Nyungwe National Park Rwanda | Chimpanzees, Rainforests & Canopy Walks
Nyungwe National Park is one of Rwanda’s most spectacular natural attractions offering chimpanzee trekking, ancient montane rainforest, varied primates, birdwatching and a thrilling canopy walk. This is a biodiversity hotspot situated in the south-western part of Rwanda and it provides nature lovers, wildlife lovers, hikers and adventure travelers with an unforgettable experience.
Nyungwe National Park is in south-western Rwanda in the Albertine Rift close to the borders with Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park protects around 1,019 square kilometers of montane rainforest, bamboo forest, wetlands and mountainous terrain.
Nyungwe is one of Africa’s most important biodiversity hotspots and a home to chimpanzees, black and white colobus monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys and hundreds of species of birds.
It is one of the best places to go for primate tracking and rainforest adventures in Rwanda. It is rich in biodiversity and offers scenic forest landscapes.
How to Get to Nyungwe National Park
By road, Nyungwe National Park is about 225 kilometers from Kigali and normally takes about six to seven hours to drive depending on traffic, road conditions and stops. The drive takes you through Rwanda’s beautiful countryside and tea growing areas.
By Air: Fly from Kigali to Kamembe Airport near Cyangugu. Then drive to the park. The drive from Kamembe to the Gisakura Gate is about an hour depending on where exactly you are going and the condition of the road.
From other Rwanda destinations: Nyungwe can be included in a longer itinerary linking Kigali, Lake Kivu and other Rwanda destinations.
Top Attractions in Nyungwe National Park
- Chimpanzees: Nyungwe is one of the best places for chimpanzee tracking in Rwanda where you get to see these intelligent primates in their forest habitat.
Chimpanzee trekking - Canopy Walkway: High above the rainforest the canopy walkway offers stunning views of the treetops, valleys and the surrounding forest, It is one of Nyungwe’s top attractions.
- Colobus, black and white Monkeys: Colobus monkeys are famous in the park, and are seen on guided tracking experiences.
- Isumo Falls A pretty waterfall and a great destination for hikers exploring the rainforest and its scenic trails.
- Kamiranzovu Wetland: Get a stunning forest wetland with views of green vegetation and mountains.
- Birdlife: Nyungwe has a diversity of birds including some notable species endemic to the Albertine Rift and is a rewarding birding destination.
- Tea Plantations: You can drive around and enjoy the scenery and perhaps join in a cultural experience or two.
Activities to Do in Nyungwe National Park
- Chimpanzee trekking: Our expert guides will lead you through the rainforest as we search for chimpanzees.
- Canopy Walkways: Admire the stunning bird’s eye views from the suspended walkways
- Colobus monkey tracking: Follow groups of black and white colobus monkeys in the wild.
- Forest hiking: Guided paths through verdant vegetation, valleys and mountain landscapes.
- Bird watching: Spot forest birds including Albertine Rift endemics.
- Waterfall Hikes: Take guided hikes to beautiful waterfalls like Isumo.
- Ziplining: Enjoy a thrilling aerial forest canopy tour (subject to availability).
- Cultural experiences: Enjoy local traditions, crafts and tea cultivation in nearby communities.
Visitors should wear suitable hiking shoes, bring rain protection and follow the guides’ directions during the forest activities.
Accommodation Types in Nyungwe National Park
Nyungwe and the surrounding area has accommodation to suit every budget and style of travel.
Budget Stay: Guesthouses and campsites are perfect for budget travelers who want to stay close to the nature.
Mid-range accommodation: Comfortable lodges and hotels with private rooms, eating facilities and easy access to selected park activities
Luxury accommodations: Luxury Forest lodges offering high end rooms, personalized service, gourmet restaurants and scenic rainforest surroundings.
Eco-lodges and nature retreats – These are loved by travelers who want a peaceful atmosphere and a closer connection with nature.
In the wider Nyungwe area there are accommodation options including One & Only Nyungwe House, Munazi Lodge and campsites and guesthouses run by the park. Facilities and availability vary and prices vary.
Best Time to Visit Nyungwe National Park
Nyungwe National Park is open all year round but the experience of hiking and trekking is subject to the rain.
June to September: The longer dry season is generally favourable for forest hiking, chimpanzee tracking, and canopy walks.
December to February: Another popular period for outdoor activities, with generally more favourable conditions than during the wetter months.
March to May and October to November: Rainier periods bring lush vegetation, but trails can become muddy and slippery.
Because Nyungwe is a rainforest, rain is possible at any time. Book activities and accommodation in advance (especially during peak travel times).
Plan Your Rwanda Nature Safari with Pearl Nature Holidays
Nyungwe is a refreshing alternative to traditional savannah based safaris, with opportunities for chimpanzee trekking, canopy walks, scenic hiking trails, waterfalls and great birdwatching.
You could also combine Nyungwe with Volcanoes National Park, Akagera National Park, Kigali or Lake Kivu for a longer Rwanda vacation.
Explore Nyungwe National Park.
Get in touch with Pearl Nature Holidays for information on chimpanzee trekking, accommodation, transport, guided activities and custom made Rwanda safari packages.