Chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda primarily happens in Nyungwe National Park and then also sometimes in Gishwati Mukura National Park) offering a chance to see habituated chimps in the dense rainforest alongside other primates, with experiences ranging from half-day treks to multi-day adventures, including canopy walks and waterfall hikes, making it a thrilling, yet challenging, primate adventure.
Key Locations for chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda
- Nyungwe National Park: The main destination, a vast Afromontane rainforest in southwestern Rwanda, home to an estimated 500 chimpanzees and 13 other primate species.
- Gishwati-Mukura National Park and Biosphere Reserve: A newer, less crowded option with a smaller habituated group of around 20 chimpanzees. Its proximity to Lake Kivu allows for combined relaxation and trekking experiences
The chimpanzee Experience
- Guided Morning Treks: You will be led by expert guides into the jungle to find chimpanzees, often spotting them high in the trees or moving through the canopy.
- Biodiversity: Beyond chimps, Nyungwe boasts colobus monkeys, other primates, numerous bird species, and unique flora, enhancing the trek.
- Other Activities: Combine treks with canopy walks (suspension bridges for canopy views), waterfall hikes, and visits to tea plantations.
Planning Your Trip
- Best Time: The drier months are June to September good trekking, though the park is a year-round destination.
- Permits & Costs: Permits are required and with additional park entrance fees.
- Trekking Difficulty: Can be strenuous due to the dense forest, but guides and optional porters (for a fee) make it manageable and more enjoyable.
Rules of chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda
- Maintain a distance of at least 8-10 meters from the chimps.
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke near the chimpanzees.
- Use non-flash photography.
- Individuals must be at least 12 years old to participate in the trek.
Essential Packing Items
- Sturdy hiking boots with good grip
- Long-sleeved shirts and long pants to protect from vegetation and insects
- A waterproof rain jacket (Nyungwe is a rainforest and often misty)
- Gardening gloves for gripping branches/vines
- Plenty of water and energy snacks
- Binoculars and a camera with extra batteries
Sample 3day chimpanzee itinerary for Rwanda
Day 01 : Pick Up from Kigali and transfer to Nyungwe forest National Park
Today you’ll meet and greet your Wilder Africa driver at the airport in Kigali. Depending on time of arrival, you will then drive to Nyungwe forest National Park, you will have stops on the way to take Photos, view the beautiful Landscape and stop for Lunch, you will then proceed for Check in at the Hotel, dinner and Overnight. The Journey is about 6-7 hours drive but very enjoyable Overnight: Nyungwe top View Hotel
Day 02 :Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe
After and early breakfast, you will drive to the Park Head quarters for briefing about your chimpanzee trekking that morning
You will start your trek in the forest and once you meet the chimps, one hour is the maximum time allowed to observe and take photos of these primates but these Great Apes are not the only sights to expect from Nyungwe Forest. You will also experience the Rwenzori Columbus, L’Hoest’s monkey, The Silver monkey among others.
Day 03 :Departure from Nyungwe forest
In the morning, after a well relaxed sleep, drive back to Kigali to end the trip, You will have some stops on your way to Kigali., if time allows you will visit the genocide memorial and later drop off to end the 3 Day Chimpanzee trek in Nyungwe forest with Wilder Africa Holidays.
Book with Wilder Africa Holidays.
For a seamless experience, contact us and we shall secure your trekking permits from the Park Management and book all services for you for an amazing experience.
