Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe Forest National Park: Rwanda's Ancient Rainforest

Nyungwe Forest National Park lies in Rwanda's south-west. It protects one of Africa's oldest and most biodiverse rainforests, and it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This vast expanse of montane jungle straddles the watershed between the Congo and Nile river basins. Nyungwe is also far quieter than Volcanoes National Park. Consequently, it offers a different side of Rwanda's wildlife: primates, birds, and canopy scenery rather than gorillas.

Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe is home to several hundred chimpanzees, with two habituated groups available for tracking. Treks typically set off before dawn, because the chimps soon range far from their nesting sites. From there, you follow forest trails in search of the group. When a trek is successful, you can watch and hear them at close quarters. Meanwhile, they call, forage, and move through the canopy.

The Canopy Walkway

One of Nyungwe's best-known attractions is its canopy walkway. This suspended bridge hangs 70 metres above the forest floor, and it is one of only a handful in Africa. Walking its length offers a rare view down onto the treetops. In addition, on clear days you can see across the forested hills towards Lake Kivu.

Primates and Birdlife

Beyond chimpanzees, Nyungwe supports 12 other primate species. These include large troops of Angolan colobus monkeys, sometimes several hundred strong. You may also see L'Hoest's monkeys and grey-cheeked mangabeys. Similarly, birdwatchers are well served, with over 300 species recorded. Among them are a number found nowhere else in Rwanda.

Waterfalls and Trails

An extensive network of well-marked trails winds through the park. These range from short walks to full-day hikes, and many lead to waterfalls tumbling through the forest. The Isumo Waterfall Trail is among the most popular. It is a moderate half-day walk through dense vegetation to a cascade dropping into a rocky pool.

Planning Your Visit to Nyungwe Forest National Park

• Nyungwe is roughly a five to six hour drive from Kigali. However, the transfer is shorter if you combine it with Lake Kivu at Rusizi.
• Book chimpanzee permits in advance. Also note that treks can be physically demanding on steep, sometimes muddy terrain.
• Pack waterproof clothing and sturdy boots, because Nyungwe is a rainforest. Showers are possible at any time of year.
• Accommodation options near the park range from a comfortable mid-range lodge to a luxury tea-estate hotel on its eastern edge.

Nyungwe Forest rounds out a Rwanda itinerary with a cooler, greener contrast to the volcanoes and savannah elsewhere. Above all, it is a rainforest experience that rewards a slower pace.