meters in height, suspended above the Nyungwe treetops.

This canopy walkway in Nyungwe provides breathtaking vistas of the Nyungwe jungle, Kivu Lake, and local communities.

During the Nyungwe canopy walk tour, it is impossible to overlook the presence of a plethora of primates, butterflies, and vibrant birds.

Top Tourist Activities in Nyungwe Forest National Park

The primary activity in Rwanda’s Nyungwe Park is chimpanzee trekking, requiring a permit for participation; however, the park offers a variety of other excursions.

Other activities that can be enjoyed at Nyungwe Park include bird viewing, Nyungwe canopy walking, and guided forest nature walks.

Activities that can be pursued in Nyungwe Forest National Park are detailed below:

1. Trekking With Chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest National Park

The Nyungwe chimpanzee trekking excursions are the most prominent feature of the majority of safaris in Rwanda’s Nyungwe Park.

You will have the opportunity to interact with chimpanzees in their stunning natural environment during this unforgettable experience.

The Rwanda chimpanzee tracking excursions in Nyungwe Park commence with a briefing in the early morning and typically conclude at 2 p.m. and involve groups of up to eight people.

In Nyungwe, there are more than 400 chimpanzees, and two communities are accustomed to Rwanda chimpanzee excursions.

The Uwinka group has approximately 60 members, while the Cyamudongo group in Cyamudongo Forest (Nyungwe isolated patch) is home to more than 30 individuals.

The Cyamudongo ape community is typically monitored by visitors due to its accessibility.
Safaris to monitor chimpanzees in Nyungwe can last between two and five hours.

The movement of these large apes determines the duration. Trackers ensure that visitors do not overlook them by constantly monitoring their movements.

Along the trail, travelers will come across a variety of extraordinary wildlife species, including primates, birds, and butterflies, while traversing chimpanzees in Nyungwe Park.

The cost of tracking chimpanzees in the Nyungwe park is $250.

2. Undertaking The Nyungwe Canopy Walk

The most effective method of exploring the ancient Nyungwe Forest, which boasts 360° views, is to take the Nyungwe canopy walkway. The commencement of this excursion is at the visitor center in Uwinka.

The Nyungwe canopy walk is a two-hour guided excursion along a 160m-long and 70 m-high bridge or suspension bridge that suspends over the forest, making it an ideal location for photography.

The cost of this trek is 60 USD per person and is open to individuals over the age of 6. It is recommended that parents accompany their offspring.

The Nyungwe canopy walk is conducted in segments, including 8 a.m., 10 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 pm, therefore those with a particular interest in this activity need to enjoy it at these times.

Typically, the most favorable experience is provided during the drier months, as rainfall is less disruptive.

3. Nyungwe Forest Nature Walk

Nyungwe Park is an exceptional location for trekking excursions due to its mountainous terrain.

It is one of the most exceptional Rwanda national parks for nature walking excursions; the other two are Akagera and Volcanoes National Park.

The trails in this park vary in length, running over 130 kilometers for various fitness levels (both novices and experienced hikers), and most are straightforward to traverse. Unique tourist attractions are present in each.

NYUNGWE PARK’S MAIN HIKING TRAILS

1. Views of Lake Kivu and the Democratic Republic of the Congo are available from the Bigugu Trail. It leads to the highest elevation in Nyungwe NP.
2. The Congo Nile Divide Trail (Congo Nile Trail) is the most difficult, but it is well worth the effort. This multi-day trek, which takes you deep into the jungle, provides an opportunity to investigate the boundary between the Nile and Congo River basins.
3. On a clear day, the Muzimu Trail provides a stunning distant view of Lake Kivu and the volcanoes. It traverses a pine and eucalyptus forest.
4. Rukuzi Trail, the most renowned trail in Nyungwe Park, spans approximately 9.1 kilometers and provides breathtaking views of Lake Kivu and the surrounding communities.
5. The Umugote trail is an excellent location for primate and bird viewing in Nyungwe Forest, offering stunning views of ridges, flowers, and butterflies. Kibira National Park in Burundi is visible on a clear day. During the trek, the black and white colobus monkey and the vervet monkey are seldom overlooked.
6. Karamba trail; this is also a delightful birding location in Nyungwe Park. It is surrounded by a variety of fern tree species that are located on the former gold mine site, market, and army camp.
7. The Igishigishigi trail, which spans approximately 2 kilometers, offers a breathtaking view of the Nyungwe forest canopy, as well as a variety of birds, monkeys, and gorgeous flora.
8. The Isumo trail provides an opportunity to investigate the verdant tea plantations. Among other activities, you may participate in tea harvesting if time permits. Additionally, this trail provides a view of the park’s greatest expanse and the largest waterfall in Nyungwe.

Visitors should remember to prepare for rain showers and pack appropriate hiking gear due to the park’s high altitude and dense forest.

4. Nyungwe Forest Monkey Tracking

Monkey monitoring is feasible due to the fact that Nyungwe Forest National Park is a sanctuary for a variety of primate species.

Nyungwe Park is home to over 25% of the African continent’s primate population, which includes chimpanzees, L’Hoest’s monkeys, Rwenzori Red Colobus Monkeys, Black and white Colobus monkeys, and Owl-faced monkeys.

Visitors typically engage in the Colobus monkey tracking experience, which incurs a fee of 140 USD per person. Troops of approximately 300-500 individuals comprise these magnificent primates.

Numerous monkey monitoring excursions are conducted along the Kitabi, Gisakura, and Uwinka Trails in Nyungwe. All of these routes lead you through the heart of this magnificent, dense forest.

It is important to note that the primate population in Nyungwe Park is only surpassed by Uganda’s Kibale National Park, which is known as the primate capital of Africa. This park is home to over 1500 chimpanzees and 12 other primate species.

5. Nyungwe Park Bird Watching

Nyungwe Park in the south western part of Rwanda is a haven for Rwandan bird-watching excursions; bird enthusiasts should not overlook this adventure.

In the morning, a skilled local birding guide who is knowledgeable about the bird species in the area leads numerous birding excursions in Nyungwe Park.

Red-throated Alethe, Yellow-eyed black flycatcher, Mountain sooty boubou, Dusky crimsonwing, and Chapin’s flycatcher are among the species that can be observed on various birding trails.

The Umugote Trail, Igishigishigi Trail, and Rukuzi Trail are among the most prominent birding trails in Nyungwe Park.

What Is the Optimal Time to Visit Nyungwe Forest National Park in Rwanda?

The Rwanda Nyungwe Forest National Park is accessible to travelers at any time of year; however, the most exhilarating experiences are available during the dry months.

In the dry months of June-July, August-September, as well as December, January, and February, there are typically minimal rainfall interruptions during chimpanzee tracking excursions and other forest walks.

During the moist months or rainy season (March, April, May, and October to November), it is customary for rain to fall for the majority of the day.

This is the optimal period for bird enthusiasts to observe birds, as the forest is abundant with food.

Nyungwe National Park Tour Packing List for the Best Rwanda Safari

Pack appropriately for your Rwanda chimpanzee excursions in Nyungwe Forest National Park. This packing list is also applicable for gorilla trekking excursions in Volcanoes National Park.

• Comfortable hiking boots are recommended.
• Insect repellents: safeguard your body from insect bites during the chimpanzee expedition
• Photographic camera
• Sunglasses and a sunhat
• Raincoat
• A daypack that is lightweight
• Energy-dense snacks that are optimal for a chimpanzee excursion
• Bottled water
• Trousers and blouses with long sleeves
• Medical supplies
• Travel documents
• Walking sticks and camping equipment

In order to safeguard the beautiful bodies of the chimpanzees in Nyungwe Park from insect bites and injuries, travelers should wear long-sleeved shirts and trousers.

Additionally, hiking footwear is essential for the chimp trek, as it ensures that your feet are well-protected.

During the chilly morning hours in the park, it is advisable to wear a woolen jumper.

Nyungwe National Park Accommodation

All types of tourists are invited to stay in the lodges or accommodations in Nyungwe NP during their Rwanda primate safaris.

Therefore, there is no need to be concerned about lodging arrangements during the Nyungwe Park safari tour, as accommodation options around Nyungwe Forest National Park are limited to about three places.

THE BEST LODGES AND HOTELS IN NYUNGWE FOREST NATIONAL PARK

1. Gisakura Guesthouse

This budget-friendly facility is located approximately 2 kilometers from the gates of Nyungwe Park. It is situated in close proximity to the Gisakura tea estate. Showers are available in all rooms (double, triple, and twin) at this guest house, and tepid water is available upon request.

1. One & Only Nyungwe House (former Nyungwe Forest Lodge)

This is a luxurious facility situated within tea plantations, adjacent to Nyungwe Forest National Park. It contains luxurious suites and accommodations.

The facility includes a fitness center, bar, lodge area, fireplace, and swimming pool. Each room is equipped with a private mini bar, hairdryer, digital TV, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Every room is air-conditioned.

It is one of the most renowned tourist facilities in the park for tourists who are on Rwanda chimpanzee tours.

1. Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel

Nyungwe Top Hill View Hotel is a midrange facility that is primarily utilized by travelers who are participating in Rwanda chimpanzee excursions in Nyungwe Forest Park.

It is located on the summit of the hill. The hotel provides 12 units of elegant accommodation, with 4 of them being twins and 8 of them being apartments with queen-sized bedrooms. All units are self-contained.

1. Uwinka Campsite

This is located at the Uwinka visitor center. It includes two campsites that are equipped with a latrine, shower, and tents. Camping facilities are available at Uwinka, where you can rent tents and other camping equipment.

How Do I Access Nyungwe Park? 

From Kigali to Nyungwe Forest National Park, one may travel by air or by road.

The journey from Kigali International Airport to Nyungwe Park, located in the southwest region of the nation, spans 220 kilometers and typically takes a 5-6 hour’s drive, contingent upon the number of stops.

Some of the attractions seen along the way from Kigali include the Ethnographic Museum (the National museum) in the Butare area and the King’s palace in Nyanza. The speed limit in Rwanda is 60 kilometers per hour.

RwandaAir provides a daily service from Kigali to Rusizi, which includes a shorter charter flight duration of less than an hour to Nyungwe. This is where you will establish a connection to the park.

Please be advised that the majority of visitors to Nyungwe Rwanda Park utilize the road using various transportation options like tour operator cars, special hire cars, buses, and public cars.

Additionally, it is important to note that accessibility to Nyungwe NP is limited for wheelchair users due to its remote nature and the need to explore on foot.

We will transport you in a safari vehicle that is both comfortable and spacious, a 4×4.

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Nyungwe NP

1. What Is Distinctive About Nyungwe National Park?

Nyungwe Park is a destination that is worth exploring during your Rwanda safari journey due to its distinctive flora and fauna.

The park provides a variety of captivating activities for visitors, including birding, forest canopy walking, and trekking with chimpanzees, to name a few. It is an exceptional region for the preservation of primates.

2. Nyungwe Forest National Park Is Located in Which District?

Rusizi District, situated in the southwestern region of Rwanda, is the location of Nyungwe Forest.

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

The entrance fee for Nyungwe NP is $100 per individual. The cost of two nights in the park is $150, while three nights cost $200.

Conclusion

Nyungwe Forest National Park is a must-visit tourist destination during Rwanda safari excursions.

The park has a plethora of attractions and activities. During your visit to Nyungwe NP, a breathtaking ancient tropical rainforest, you will have the opportunity to participate in chimpanzee trekking, a Nyungwe forest canopy walk, and exceptional bird watching excursions.

This park is a birding utopia for Rwanda.

Please contact our staff via email with any questions regarding Rwanda safari tours