Nyungwe Forest National Park – Rwanda’s Pristine Rainforest Safari Destination
Nyungwe Forest National Park is a breathtaking tropical rainforest located in southwestern Rwanda, near the border with Burundi and Lake Kivu. Recognized as one of the oldest and most pristine montane rainforests in Africa, Nyungwe offers incredible biodiversity, lush landscapes, and unforgettable adventure experiences for nature lovers, bird watchers, and primate enthusiasts.
Why Visit Nyungwe Forest National Park?
Nyungwe is not just a forest—it’s a biodiverse ecosystem filled with wildlife, ancient trees, scenic waterfalls, and over 130 kilometers of well-maintained hiking trails. The park offers panoramic views of Lake Kivu, and on a clear day, you may catch a glimpse of the Virunga Mountains in the distance.
Wildlife in Nyungwe Forest National Park
Primate Species in Nyungwe Forest
Nyungwe is famous for its chimpanzee trekking experiences, but it’s also home to 13 recorded primate species—one of the highest primate diversities in Africa. Key primates include:
Chimpanzees (main attraction)
Rwenzori Colobus Monkeys (troops of 300+ individuals)
L’Hoest’s Monkeys
Silver Monkeys
Owl-faced Monkeys (Hamlyn’s)
Vervet Monkeys
Olive Baboons
Red-tailed Monkeys
Grey-cheeked Mangabey
Dent’s Mona Monkeys
Crowned Monkeys
Blue Monkeys
These primates live freely in the forest, often sighted during guided nature walks and trekking safaris.
Bird Watching in Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nyungwe is a birding paradise, hosting over 300 bird species, including:
27 Albertine Rift Endemics
16 Endemic species
121 Forest specialists
Notable species include the:
Great Blue and Rwenzori Turacos
Chestnut Owlet
Purple-breasted and Regal Sunbirds
Red-collared Babbler
White-headed Wood-hoopoe
Handsome Francolin
Neumann’s Short-tailed Warbler
Rwenzori Nightjar
Stripe-breasted Tit
Birdwatching safaris in Nyungwe are guided by expert ornithologists familiar with the park’s diverse avian life.
Top Activities in Nyungwe Forest National Park
1. Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe
Trekking starts at 5:00 AM and takes you deep into the forest to search for habituated chimp communities in the Cyamudongo and Uwinka areas. While sightings are not guaranteed due to their mobility, the experience of being in their natural habitat is unforgettable.
What to Bring:
Waterproof hiking boots
Long-sleeved shirts and trousers
Insect repellent
Sunscreen
Drinking water
Hat for sun protection
2. Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest
The Nyungwe Forest Canopy Walk is Africa’s highest suspended walkway, 60 meters above ground, stretching through the treetops. Located along the Igishigishigi Trail, it offers bird’s-eye views of the rainforest and its wildlife. This guided activity is suitable for participants aged 6 and above.
3. Hiking and Nature Walks
Nyungwe boasts an extensive network of hiking trails through varying altitudes (1,600 – 2,950 meters). Each trail offers unique scenery, from waterfalls and wildlife to views of Lake Kivu and the Congo.
Popular Nyungwe Hiking Trails:
Igishigishigi Trail (2km): Great for canopy views and birding
Congo-Nile Divide Trail (227km): Multi-day trek for experienced hikers
Isumo Trail: Features waterfalls and scenic tea fields
Bigugu Trail: Takes you to the highest peak in the park
Umugote Trail: Best for primates and butterflies
Karamba Trail: Excellent birding spot
Uwinka, Imbaraga & Irebero Trails: Varied levels of difficulty with spectacular views
Rukuzi Trail: Offers chances for chimpanzee encounters
Muzimu, Kamiranzovu & Ngabwe Trails: Forest walks with waterfalls, wetlands, and picnic spots
4. Cultural Tours Around Nyungwe
Enrich your Nyungwe safari with a community cultural experience. Visit local villages bordering the forest to learn about traditional Rwandan life, including:
Banana beer brewing
Traditional dancing
Herbal medicine preparation
Archery and target shooting
Maize grinding using traditional methods
These activities offer insight into the community’s role in forest conservation and Rwandan heritage.
Where to Stay – Lodges near Nyungwe Forest National Park
Though options are limited, accommodations around the park cater to different budgets and offer exceptional views and access to the forest.
Nyungwe Accommodation Options:
One & Only Nyungwe House (Luxury)
Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel
EAR Guesthouse
Nearby Options in Cyangugu (by Lake Kivu):
Mantis Kivu Marina Bay Hotel
Emeraude Kivu Resort
How to Get to Nyungwe Forest National Park
By Road:
Drive from Kigali via Nyanza and Huye to Nyungwe. The scenic journey takes around 5–6 hours, depending on stopovers.
By Air:
Charter flights are available with Akagera Aviation for a faster and more scenic arrival.
Best Time to Visit Nyungwe National Park
Nyungwe Forest is open all year round, but the dry seasons (June to September and December to February) are the best for trekking and hiking activities.
Quick Travel Tips
Permits are required for chimpanzee trekking—book in advance.
Guided walks and treks are mandatory for all forest activities.
Wear proper hiking gear and be prepared for high altitude terrain.
Pack snacks, water, and sun/rain protection.
Plan Your Nyungwe Forest Safari Today
Whether you’re interested in chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda, walking among the treetops on Africa’s only canopy walkway, or exploring hidden waterfalls through guided nature hikes, Nyungwe Forest National Park is a must-visit eco-destination.