Nyungwe National Park
Discover the lush forest canopy of Nyungwe National Park, home to over 300 bird species and a variety of primates.
Overview
Nyungwe National Park in Rwanda is a pristine and biodiverse rainforest that offers a unique and immersive experience for nature lovers. Located in the southwestern part of the country, the park is one of the oldest rainforests in Africa, dating back to before the last Ice Age. Nyungwe is home to a staggering array of flora and fauna, including over 1,000 plant species, 13 primate species (including chimpanzees and colobus monkeys), and over 300 bird species. The park’s dense forest canopy provides a habitat for a variety of wildlife, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and primate enthusiasts alike. Visitors to Nyungwe National Park can enjoy a range of activities, including guided forest walks, chimpanzee tracking, birdwatching, and canopy walks, offering a unique opportunity to explore the park’s rich biodiversity up close. Nyungwe National Park is not only a sanctuary for wildlife but also plays a crucial role in conservation efforts, preserving Rwanda’s natural heritage for future generations to enjoy.
Things to Do
Canopy Walk: Experience the thrill of walking above the forest canopy on East Africa’s only canopy walkway, offering panoramic views of the park.
Chimpanzee Trekking: Join a guided trek to track and observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat, gaining insights into their behavior and conservation.
Bird Watching: Nyungwe is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, with over 300 bird species, including the great blue turaco and the red-breasted sparrowhawk.
Nature Trails: Explore the park’s lush rainforest on guided nature walks, where you can encounter a variety of flora and fauna, including rare orchids and colorful butterflies.
Waterfall Hikes: Embark on a hike to discover stunning waterfalls hidden within the park, such as the majestic Kamiranzovu Waterfall.
Â
What to See
Primates: Nyungwe is home to 13 primate species, including the endangered golden monkey, L’Hoest’s monkey, and the playful colobus monkeys.
Ancient Trees: Marvel at the park’s ancient mahogany and giant fern trees, some of which are over 200 years old.
Wildlife: Besides primates, Nyungwe is also home to a variety of wildlife, such as duikers, bushbabies, and serval cats.
Â
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Nyungwe National Park is during the dry season, from June to September and December to February, when the weather is mild and ideal for trekking and hiking.
Getting there
By Road:Â Nyungwe National Park is located about 225 kilometers from Kigali, and the journey takes approximately 6-7 hours by car. The park can be accessed via a well-maintained road.
By Air:Â The nearest airport to Nyungwe is Kamembe Airport in Cyangugu, which is about a 2-hour drive from the park. Domestic flights are available from Kigali to Kamembe.
Where to Stay
Mid-range accommodation
Nyungwe Top View Hill HotelÂ
Located on a hilltop overlooking Nyungwe National Park, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel offers mid-range accommodations with panoramic views. The hotel features comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving local and international cuisine, and guided tours of the park.
Gisakura Guest HouseÂ
Situated near the entrance of Nyungwe National Park, Gisakura Guest House offers mid-range accommodations surrounded by lush forests. The guest house features cozy rooms, a restaurant serving home-cooked meals, and guided forest walks.
Nyungwe Forest LodgeÂ
Nestled within the tea plantation on the edge of Nyungwe Forest, Nyungwe Forest Lodge offers mid-range accommodations with easy access to the park. The lodge features comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving gourmet meals, and guided forest treks.
Luxury accommodation
Other Attractions in Rwanda
Ethnographic Museum
Volcanoes National Park
Akagera National Park
Kigali Genocide Memorial
General Knowledge Base
General information about Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda.
Nyungwe National Park is located in the southwestern part of Rwanda, near the border with Burundi and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The park covers an area of approximately 1,020 square kilometers (390 square miles), making it Rwanda’s largest protected mountain rainforest.
The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including 13 primate species such as chimpanzees, black and white colobus monkeys, and vervet monkeys.
Yes, Nyungwe National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 300 bird species recorded, including the elusive Ruwenzori turaco and the great blue turaco.
Yes, visitors can participate in guided chimpanzee tracking tours in the park, offering a chance to observe these primates in their natural habitat.
Yes, the park is home to several cultural sites, including ancient rock paintings and the Banda Village, where visitors can learn about traditional Rwandan culture.
The best time to visit is during the dry season from June to September, when the weather is more favorable for trekking and wildlife viewing.
actively involved in conservation efforts to protect its wildlife and habitat, including anti-poaching patrols and community development programs.
