Nyungwe National Park

Nyungwe National Park is one of Rwanda’s most celebrated protected areas, known for its population of endangered Chimpanzees. Located in the South West corner of Rwanda, Nyungwe National Park is an untouched natural rainforest that is filled with exciting biodiversity. This National Park stretches on a land area that approximates to over 1,019 km2 (393 sq mi), inhabiting birdlife, wildlife, insects and incredible vegetation species. Nyungwe is surely one of the world’s most beautiful and pristine mountain rainforests. It’s believed to be one of Africa’s oldest forests, staying green even through the Ice Age, which explains its diversity. For travelers looking for a true primate and adventure experience on Rwanda safaris, Nyungwe is a must include on your safari package.

The National Park encompasses varying habitats including the rainforest, bamboo, grassland, swamps, and bogs all which offer refuge to plenty of birdlife and wildlife. The nearest town is to Nyungwe is Kamembe, about 54 km (34 mi) to the west. In October 2020, the Rwanda Development Board signed an agreement with African Parks to assume management for an initial 20 years. For its incredible bio diversity, the Nyungwe Forest was added to UNESCO World Heritage list in September 2023.

The major highlights of safaris to this National Park include chimpanzee trekking, bird watching, canopy walking safaris, and guided nature walks. This National Park is also the best place for Chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda, thanks to its incredible population with about 400 individuals registered in the park.

Home to habituated chimpanzees and 12 other primates 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.

 

Nyungwe National Park

Nyungwe National Park

This majestic rainforest is filled with nature and wildlife experiences for you to emerge yourself in. 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.

Activities

  • Cultural activities are also available around the forest.
  • Chimpanzee Tracking
  • Birds
  • Canopy Walkway
  • Hiking Trails
  • Culture
  • Community-based tourism
  • Conservation
  • Vegetation

Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe National Park

The home of roughly 400 species of chimpanzees, Nyungwe is home to 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 a popular activity in Nyungwe (especially when the park’s trees are in full bloom during the summer) as well-trained guides often lead visitors through the park’s forests. And while actually viewing chimpanzees is not guaranteed, you’ll enjoy learning about these creatures and their natural habitats from your guides. But you’ll probably have to get up around four a.m. to succeed in this very challenging activity as chimps are mostly likely to be seen early in the morning.