Nyungwe Forest National Park | Chimpanzee Trekking Rwanda
Explore Nyungwe Forest National Park for chimpanzee trekking, canopy walks, and rich biodiversity in one of Africa’s oldest rainforests.
Nyungwe Forest National Park is a biologically diverse montane rainforest located in southwestern Rwanda, near the border with Burundi and Lake Kivu. Managed by the Rwanda Development Board and African Parks, it is one of Africa's oldest rainforests and a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich biodiversity, including 13 primate species. Key Activities Visitors can enjoy a variety of experiences focusing on nature, wildlife, and adventure.
Chimpanzee & Primate Trekking: The park is renowned as a prime destination for chimpanzee tracking, which involves guided hikes to observe habituated groups. Visitors can also track 12 other primate species, including the Ruwenzori black-and-white colobus and L'Hoest's monkeys.
Canopy Walk & Ziplining: The iconic Canopy Walkway is a 200-meter-long suspension bridge, 50 meters above the forest floor, offering stunning aerial views of the forest and excellent birdwatching opportunities. The park also features one of East Africa's longest ziplines, with a total length of 1,850 meters across three sections.
Hiking & Nature Trails: There is a network of over 130 km of hiking trails suitable for various fitness levels, including the Igishigishigi trail, Isumo Waterfall trail, and the Congo Nile trail. These trails offer opportunities to see diverse flora, birdlife, and waterfalls.
Birdwatching: A birder's paradise, the park is home to over 345 bird species, including many Albertine Rift endemics.
Tea Plantation Tours: The surrounding area includes working tea plantations, where visitors can take guided tours to learn about the tea production process.
Visitor Information
Location: The park headquarters are located in Uwinka, about a 4-hour drive (219 km) from Rwanda's capital, Kigali.
Best Time to Visit: The drier months of June to September are generally considered the best time for activities like chimpanzee trekking, though the park is accessible year-round.
Accommodation: Options range from guesthouses inside the park to luxury lodges nearby.
Official Website: For detailed information on booking permits and activities, visit the Visit Nyungwe website.