Nyungwe Forest National Park is an ancient rainforest, which acts as one of the most significant biodiversity centers in Africa. This is a unique national park of Rwanda found in the south-western region of Rwanda. Nyungwe Forest National Park boasts an area of more than 1,000 square kilometers. The forest dates back to the Ice Age era. It is a tropical rainforest, offering a home to unique plant species. As you move into the dense forest, you get lost in the sounds of over 300 species of birds and primates. Nyungwe is more than a national park because it is an evolutionary research site and a peaceful retreat to experience firsthand untamed nature of the Albertine Rift Valley.

A guide to Nyungwe forest National Park,Rwanda.

Best attractions to see in Nyungwe forest National Park

Primates.

Nyungwe is well-known for housing 13 species of primates that jump around among the thick bamboo and mahogany trees. The standout primates are certainly the habituated chimpanzees, which are our closest genetic relatives and whose calls can be heard reverberating from afar. Just as fascinating are the L’Hoest’s monkeys and the huge bands of Angolan Black-and-White Colobus monkeys. The groups of colobus monkeys form some of the biggest primate groups in Africa, consisting of over 300 animals and providing a spectacular sight when they swing from tree to tree, showing off their impressive white tails.

Nyungwe Canopy Walkway.

Nyungwe Canopy Walkway is one of the most exciting discoveries in Rwanda. This bridge, standing 60 meters off the ground and 160 meters long, presents the tourists with an opportunity to admire the ancient treetop canopy from above. Crossing the bridge, which sways with every step, gives an adrenaline rush and lets you witness the breathtaking view of undulating hills covered with multiple layers of vegetation.

Dramatic Waterfalls.

Hidden treasures can be found in the valleys of the forest, such as the Isumo Waterfall, which drops into a deep gully lined with moss-covered boulders and exotic orchids. The park is paradise for botanists, boasting more than 1,000 species of plants, with over 140 types of orchids and giant lobelias among them. With each trail, one will have to experience the wonders of Mother Nature’s artistry, ranging from tiny butterflies to towering hardwoods.

Activities to do in Nyugwe Forest national Park.

Chimpanzee Trekking.

Chimpanzee trekking is the most popular adventure in Nyungwe. The trek usually starts at early in the morning when the chimpanzees call out to each other. Unlike the gorillas whose paths can easily be predicted, chimpanzees are quick, nimble, and unpredictable, and their trek takes you on an adrenaline-filled run in the forest. Once you reach them, observing them groom themselves, play around, and swing from tree to tree is a true connection with nature.

Canopy Walk in Nyungwe

Crossing the bridge, which sways with every step, gives an adrenaline rush and lets you witness the breathtaking view of undulating hills covered with multiple layers of vegetation.

Nature Hiking Trails.

Due to the over 130-kilometer-long hiking trails that the park boasts of, Nyungwe National Park has become an ultimate hiking safari destination for many adventure enthusiasts. From the moderate Igishigishigi Trail leading to the canopy walk to the Congo-Nile Divide Trail, there’s something for everyone. For a mid-range challenge, the Bigugu Trail leads you to the park’s highest peak at 2,950 meters, offering views that stretch across Lake Kivu and into the neighboring mountains of the Democratic Republic of Congo. 

Birdwatching and Tea Plantation Tours.

For bird lovers, there is more than 300 species of birds in Nyungwe, and 29 are native to the Albertine Rift region. On a bird watching tour, you get to see some of the colorful birds like the Great Blue Turaco or the elusive Handsome Francolin. Just outside the forest, you can change gears from the wild jungle to the neat Gisakura Tea Estate. In the rolling green tea hills, you will learn how the tea leaves are harvested and taste some Rwandan tea under the sunset from the forest.

Best time to visit Nyungwe Forest National Park.

Although it rains all year round in Nyungwe due to its rainforest climate, it is during the Dry Seasons of June to September and December to February that most people prefer trekking. This is because the trail will be easier to access during this period. On the other hand, the Rainy Seasons of March to May and October to November bring about a special beauty. The forests become greener, the waterfalls stronger, and some primates migrate to lower levels for better food sources.

Where to stay in Nyungwe Forest National Park.

There are many accommodations that can be used in close to Nyungwe Forest; some of the available accommodations include:

Luxurious: This is the One&Only Nyungwe House which provides luxurious accommodations with five stars located in the forest borders and amidst a tea plantation. There are many facilities provided by this accommodation including spas and private decks that offer great views of the trees.

Mid-range: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel provides excellent views of the forest and Lake Kivu, with traditional cottages, Munazi Lodge.

Eco-Friendly Budget: Gisakura Guest House is one of the most popular eco-friendly budget lodgings for budget-conscious travelers and birders. The place is situated right near the park entrance, providing comfortable and neat rooms. We would also recommend chimpanzee forest lodge Nyungwe, beautiful facility.

How to reach Nyungwe Forest National Park.

By road: The distance between Kigali and Nyungwe forest national park is about 220 km. The journey will take about 6-7 hours, but the journey itself will be an unforgettable experience because you will see many historical sites, including Huye town and the palace of the King of Nyanza.

By Air: To travel faster, RwandAir offers a domestic flight service from Kigali to the Kamembe Airport situated in Cyangugu. From there, the distance of 45 minutes driving leads you right into the forest. You can also take helicopters to the luxurious lodges.

Book a safari with Wilder Africa Holidays to Nyungwe forest National Park

Wilder Africa Holidays offers amazing experiences to Rwanda’s best Park, that is Akagera National Park, Nyungwe national Park and volcanoes national park. Plan/Contact us today on info@wilderafricasafaris.com for our discounted packages, tailor-made trips. We organize authentic safari experience, get in touch today with our professional tour consultants to plan your trip.