Nyungwe National Park

Nyungwe National Park is one of Africa’s oldest and most important montane rainforest ecosystems, located in southwestern Rwanda near the border with Burundi. The park is renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity, ancient forests, primates, and spectacular mountain landscapes.

Wildlife & Biodiversity

Nyungwe is particularly famous for its chimpanzee population, making it one of Rwanda’s leading destinations for chimpanzee trekking. The forest is also home to numerous other primates, including colobus monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, blue monkeys, and mangabeys.

The park supports hundreds of bird species, including many species associated with the Albertine Rift. Forest elephants, duikers, and other forest wildlife can also be found within the ecosystem.

Unique Features

• Chimpanzee Trekking: One of Rwanda’s most important primate experiences.
• Nyungwe Rainforest: Vast ancient forest covering rugged mountainous terrain.
• Canopy Walkway: A suspended walkway offering spectacular views over the rainforest.
• Albertine Rift Biodiversity: Important habitat for numerous endemic and rare species.
• Primate Diversity: One of the best areas in Rwanda for encountering different monkey species.
• Mountain Landscapes: Rolling hills and forest-covered mountains create dramatic scenery.
• Tea Plantations: The surrounding region is known for scenic tea-growing landscapes.

Best Time to Visit

• June – September: Generally drier conditions and favorable for forest activities.
• December – February: Another relatively favorable period.
• March – May: Long rains create exceptionally lush forest scenery.
• October – November: Short rains bring fresh vegetation and vibrant landscapes.

Activities in Nyungwe National Park

• Chimpanzee Trekking
• Chimpanzee Habituation
• Nyungwe Canopy Walkway
• Primate Tracking
• Bird Watching
• Forest Hiking
• Nature Walks
• Photography
• Tea Plantation Experiences

Accommodation Options

Well-known accommodation options include One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, and Gisakura Guest House.

How to Get There

• By Road from Kigali: Nyungwe is several hours from Kigali because of its mountainous location.
• From Lake Kivu: The park can be combined with Lake Kivu in a scenic western Rwanda itinerary.
• From Volcanoes: Longer Rwanda itineraries can connect Nyungwe with Volcanoes National Park.

Why Visit Nyungwe National Park?

• Excellent destination for chimpanzee trekking.
• Ancient tropical rainforest.
• Exceptional primate diversity.
• Famous canopy walkway.
• Outstanding birdwatching.
• Beautiful mountain scenery.
• Important Albertine Rift biodiversity.
• Excellent combination with Lake Kivu and Kigali.

Nyungwe National Park provides an immersive rainforest experience combining chimpanzees, primates, birds, ancient forests, mountain landscapes, and canopy adventures.