Nyungwe Forest National Park Activities, Fees and Location Guide

Nyungwe Forest National Park offers a plethora of exciting activities for travelers embarking on a tour of this magnificent destination. Nestled in the southwestern part of Rwanda, Nyungwe is a must-visit park when you find yourself in the country. As one of Rwanda’s three national parks, it’s a mere 4 to 5-hour drive from the capital city of Kigali and stands as a testament to natural splendor and beauty. The breathtaking view of the ancient Nyungwe rainforest, with its unique tree species, verdant grasslands, and sprawling swamps, not to mention the diverse array of primates and wildlife, offers an array of scenic vistas that are simply unforgettable.

Spanning 1015 square kilometers, the park is predominantly covered by the Nyungwe rainforest and serves as a sanctuary for various species of primates, mammals, birds, butterflies, and reptiles. It features a series of mountainous slopes that meander through the forest and stretch all the way to Lake Kivu. These slopes have been transformed into walking and hiking trails that visitors frequently delight in. Along these trails, one can discover several enchanting waterfalls hidden within the forest.

While many visitors to Rwanda flock to Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking, a trip to Nyungwe National Park offers an unparalleled experience. The joy and exhilaration of exploring this park are incomparable, and the memories made here are sure to last a lifetime.

Conveniently situated 4 to 5 hours from Kigali, in the southwest of Rwanda, the park borders the serene Lake Kivu and the country of Burundi to the west and south, respectively.

When visiting Nyungwe National Park, there are several must-do activities to fully experience its wonders.

Chimpanzee Trekking

Nyungwe National Park is renowned for its chimpanzee trekking, as the Nyungwe rainforest is home to 13 primate species, including the rare and endangered chimpanzees. Travelers flock to the park throughout the year to observe these fascinating primates, their playful behavior, and other unique traits. The trek begins in the morning at either the Uwinka, Gisakura, or Katabi reception centers with a briefing on trekking guidelines. Accompanied by a ranger, you’ll venture into the forest to encounter the chimpanzees. This immersive experience lasts between 4 to 5 hours and requires a trekking permit, which costs 90 USD. During your trek, you may also spot other primates such as L’Hoest’s monkeys, black and white colobus, blue monkeys, and red-tailed monkeys.

Nyungwe Canopy Walk

Nyungwe National Park boasts one of only three canopy walkways in Africa and is the sole location in East Africa offering this experience. The canopy walk involves traversing a 160-meter-long suspension bridge that hovers 70 meters above the forest floor. This breathtaking vantage point allows you to appreciate the forest’s splendor, the broader East African landscape, Lake Kivu, and various wildlife sightings from an aerial perspective. The canopy walk is a guided two-hour tour starting from the Uwinka reception center, available to individuals aged six and above, at a cost of 60 USD per person.

Hiking

Nyungwe National Park boasts an array of hiking trails, including the Igishigishigi, Bigugu, Ngabwe, Isumo Waterfall, Kamiranzovu Marsh, Karamba Birding, Irebero, Muzimu, Imbaraga, Umoyove, and Rukuzi trails. These trails meander through the forest, leading hikers to various park features such as waterfalls, swamps, and caves. Travelers can select any trail to test their physical endurance while enjoying the forest’s beauty and the landmarks along the paths.

Hiking these forest trails can be a full-day endeavor or extend over several days, tailored to your preferences. However, travelers should be aware that some Nyungwe forest trails are challenging, with steep sections not suitable for beginners; physical fitness is essential.

Nature/forest walks are a premier activity in Nyungwe National Park. These walks offer travelers an opportunity to delve deeper into the forest’s ecosystem, discovering unique tree species and vegetation, and embracing the forest’s diversity and natural splendor. The tranquility of the forest also presents chances to observe various birds and butterflies. Depending on personal preferences, a nature/forest walk can last up to three hours.

Bird watching

Birdwatching in Nyungwe National Park is an enchanting experience, featuring species such as the Rockefeller’s sunbird, Chapin’s flycatcher, and the Rwenzori Turaco. Visitors can embark on guided tours through the ancient Nyungwe forest to observe and delight in the diverse avian population, enriching their knowledge while basking in the birds’ melodious calls. Beyond the forest, travelers can explore the surrounding tea plantations and communities, immersing themselves in the vibrant culture of the Rwandan people who live near Nyungwe National Park. These myriad activities ensure that a trip to Nyungwe is more than rewarding. Consider planning your visit to Nyungwe National Park today.