Nyungwe National Park

NYUNGWE NATIONAL PARK

Covering over 1000km², Nyungwe is one of the world’s most beautiful and pristine mountain rainforests. It is believed to be one of Africa’s oldest forests, staying green even through the Ice Age, which explains its diversity.

Home to habituated chimpanzees and 12 other primate species (including a 400-strong troop of habituated Ruwenzori Black & White Colobus), it’s also a birder’s paradise with over 300 species, including 16 endemics, and is home to 75 different species of mammal. The home of roughly 400 chimpanzees, Nyungwe shelters one of East Africa’s last intact populations and boasts two wild chimp communities that welcome guests, one in Cyamdungo and other around Uwinka. Thus, it’s not surprising that chimpanzee tracking is the most popular activity in Nyungwe (especially when the park’s trees are in full bloom during the summer) Well-trained guides lead visitors through the park’s forests teaching guests about these creatures and their natural habitats. An early start of around 4 am is needed to succeed in this very challenging activity as chimps are mostly likely to be seen very early in the morning.

This majestic rainforest is filled with nature and wildlife and offers a once in a lifetime experience. Hiking or even biking the beautiful terrain, tracking the famous chimpanzees, experiencing the canopy walk, witnessing beautiful birds, relaxing by waterfalls are just a glimpse of activities that Nyungwe offers.

Sounds and views collaborate to create a one-of-a-kind wildlife experience. Exploring through the forest, travellers will witness the lush green mountains and cooling mist in a landscape that won’t be soon forgotten.

Getting There:

By Road- 5 hour drive from Kigali

What to do:

• Chimpanzee Tracking
• Other Primates
• Birding
• Canopy Walkway
• Hiking Trails
• Culture/Community-based tourism
• Conservation

Best time:

All year round

Accommodation:

• Nyungwe Forest Lodge
• ORTPN Guest House