Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe Forest National Park is a key conservation area within the Albertine Rift, an ecologically unique section of the Western Great Rift Valley. Established as a national park in 2004, it preserves Africa’s largest and most intact stretch of montane rainforest, covering approximately 1,019 square kilometers.

This park is characterized by rugged terrain, vast tea plantations that border its edges, and an incredibly dense, tall canopy. It is globally recognized for its contribution to climate stability and, crucially, for providing 75% of Rwanda’s fresh water. It is also the location of the furthest source of the Nile River.

Nyungwe Forest National Park is located in southwestern Rwanda, towards the border with Burundi, south of Lake Kivu, and west of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

The park headquarters, Uwinka, is approximately 219 km (about a 4-5 hour drive) from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. The main entry points and reception centers are at Kitabi, Uwinka, and Gisakura. Its position makes it a natural stop for travelers exploring the western and southern regions of Rwanda.

Here are the top activities you can do in Nyungwe Forest National Park:

• Chimpanzee Trekking: The park’s premier activity, offering close encounters with two habituated groups of chimpanzees. The treks usually begin early in the morning and can be challenging but highly rewarding.
• Canopy Walkway: A spectacular 90-meter-long suspended bridge that allows visitors to walk 50 meters above the forest floor, offering unparalleled aerial views of the canopy and surrounding landscape. It is the only such walk in East Africa.
• Colobus Monkey Tracking: Hike to find the large troop of black-and-white Colobus monkeys, often tracked in the Gisakura forest fragment. This is generally an easier trek than the chimpanzee tracking.
• Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore the forest on over 130 km of constructed trails, such as the Igishigishigi Trail, catering to different fitness levels. Enjoy fresh air and spot various bird and plant species.
• Bird Watching: With over 300 bird species, including 29 Albertine Rift endemics, Nyungwe is a renowned birding destination.

Nyungwe Forest is celebrated for its rich biodiversity, functioning as a refuge for an astonishing array of life in its high-altitude ecosystem. It is particularly known for its diverse primate population and endemic birdlife.

Primates Nyungwe hosts 13 different primate species, making it one of the most primate-dense forests in Africa.

• Chimpanzees: The star attraction, with two habituated groups available for tracking.
• Angolan Black-and-White Colobus Monkeys: Home to one of the largest troops in Africa, often numbering over 400 individuals.
• L’Hoest’s Monkeys
• Blue Monkeys
• Vervet Monkeys
• Olive Baboons

Mammals While the dense forest makes them elusive, the park is home to 85 species of mammals, including:

• Forest Elephants
• Buffaloes
• Bushbucks
• Duikers (Yellow-backed, Blue, and Black-fronted)
• Giant Forest Hogs

Birdlife A premier birding spot, with over 300 species recorded, including a high concentration of endemics:

• Ruwenozri Turaco
• Handsome Francolin
• Grauer’s Rush Warbler
• Ruwenzori Apalis
• Dusky Crimsonwing

The park also features over 1,068 plant species, including a remarkable 248 species of orchids, highlighting its botanical significance.

A variety of excellent accommodation options are available just outside the park boundaries, catering to all budgets:

Luxury:

• One & Only Nyungwe House: An exclusive, high-end retreat situated on a working tea plantation bordering the park, offering superb views and services.

Mid-Range:

• Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel: A popular mid-range option with stunning views of the forest, Lake Kivu, and the Virunga volcanoes.
• Nyungwe Nziza Eco-Lodge: Offers comfortable lodging with an eco-friendly approach.

Budget:

• Gisakura Family Hostel: A simple, affordable option conveniently located near the Gisakura reception center and tea estates.
• Kitabi Eco-Center: Offers budget-friendly accommodation and camping services near the park entrance.
• Uwinka Campsite: Basic camping services are available within the park at the Uwinka reception center.